Simeon T. Josselyn
veteran
About Simeon T. Josselyn
Simeon T. Josselyn: Buffalo’s Civil War Hero
Born on January 14, 1842, in Buffalo, New York, Simeon T. Josselyn’s life is a testament to courage, resilience, and a deep commitment to duty. A veteran of the Civil War and recipient of the Medal of Honor, Josselyn’s story is one of quiet valor and remarkable achievements, both on and off the battlefield.
From Buffalo to the Battlefields
Josselyn spent his early years in Buffalo before relocating to Illinois as a young adult. Like so many others of his generation, he answered the call to serve his country at the onset of the Civil War, enlisting in the Union Army on April 21, 1861. He joined Company C of the 13th Illinois Infantry Regiment and quickly climbed the ranks, reaching the position of first lieutenant.
It was during the Battle of Missionary Ridge on November 25, 1863, that Josselyn performed the actions that would forever etch his name in history. While commanding his company in skirmish formation, he encountered a large enemy contingent and acted decisively. Demonstrating remarkable bravery, he shot the Confederate color bearer, captured their regimental flag, and returned it to his regiment. Even more astonishing, Josselyn single-handedly captured nine members of the color guard and delivered them as prisoners to Union forces.
For his extraordinary heroism, Josselyn was awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military distinction. His actions during the battle exemplified the leadership and courage that echoed throughout his life.
A Life of Service Beyond the War
After his honorable discharge in June 1864, Josselyn turned to civilian pursuits, channeling the same dedication he had shown on the battlefield into contributing to his community. He began working for the Illinois Central Railroad before eventually moving to Omaha, Nebraska. There, he served as an accountant and paymaster for the Union Pacific Railroad and later as the corporate secretary for the Omaha Fire Insurance Company. Demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit, Josselyn eventually founded his own insurance brokerage, S. T. Josselyn & Company.
Josselyn’s service didn’t end with his professional endeavors. A devoted Mason and member of the Grand Army of the Republic, he was an active participant in veterans’ organizations and took pride in supporting and guiding fellow Civil War veterans.
Later Years and Legacy
Toward the end of his life, Josselyn continued working as an auditor for the White Pass and Yukon Route, dividing his time between Skagway, Alaska, and Seattle, Washington, where his wife and daughter resided. On April 4, 1905, Josselyn passed away in Skagway, leaving behind a legacy of courage, honor, and public service. He was laid to rest in Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Omaha, though his name continues to hold a special place in Buffalo’s history.
One of the lesser-known tributes to Josselyn can be found in Dawson County, Nebraska, where the unincorporated community of Josselyn was named in his honor. This quiet acknowledgment underscores the far-reaching impact he had in every chapter of his life.
Remembering Buffalo’s Hero
Simeon T. Josselyn’s life is a story of extraordinary bravery and meaningful contributions, from the battlefields of the Civil War to the communities he served after the war. Though his later life took him far from Buffalo, he carried the values instilled in him during his formative years in the city. His Medal of Honor action not only highlights his personal valor but also reflects the enduring spirit and grit of Buffalo during a pivotal period in American history.
Each time we recount stories like Josselyn’s, we are reminded of the remarkable individuals who shaped our nation’s past. For Buffalonians and history enthusiasts alike, Simeon T. Josselyn is more than a hero — he’s a symbol of the resilience and strength that define the city he once called home.