Jacob Wilson Parrott (July 17, 1843–December 22, 1908) was a Union Army soldier best known for his role in the Civil War operation commonly called the Great Locomotive Chase or Andrews' Raid. He volunteered for the daring raid into Confederate territory in 1862, was captured after the mission, and endured harsh treatment before returning to Union lines. Parrott later became the first person presented with the Medal of Honor.

Early life and military service

Born in Ohio in 1843, Parrott enlisted in the Union Army as a young man. He served as a private in a volunteer infantry unit and accepted an invitation to take part in a special reconnaissance and sabotage mission behind enemy lines. The raid required volunteers who could operate covertly and withstand the risks of capture.

Andrews' Raid and capture

The operation aimed to disrupt Confederate rail communications by seizing a locomotive and destroying track, telegraph lines and supplies. Although the raiders succeeded in capturing a train, they were soon pursued and many were captured. Parrott was among those taken prisoner; contemporary reports emphasize his resilience under interrogation and imprisonment.

Medal of Honor and legacy

In recognition of the raid and the extraordinary courage shown by the participants, Parrott was chosen as the first soldier to be presented the newly established Medal of Honor. His award helped define how the decoration would be used to recognize conspicuous bravery. The raid itself has been retold in histories and dramatizations, contributing to Parrott's lasting public memory.

Later life and remembrance

  • After the war Parrott returned to civilian life and remained active in veterans' circles.
  • He died in 1908; his story is cited in discussions of early Medal of Honor recipients and Civil War special operations.
  • Accounts of the raid continue to appear in books and films that examine Civil War sabotage and espionage.

Jacob Parrott's experience exemplifies the risks taken by small units in wartime irregular operations and marks a key moment in the history of American military honors.