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{{Short description|American politician and military figure}}

{{Infobox military person
{{Infobox military person
| honorific_prefix =
| honorific_prefix =
| name = Abel Davis
| name = Abel Davis
| honorific_suffix =
| honorific_suffix =
| image = AbelDavis.PNG
| image = AbelDavis.PNG
| caption = Abel Davis<ref>{{cite web|last1=Donovan|first1=Henry|title=Chicago Eagle|url=http://idnc.library.illinois.edu/cgi-bin/illinois?a=d&d=CHE19110624&e=-------en-20--1--txt-txIN-------#|website=Illinois Digital Newspaper Collections|accessdate=29 June 2015}}</ref>
| caption = Abel Davis<ref>{{cite news |work=[[Chicago Eagle]] |url=http://idnc.library.illinois.edu/cgi-bin/illinois?a=d&d=CHE19110624&e=-------en-20--1--txt-txIN-------# |via=Illinois Digital Newspaper Collections |accessdate=10 September 2022 |date=24 June 1911 |volume=22 |issue=38 |page=2 |title=(no title) }}</ref>
| image_size =
| image_size =
| alt =
| alt =
| native_name =
| native_name =
| native_name_lang =
| native_name_lang =
| birth_name =
| birth_name =
| nickname =
| nickname =
| birth_date = {{birth date|1874|12|26}}
| birth_date = {{birth date|1874|12|26}}
| birth_place =
| birth_place = Kaunas, Lithuania
| death_date = {{Death date and age|1937|01|07|1874|12|26}}
| death_date = {{Death date and age|1937|01|07|1874|12|26}}
| death_place =
| death_place = [[Glencoe, Illinois]]
| placeofburial = [[Rosehill Cemetery]]
| placeofburial = [[Rosehill Cemetery]]
| placeofburial_label =
| placeofburial_label =
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| battles_label =
| battles_label =
| awards = [[Distinguished Service Cross (United States)|Distinguished Service Cross]] <br />Distinguished Service Medal
| awards = [[Distinguished Service Cross (United States)|Distinguished Service Cross]] <br />Distinguished Service Medal
| memorials =
| memorials =
| spouse = Marjorie née Mayer
| spouse = Marjorie née Mayer
| relations =
| relations =
| laterwork =
| laterwork =
| signature =
| signature =
| signature_size =
| signature_size =
| signature_alt =
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| website = <!-- {{URL|example.com}} -->
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}}
Brigadier General '''Abel Davis''' was an officer in the [[Illinois National Guard]]. He was regarded as "the second highest ranking Jewish officer in the Illinois National Guard, and one of the highest ranking Jewish officers in the [[United States Army]]." He served in the 66th Infantry Regiment.<ref name=Abel>{{cite web|title=Gen. Abel Davis Resigns from Illinois National Guard Post|url=http://www.jta.org/1930/09/22/archive/gen-abel-davis-resigns-from-illinois-national-guard-post|publisher=Global Jewish News Source}}</ref> During World War I, he commanded the 132nd Infantry Regiment of the 33rd Division.<ref name=JewishLists/>
Brigadier General '''Abel Davis''' (December 26, 1874 – January 7, 1937) was an officer in the [[Illinois National Guard]]. He was regarded as "the second highest ranking Jewish officer in the Illinois National Guard, and one of the highest ranking Jewish officers in the [[United States Army]]."<ref name="Abel">{{cite news |date=22 September 1930 |title=Gen. Abel Davis Resigns from Illinois National Guard Post |volume=VII |page=8 |work=[[Jewish Daily Bulletin]] |agency=[[Jewish Telegraphic Agency]] |issue=1770 |url=http://www.jta.org/1930/09/22/archive/gen-abel-davis-resigns-from-illinois-national-guard-post |access-date=10 September 2022}}</ref> During World War I, he commanded the [[132nd Infantry Regiment (United States)|132nd Infantry Regiment]] of the [[33rd Infantry Division (United States)|33rd Division]].<ref name=JewishLists/> Postwar, Davis commanded the [[66th Infantry Brigade (United States)|66th Infantry Brigade]].


