Thomas A Smyth
1832 – 1865
Thomas Alfred Smyth was a hero in the eyes of his men in the 1st Delaware Volunteers. His story begins in Ballyhooly in County of
Cork, Ireland, on December 25, 1832. Raised on his father's farm, he later immigrated to the United States. Upon settling in his
new homeland, Smyth joined William Walker's 1855 expedition to Nicaragua, and apparently became a skilled woodworker. In 1858, he
moved to Wilmington, Delaware, where he remained until the start of the Civil War.
Eager to help his new homeland, Thomas Smyth raised a three-month company to assist in the war. When that service was finished,
he enlisted as a major in the 1st Delaware Volunteers. Smyth was at the Battle of Antietam, and was present when Captain Rickards
was killed. By the end of 1862, Smyth had earned the respect of his fellow men and commanding officers. On December 18, 1862, Smyth was
promoted to lieutenant colonel. Smyth was wounded during the Battle of Gettysburg but was able to return to service. After Smyth's
performance at Gettysburg, General Hancock recommended Smyth for promotion to brigadier general, although the promotion took a year to
become official. Those in combat with him were