Samuel W. Preston

:"Samuel Preston" redirects here. For the British pop performer, see Samuel Preston (singer)"

Samuel W. Preston (6 April, 1840 – 15 January, 1865) was an officer in the United States Navy during the American Civil War.

Born in Canada, Preston was appointed Midshipman from the state of Illinois on 4 October, 1858. Graduating first in his class, 9 May, 1861, he was appointed Acting Master on 4 October, 1861, and Lieutenant 1 August, 1862. From 1861 to 1863 he served on various vessels attached to the South Atlantic Blockading Squadron. Captured by Confederate forces during an attack on Fort Sumter on 8 September, 1863, he was taken to Libby Prison in Richmond, Virginia, and exchanged in the fall of 1864.

Ordered to the North Atlantic Blockading Squadron as Flag-Lieutenant to Rear Admiral David Dixon Porter, he participated in the attacks on Fort Fisher on 24–25 December, 1864, and 13 January, 1865. He was killed while leading his men against the fort on the latter date.

Six ships have been named USS "Preston" for him.

References

*DANFS