Indian Wars Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. Born in Michigan of mixed white and Indian parentage, he served as a civilian scout and interpreter for the United States Army. At the outbreak of the Red River War in July 1874, Chapman volunteered to scout and dispatch for General Nelson Miles along the Washita River, Texas. On September 12, 1874, while leading four soldiers of the 6th U.S. Cavalry with another scout William Dixon, they were attacked near Gageby Creek by 125 Indians. Throughout the day they were charged from all directions but continued a valiant resistance while defending their wounded until recovered by a relief force. Chapman was injured in the siege, resulting in the loss of his left leg. For gallantry in action, he with his fellow scout and the four 6th Cavalry Troopers, were awarded the Medal of Honor on November 4, 1874. Since Chapman and Dixon were civilians, their award was later revoked. In 1989, by act of Congress and the US Army, their medals were restored. After his retirement from government service, Chapman and his wife settled on a ranch in Seiling, Oklahoma, until his death.
Amos Chapman was born March 15, 1847 according to the July 1860 and the June 1900 United States Census.
Amos Chapman was born March 15, 1847 according to the July 1860 and the June 1900 United States Census.
Indian Wars Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. Born in Michigan of mixed white and Indian parentage, he served as a civilian scout and interpreter for the United States Army. At the outbreak of the Red River War in July 1874, Chapman volunteered to scout and dispatch for General Nelson Miles along the Washita River, Texas. On September 12, 1874, while leading four soldiers of the 6th U.S. Cavalry with another scout William Dixon, they were attacked near Gageby Creek by 125 Indians. Throughout the day they were charged from all directions but continued a valiant resistance while defending their wounded until recovered by a relief force. Chapman was injured in the siege, resulting in the loss of his left leg. For gallantry in action, he with his fellow scout and the four 6th Cavalry Troopers, were awarded the Medal of Honor on November 4, 1874. Since Chapman and Dixon were civilians, their award was later revoked. In 1989, by act of Congress and the US Army, their medals were restored. After his retirement from government service, Chapman and his wife settled on a ranch in Seiling, Oklahoma, until his death.
Amos Chapman was born March 15, 1847 according to the July 1860 and the June 1900 United States Census.
Amos Chapman was born March 15, 1847 according to the July 1860 and the June 1900 United States Census.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
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