Benjamin E. Deeley, Civil War Veteran

Benjamin E. Deeley was born in Sandusky on August 31, 1841, to Edmond and Dora Kinney Deeley. Benjamin worked with his father in the local fishing industry, and he was also a carpenter by trade. In 1861, at the outbreak of the Civil War, he enlisted in Company E of the 8th Ohio Volunteer Infantry for three months' service. In 1862, he re-enlisted, this time in Company G of the 123rd Ohio Volunteer Infantry, ultimately earning the rank of Corporal during his service.

During his years as a soldier, he was held as a prisoner of war at least three times, in prison camps at Libby, Belle Isle, and Andersonville. After the war was over, he worked for the railroad in Sandusky, building railroad cars. He was also an active member of the McMeens Chapter of the Grand Army of the Republic; during Sandusky's Memorial Day services of 1911, he was chairman of the decorating committee.

Benjamin Deeley and his wife, the former Eliza Jane Steen, had six children. Two sons became physicians, one son became a dentist, and two daughters were teachers in Sandusky City Schools. At the time of her retirement, his daughter, Miss Mary Deeley, was serving as principal of Sycamore School, and had been in the field of education for forty-two years.

Benjamin E. Deeley died on November 26, 1925. His obituary appeared in the Sandusky Star Journal on the same day.

In light of the occupations of the children, it is clear that the Deeley family placed a great value on education and service. Surviving the horrors of war in military service and confinement at prison camps, Benjamin Deeley returned home to his family after the Civil War, and led an active life. Mr. Deeley was buried in the family lot at Oakland Cemetery in Sandusky, Ohio.

A Soldiers’ Memorial, honoring Co. G. of the Ohio 123rd Ohio Volunteer Infantry can be seen at the Follett House Museum.