James A. Cunningham

Who was James A. Cunningham?

James Adams Cunningham was a volunteer officer in the Union Army during the American Civil War.

Serving as a company commander in the 1st Battalion Massachusetts Infantry on garrison duty at Fort Warren in Boston, Cunningham was transferred with his unit to the battle front in the spring of 1862. He fought in numerous battles with the Army of the Potomac, eventually taking command of the 32nd Massachusetts in 1864. In the closing days of the war, Cunningham distinguished himself during the Appomattox Campaign, earning the award of the honorary grade of brevet brigadier general. During the Battle of Appomattox Court House, Cunningham received the flag of surrender sent by General Robert E. Lee.

After the war, Cunningham served with the Massachusetts General Court and as Adjutant General of Massachusetts.