Peyton Farquhar: The Planter and Civil Engineer
Peyton Farquhar was a planter and civil engineer who lived in Alabama during the 19th century. He was born in 1820 in Barbour County, Alabama. Farquhar became a prominent figure in his lifetime, owning and operating a plantation, engaging in civil engineering projects, and serving as an officer in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War.
Farquhar’s Plantation
Peyton Farquhar ran a plantation in White Hall, Alabama. The plantation had been in his family for generations, and he continued to run it until the Civil War (also known as the War Between the States). The plantation consisted of acres of cotton fields, as well as livestock and woodlands. Much of the work on the plantation was done by enslaved African Americans.
Civil Engineering Services
Farquhar was an accomplished civil engineer, and had a reputation as an expedient and educated surveyor. He was commissioned by the government to perform a variety of projects, including the surveying of major rivers and designing the locks which allowed ships to navigate them. He was also personally involved in the building of the Muscle Shoals Canal, which allowed for the passage of ships from the Tennessee River to the Alabama River.
Confederate Army Officer
In 1862, Farquhar joined the Confederate Army and was soon appointed as a lieutenant. He fought in a number of battles, including the Battle of Shiloh and the Battle of Perryville. In 1864, he was captured by Union troops, and was later hanged for his part in attempting to sabotage a bridge.
Conclusion
Peyton Farquhar was a successful planter, civil engineer, and Confederate Army officer. He was an innovative and spirited individual who left behind a legacy of excellence. His contributions to the plantation, civil engineering services, and the Confederate Army are remembered with gratitude.
Key Points:
- Peyton Farquhar was born in Barbour County, Alabama in 1820.
- He owned and operated the Farquhar Plantation until the Civil War.
- He was commissioned to do civil engineering projects, including the surveying of major rivers.
- In 1862, he joined the Confederate Army as a lieutenant.
- He was ultimately captured and hanged for attempting to sabotage a bridge.