Background
Torrance, Ell was born on May 16, 1844 in at New Alexandria, Pennsylvania, United States. Son of Adam (D. D.) and Eliza (Graham) Torrance.
Torrance, Ell was born on May 16, 1844 in at New Alexandria, Pennsylvania, United States. Son of Adam (D. D.) and Eliza (Graham) Torrance.
Educated Eldersridge Academy, Indiana Company, Pennsylvania.
Enlisted, although under military age, June 26, 1861, private Company A, 9th Pennsylvania Reserves. Served in all battles (except when disabled by wounds) of his regiment and was discharged with regiment at Pittsburgh, May 11, 1864. Reentered service, July 9, 1864, Second lieutenant Company K, 193d Pennsylvania Infantry.
Transferred to 97th Pennsylvania Infantry, October 15, 1864. Discharged at close of war, June 17, 1865. Guarded body of President Lincoln when it lay in state at Baltimore.
Participated in many campaigns Army Potomac. Read law, Pittsburgh, admitted to bar, 1868. For 42 years in practice in Minneapolis.
Delaware Republican National Convention, 1896. President Normal School Board, Minnesota, since 1905. Ex-chairman State High School Board.
Trustee McKinley National Memorial Association Charter member John A. Rawlins Post, G.A.R., Minneapolis: commander Department of Minnesota, 1895. Commander-in-chief G.A.R., 1901-1902. Commander Minnesota Commandery Loyal Legion, 1908-1909.
Member Minnesota Society Colonial Wars (ex. governor), Minnesota Society S.A.R. (ex-president). Life member Society Army of the Potomac.
Member Minnesota Society Colonial Wars (ex. governor), Minnesota Society S.A.R. (ex-president). Member Board Visitors, United States Military Academy, 1902. Chairman National Committee G.A.R. on 50th Anniversary Battle of Gettysburg, 1909-1913.
Member Six O’Clock and Golden Wedding.
Married Anna Mary Macfarlane, September 22, 1868.