Background
Henry Brewerton was born in New York City, New New York
Henry Brewerton was born in New York City, New New York
He graduated on July 1, 1819 5th in a class of 29 cadets and was commissioned a 2nd lieutenant the same day.
He was not yet 18 years old at the time of his commencement. After a brief tour at Rouses Point helping to survey and establish the 45th parallel along the border between the United States and Canada, Brewerton taught engineering at the academy. He was promoted to 1st lieutenant on January 1, 1825 and to captain on September 21, 1836.
He later worked as an engineer on seacoast defenses and on the construction of the National Road in Ohio.
He returned to West Point as superintendent of the military academy in 1845. Replaced in 1852 by Robert East. Lee, Brewerton was promoted to major of engineers on August 23, 1856 after almost 19 years in the rank of captain.
At the outset of the conflict in April 1861, Brewerton was on an extended tour of Western Europe, Greece, Palestine, and Egypt, escorted by Zealous B. Tower. Promoted to lieutenant colonel, on August 6, 1861, Brewerton was thereafter superintending engineer of the fortifications and improvements of Baltimore Harbor, Fort Monroe, and Hampton Roads.
He was promoted to colonel on April 22, 1864 and was breveted as a brigadier general at the war"s close.
Brewerton retired on March 7, 1867 after more than 47 years active service, not including his almost 6 years as a cadet at West Point. He spent his last years in Delaware. Brewerton is buried at the Island Cemetery in Newport, Rhode Island.
Cadet, United States Military Academy - July 25, 1813
2nd Lieutenant - July 1, 1819
1st Lieutenant - January 1, 1825
Captain - September 21, 1836
Major - August 23, 1856
Colonel - April 22, 1864
Brevet Brigadier General - March 13, 1865
Retired - March 7, 1867.