He served during the American Civil War. At some point during his service, he sustained injuries that led to the amputation of both his legs. The exact circumstances surrounding his injuries are not provided, but they likely occurred during a battle or an accident while on duty.By 1890, January had been fitted with prosthetic legs, which helped him regain mobility and independence in his daily life. Prosthetic technology during that time was still rudimentary compared to modern prosthetics, but it allowed amputees like January to adapt to their new reality and continue to be active members of society.
