Private James Brady: A Legacy of Valor at Chapin’s Farm

James Brady was born in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1842. Though a native of Massachusetts, he later moved to New Hampshire, where he was a resident of Kingston. On August 11, 1863, at the age of 21, he entered military service at Portsmouth, New Hampshire, as a substitute for another local man.

He was mustered into Company F of the 10th New Hampshire Infantry, also known as the “Irish Regiment,” within the U.S. Army. His unit was heavily involved in the Virginia campaigns of the Civil War. By the fall of 1864, Brady held the rank of Private and was engaged in the strategic operations surrounding the Confederate capital.

On September 29, 1864, during the Battle of Chaffin’s Farm (commonly referred to in records as Chapin’s Farm), Private Brady performed an act of conspicuous gallantry. While his regiment was engaged in a skirmish line ahead of the First Division, Brady successfully captured an enemy flag. This action was later cited in official reports as a “valiant conduct” and a “stand of colors” taken from the opposing forces.

For this bravery, Brady was awarded the Medal of Honor on April 6, 1865. He continued his service until the end of the conflict and was officially mustered out with his regiment on June 21, 1865. Following the war, he returned to New England, where he lived out his remaining years.

James Brady died on October 7, 1904, in Raymond, New Hampshire, at the age of 62. He was buried with military honors in the Pine Grove Cemetery in Raymond. His grave remains a site of historical significance, marked by the Medal of Honor distinction he earned during his service to the Union.