Background
Derby, George Horatio was born on April 3, 1823 in Dedham, Massachusetts, United States. Son of John Barton and March (Townsend) Derby.
Derby, George Horatio was born on April 3, 1823 in Dedham, Massachusetts, United States. Son of John Barton and March (Townsend) Derby.
Graduated from the United States Military Academy, 1846.
Very early noted for his wit and practical jokes, especially at Military Academy. Appointed to Engineer Corps shortly after graduation. Served in Mexican War.
Brevetted First lieutenant for gallantry.
Served in Topographical Bureau, 1847-1848. Member various United States Army exploring expeditions in Minnesota Territory, 1848-1849.
Had duty on Pacific Coast, 1849-1856. Managed to get some humorous sketches published, 1850, continued writing them thereafter.
While temporary editor San Diego Herald, 1853, became famous even in East for his humor.
Transferred to East by army, 1856. Promoted captain, 1860. One of foremost and earliest writers of socalled Western style of humor.
Author: (sketches) Phoenixiana.
Or Sketches and Burlesques, 1856. The Squibob Papers, 1865.
Member various United States Army exploring expeditions in Minnesota Territory, 1848-1849.
Married Mary Ann Coons.