James William Denny was born on November 20, 1838, in Frederick County, Virginia.

He served until 1863 when he was detailed for service at General Robert E. Lee's headquarters, where he continued until the surrender at Appomattox Court House.

After the war, he returned to Clarke County, Virginia, and graduated from Judge Parker's Law School in Winchester.

[1][2] Denny was elected to the first branch of the Baltimore City Council in 1881, was reelected in 1882, and later became its president.

[1] This article incorporates public domain material from the Biographical Directory of the United States Congress