James H. Van Ness (1841-1925)
Baumgarten’s sole competitor for a number of years was James H. Van Ness. He was born in Baltimore, Maryland on March 17, 1841. Educated at a private school, Waugh and Majors, Van Ness graduated in 1858, and began working at his father’s grocery store until 1862. At that time, Van Ness joined the Confederate Army and served with the 15th Virginia Cavalry. From all accounts, he was engaged in numerous battles and skirmishes where he performed bravely. (1)