Born in Ohio, William F. Cloud served with the 2d Ohio Infantry during the Mexican War. In 1859, Cloud relocated to Lawrence and then Emporia in the Kansas Territory. In 1861, Cloud mustered in as the captain of Company H, 2d Kansas Infantry and was promoted to major on May 23, 1861. When his enlistment expired, Cloud reenlisted and was major of the 2d Kansas Cavalry. On March 27, 1862, Cloud was promoted to colonel of the 10th Kansas Infantry. Three months later, Cloud transferred to assume command of the 2d Kansas Cavalry. During the Battle of Westport, Colonel Cloud served on Maj. Gen. Samuel R. Curtis's staff as an aide de camp. Cloud later served as a cavalry brigade commander in various commands. After the war, Cloud settled in Carthage, Missouri, and became a noted speaker and author.
Wikipedia. “William F. Cloud,” May 15, 2017. Link.
Kansas Adjutant General. Report of the Adjutant General of the State of Kansas, 1861-’65, 75, 78, 347.