Gratiot, Charles, 1786-1855

Born in Missouri, 1788, the son of Charles Gratiot and Victoire Chouteau; appointed to West Point by Jefferson; graduated from the academy, 1806 as 2nd lieutenant of engineers; captain, 1808; served with distinction in War of 1812; major, 1815; lieutenant colonel, 1819; from 1819 to 1829 erected forces of Hampton Roads, including Fortress Monroe; became colonel and principal engineer, Bureau of Topographical Engineer, Washington, in 1828; appointed inspector of West Point; held offices until Dec. 6, 1838, when he was dismissed for having failed to pay into Treasury certain balances placed in his bands; was clerk in the Land Office, Washington, 1840-1855; returned to St. Louis and died there in destitute circumstances May 18, 1855. Fort Gratiot, Mich, Gratiot, Mich, and Gratiot, Wis. were named in his honor. (from Appleton. Cyclo. Am. Biog. ; Dic. Am. Biog. --art. "Gratiot, Charles, 1720-1817" ; Heitman. Reg. U.S. Army, 1903 ed.) (blue index cards)

From the description of Charles Gratiot papers, 1814-1851. (Detroit Public Library). WorldCat record id: 383860180