1849: Graduated Princeton

1860: Maryland Delegate to Democratic Convention in Charleston and Baltimore

1861: Organized and equipped a company at his own expense, took an active part in forming the 1st Maryland Infantry, becoming a major and later colonel

Turned down a lieutenant colonel's commission in Virginia, his obligations were to his home state and the 1st Maryland Infantry

May 1861: 500 Marylanders assemble at Harper's Ferry under Johnson's command. Formed 8 companies of 1st Maryland Infantry

17 May 1862: C Company's initial enlistment was expiring and the men wanted their discharge. Johnson having been promoted to colonel, agreed with the men, but could let the men leaved in the middle of a campaign.

22 May 1862: On the eve of the Front Royal battle, it became an open meeting. Johnson gave a speech to the men which rallied the men. The