History of Iowa From the Earliest Times to the Beginning of the Twentieth Century/4/Clark R. Wever
CLARK R. WEVER was born at Hornsfield, New York, September 16, 1835, where he grew to manhood. Soon after he became of age he made an extensive journey through Texas and Mexico. In 1858 he came to Iowa, locating at Burlington. When the Civil War began he assisted in raising Company D, Seventeenth Iowa Volunteers and was commissioned captain. He made an excellent officer, serving in several general engagements with marked ability. He was promoted to lieutenant-colonel in October, 1862, and upon the resignation of Hillis in 1863 became colonel of the regiment. He commanded it in the Chattanooga campaign and was with Sherman's march and battles through the Gulf States. He was in command of a brigade at Resaca when General Hood's army approached and demanded the surrender of the post. With greatly inferior numbers Wever determined to hold it at all hazards. In reply to Hood's demand, Wever responded: “In my opinion I can hold this post; if you want it, come and take it.” The attack began with great fury, but Wever made a brilliant defense until reinforcements relieved the heroic commander and his little garrison. Colonel Wever commanded a brigade through Sherman's great campaign. He was brevetted Brigadier-General in recognition of his brilliant services.