John Henry Beacom

John Henry Beacom
1857 - 1916

John Henry Beacom was born in Wellsville January 1, 1857.  He was the one of the brothers of Byron Beacom, the benefactor responsible for the Beacom Memorial gym. 

John Henry attended Oberlin College for three years before getting an appointment to West Point at age 21.  He attended West Point from 1878 and graduated in 1882.  From there he had a distinguished 38 year military career having served in the Philippines and as the Military Attaché in the London Embassy, just to name a couple of his posts.  Beacom died in Mexico September 17, 1916 while serving under Gen. George Pershing.  He was 59 years old. 

Beacom's West Point Uniform

Pictured here is Beacom’s West Point uniform and, although not documented, it is believed to be his West Point great coat.  It is the same kind of uniforms West Point cadets wore during the Civil War years. These pieces of clothing are currently on display at the Wellsville River Museum along with many interesting items.   

Believed to be Beacom's West
Point Great Coat

The River Museum is opened for touring every Sunday afternoon through the end of August from 1 to 4:30 PM.  It is open to the public and admission is by donation only.  The museum is located at 1003 Riverside Avenue, which is behind the Central Methodist Church at 10^th & Main.  For more information call 330-532-1018 or 330-532-4692.

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