Our Heritage: Remembering Lt. Col. Barton S. Kyle
This Memorial Day we remember one of Troy's leaders who died at the Battle of Shiloh
Most of the elementary schools in our community are named after those that played prominent roles in the early days of Troy’s growing educational system. Heywood School, was named after teacher Margaret Heywood. Van Cleve School was named after an early School Superintendent, C. L. Van Cleve. Cookson and Hook, schools named after local school leaders.
One name that sticks out is Kyle School. The school is named for Barton S. Kyle. And while Lt. Col. Kyle did serve on the city’s school board in the early days of the community, it was his military service that is more consequential for our hometown and even our nation.
This Memorial Day, it is more than fitting that time and attention is paid to one of the true heroes of the Civil War that came from our hometown, and we reflect not only Lt. Col. Kyle’s own contributions to our community and country, but to also look at the generations of his own family that came after him.
Lieutenant Colonel Barton S. Kyle was born on April 7, 1825, in Elizabeth Township, Miami County, Ohio. His lineage traces back to two pioneering brothers, Samuel and Thomas B. Kyle, who moved from Kentucky to Miami County in 1803; a few years before Miami County was established in 1807. The two brothers were not only backwoods preachers but also pioneer farmers, bringing with them both spiritual and practical tools—a Bible and an ax.
An early record from the Miami Court of Common Pleas highlights the prominence of the Kyle family. It mentions Thomas B. Kyle being recognized as a regularly ordained minister, thereby granted the license to solemnize marriages. Thomas B. Kyle was Barton S. Kyle’s uncle, while Reverend Samuel Kyle was his father.
Growing up on a farm in Miami County during the early 19th century, Barton S. Kyle had the typical experiences of a boy raised in rural Ohio. Despite the demanding farm life, Kyle managed to obtain a good education, an achievement that stood out in his community. His dedication to learning was evident in his later years when he served as a county school examiner, working alongside Professor William Edwards, an early leader of education in our home county.
Civic Engagement and Early Career
Barton S. Kyle was a man of impressive stature, both physically and in his community. Described as large and portly, he had a generous and genial disposition, making him a popular figure in Miami County. His intellectual abilities were noteworthy, and he became highly involved in various civic duties. For six years, Kyle served as the chief clerk in the auditor’s office here in Miami County. At the young age of twenty-three, he was appointed deputy United States marshal for the southern district of Ohio, showcasing his early promise and capability.
In 1859, Kyle was elected as the clerk of the common pleas court, a position he held until he entered the army. His leadership extended to the educational realm as well, where he served as the president of the board of education in Troy. His involvement in national politics was marked by his participation in the 1856 national convention that nominated General John C. Fremont for president. These roles highlighted his commitment to public service and his leadership abilities.
Military Service and the Civil War
With the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861, Barton S. Kyle’s patriotism and sense of duty led him to take an active role in recruiting a regiment for the Union Army. Based in Troy, Ohio, he worked tirelessly during the summer and fall of 1861 to enlist and organize the 71st Ohio Volunteer Infantry. His efforts culminated in his commission as lieutenant-colonel of the regiment on October 2, 1861. Although he declined the colonelcy, his role as lieutenant-colonel was pivotal in the regiment’s formation and deployment. In February 1862, Kyle reported with his regiment to Paducah, Kentucky, and shortly thereafter, they were ordered to Pittsburg Landing, setting the stage for their participation in one of the Civil War’s most significant battles.
The Battle of Shiloh
The Battle of Shiloh, fought on April 6-7, 1862, in southwestern Tennessee, was one of the Civil War's bloodiest encounters. Lt. Col. Kyle’s leadership was exemplary during this fierce and chaotic battle. On April 6, 1862, while at his post, Kyle was mortally wounded by a Minnie ball to the chest. Despite warnings from his officers about the danger he faced, Kyle refused to abandon his position. His bravery and steadfastness under fire were hallmarks of his character.
After being wounded, Kyle was taken to a hospital boat, where he succumbed to his injuries within a few hours. His death was a significant loss to his regiment and was deeply mourned by his men. His military service, though brief, left a lasting impact, and he was remembered with great affection and respect by those who served under him.
The legacy of Lt. Col. Barton S. Kyle is one of heroism and dedication. Whitelaw Reid, a prominent journalist and historian, remarked on Kyle’s death, noting, "Ohio lost no truer, braver man that day than Lieutenant-Colonel Kyle." His contributions to the 71st Ohio Volunteer Infantry and his ultimate sacrifice at the Battle of Shiloh are remembered as a testament to his courage and leadership.
A Prominent Family
And while Lt. Col. Kyle’s father and uncle were early pioneers in the community, later generations of his family also had notable individuals that were born in our hometown. Lt. Col. Kyle’s son, Thomas B. Kyle was an impactful individual himself.
Thomas B. Kyle was born in 1856 and died in 1915. After attending school here in Troy, Kyle went to Dartmouth College to study law. After graduation, Kyle came back home and created a career devoted to community service. Kyle not only served the community as President of the Board of Education and as Mayor of Troy, Kyle was elected as County Prosecutor and was later elected to two terms as a Member of Congress from 1901 to 1905.
Lt. Col. Kyle’s grandson, who was born to his daughter, was Lt. Gen. Barton Kyle Yount. Lt. Gen. Yount served overseas in Cuba and China at the beginning of the 20th Century and was one of the early military leaders in the Army Air Force. Among his military decorations and awards are the Distinguished Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, the Air Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, the American Defense Service Medal, and the American Campaign Medal. After his military retirement, he moved to Glendale, Arizona where he founded and served as the president of the American Institute of Foreign Trade. Lt. Gen. Yount passed away in 1949 and is buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
How Will This Family Be Remembered?
The Kyle family was here in our county well before the Hobart’s and the Hayner’s and other names that seem to be more well-known in our community’s lore. With the demolition of Kyle School, which stands as one of the most recognizable memorials to this important family in Troy’s history, how will this family be remembered? What are your ideas to honor this family in our hometown?
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