==Early life==
==Early life==
Abel Davis was born on December 26, 1874<ref name="American Hebrew">{{cite journal|title=Who's Who in Our Citizen Soldiery - 1921|journal=The American Hebrew|date=December 2, 1921|volume= 110|page=80|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=oVxAAQAAMAAJ&pg=PA80|accessdate=3 February 2016}}</ref> in the city of [[Königsberg]], [[Prussia]], although Davis claimed he was from Lithuania. His parents were Pesach Davis and Keile née Lipshitz. Abel had eight siblings, four brothers and four sisters.
Abel Davis was born on December 26, 1874, in the city of [[Kaunas]], [[Lithuania]].<ref name="American Hebrew">{{cite journal|title=Who's Who in Our Citizen Soldiery - 1921|journal=The American Hebrew|date=December 2, 1921|volume= 110|page=80|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=oVxAAQAAMAAJ&pg=PA80|accessdate=3 February 2016}}</ref> His parents were Pesach Davis and Keile née Lipshitz. Abel had eight siblings, four brothers and four sisters.


In January 1891,{{Citation needed|date=November 2017}} the Davis family moved to [[Chicago]], Abel was seventeen at the time. His first job in America was as an errand boy in the shipping department of a State Street department store.
In January 1891,{{Citation needed|date=November 2017}} the Davis family moved to [[Chicago]], Abel was seventeen at the time. His first job in America was as an errand boy in the shipping department of a State Street department store.


==Spanish–American War==
==Spanish–American War==
As a teenager, he fought in the [[Spanish–American War]].<ref name="Cutler">{{cite book|last1=Cutler|first1=Irving|title=The Jews of Chicago: From Shtetl to Suburb|date=1996|publisher=University of Illinois Press|location=Urbana, IL|isbn=0252021851|page=107|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=85k85NhemBgC&pg=PA107|accessdate=3 February 2016}}</ref> Davis enlisted in the [[First Illinois Volunteer Infantry]] based out of Chicago. He served as a Private in [[E-Company]] until the end of the war.<ref name=JewishLists>{{cite web|title=The Jewish Lists |url=http://www.Chicagojewishnews.com/lists_chijews.htm |accessdate=November 18, 2013 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20090712042010/http://www.chicagojewishnews.com/lists_chijews.htm |archivedate=July 12, 2009 |df= }}</ref>
As a teenager, he fought in the [[Spanish–American War]].<ref name="Cutler">{{cite book|last1=Cutler|first1=Irving|title=The Jews of Chicago: From Shtetl to Suburb|date=1996|publisher=University of Illinois Press|location=Urbana, IL|isbn=0252021851|page=107|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=85k85NhemBgC&pg=PA107|accessdate=3 February 2016}}</ref> Davis enlisted in the [[1st Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment|1st Illinois Volunteer Infantry]] based out of Chicago. He served as a Private in Company E of the regiment until the end of the war.<ref name=JewishLists>{{cite web|title=The Jewish Lists |url=http://www.Chicagojewishnews.com/lists_chijews.htm |accessdate=November 18, 2013 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20090712042010/http://www.chicagojewishnews.com/lists_chijews.htm |archivedate=July 12, 2009 }}</ref>


== Interwar period ==
== Interwar period ==
After the Spanish–American War, Davis returned to Chicago and worked in the same State Street department store as an errand boy in the executive department. While working he studied law as night. In 1901, he received his law degree from [[Northwestern University]].<ref name="American Hebrew2">{{cite journal|title=Who's Who in our Citizen Soldiery - 1921|journal=American Hebrew|date=December 2, 1921|volume= 110|page=80}}</ref>
After the Spanish–American War, Davis returned to Chicago and worked in the same State Street department store as an errand boy in the executive department. While working he studied law as night. In 1901, he received his law degree from [[Northwestern University]].<ref name="American Hebrew2">{{cite journal|title=Who's Who in our Citizen Soldiery - 1921|journal=American Hebrew|date=December 2, 1921|volume= 110|page=80}}</ref>


On May 13, 1902, Davis was admitted to the [[Illinois State Bar Association]]. In November he was elected to the Illinois General Assembly from the 23rd District as a Republican. Davis continued his political career in November 1904 when he was elected [[Cook County]] Recorder on he Republican ticket.<ref name="American Hebrew4">{{cite journal|title=Who's Who in our Citizen Soldiery - 1921|journal=American Hebrew|date=December 2, 1921|volume= 110|page=80|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=oVxAAQAAMAAJ&pg=PA80|accessdate=3 February 2016}}</ref> After his second term as Recorder, Davis retired from elected office and served as the Vice President of the [[Chicago Title and Trust Company]].<ref name="American Hebrew4"/> During this time, Davis continued to serve in the Illinois National Guard and rose through the ranks. He also maintained a private law practice.
On May 13, 1902, Davis was admitted to the [[Illinois State Bar Association]]. In November 1902 he was elected to the [[Illinois House of Representatives]] from the 23rd District as a [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican]] and served in 1903 and 1904.<ref>'Illinois Blue Book 1903-1904,' Biographical Sketch of Abel Davis, pg. 367</ref> Davis continued his political career in November 1904 when he was elected [[Cook County Recorder of Deeds]] on the Republican ticket.<ref name="American Hebrew4">{{cite journal|title=Who's Who in our Citizen Soldiery - 1921|journal=American Hebrew|date=December 2, 1921|volume= 110|page=80|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=oVxAAQAAMAAJ&pg=PA80|accessdate=3 February 2016}}</ref> After his second term as Recorder, Davis retired from elected office and served as the Vice President of the [[Chicago Title and Trust Company]].<ref name="American Hebrew4"/> During this time, Davis continued to serve in the Illinois National Guard and rose through the ranks. He also maintained a private law practice.


