1835-1864

Theophilus Lucy England

Lieutenant Colonel Theophilus Lucy England
October 3, 1835 – June 16, 1864
Company I, 89th New York Infantry Regiment

Born in Poughkeepsie, New York, Theophilus Lucy England was the son of Henry and Mary (Knapp) England. He joined the Union Army in September 1861 from Delhi, New York, beginning his service as a Captain with Company I of the 89th New York Infantry Regiment. His leadership and dedication led to his promotion to Lieutenant Colonel in February 1863.

Lt. Col. England was killed in action on June 16, 1864, during the early stages of the Siege of Petersburg in Virginia. After Union forces had successfully driven the enemy from the field, he was fatally struck—either by a Confederate sharpshooter or by random fire. He gave his life in the line of duty, just months before the war’s end.

In a poignant letter written to his mother before his death, he offered these words:

“If I fall, weep not. I’m willing to be a sacrifice for our country’s sake. Our Government must be preserved.”

His sacrifice is remembered as a powerful example of courage, conviction, and love of country.