2026-05-09T21:08:24Z

Biographical Sketch of James Edward Hanger, Confederate States Army Veteran

Abstract Or Scope

Facsimile of a manuscript historical narrative regarding James Edward Hanger (1843-1919) by Clyde Cale, Jr. The narrative describes Hanger's injury and amputation, brief imprisonment as a Confederate prisoner-of-war, and his postwar life and inventions. Hanger was born in Churchville, Augusta County, Virginia. In early June 1861, he joined his brothers as a member of the Confederate Churchville Cavalry, and shortly after, he was injured by a Union cannonball early in the Battle of Philippi. His left leg was amputated, and he was briefly a prisoner-of-war at Camp Chase (Columbus, Ohio) before he was released and exchanged about two months later. After the war, knowing he and other disabled veterans would need improved prosthetic limbs, he founded a prosthetic company that continues in business today.

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Collection Context

1. West Virginia and Regional History Center