Basil Biggs

Basil Biggs(Cropped)

Basil Biggs (1820–1906) was an African American farmer, veterinarian, and laborer who played a significant role in the aftermath of the Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War. He is best known for his work in the reburial of Union soldiers at the Gettysburg National Cemetery.

Early Life

Basil Biggs was born in 1820 in Maryland. He was born into slavery but gained his freedom before the Civil War. He moved to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania in the 1850s, where he worked as a farmer and veterinarian.

Role in the Battle of Gettysburg

During the Battle of Gettysburg in July 1863, Biggs and his family fled their home to avoid the conflict. After the battle, the town of Gettysburg was left with thousands of dead soldiers. Biggs was contracted by the federal government to exhume the bodies of Union soldiers from temporary graves and rebury them in the newly established Gettysburg National Cemetery.

Post-War Life

After the war, Biggs continued to live in Gettysburg, where he became a respected member of the community. He was involved in various civic activities and continued his work as a veterinarian and farmer. Biggs was also active in the local African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Death and Legacy

Basil Biggs died in 1906 and was buried in the Lincoln Cemetery in Gettysburg. His contributions to the Gettysburg community and his role in the reburial of Union soldiers have been recognized as significant acts of service during a tumultuous time in American history.

Related Pages

• Battle of Gettysburg
• Gettysburg National Cemetery
• American Civil War
• African Methodist Episcopal Church