Cutts, James Madison, 1805-1863

James Madison Cutts (1838-1903) was the brother-in-law of Stephen Douglas and a great nephew of Dolly Madison. He joined the 1st Rhode Island Volunteers as a private during the Civil War. As a captain in the 11th U.S. Infantry, he earned the medal of honor for gallantry at The Wilderness, Spotsylvania, and Petersburg. He attained the rank of brevet lieutenant colonel. After the war, as a member of the 20th U.S. Infantry, he was assigned to Philip Sheridan's 5th Military District, which included Louisiana. He was commander of the post at Shreveport, La., from January 1867 to January 1868.

From the description of James Madison Cutts letter, 1867 Aug. 7. (Louisiana State University). WorldCat record id: 262556800