Winfield Scott Safford

Winfield Scott Safford was born in Canton, Michigan sometime in 1841. His parents named him after a hero of the War of 1812. Perhaps his martial name somehow influenced his decision to enlist. In any event, Winfield left the family farm on Willey Road between Ann Arbor and Joy and helped to organize a company of men for the Twenty Fourth Michigan in August of 1862. In recognition of his efforts, he was made the Second Lieutenant of company C. He was 21 years old, younger than many of the men under his command.

The resignation of Calvin Crosby, Captain of company C left a vacancy. First Lieutenant Charles Hoyt was promoted to Captain, and Winfield advanced to First Lieutenant. His commission was dated December 13 - recognition of his good service at Fredericksburg on that date.

He participated in the battles of Fredericksburg, Fitzhugh Crossing, Chancellorsville, and Gettysburg Where he was killed amid the whirlwind of death in which the Twenty-fourth Michigan suffered such great losses.

Winfield was very close to the men in his company. One, Lucius Shattuck had been a friend before the war. After holding a number of positions, Lucius Shattuck was promoted to Second Lieutenant of company C. The two young men worked closely together. For a time they were tentmates. Lucius frequently mentioned Winfield in his letters home.

During the afternoon fighting at Gettysburg on July 1st, The 24th Michigan faced overwhelming odds. Forced back from one position and then another, Regiment fought heroically. Winfield Scott Safford was killed on the third lines of battle, as was his friend Lucius Shattuck. According to post-war newspaper accounts, Lt. Safford fell at the head of his company while rallying his men around the flag.

In his official report, Colonel Morrow said "Lieutenants Humphreville, Safford, and Shattuck were distinguished for unflinching courage in battle." Lieutenant Safford was initially given a hasty battlefield burial. His family had his body disinterred and shipped back to Michigan by rail. He was finally laid to rest in Kinyon Cemetery, just to the west of Plymouth.

Winfield Scott Safford's Letters Home

Distant Relative: Carol Safford DeBeradinis, cedebera@meganet.net

Photograph courtesy of the Plymouth Historical Museum.