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High above a hill in Oakwood Cemetery at Troy, New York, stands a huge obelisk, a monument to the life of Maj. Gen. John Ellis Wool. At the foot of the structure lies the body of Wool, buried next to his wife, Sarah. Erected by the general's family and friends in New York State's capital district, this impressive final resting place honors the memory of one of the more distinguished American military officers of the nineteenth century who served the United States well in three wars.1 Born in Newburgh, New York, on February 29, 1784, Wool's career consisted of more than a half-century of vital service to the nation. He first gained accolades at the Battles of Queenston Heights and Plattsburgh during the War of 1812. His greatest military achievement came during the Mexican War, when he trained, supplied, and commanded raw recruits who helped in the defeat of the enemy at the Battle of Buena Vista. By the Civil War, Wool ranked second only to Gen. Winfield Scott in seniority in the Union army. During the war, he received commendations for his role in the capture of Norfolk in 1862 and commanded Fort Monroe during the Peninsula campaign. He headed the Eighth Corps when it was created in July 1862 and was placed in charge of the Department of the East in New York City from January through mid-July 1863. This last military assignment, also the final one of his career, unjustly tarnished the memory of the man who fully deserved the gravesite tribute of his friends.
Despite his illustrious career, Wool's reputation has been permanently sullied because he commanded the Union forces in New York City during the disastrous draft riots of July 1863, among the worst civil disturbances in American history.2 The draft riots erupted on july 13 and continued unabated for four days and nights. The violence was largely fueled by efforts to enforce Federal conscription policies, which allowed drafted men of privilege to buy a waiver for $300. The first draft lottery was conducted on Saturday, july 11, and a second was scheduled for two days later. On the morning of july 13, a mob gathered, attacking and beating several police officers. The rioters then marched to the provost marshal's...