(Kansas City Public Library)
Lt. Col. James L. Abernathy served as chief of staff for Brig. Gen. Melvin S. Grant, Kansas State Militia.
Born in Ohio and residing in Leavenworth, Kansas, James L. Abernathy mustered in on August 28, 1861, as captain of Company A, 8th Kansas Infantry. On November 1, 1862, Abernathy was promoted to lieutenant colonel of the 8th Kansas Infantry. Abernathy assumed command of the regiment on the second day of the three-day Battle of Chickamauga, during which the regiment suffered over 50% casualties. Abernathy resigned his commission on November 8, 1863. After the war, Abernathy returned to his retail furniture business in Leavenworth. In 1886, Abernathy helped found the First National Bank of Kansas City.