Thomas A. Davies papers

1829-1874

General Thomas A. Davies was one of the key military leaders in the Battle of Corinth (1862), a pivotal event in the American Civil War. The Davies Papers chronicle his military career, including his participation in that notable event. Born in 1809, Davies graduated from the U.S. Military Academy, but resigned his commission after two years as an officer. After spending many years as an engineer and a merchant, Davies rejoined the Army in 1861, responding to the outbreak of the Civil War. Soon promoted to general, Davies was on hand at the October 1862 Battle of Corinth, under the command of General William Rosecrans. Although there were losses on both sides, the battle was ultimately a Union victory. After another promotion, Davies left the Army in 1865 and returned to his business pursuits. He wrote How to Make Money, and How to Keep It, a treatise on wealth accumulation, but his eclectic interests also led him to author several books on religion and spirituality as well. At his death in 1899, Davies was well known in military, business, and religious circles.