Israel Bush Richardson was born in Fairfax on this day in 1815. He graduated from West Point and served in the Mexican and the Civil War, earning the name “Fighting Dick” for his abilities on the field.

Richardon was supposedly a descendent of Israel Putnam, a famous Revolutionary War general. Richardson became brigadier general during the Civil War.

During battle, Richardson was hit with flying shrapnel. Deemed non-life threatening, he was brought to a field hospital. President Lincoln visited him.

Less than a month later, however, infection set in and Richardson died of pneumonia. Israel Richardson died a military hero.

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