author
Jacob G. (Jacob Gellert) Frick
1825–1902
Remembered for bravery under fire, this Pennsylvania Civil War officer earned the Medal of Honor after protecting his regiment’s colors at Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville. His life also reflects the strong local ties of Pottsville, where he built his career and remained a prominent figure after the war.
1 Audiobook
Red-tape and pigeon-hole generals : as seen from the ranks during a campaign in the Army of the Potomac
by Henry Morford, William Hepburn Armstrong, Jacob G. (Jacob Gellert) Frick
About the author
Born in Northumberland County, Pennsylvania, in 1825, Jacob Gellert Frick made his adult life in Pottsville. He became best known for his service in the Union Army during the Civil War, including as lieutenant colonel of the 96th Pennsylvania Infantry and later as colonel of the 129th Pennsylvania Infantry.
Frick received the Medal of Honor for gallantry in action, recognized for saving his regiment’s colors during the battles of Fredericksburg in 1862 and Chancellorsville in 1863. That detail helps explain why he stands out among Civil War figures: his reputation was tied not just to command, but to personal courage in the middle of combat.
He died in Pottsville in 1902. Though not a literary author, he remains an interesting historical figure whose story connects military service, Pennsylvania history, and the lived experience of the Civil War era.