MAJ. GEN. JOSHUA LAWRENCE CHAMBERLAIN
Gettysburg Oct 3, 1889

Lawrence Joshua Chamberlain was born Sept. 8, 1828, in Brewer, Maine. Having decided that Joshua Lawrence sounded more prestigious he took it upon himself to change the order of his given name. From that time on he was then known as Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain. He was educated briefly at Whitings Military and Classical Academy in Ellsworth, ME, at the age of 14 and, after first teaching himself Greek in order to enter, was graduated from Bowdoin College in 1852, and then from Bangor Theological Seminary in 1855. He was fluent in seven languages and a master of accents. Joshua returned to Bowdoin the same year as a professor. On August 8, 1862 he was commissioned lieutenant colonel of the 20th Maine.

Joshua has been honored for his heroic efforts in the defending of and holding of the high ground at Little Round Top July 2 during the 3 day battle of Gettysburg, July 1-3, 1863. He received the Medal of Honor for his defensive tactics on Little Round Top. He participated in 24 engagements, ranging from skirmishes to pitched battles, including: Fredericksburg, Sharpsburg, Chancellorsville, Cold Harbor, Petersburg and Five Forks. He was wounded six times and was given a field promotion to brigadier general by General U.S. Grant after one of the initial assaults against Petersburg in which he was thought to have been mortally wounded. He indeed recovered from this wound to return to service with the Federal Army until the end of the War. At Appomattox, Joshua was detailed to receive the formal surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia. Brevetted major general for his conduct at Five Forks, he declined a commission in the regular service and was mustered out in January, 1866. That same autumn he was elected governor of Maine and was reelected three times, serving until 1870. For the next thirteen years he occupied the presidency of Bowdoin College and until 1885 continued there as a lecturer in political science and public law.

	He was married to the former Frances (Fanny) Caroline Adams and together they raised Grace Dupee "Daisy" and Harold Wyllys. I know in whom all my highest hopes and dearest joys are centered. I know in whom my whole heart can rest - so sweetly and so surely. Fanny, Dear Fanny, only tell me that YOU do love me as I DO love you." They were married December 7, 1855 in Brunswick, ME and lived a most loving life together until her death October 18, 1905.  "You in my soul I see, faithful watcher by my cot-side long days and nights together through the delirium of mortal anquish, -steadfast, calm and sweet as eternal love. We pass now quickly from each other's sight; but I know full well that where beyond these passing scenes you shall be, there will be Heaven." Joshua to Fanny upon her death. Joshua followed Fanny in death February 24, 1914. 3,000 people jammed in and about the City Hall in Portland for the services there on February 27. At Brunswick more modest but equally impressive ceremonies awaited him as his train slowly steamed into the station. He was buried in Pine Grove Cemetery, Brunswick, ME, next to his beloved Fanny.
	Jeff Daniels portrayed JOSHUA LAWRENCE CHAMBERLAIN in the film Gettysburg (1993)