In 1916, Major Davis and the First Infantry patrolled along the Mexico and U.S. border. They engaged in multiple skirmishes with [[Pancho Villa]]'s forces.
In 1916, Major Davis and the First Infantry patrolled along the Mexico and U.S. border.<ref>Meites, Hyman L., ed. ''History of the Jews of Chicago''. Chicago: Chicago Jewish
Historical Society and Wellington Publishing, Inc., Reprint of 1924 ed., 1990, page 263.</ref> They engaged in multiple skirmishes with [[Pancho Villa]]'s forces.


=== Lightning incident ===
=== Lightning incident ===
Line 59: Line 62:


== World War I ==
== World War I ==
In World War I, Colonel Davis commanded the [[132nd Illinois Volunteer Infantry Regiment|132nd U.S. Infantry of Illinois]]. He became a highly decorated officer for his bravery in battle.<ref name=JewishLists/>
In World War I, Colonel Davis commanded the [[132nd Infantry Regiment (United States)|132nd U.S. Infantry of Illinois]]. He became a highly decorated officer for his bravery in battle.<ref name=JewishLists/>


The group under Davis' command consisted of a single battalion of 8-inch [[howitzer]]s of the [[44th Regiment Colonial Army Corps]] and the [[2nd Battalion of the 123rd Field Artillery]] (155-millimeter howitzers).<ref>{{cite book|title=Illinois in the World War|year=1921|page=238}}</ref> On May 16, 1918, the 132nd U.S. Infantry regiment had sailed on the "Mount Vernon" troop transport from Hoboken, New Jersey. They arrived at Brest, France between May 23 and May 30 under Davis' command. While in France, they served alongside the British 173rd and 174th brigades as well as the British 4th army. They trained with both British and Australian forces before receiving their "baptism of fire" in the [[Battle of Hamel]].<ref>{{cite book|title=Semper Paratus: A short history of the 132nd Infantry Regiment|year=2013|page=7}}</ref> While in France, the 132nd Infantry under Davis' command had a mission to break through the enemy positions in front of and in the [[Bois de Forges]] and organize the Verdun–Sedan road 400 meters north of the Bois de Forges.<ref>{{cite book|title=Illinois in the World War|year=1921|pages=76–77}}</ref> The 131st was assembled in the northern part of the Bois de Forges and placed under Davis' command along with the 132nd Infantry. They had to cross the River Consenvoye the next day.<ref>{{cite book|title=Illinois in the World War|year=1921|pages=99–100}}</ref>
The group under Davis' command consisted of a single battalion of 8-inch [[howitzer]]s of the [[44th Regiment Colonial Army Corps]] and the [[123rd Field Artillery Regiment|2nd Battalion of the 123rd Field Artillery]] (155-millimeter howitzers).<ref>{{cite book|title=Illinois in the World War|year=1921|page=238}}</ref> On May 16, 1918, the 132nd U.S. Infantry regiment had sailed on the "Mount Vernon" troop transport from Hoboken, New Jersey. They arrived at Brest, France between May 23 and May 30 under Davis' command. While in France, they served alongside the British 173rd and 174th brigades as well as the British 4th army. They trained with both British and Australian forces before receiving their "baptism of fire" in the [[Battle of Hamel]].<ref>{{cite book|title=Semper Paratus: A short history of the 132nd Infantry Regiment|year=2013|page=7}}</ref> While in France, the 132nd Infantry under Davis' command had a mission to break through the enemy positions in front of and in the [[Bois de Forges]] and organize the Verdun–Sedan road 400 meters north of the Bois de Forges.<ref>{{cite book|title=Illinois in the World War|year=1921|pages=76–77}}</ref> The 131st was assembled in the northern part of the Bois de Forges and placed under Davis' command along with the 132nd Infantry. They had to cross the River Consenvoye the next day.<ref>{{cite book|title=Illinois in the World War|year=1921|pages=99–100}}</ref>


