|
Dromo's Den
|
|
[Up] [Dromo's Den] Frederick Lander Biography LANDER,
Frederick West (1821-62). An American soldier, born in Salem, Mass. He was
educated at the Norwich Military Academy in Vermont and took up the profession
of civil engineering. The United States government employed him on
transcontinental surveys to select a route for a Pacific railroad. Later he
undertook a survey for the same purpose at his own expense and was the only man
of the party to survive. He constructed the overland wagon route in the face of
great difficulties and constant hostility of the Indians. During the early part
of the Civil War he served with distinction on secret missions and on the staff
of General McClellan, until his sudden death from
congestion of the brain, at which time he had the rank of brigadier general of
volunteers. He was engaged in the capture of Philippi, the battle of Rich
Mountain, and many minor skirmishes. The New International
Encyclopaedia, Vol.
XIII
(New York: Dodd, Mead & Co., 1920)
515. |