He graduated from the Collegiate and Commercial institute in New Haven, Connecticut, and engaged in mercantile interests in Indianapolis.
He joined the Indiana National Guard and, in May 1893, was appointed brigadier-general, commanding.
At the outbreak of the Spanish–American War, he was appointed brigadier-general in the United States Volunteers (U.S.V.)
He was honorably discharged from the volunteer service on March 15, 1899, and returned to Indianapolis, being recommissioned brigadier-general, commanding, Indiana National Guard, on the same day.
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