Montgomery Corse American banker, gold prospector and military man Date of Birth: 14.03.1816 Country: USA

1. Early Life and Military Education
2. Mexican-American War and California Gold Rush
3. Banking and Military Service
4. Civil War Service
5. Gettysburg Campaign and Later War Service
6. Surrender and Post-War Years

Early Life and Military Education

Montgomery Corse was born in 1816 in Alexandria, Virginia, to John and Julia Corse. He witnessed General Lafayette's visit in 1825 and attended President Andrew Jackson's inauguration in 1829. Corse graduated from Bradley Lovett's Military School in Culross and Benjamin Hallowell's Academy.

Mexican-American War and California Gold Rush

As a captain in the 1st Virginia Regiment, Corse served in the Mexican-American War. In 1849, he joined the "49ers" during the California Gold Rush.

Banking and Military Service

Upon returning to Alexandria in 1856, Corse joined his brothers in banking. In 1859, he became lieutenant in the Alexandria Rifles. By 1860, he had formed and commanded the Old Dominion Rifles.

Civil War Service

With the outbreak of the Civil War, Corse became a major in the 6th Virginia Infantry Battalion. He later commanded the 17th Virginia Infantry Regiment at Blackburn's Ford and during the Peninsula Campaign. Following the Battle of Second Bull Run, he was promoted to brigadier general and led a brigade in George Pickett's division.

Gettysburg Campaign and Later War Service

Corse's brigade was absent during the Battle of Chancellorsville. During the Gettysburg Campaign, it was tasked with defending Hanover Junction. Subsequently, Pickett's Division joined Longstreet's Corps in Georgia and Tennessee. Corse's brigade participated in the Battle of New Bern and fought at Cold Harbor and during the Siege of Petersburg.

Surrender and Post-War Years

Corse was captured at Sayler's Creek on April 6, 1865. After the war, he pledged allegiance to the United States and was released. He returned to banking in Alexandria and became an honorary member of the Confederate Veteran Association. Corse died in 1895 and was buried in Alexandria's Episcopal Cemetery. His papers and military records can be found in the Alexandria Library Collection.