Deaths on January 4

Roger Hanson, American general (b. 1827)

Roger Weightman Hanson: Confederate Brigadier General and Esteemed Commander of the "Orphan Brigade"

Roger Weightman Hanson (August 27, 1827 – January 4, 1863) was a prominent figure during the American Civil War, serving with distinction as a brigadier general in the Confederate States Army. Hailing from Kentucky, his military career was notably defined by his leadership of the renowned First Kentucky Brigade, affectionately known as the "Orphan Brigade." His life was tragically cut short when he was mortally wounded during the intense Battle of Murfreesboro, a pivotal engagement in the Western Theater.

Early Life, Political Career, and Military Beginnings

Born in Clark County, Kentucky, Roger W. Hanson was a multifaceted individual even before the outbreak of the Civil War. He pursued a career in law and was active in politics, serving as a member of the Kentucky state legislature. His military experience was not limited to the Civil War; he had previously demonstrated his martial capabilities as a lieutenant colonel in the 1st Kentucky Volunteers during the Mexican-American War. When the nation descended into civil conflict, Hanson made the decisive choice to align with the Confederate cause, a significant stance for an individual from a crucial border state like Kentucky, which saw divided loyalties.

The Legacy of the "Orphan Brigade" Under Hanson's Command

Hanson's name is most indelibly linked with the First Kentucky Brigade, which garnered fame and sympathy under its poignant moniker, the "Orphan Brigade." This elite fighting force earned its unique nickname because its members were predominantly from Kentucky, a state that officially remained neutral but was largely under Union control throughout the war. This meant that these Confederate soldiers were effectively "orphaned" from their homes, unable to return and often fighting far from their native soil. Under Hanson's command, and indeed throughout its existence, this brigade forged a reputation for extraordinary bravery, unwavering resilience, and formidable combat effectiveness. They participated in numerous critical engagements across the Western Theater, consistently demonstrating fierce loyalty and tenacity against formidable odds.

Mortal Wounding at the Battle of Murfreesboro

Roger Weightman Hanson sustained the wounds that would claim his life during the brutal Battle of Murfreesboro, also known as the Battle of Stone's River, which raged from December 31, 1862, to January 2, 1863, in Tennessee. Having been promoted to brigadier general just a month prior in December 1862, Hanson led his brigade with characteristic courage and tactical acumen. On January 2, 1863, during a desperate Confederate counterattack, he was tragically struck by a fragment from an artillery shell while valiantly leading his troops forward in the thick of the fighting. He succumbed to his grievous injuries two days later, on January 4, 1863, in Murfreesboro. His death represented a profound loss for the Confederate forces, particularly for his devoted brigade, which deeply felt the absence of their steadfast commander.

The Origin of "Old Flintlock"

Among his troops and peers, Roger W. Hanson earned the distinctive and revealing nickname "Old Flintlock." This moniker was not merely a casual epithet but a testament to his steadfast, reliable, and unyielding character in the heat of battle. Much like a dependable old flintlock rifle, which could always be counted upon to fire true when needed, Hanson was perceived as a resolute and unwavering leader—a man who consistently stood firm and could be relied upon in the most perilous situations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roger W. Hanson

Who was Roger Weightman Hanson?

Roger Weightman Hanson was a distinguished Confederate Brigadier General during the American Civil War, primarily known for his command of the First Kentucky Brigade, famously known as the "Orphan Brigade."

Why was his brigade called the "Orphan Brigade"?

The brigade earned its "Orphan" nickname because its soldiers were predominantly from Kentucky, a border state that remained officially neutral and later largely under Union control, making it impossible for them to return home and leaving them feeling isolated from their native state.

What was Roger W. Hanson's nickname?

He was affectionately known as "Old Flintlock," a nickname reflecting his steadfast, reliable, and unyielding nature in battle, much like a dependable old rifle.

Where and how did Roger W. Hanson die?

Roger W. Hanson was mortally wounded by an artillery shell fragment while bravely leading his troops at the Battle of Murfreesboro (Stone's River) on January 2, 1863, and he tragically died two days later on January 4, 1863, in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.