William J. Martin (1839-1896)

Four of the university's five tutors in 1860 enlisted in the army; all died in action. Six of fourteen professors enlisted, and three of those lost their lives. William J. Martin was a fortunate survivor. Graduating from the University of Virginia, Martin came to Chapel Hill in 1857 and taught chemistry, mineralogy, and geology before assuming the duties of student drillmaster on the outbreak of war. Taking a leave of absence to serve as a Confederate officer, Martin was wounded in action and after the war taught briefly at the university before joining the faculty of Davidson College.