In October 1918, Colonel Davis' unit and the [[17th French Army Corps]] were attacked at [[Saint-Hilaire-en-Woëvre|St. Hilaire]] three days before the armistice. For repulsing the enemy attack, Davis was awarded the [[Distinguished Service Cross (United States)|Distinguished Service Cross]] and the [[Distinguished Service Medal (U.S. Army)|Distinguished Service Medal]].<ref name="American Hebrew5">{{cite journal|title=Who's Who in our Citizen Soldiery - 1921|journal=American Hebrew|date=December 2, 1921|volume= 110|pages=80, 87}}</ref>
In October 1918, Colonel Davis' unit and the [[17th Army Corps (France)|17th French Army Corps]] were attacked at [[Saint-Hilaire-en-Woëvre|St. Hilaire]] three days before the armistice. For repulsing the enemy attack, Davis was awarded the [[Distinguished Service Cross (United States)|Distinguished Service Cross]] and the [[Distinguished Service Medal (U.S. Army)|Distinguished Service Medal]].<ref name="American Hebrew5">{{cite journal|title=Who's Who in our Citizen Soldiery - 1921|journal=American Hebrew|date=December 2, 1921|volume= 110|pages=80, 87}}</ref>


== After World War I ==
== After World War I ==
[[File:Illinois in the World War; an illustrated record prepared with the coöperation and under the direction of the leaders in the state's military and civilian organizations (1920) (14787654893).jpg|thumb|left|Company commanders of the 132nd Infantry Regiment, 1920. Colonel Davis is stood in the center of the front row.]]

He participated in the founding of the [[American Legion]] with [[Milton J. Foreman]] in Paris.<ref name="Marcus">{{cite book|last1=Marcus|first1=Jacob Rader|title=United States Jewry, 1776-1985|date=1992|publisher=Wayne State Univ. Press|location=Detroit|isbn=0814321860|page=613|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HHNrnexojzYC&pg=PA613|accessdate=3 February 2016}}</ref>
He participated in the founding of the [[American Legion]] with [[Milton J. Foreman]] in Paris.<ref name="Marcus">{{cite book|last1=Marcus|first1=Jacob Rader|title=United States Jewry, 1776-1985|date=1992|publisher=Wayne State Univ. Press|location=Detroit|isbn=0814321860|page=613|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HHNrnexojzYC&pg=PA613|accessdate=3 February 2016}}</ref>


After the war ended, Davis became a Brigadier General in command of the 66th Infantry Brigade of the Illinois National Guard.
After the war ended, Davis became a Brigadier General in command of the 66th Infantry Brigade of the Illinois National Guard.<ref name=Abel/>


On December 28, 1922, Davis married Marjorie née Mayer. They had three children together: Florence, Abel Jr., and Jean.
On December 28, 1922, Davis married Marjorie née Mayer. They had three children together: Florence, Abel Jr., and Jean.<ref>Marquis Who's Who, Inc. ''Who Was Who in American History, the Military''. Chicago: Marquis Who's Who, 1975. P. 125. {{ISBN|0837932017}} {{OCLC|657162692}}</ref>


In 1930, Davis resigned his command with the Illinois National Guard. In 1931, Davis served as Chairman of the Board of The Chicago Title and Trust Company. He held this position until his death. From 1932–33, he served as a Trustee of the Century of Progress Exposition in Chicago. In 1935, Davis retired from the Illinois National Guard with a rank of Major General.
In 1930, Davis resigned his command with the Illinois National Guard. In 1931, Davis served as chairman of the Board of The Chicago Title and Trust Company. He held this position until his death.<ref name="auto">Marquis Who's Who, Inc. ''Who Was Who in American History, the Military''. Chicago: Marquis Who's Who, 1975. P. 125 {{ISBN|0837932017}} {{OCLC|657162692}}</ref> From 1932 to 1933, he served as a Trustee of the Century of Progress Exposition in Chicago.<ref name="auto"/> In 1935, Davis retired from the Illinois National Guard with a rank of Major General.<ref name="Jewish Post">{{cite journal|title=Jewish Post: A Journal for Indiana Jewry|date=January 15, 1937|volume=25|issue=19|url=https://newspapers.library.in.gov/cgi-bin/indiana?a=d&d=JPOST19370115-01.1.1|accessdate=6 November 2017}}</ref>


