Ralph Gowdy

1832 - 1911

Ralph Gowdy – Captain Co. F-14th NJ Vols

Ralph Gowdy was born in Enfield, Connecticut on May 18, 1832 to Daniel and Anna (ne Harper) Gowdy. He received his early education at the district school in Enfield and graduated from the seminary school Harwich, Massachusetts in 1847.

After serving as a store clerk, he formed a partnership with his brothers in Rhode Island until the store they owned was destroyed by fire. After a period of four years seeking his wealth in California, he returned east and settled in Gloucester County, New Jersey, where he met and married Susan Tankin in 1854. After her death in 1857 he moved to Toms River, New Jersey.

He started another business with two partners in merchandising. He also continued his own real estate business. In 1862 he married Rebecca M. Barnard and joined the 14th Regiment of the New Jersey Volunteers. Helping to organize a Company of men from his hometown, he was elected Captain and was mustered in with that rank.

He served in that position for a little more than a year, at which time he resigned to attend to his failing business activities. He became politically active in his hometown serving as a member of the Township Board and Commissioner of Appeals. He was also County Chairman of the Republican Party.

Ralph B. Gowdy died April 18, 1911