He moved to Missouri in 1836 with his parents, who settled in Knox County, near Newark, and continued his schooling.
During the Civil War served as colonel of the Third Regiment, Missouri Volunteer Cavalry, beginning September 4, 1861.
At various points during his service, he detached as the Commander of the District of Rolla, the Sub-District of Pilot Knob and the 2nd Brigade, Cavalry Division, Department of the Missouri.
On February 23, 1864 he tendered his resignation in Springfield, Illinois, on account of impaired health.
He served as chairman of the Committee on Expenditures in the Department of the Treasury (Forty-fifth Congress).