BBC East Midlands Coverage of Double Dedication in Derby of Two British American Civil War Veterans.

On October 4, 2025, the Monuments for UK Veterans of the American Civil War Association dedicated two British veterans of the American Civil War during a historic double dedication at Nottingham Road Cemetery in Derby.

With thanks to the BBC Derby Team.

Samuel Lander Hough:

Emigrated to America in 1850. Just a teenager, Sam enlisted in the New Jersey Cavalry on September 8, 1864—barely 16 years old in late 1864 he was involved at The Battle of Egypt Station. After the war, Samuel would return to Derby.

Henry McGuinness:

Emigrated to America in 1857 When the American Civil War broke out, Henry enlisted in the 65th New York Infantry Regiment.

He fought in many of the war’s bloodiest battles, including Gettysburg, Spotsylvania, and Cold Harbor. At Cedar Creek in 1864, where the regiment suffered devastating losses, Henry was badly wounded. He served until his honourable discharge in 1865. Henry returned to England in the 1980s and settled in Derby.

Both men would meet each other at a 4th of July 1916 celebration in London which was organised by The London Branch of US Civil War Veterans and John Davis Henry died in November 1916 and was buried with full military honors, his funeral expenses covered by his friend Samuel.

When his comrade Charles Wright died in 1933, Samuel became the last surviving American Civil War veteran in the UK. He passed away in 1940, his unique story largely forgotten.

Please help us achieve our ultimate goal of erecting a monument for all British American Civil War veterans. Additionally, we are committed to continuing the work of identifying and honouring more American Civil War veterans. You can donate via our

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