Wisdom's famous raid.
Heroic Journey recalled by his death in Alabama. Gadsden, Ala., July 29.
John H. Wisdom, who died near here to-day at the age of eighty-seven years, won fame in 1865 by a daring all night ride from Gadsden to Rome, Ga., a distance of sixty-seven miles, which resulted in the capture by the Confederate cavalry leader, General N. B. Forrest, of General Abel D. Straight, and the saving of the Confederates of the foundries and stores at Rome.
Wisdom started from the east shore of the Coosa River shortly after night-fall on his perilous trip, covering the distance in less than seven hours, and using on the trip seven horses.
He arrived at Rome six hours ahead of General Straight, and the city was prepared for the latter's coming, General Straight and many of his raiders taken prisoners.