Richard Downing

Born in England, Richard Downing was a 35 year-old Dearborn farmer when he enlisted in Company D on August 12, 1862. He was mustered in service the following day, leaving little time for prolonged good-byes.

Not too much is known about Richard's military service, except that he was wounded during the river assault at Fitzhugh Crossing on April 29 or 30, 1863. The exact nature and severity of this wound is not known.

His brother Thomas Downing enlisted in Company D as recruit on February 2, 1864. The brothers served together through the terrible campaign of the spring and summer, including the battles of the Wilderness and Spottsylvania. During the assault on the Petersburg fortifications on June 18, 1864, Richard Downing was killed. In the confusion following the abortive attack, his body was not recovered until July 22, 1864, over a month later. In all likelihood, he was given a hasty burial. He probably now rests in the Fredericksburg National Cemetery, perhaps as an unknown.

Collateral Descendant: Larry Morris lmorris@livingonline.com