General Alfred T.A. Torbert

Born in Georgetown on July 1, 1833, Torbert attended local schools prior to his appointment to the West Point Class of 1855. After the out-break of the Civil War he rose rapidly in rank, serving as a regimental and brigade commander of New Jersey troops, then as Commander of the 1st Cavalry Division of the Army of the Potomac, and finally as Commander of Cavalry, Army of the Shenandoah. He was breveted as Major-General for his meritorious service. In 1869 Torbert was appointed by President Grant as Minister to San Salvador. He later served as Consul to Cuba and France. A shipwreck off the coast of Florida led to his death in 1880.