Major John Johnson, CSA-- Part 4: Engineering and Divinity

Born in Charleston on December 25, 1829, he received his academic  education in engineering and pursued that for ten years where he was employed in surveys, railroad construction and water-works.  In 1853, under the patronage of the state, he prepared and published a large map of South Carolina.  He continued his academic studies at sessions offered at the University of Virginia 1858-1860.

In addition, he decided to enter the ministry  of the Protestant Episcopal Church and began  preparation at Camden, South Carolina,  under the direction of Bishop Thomas F. Davis until the war broke out.

He entered the engineering corps of the Confederate Army in August 1862 at age 33 with the rank of Lieutenant of Engineers, then Captain in 1863 and Major in 1864.  He was initially engaged in the construction of defenses at several towns (including Wilmington).

--Old Secesh