Draft:Benjamin F. Stephenson

Benjamin F. Stephenson (October 3, 1823-August 30, 1871) was the founder of the Grand Army of the Republic and provisional commander-in-chief from April 6, 1866 to November 21, 1866.

Early life and education
Stephenson was born in Wayne County, Illinois, on October 3rd, 1823, to James and Margaret Stephenson. When he was three years old, he and his family moved to Sagamon County. He graduated from Rush Medical College on February 7th, 1850 and received his diploma.

Military service
He began the practice of medicine until around 1861, when the 14th Illinois Infantry Regiment was organized in Petersburg, he was elected Surgeon of the Regiment due to his medical degree and practice of medicine beforehand. He was mustered in as the surgeon at Pittsburgh Landing on April 7th, 1862. He served in every campaign the regiment was deployed in. He was also commissioned Major by Governor Yates for actions at Shiloh. His 3 year term of the regiment expired on June 24, 1864, and it was mustered out of service. He returned to Springfield, Illinois and resumed the practice of medicine.

Founding the Grand Army of the Republic
He worked in a drugstore, and never missed an opportunity to discuss with his former soldiers, he attempted to bind his soldiers together, forming post No. 1 of the Grand Army of the Republic with 12 charter members. He worked hard, denying his own personal interests to form more posts. In 1866, he watched others be chosen in positions he desired, but he was appointed adjutant general for his work in the organization.

Stephenson died at Rock Creek, Menard County, Illinois, on August 30th, 1871. His body was removed to the Soldiers Plot in Rose Hill Cemetery, Petersburg, Illinois, where a statue was erected in his honor.