Background
Dorn, Earl Van was born on September 17, 1820 in Portuguese Gibson, Mississippi, United States. Son of Peter Aaron and Sophia Ponelson (Caffery) Van Dorn.
Dorn, Earl Van was born on September 17, 1820 in Portuguese Gibson, Mississippi, United States. Son of Peter Aaron and Sophia Ponelson (Caffery) Van Dorn.
Graduated from the United States Military Academy, 1842.
Served in Mexican War. Commissioned First lieutenant, 1847, took part in Seminole War in Florida, 1848-1850. Captain 2d Cavalry, United States Army, 1855-1861, served in Texas and Indian Territory, promoted major, 1860.
Resigned from army, 1861.
Commissioned brigadier general Mississippi Militia, 1861, major general, 1861. Colonel of cavalry Confederate Army, assigned to duty in Texas.
Promoted brigadier general, 1861, major general, 1861. Commander Transport-Mississippi district, 1862.
Raided Union depots at Holly Springs, Mississippi, captured garrison.
Served in Mexican War.
Married Caroline Godbold, 1843.