Career
Born in Lowell, Massachusetts, Pillsbury was appointed midshipman in 1862 and commissioned an ensign in 1868. After serving on various stations afloat and ashore, he commanded the coast steamer Blake from 1884 to 1891 and did excellent scientific work, using some of his research instruments of his own invention. In the Spanish–American War, he commanded the dynamite cruiser Vesuvius, operating around the island of Cuba and in the vicinity of Morro Castle.
Actively identified with the National Geographic Society for many years, he was president of the society at the time of his death.
Two United States. Navy ships have been christened United States Ship Pillsbury in his honor. Pillsbury Sound, the body of water in the United States. Virgin Islands between Street Thomas, Street John, and the cays which bound the sound on the North side, is also named in his honor.