Theodore A. Dodge

Theodore Ayrault Dodge was born sixty-seven years ago and, though elected to the Century nine years since, was not frequently here, residing in Paris for long periods during his later years for the sake of the exacting literary work which came in generous measure from his pen. Of New England origin, he was educated in military service at Berlin and had his liberal training in London. Returning to America in 1861, he served nine years under the flag, five as volunteer, participating in the fiercest battles of the Civil War, was several time[s] wounded and finally incapacitated for service by the loss of a limb. He then received a rank in the regular army, served in the War Department and was retired as captain. He was brevetted major and lieutenant colonel.

Colonel Dodge, however, earned a higher rank than any of these, for he was the foremost American writer of military history. He was a master of strategy and tactics, had a lucid mind and a graphic pen. The great captains of the world live again in his pages, and the scenes of their exploits having been visited by the author, no expositor of military science is more accurate or picturesque. The author is as trustworthy in fact and judgment as was the soldier on the field. As for our Civil War his studies and descriptions challenge rivalry.

In both the lands of his domicile he was warmly appreciated for his manliness and sociability, holding a high place in the hearts alike of Americans and foreigners. He was a member of several clubs at home and abroad, the president of one. He was welcome in our circles and esteemed at his full value as soldier, writer and friend.

William Milligan Sloane
1910 Century Association Yearbook