2nd Lieutenant John G. Helmkamp, 32nd Indiana
By Michael A. Peake

John G. Helmkamp, born in Hanover, Germany, on February 22, 1833, came to America with his parents when he was 6 years old. The family settled in Cincinnati and it was from there that Helmkamp enlisted as a private in the 2nd Ohio Infantry for three months when the Civil War broke out. Once mustered out, he traveled to Indiana and enlisted August 28, 1861 as 1st Sergeant of Company “F,” 32nd Indiana. At the battle of Rowlett’s Station December 17, 1861, Helmkamp was wounded, captured and held until late May 1862. After returning to the regiment he was promoted to 2nd Lieutenant of Company “I” in July 1863. Helmkamp was wounded on September 19, 1863, in the right shoulder at the battle of Chickamauga and received a gunshot wound in the left leg at the battle of Resaca, Georgia, May 14, 1864, but he mustered out with the regiment that September.

Helmkamp settled in Lafayette, Indiana, established himself as a successful businessman until retirement, and became active in the community through veteran organizations and lodges. He died the evening of June 22, 1904, at his West Lafayette residence and was buried the following day at the family plot in Section A, Grandview Cemetery, West Lafayette.

Photo by E. & J. Bruening, Indianapolis, Indiana.

For Full Bio Click Here

Library of Congress: LC-USZ62-129172