John Coffee

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This article is about the Tennessee militia leader during the War of 1812. For the Georgia militia leader during the Creek War and Federal Congressman from Georgia (and John R. Coffee's first cousin), see John E. Coffee.

John R. Coffee (June 2, 1772–July 7, 1833) was an American planter and military leader.

Born in Prince Edward County, Virginia, Coffee was a merchant and then a partner in land speculation with Andrew Jackson. Coffee married Mary Donelson, a relative of Jackson's wife, Rachel, in October 1809.

At the beginning of the War of 1812, Coffee raised the 2nd Regiment of Volunteer Mounted Riflemen, comprised mostly of Tennessee militiamen (and a few Alabamians). In October 1813, the 2nd was combined with Col. Cannon's Mounted Regiment and the 1st Regiment of Volunteer Mounted Gunmen to form a militia brigade of mounted infantry, and Coffee was promoted to brigadier-general and placed in command. Under Jackson's command, he led his brigade at most of the battles of the Creek War: the Battle of Tallushatchee, the Battle of Talladega, and the Battles of Emuckfaw and Enotachopo Creek, where he was seriously wounded, and the Battle of Horseshoe Bend. He then led his brigade at the Battle of New Orleans, where they played a key role.

He later moved to Alabama and Florida, and died near Florence, Alabama.

Coffee County, Alabama, Coffeeville, Mississippi and Coffee County, Tennessee are named in his honor.

Note: Researchers often confuse this General John R. Coffee with General John E. Coffee the U.S. Congressman from Georgia. John R., also known as "Tennessee John" and John E. were first cousins.