Powell Liberty Historical Society

Preserving the past of Powell and Liberty Township, inspiring our future

President Rosecrans? Hometown Hero - What Might Have Been

Date
February 16, 2026, 07:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Title
President Rosecrans? Hometown Hero - What Might Have Been
Speaker
Michael Wise
Venue
Municipal Building Community (East) Room
47 Hall St
Powell, OH 43065

Summary


Michael Wise, educated and entertained the audience while portraying his second great-uncle, Captain George M. Wise, who served as Adjutant for the Union's 43rd Ohio Infantry Regiment during the Civil War, under Major General William Rosecrans of Sunbury. He reviewed Rosecrans' life, including his time at West Point, his time serving in the Army Corp of Engineers and his time as a general in the Civil War. He explained why his men loved him, and described his disastrous relationships with Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton and Commanding General U. S. Grant. He explained how Rosecrans was asked to be President Lincoln's running mate in 1864 but his long telegram accepting the nomination was never delivered. He also described the numerous other political opportunities the Rosecrans declined to pursue.
Not Available
Michael Wise as Capt. George M. Wise

Videos

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Title:   President Rosecrans?

Presentor:   Michael Wise

Description:   In this video Michael Wise portrays his second great-uncle, Captain George M. Wise, who served as Adjutant for the Union's 43rd Ohio Infantry Regiment, under Major General Rosecrans of Sunbury, Ohio in the Civil War. After a brief discussion of George Wise, he reviews Rosecrans' life, including his time at West Point, his service in the Army Corp of Engineers and his stormy time as a general in the Civil War. He explains his contentious relationship with Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton and Commanding General U. S. Grant. He also explains how Rosecrans was asked to be President Lincoln's running mate in 1864 but his telegram of acceptance was never received, perhaps sabbotaged by Stanton. He also summarizes the very large collection of other political opportunities that Rosecrans declined to pursue. Music Credit: "When Johnny Comes Marching Home," Brass Quartet, U S Navy Band

Videographer:   Allen Miller

Photos

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General William Rosecrans
General William Rosecrans
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