William P. Black
William Perkins Black (November 11, 1842 – January 3, 1916) was a lawyer and veteran of the American Civil War. He received America's highest military decoration – the Medal of Honor – for his actions at the Battle of Pea Ridge, Arkansas, in 1862.
William Perkins Black | |
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.jpg.webp) William P. Black | |
| Born | November 11, 1842 Woodford County, Kentucky, US |
| Died | January 3, 1916 (aged 73) |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Service/ | Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1864 |
| Rank | Captain |
| Unit |  11th Regiment Indiana Volunteer Infantry 37th Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry |
| Battles/wars | Battle of Pea Ridge |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Biography
He was the brother of John C. Black, Commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, who was also a Medal of Honor recipient. The Black brothers are one of only five pairs of brothers to have received the Medal of Honor.
In 1867, together with Thomas Dent, Black founded the law firm of Dent & Black. As a lawyer, Black was best known for having served as defense counsel to the people charged with inciting the Haymarket Riot of 1886.
Medal of Honor citation
Rank and organization: Captain, Company K, 37th Illinois Infantry. Place and date: At Pea Ridge, Ark., 7 March 1862. Entered service at: Danville, Ill. Born: 11 November 1842, Woodford, Ky. Date of issue: 2 October 1893.
Citation:
Single-handedly confronted the enemy, firing a rifle at them and thus checking their advance within 100 yards of the lines.
See also
References
- "William Perkins Black". Army of Medal of Honor website. 2007-07-16. Retrieved 2007-09-22.