Brigadier General Thomas S. Jesup Autographs, Memorabilia & Collectibles

Brigadier General Thomas Sidney Jesup (December 16, 1788 – June 10, 1860) was a prominent United States Army officer known for his service during various conflicts of the early 19th century. Born in Berkeley County, Virginia (now West Virginia), he is often referred to as the "Father of the Modern Quartermaster Corps" in the United States Army due to his long tenure as Quartermaster General and significant reforms he enacted in the department.

Jesup's military career began in 1808 when he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the 7th Infantry Regiment. During the War of 1812, Jesup served as a captain and later as a major, where he earned recognition for his distinguished service in battles such as Chippewa and Niagara. He was captured by British forces during the Siege of Fort Erie, but after being exchanged, he returned to active duty and was promoted to lieutenant colonel.

In the Seminole Wars in Florida, one of his most notable campaigns, Jesup served as the commander of U.S. forces from 1836 to 1838. His tactics during this period were decisive but controversial. Notably, he captured Seminole leader Osceola under a flag of truce, a move that was highly criticized. Regardless, his strategies effectively quelled Seminole resistance and forced a significant number of Seminoles to move to Indian Territory, west of the Mississippi River.

In 1818, Jesup was appointed Quartermaster General of the U.S. Army, a position he would hold for 42 years until his death, making him the longest-serving Quartermaster General in U.S. history. Under his administration, the Quartermaster Department underwent substantial modernization. He professionalized the department, established new regulations, and is credited with introducing the use of camels as transport animals in the U.S. Army during the 1850s.

Jesup was promoted to brigadier general in 1828, a reflection of his significant contributions to the United States military. His leadership was considered pivotal in the development of logistical strategies that the U.S. Army used throughout the 19th century.