Introduction
Robert Niven (December 18, 1833 - December 21, 1921) was an American soldier who fought in the American Civil War. Niven received his country's highest award for bravery during combat, the Medal of Honor. Niven's medal was won for capturing two Confederate flags at the Battle of Waynesboro, Virginia, on March 2, 1865. He was honored with the award on March 26, 1865.
Niven was born in Harlem in New York and entered service in Rochester. He was later buried in Lakewood, Rhode Island.
Medal of Honor citation
The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Second Lieutenant Robert Niven, United States Army, for extraordinary heroism on 2 March 1865, while serving with Company H, 8th New York Cavalry, in action at Waynesboro, Virginia, for capture of two flags.