Austin Peck was born on June 17, 1832 in Vermont. He enlisted on August 30, 1862 and mustered in October 21, 1862. He was promoted to Corporal and served with Company D of the 14th Vermont Infantry. His rank was reduced on July 3, 1863 and he mustered out on July 30, 1863.
A pension was applied for on June 30, 1880 and was approved. Austin Peck died on August 31, 1926.
Pensions were granted, initially, for those who were destitute or had become disabled. The disability had to be caused by a war injury. Later, these federal pensions were also granted for old age.
Obituary:
“Native of Topsham
Austin Peck Died at Middlebury at Age of 94
Middlebury, Sept. 1,- Austin Peck, the oldest and one of the most respected citizens of Middlebury, died at his home in the east part of the town, Tuesday morning at 4 o’clock, with a complication of troubles. He was born in Topsham, January 7, 1832, thus making him 94 years and 8 months of age. He is survived by one son, Bert G. Peck, and one daughter, Miss Nora Peck, both of East Middlebury, also three grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
The funeral will be held at his late home Thursday afternoon at 2 o’clock. The Rev. Vernon C. Harrington will officiate and it will be a Masonic funeral, as the deceased was a member of Union Lodge, No. 2, of this village and the oldest member of the lodge.
Mr. Peck was married to Esther Abbott of East Middlebury, May 16, 1855, who died August 1, 1919. There was also another son, Clarence Peck, who died March 13, 1915.
Austin Peck was a Civil War veteran and enlisted in Company E, 14th Vermont regiment, which was made up in this village. He enlisted August 20, 1862, and was mustered into service October 21, 1862 as a corporal. He was mustered out July 30, 1863.
Mr. Peck was a carpenter, working for J. P. Tupper 18 years, after which he bought out the factory which he conducted for 44 years, but for the past few years he has been a man of leisure. Mr. Peck was for many years a member of William P. Russell Post, No. 89, G.A.R., and was very active when in health. He was known far and near, was liked by all that knew him, and will be greatly missed.”
Source: Barre Daily Times, September 1, 1926.
Courtesy of Tom Boudreau