Scenes from Civil War New York: Francis Brownell

ECW is pleased to welcome back Jonathan W. White and Timothy Justin Orr, authors of New York City in the Civil War (Arcadia, 2025) with another scene from Civil War New York. Part of a series.

Colonel Elmer Ellsworth’s avenger was Troy-born Private Francis Edwin Brownell, a member of New York City’s Hose Company 42. During the ill-fated flag capture at the Marshall House, Brownell led the descent down the staircase. Initially, Innkeeper James W. Jackson took aim at Brownell, firing with his first barrel, but missed when his shotgun caught on the banister. In turn, Brownell raised his weapon to parry Jackson’s shotgun, but it, too, caught on the railing, allowing Jackson to fire his second barrel at Ellsworth. Brownell promptly returned fire and then lunged with his bayonet, sending Jackson’s body tumbling down the stairs. In the aftermath of the incident, Brownell became famous. In recognition for his service, the U.S. Army offered him a commission in the 11th U.S. Infantry. This publicity shot taken after Ellsworth’s death depicts Brownell in his Fire Zouave uniform. His belt, which reads, “Premier,” honors his fire company from Troy, Premier 1. In 1877, he received the Medal of Honor for killing Jackson.

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Today’s scene relates to “The Great Secession Crisis,” Chapter Two in Jonathan and Tim’s book New York City in the Civil War, part of the Images of America Series from Arcadia Press.