Martin was educated in the public schools and, at the age of fifteen, began learning the printer's trade.

In 1857, at the age of 18, he came to the Kansas Territory, bought the newspaper known as the Squatter Sovereign, published at Atchison, and changed the name to Freedom's Champion.

His intelligent activity in political affairs led to his being honored by election or appointment to various positions of trust and responsibility.

Early in 1862 he was appointed provost marshal of Leavenworth and held the position until his regiment was ordered to Corinth, Mississippi in March.

On November 1, 1862, Martin was promoted to colonel, and a few weeks later was assigned to duty as provost marshal of Nashville, Tennessee, which position he filled until the following June.

After the fall of Atlanta, Martin's regiment joined in the pursuit of Lt. Gen. John Bell Hood as he marched northward into Tennessee, where it closed its service.

During the closing scenes of his military career Martin commanded the First Brigade, Third Division, IV Corps, until he was mustered out at Pulaski, Tennessee on November 17, 1864.

Returning to Kansas, Martin resumed the editorial management of his paper, and again became a factor in political affairs.

During all the years following the Civil War he manifested a keen interest in the work and welfare of the Grand Army of the Republic, and when the Department of Kansas was organized, he was honored by being elected its first commander.

Kansas had steadily progressed in prosperity and her towns and broad farming lands had increased immensely in value.