Civil War general Frederick Tracy Dent was an American. He was born in St. Louis, Missouri, on December 17, 1820, into a prominent military and political family. As Grant’s brother-in-law and West Point classmate, his life and career were interwoven.
Early Life and Education
Frederick Tracy Dent was born into a distinguished Missouri family. Frederick Fayette Dent’s property, White Haven, was his childhood home. His upbringing shaped his career, propelling him to West Point, where he graduated in 1843.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | December 17, 1820 |
| Birthplace | St. Louis County, Missouri |
| Education | United States Military Academy |
| Graduation Year | 1843 |
Military Career
Frederick Tracy Dent was a famous 6th U.S. Army brevet second lieutenant. Infantry. He received promotions and commendations for his bravery in the Mexican-American War and other conflicts.
| Position | Details |
|---|---|
| Initial Assignment | Brevet Second Lieutenant, 6th U.S. Infantry |
| Campaigns | Southern campaign during Mexican-American War |
| Promotions | Brevetted to First Lieutenant and Captain |
Personal Life
In 1852, Frederick Tracy Dent married Helen Louise Lynde and had three children. Since his sister Julia Dent married Ulysses S. Grant, his family was closely tied to the Grants. This bond strengthened their family and societal ties throughout their lives.
| Spouse | Children |
|---|---|
| Helen Louise Lynde | 1. Margaret Lynde Dent |
| 2. John Cromwell Dent | |
| 3. Sidney Hope Dent |
Family Connections
Frederick Tracy Dent’s family was prominent in American history. His father, Frederick Fayette Dent, owned a plantation, and his sister Julia married Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th US president. This put Dent at the heart of several Civil War and post-Civil War events.
| Family Member | Relationship/Role |
|---|---|
| Frederick Fayette Dent | Father |
| Ellen Bray Wrenshall Dent | Mother |
| Julia Dent Grant | Sister, wife of Ulysses S. Grant |
| Ulysses S. Grant | Brother-in-law |
Later Years and Legacy
Later in life, Frederick Tracy Dent served in several military roles. Denver was his final resting place on December 23, 1892. In the context of the Civil War and Grant legacy, his military service and family connections made him an important figure in American history.
| Date of Death | Burial Location |
|---|---|
| December 23, 1892 | Arlington National Cemetery |
| Notable Contributions | Civil War Brigadier General |
FAQ
Who was Frederick Tracy Dent?
Frederick Tracy Dent, born December 17, 1820, was a US Army officer and Grant’s close friend.
What was Dent’s Mexican-American War role?
Dent was a brevet second lieutenant during the Mexican-American War and received many promotions for courage.
What connected Frederick Tracy Dent to Ulysses S. Grant?
Frederick Tracy Dent, Grant’s brother-in-law, married Julia Dent, Grant’s sister.
When did Frederick Tracy Dent die?
At 72, Frederick Tracy Dent died on December 23, 1892.
Where is Frederick Tracy Dent buried?
His remains are at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.
