Milton Smith Littlefield
| Milton Smith Littlefield | |
|---|---|
| Born |
July 19, 1830 Ellisburgh, New York |
| Died | March 7, 1899 (aged 68) New York City |
| Allegiance | United States of America Union |
| Service/branch |
United States Army Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861–1866 |
| Rank |
 Colonel Bvt. Brigadier General
|
| Unit |
14th Illinois Infantry 14th Illinois Cavalry |
| Commands held |
54th Massachusetts Infantry 4th South Carolina Infantry (African Descent) 21st USCT Infantry |
| Battles/wars | American Civil War |
Milton Smith Littlefield (July 19, 1830 – March 7, 1899) was an American businessman dubbed the "Prince of the Carpetbaggers" during the Reconstruction Era. He also served as a Union Army officer during the American Civil War.
He was born on July 19, 1830 in Ellisburgh, New York.The corruption scandal was brought forth after George W. Swepson and Littlefield defrauded the state by $4 million, after the North Carolina Legislature of granted $27.8 million in Railroad bonds. Along with Swepson, Littlefield was indicted for the fraud but was never convicted.
When the American Civil War broke out in 1861 Littlefield organized a company of infantry, which became Company F of the 14th Illinois Infantry, and was elected as its Captain. After serving in the west at Shiloh and Corinth, Littlefield was made Lieutenant Colonel of the new 14th Illinois Cavalry. In 1863 he was sent to the South, briefly commanded the 54th Massachusetts Infantry, a colored unit, and was ordered to recruit black troops. Littlefield raised the 4th South Carolina Infantry(African Descent); whose Colonel he became. When the United States Colored Troops were organized his regiment became the 21st USCT Infantry. On November 26, 1864 Littlefield was given a brevet promotion to Brigadier General of Volunteers. He served as brigade and district commander and was mustered out on April 25, 1866. He died on March 7, 1899.
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