People of the Civil War · Confederacy
Simon B. Buckner
1823–1914
Background
Kentucky-born career officer who became a Confederate general, surrendered Fort Donelson, and later served as governor of Kentucky.
Professional soldier
Buckner was born in Hart County, Kentucky, and graduated from West Point in 1844. He taught at the academy and served in the Mexican–American War before taking on militia responsibilities in Kentucky.
Confederate service
He entered Confederate service and surrendered Fort Donelson in 1862. After his release in a prisoner exchange, he continued serving in the Confederate army, including commands in Kentucky and Tennessee.
Governor of Kentucky
Buckner served as Kentucky’s governor from 1887 to 1891. His administration addressed state finances, schools, and prisons. In 1896 he was the vice-presidential candidate of the Gold Democrats. He died in 1914.