Understanding Frank

It has been said that war turns boys into men. The experiences in the camp and on the battlefield sets forth a transformation both physically and mentally. A man’s abilities are proven or disproven quickly. Once traits are assimilated little can be done to change opinion to character. How one adapts sets a lifelong course for the future years after silence falls on the battlefield.

Francis Channing Barlow was one who proved his tenacity in every aspect of his life. In command of his soldiers and himself. He was an intellectual from Harvard University, graduating first in his class in 1855 and without any military experience he enlisted in the army. There he took to studying again and learned the means necessary to be a commander and lead disciplined men into battle.

            Any student of the Civil War knows of Barlow, “the Boy General.” Where he receives most mention is in his physical appearance, character and going against orders during the first day’s battle at Gettysburg where he was seriously wounded. He has been called a racist and a bigot with a brutal style of discipline towards his men. The context of which needs to be set straight. Barlow did have a strict style of command. He expected perfection in himself and those around him but this was not unique to him.

He, like many others, was a product of his childhood and the influences that were around him. It was his New England childhood that shaped the man he was. Barlow was exceptionally intelligent with a brilliant legal mind. He was articulate in debate and a command of the written word. These attributes made him successful as a lawyer taking on tough cases.

Barlow was a complex man with a dry sense of humor and an air of sadness about him. He wasn’t afraid to state his opinion and speak his mind. To really understand Barlow the general, Barlow the lawyer, Barlow the politician and Barlow the man you really need to unpeel the onion examining all the turning points of his life.

For as much a public a life he led he was a private individual. Frank Barlow was successful because he had no other choice. It was out of personal losses that he persevered. It was his determination that paved the way for the future success of his children, grandchildren and his descendants today.