== Charity work ==
== Charity work ==
In 1906, Davis helped in the organization of the [[Young Men’s Jewish Charities of Chicago]]. In 1912, he became a director for the [[Chicago Jewish Charities]].
In 1906, Davis helped in the organization of the [[Young Men's Jewish Charities of Chicago]]. In 1912, he became a director for the [[Chicago Jewish Charities]].<ref>Meites, Hyman L., ed. ''History of the Jews of Chicago''. Chicago: Chicago Jewish Historical Society and Wellington Publishing, Inc., Reprint of 1924 ed., 1990, page 263.</ref>


After World War I ended, he became involved in "Chicago Jewish charitable affairs" and oversaw many war relief drives.<ref name=JewishLists/> At 52, he became the vice-president of the [[Chicago Title and Trust Company]].<ref name="uchicago.edu">{{cite web|url=http://photoarchive.lib.uchicago.edu/db.xqy?one=apf1-02082.xml|title=Davis, Abel : Photographic Archive : The University of Chicago|website=photoarchive.lib.uchicago.edu}}</ref> By 1919, "he served as general chairman of the [[nonsectarian]] Joint Distribution Committee's War Relief Drive."<ref name=Abel/> He was the "chairman of the 1926 and 1927 Chicago conferences of the [[United Jewish Campaign]]."<ref name=Abel/>
After World War I ended, he became involved in "Chicago Jewish charitable affairs" and oversaw many war relief drives.<ref name=JewishLists/> At 52, he became the vice-president of the [[Chicago Title and Trust Company]].<ref name="uchicago.edu">{{cite web|url=http://photoarchive.lib.uchicago.edu/db.xqy?one=apf1-02082.xml|title=Davis, Abel : Photographic Archive : The University of Chicago|website=photoarchive.lib.uchicago.edu}}</ref> By 1919, "he served as general chairman of the [[nonsectarian]] Joint Distribution Committee's War Relief Drive."<ref name=Abel/> He was the "chairman of the 1926 and 1927 Chicago conferences of the [[United Jewish Campaign]]."<ref name=Abel/>


Additionally, he was a member of the [[John Crerar Library]] board from 1928-1937.<ref name="uchicago.edu"/>
Additionally, he was a member of the [[John Crerar Library]] board from 1928 to 1937.<ref name="uchicago.edu"/>


== Awards and medals ==
== Awards and medals ==
Davis' World War I record earned him a number of prestigious medals such as the [[Distinguished Service Cross (United States)|Distinguished Service Cross]],<ref>[http://projects.militarytimes.com/citations-medals-awards/recipient.php?recipientid=15654 Awarded for actions during the World War I]. ''Military Times Hall of Valor''. Retrieved November 19, 2013</ref> the [[Distinguished Service Medal (U.S. Army)|Distinguished Service Medal]], and the Cross of the French Legion of Honor.<ref name=Abel/> His Distinguished Service Cross citation states "Disregarding the heavy shell and machine-gun fire, Colonel Davis personally assumed command and by his fearless leadership and courage the enemy was driven back." His Distinguished Service Medal also states "In the organization and training of his regiment he brought it to a notably high state of efficiency and morale with great thoroughness and in a remarkably short time. Afterward he handled it in all its actions against the enemy with marked success, displaying courage, resourcefulness, tactical skill, and military leadership of the highest order."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://valor.militarytimes.com/recipient.php?recipientid=15654|title=Valor awards for Abel Davis|publisher=}}</ref>
Davis' World War I record earned him a number of prestigious medals such as the [[Distinguished Service Cross (United States)|Distinguished Service Cross]],<ref>[https://valor.militarytimes.com/hero/15654 Awarded for actions during the World War I] . ''Military Times Hall of Valor''. Retrieved November 19, 2013</ref> the [[Distinguished Service Medal (U.S. Army)|Distinguished Service Medal]], and the Cross of the French Legion of Honor.<ref name=Abel/> His Distinguished Service Cross citation states "Disregarding the heavy shell and machine-gun fire, Colonel Davis personally assumed command and by his fearless leadership and courage the enemy was driven back." His Distinguished Service Medal also states "In the organization and training of his regiment he brought it to a notably high state of efficiency and morale with great thoroughness and in a remarkably short time. Afterward he handled it in all its actions against the enemy with marked success, displaying courage, resourcefulness, tactical skill, and military leadership of the highest order."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://valor.militarytimes.com/recipient.php?recipientid=15654|title=Valor awards for Abel Davis|publisher=}}</ref>


