Henderson County, Kentucky Veteran


Charles Perkins

Charles PERKINS was born in the City of Zenia, Green County, Ohio on the 16th day of March 1837.

During the year 1861, having gained an experience in river navigation that entitled him to a firs position among men of marine life, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, and was soon after appointed Acting Volunteer Lieutenant Commander, with the rank of Caption, in the army, and placed in command of the U. S. Gunboat "Brilliant."

The "Brilliant" was actively engaged in the service of the government up to April 1865, patrolling the Ohio, Cumberland, Tennessee and Mississippi Rivers. She was frequently anchored in front of Henderson, and no doubt was the means of saving the town from the incursions of prowling bands of thieves and plundering combinations of irresponsible men. Captain PERKINS held frequent interviews with the better people of Henderson, and so conservative was he in the construction of Naval orders and official duties, he soon won the confidence of the people, who were glad to have his protection at all times, and were equally chagrined when he was removed to other fields of service.

On the 17th day of November 1863, at the family residence, in Henderson, Captain PERKINS was married to Annie TERRY, daughter of Nathaniel D. and Sarah TERRY, and granddaughter of Captain Robert TERRY, a noted pioneer of this county.

History of Henderson County, Kentucky by E. L. Starling, Pages 749 - 750



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Contributed by Netta Mullin, HCH&GS
Copyright 2002 HCH&GS