Phelps graduates from West Point in 1836, fights in the Seminole and Mexican Wars, before his appointment as Colonel of the 1st Vermont Infantry when the Civil War begins. He is promoted to Brigadier in 1861 and takes part in the capture of New Orleans in May 1862. As an outspoken abolitionist, Phelps attempts to enlist companies of Black troops in New Orleans, but his superiors veto his efforts and, in response, he submits his resignation. Lincoln tries to intervene on Phelps’ behalf but to no avail. He returns to Vermont and becomes a renowned teacher, scholar and author. In 1880 he runs unsuccessfully for president on the Anti-Masonic Party ticket.
General John W. Phelps