==Death and legacy==
==Death and legacy==
On January 7, 1937, Davis died of pneumonia at the age of 62.<ref name="Obit">{{cite journal|journal=Chicago Bar Record|title=[obituary]|volume=18|page=169|publisher=Chicago Bar Association|issn=0009-3505|oclc=1554144}}</ref><ref name="Blunk">{{cite journal|last1=Blunk|first1=Clifford M.|title=Life's Records Closed|journal=Illinois Bar Journal|volume=25|page=148|issn=0019-1876|oclc=1752639}}</ref> He was buried with full military honors at Rosehill Cemetery.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://undereverystone.blogspot.com/2014/04/one-of-highest-ranking-jewish-officers.html|title=Under Every Stone: ONE OF THE HIGHEST RANKING JEWISH OFFICERS IN THE US ARMY - General Abel Davis|first=Jim|last=Craig|date=11 April 2014|publisher=}}</ref>
On January 7, 1937, Davis died of pneumonia at the age of 62.<ref name="Obit">{{cite journal|journal=Chicago Bar Record|title=[obituary]|volume=18|page=169|publisher=Chicago Bar Association|issn=0009-3505|oclc=1554144}}</ref><ref name="Blunk">{{cite journal|last1=Blunk|first1=Clifford M.|title=Life's Records Closed|journal=Illinois Bar Journal|volume=25|page=148|issn=0019-1876|oclc=1752639}}</ref> He was buried with full military honors at Rosehill Cemetery.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://undereverystone.blogspot.com/2014/04/one-of-highest-ranking-jewish-officers.html|title=Under Every Stone: ONE OF THE HIGHEST RANKING JEWISH OFFICERS IN THE US ARMY - General Abel Davis|first=Jim|last=Craig|date=11 April 2014|publisher=}}</ref>


His portrait by Alfred Bendiner is in the [[National Gallery of Art]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://npg.si.edu/object/npg_1980.45.123_NGA|title=General Abel Davis|website=npg.si.edu}}</ref>
His portrait by [[Alfred Bendiner]] is in the [[National Gallery of Art]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://npg.si.edu/object/npg_1980.45.123_NGA|title=General Abel Davis|website=npg.si.edu}}</ref>


==References==
==References==
Line 96: Line 101:


{{DEFAULTSORT:Davis, Abel}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Davis, Abel}}
[[Category:American Jews in the military]]
[[Category:Jewish American military personnel]]
[[Category:People from Chicago]]
[[Category:Businesspeople from Chicago]]
[[Category:American military personnel of World War I]]
[[Category:Lawyers from Chicago]]
[[Category:Politicians from Chicago]]
[[Category:Military personnel from Illinois]]
[[Category:United States Army personnel of World War I]]
[[Category:American military personnel of the Spanish–American War]]
[[Category:American military personnel of the Spanish–American War]]
[[Category:1874 births]]
[[Category:1874 births]]
[[Category:1937 deaths]]
[[Category:1937 deaths]]
[[Category:American philanthropists]]
[[Category:Philanthropists from Illinois]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Distinguished Service Cross (United States)]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Distinguished Service Cross (United States)]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Distinguished Service Medal (US Army)]]
[[Category:Recipients of the Distinguished Service Medal (US Army)]]
[[Category:Republican Party members of the Illinois House of Representatives]]
[[Category:Cook County Recorders of Deeds]]
[[Category:Prussian emigrants to the United States]]
[[Category:United States Army generals]]
[[Category:National Guard (United States) generals]]

Latest revision as of 17:02, 16 April 2024

Abel Davis
Abel Davis[1]
Born(1874-12-26)December 26, 1874
Kaunas, Lithuania
DiedJanuary 7, 1937(1937-01-07) (aged 62)
Glencoe, Illinois
Buried
Rosehill Cemetery
Service / branchIllinois National Guard
RankBrigadier General
AwardsDistinguished Service Cross
Distinguished Service Medal
Spouse(s)Marjorie née Mayer

Brigadier General Abel Davis (December 26, 1874 – January 7, 1937) was an officer in the Illinois National Guard. He was regarded as "the second highest ranking Jewish officer in the Illinois National Guard, and one of the highest ranking Jewish officers in the United States Army."[2] During World War I, he commanded the 132nd Infantry Regiment of the 33rd Division.[3] Postwar, Davis commanded the 66th Infantry Brigade.

Early life

[edit]

Abel Davis was born on December 26, 1874, in the city of Kaunas, Lithuania.[4] His parents were Pesach Davis and Keile née Lipshitz. Abel had eight siblings, four brothers and four sisters.

In January 1891,[citation needed] the Davis family moved to Chicago, Abel was seventeen at the time. His first job in America was as an errand boy in the shipping department of a State Street department store.

