Davenport, William, 1787-1858

Born in North Carolina; died in Philadelphia April 12, 1858. He was appointed captain in the 16th infantry in 1812 and distinguished himself at Chippewa and Lundy's Lane in the War of 1812. He was advanced to the rank of Brevet Major on 28 Sept., 1822 for "ten years' faithful service" and transferred to the 6th Infantry [Regiment] Dec. 16, 1825; further advanced to Lt. Colonel in the 1st Infantry [Regiment] April 4, 1832, where he distinguished himself at the battle of Bad Axe under General Atkinson during the Black Hawk War. He was made Brevet Colonel "for meritorious service in Florida July 7, 1838, then advanced to full Colonel while once again posted to the 6th Infantry [Regiment], June 14, 1842; later he was transferred to the back to the 1st Infantry in July, 1843. Davenport resigned his commission and left the service on 31 January 1850. (Ref: Appletons Encyclopedia of American Biography, NY 1887)

From the guide to the William Davenport Papers, 1835-1842, (Special and Area Studies Collections, George A. Smathers Libraries, University of Florida)