John Pelham (soldier)

John Pelham (September 7, 1838 – March 17, 1863) was an American artillery officer who served in the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War. Known as "The Gallant Pelham," he earned a reputation for courage and skill in handling artillery, often deploying his guns aggressively and effectively.

Pelham was born in Alexandria, Alabama. He graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1861, but resigned before officially being commissioned to join the Confederate Army. He quickly rose through the ranks, demonstrating exceptional talent in artillery tactics and leadership.

His most notable engagements include the First Battle of Bull Run, Antietam, Fredericksburg, and Kelly's Ford. At Fredericksburg, Pelham's daring placement of his artillery on the Confederate right flank caused significant disruption to the Union attack. Despite being heavily outnumbered, his artillery fire delayed the Union advance, buying valuable time for the Confederate forces.

Pelham was mortally wounded at the Battle of Kelly's Ford while leading a charge. He died shortly thereafter, at the age of 24. His death was widely mourned in the Confederacy, and he became a symbol of Southern valor and military prowess. Pelham's tactics and aggressive use of artillery influenced later military thinking. He is remembered as one of the Confederacy's most promising young officers.