Spanish–American War

[edit]

As a teenager, he fought in the Spanish–American War.[5] Davis enlisted in the 1st Illinois Volunteer Infantry based out of Chicago. He served as a Private in Company E of the regiment until the end of the war.[3]

Interwar period

[edit]

After the Spanish–American War, Davis returned to Chicago and worked in the same State Street department store as an errand boy in the executive department. While working he studied law as night. In 1901, he received his law degree from Northwestern University.[6]

On May 13, 1902, Davis was admitted to the Illinois State Bar Association. In November 1902 he was elected to the Illinois House of Representatives from the 23rd District as a Republican and served in 1903 and 1904.[7] Davis continued his political career in November 1904 when he was elected Cook County Recorder of Deeds on the Republican ticket.[8] After his second term as Recorder, Davis retired from elected office and served as the Vice President of the Chicago Title and Trust Company.[8] During this time, Davis continued to serve in the Illinois National Guard and rose through the ranks. He also maintained a private law practice.

In 1916, Major Davis and the First Infantry patrolled along the Mexico and U.S. border.[9] They engaged in multiple skirmishes with Pancho Villa's forces.

Lightning incident

[edit]

On July 6, 1912, Major Davis and a group of soldiers were struck by lightning at Camp Lincoln outside of Springfield, Illinois. A Chicago Tribune article states Davis was the most seriously injured and was reported to be in critical condition with his tongue blackened and the soles of his feet burned. All men involved made a full recovery.

World War I

[edit]

In World War I, Colonel Davis commanded the 132nd U.S. Infantry of Illinois. He became a highly decorated officer for his bravery in battle.[3]

The group under Davis' command consisted of a single battalion of 8-inch howitzers of the 44th Regiment Colonial Army Corps and the 2nd Battalion of the 123rd Field Artillery (155-millimeter howitzers).[10] On May 16, 1918, the 132nd U.S. Infantry regiment had sailed on the "Mount Vernon" troop transport from Hoboken, New Jersey. They arrived at Brest, France between May 23 and May 30 under Davis' command. While in France, they served alongside the British 173rd and 174th brigades as well as the British 4th army. They trained with both British and Australian forces before receiving their "baptism of fire" in the Battle of Hamel.[11] While in France, the 132nd Infantry under Davis' command had a mission to break through the enemy positions in front of and in the Bois de Forges and organize the Verdun–Sedan road 400 meters north of the Bois de Forges.[12] The 131st was assembled in the northern part of the Bois de Forges and placed under Davis' command along with the 132nd Infantry. They had to cross the River Consenvoye the next day.[13]

In October 1918, Colonel Davis' unit and the 17th French Army Corps were attacked at St. Hilaire three days before the armistice. For repulsing the enemy attack, Davis was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross and the Distinguished Service Medal.[14]

After World War I

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Company commanders of the 132nd Infantry Regiment, 1920. Colonel Davis is stood in the center of the front row.

He participated in the founding of the American Legion with Milton J. Foreman in Paris.[15]

After the war ended, Davis became a Brigadier General in command of the 66th Infantry Brigade of the Illinois National Guard.[2]

On December 28, 1922, Davis married Marjorie née Mayer. They had three children together: Florence, Abel Jr., and Jean.[16]

In 1930, Davis resigned his command with the Illinois National Guard. In 1931, Davis served as chairman of the Board of The Chicago Title and Trust Company. He held this position until his death.[17] From 1932 to 1933, he served as a Trustee of the Century of Progress Exposition in Chicago.[17] In 1935, Davis retired from the Illinois National Guard with a rank of Major General.[18]

Charity work

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In 1906, Davis helped in the organization of the Young Men's Jewish Charities of Chicago. In 1912, he became a director for the Chicago Jewish Charities.[19]

After World War I ended, he became involved in "Chicago Jewish charitable affairs" and oversaw many war relief drives.[3] At 52, he became the vice-president of the Chicago Title and Trust Company.[20] By 1919, "he served as general chairman of the nonsectarian Joint Distribution Committee's War Relief Drive."[2] He was the "chairman of the 1926 and 1927 Chicago conferences of the United Jewish Campaign."[2]

Additionally, he was a member of the John Crerar Library board from 1928 to 1937.[20]

Awards and medals

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Davis' World War I record earned him a number of prestigious medals such as the Distinguished Service Cross,[21] the Distinguished Service Medal, and the Cross of the French Legion of Honor.[2] His Distinguished Service Cross citation states "Disregarding the heavy shell and machine-gun fire, Colonel Davis personally assumed command and by his fearless leadership and courage the enemy was driven back." His Distinguished Service Medal also states "In the organization and training of his regiment he brought it to a notably high state of efficiency and morale with great thoroughness and in a remarkably short time. Afterward he handled it in all its actions against the enemy with marked success, displaying courage, resourcefulness, tactical skill, and military leadership of the highest order."[22]

Death and legacy

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On January 7, 1937, Davis died of pneumonia at the age of 62.[23][24] He was buried with full military honors at Rosehill Cemetery.[25]

His portrait by Alfred Bendiner is in the National Gallery of Art.[26]

References

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  1. ^ "(no title)". Chicago Eagle. Vol. 22, no. 38. 24 June 1911. p. 2. Retrieved 10 September 2022 – via Illinois Digital Newspaper Collections. {{cite news}}: Cite uses generic title (help)
  2. ^ a b c d e "Gen. Abel Davis Resigns from Illinois National Guard Post". Jewish Daily Bulletin. Vol. VII, no. 1770. Jewish Telegraphic Agency. 22 September 1930. p. 8. Retrieved 10 September 2022.
  3. ^ a b c d "The Jewish Lists". Archived from the original on July 12, 2009. Retrieved November 18, 2013.
  4. ^ "Who's Who in Our Citizen Soldiery - 1921". The American Hebrew. 110: 80. December 2, 1921. Retrieved 3 February 2016.
  5. ^ Cutler, Irving (1996). The Jews of Chicago: From Shtetl to Suburb. Urbana, IL: University of Illinois Press. p. 107. ISBN 0252021851. Retrieved 3 February 2016.
  6. ^ "Who's Who in our Citizen Soldiery - 1921". American Hebrew. 110: 80. December 2, 1921.
  7. ^ 'Illinois Blue Book 1903-1904,' Biographical Sketch of Abel Davis, pg. 367
  8. ^ a b "Who's Who in our Citizen Soldiery - 1921". American Hebrew. 110: 80. December 2, 1921. Retrieved 3 February 2016.
  9. ^ Meites, Hyman L., ed. History of the Jews of Chicago. Chicago: Chicago Jewish Historical Society and Wellington Publishing, Inc., Reprint of 1924 ed., 1990, page 263.
  10. ^ Illinois in the World War. 1921. p. 238.
  11. ^ Semper Paratus: A short history of the 132nd Infantry Regiment. 2013. p. 7.
  12. ^ Illinois in the World War. 1921. pp. 76–77.
  13. ^ Illinois in the World War. 1921. pp. 99–100.
  14. ^ "Who's Who in our Citizen Soldiery - 1921". American Hebrew. 110: 80, 87. December 2, 1921.
  15. ^ Marcus, Jacob Rader (1992). United States Jewry, 1776-1985. Detroit: Wayne State Univ. Press. p. 613. ISBN 0814321860. Retrieved 3 February 2016.
  16. ^ Marquis Who's Who, Inc. Who Was Who in American History, the Military. Chicago: Marquis Who's Who, 1975. P. 125. ISBN 0837932017 OCLC 657162692
  17. ^ a b Marquis Who's Who, Inc. Who Was Who in American History, the Military. Chicago: Marquis Who's Who, 1975. P. 125 ISBN 0837932017 OCLC 657162692
  18. ^ "Jewish Post: A Journal for Indiana Jewry". 25 (19). January 15, 1937. Retrieved 6 November 2017. {{cite journal}}: Cite journal requires |journal= (help)
  19. ^ Meites, Hyman L., ed. History of the Jews of Chicago. Chicago: Chicago Jewish Historical Society and Wellington Publishing, Inc., Reprint of 1924 ed., 1990, page 263.
  20. ^ a b "Davis, Abel : Photographic Archive : The University of Chicago". photoarchive.lib.uchicago.edu.
  21. ^ Awarded for actions during the World War I . Military Times Hall of Valor. Retrieved November 19, 2013
  22. ^ "Valor awards for Abel Davis".
  23. ^ "[obituary]". Chicago Bar Record. 18. Chicago Bar Association: 169. ISSN 0009-3505. OCLC 1554144.
  24. ^ Blunk, Clifford M. "Life's Records Closed". Illinois Bar Journal. 25: 148. ISSN 0019-1876. OCLC 1752639.
  25. ^ Craig, Jim (11 April 2014). "Under Every Stone: ONE OF THE HIGHEST RANKING JEWISH OFFICERS IN THE US ARMY - General Abel Davis".
  26. ^ "General Abel Davis". npg.si.edu.

Further reading

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  • Davis, Abel. The Story of the 132d Infantry, A.E.F. 1919. OCLC 58593856
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