I am compiling a list of living descendants of men who fought at the Battle of Franklin. This list is in the form of a blog-database found here: FranklinDescendants.wordpress.com
If you are a descendant of a Franklin soldier please make sure you visit the FranklinDescendants.wordpress.com to have your loved one’s information submitted to this master web-based resource.
My wife is a direct-descendant of Thomas Jefferson Williams (120th Indiana).
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American Civil War headlines
The Battle of Franklin was fought on November 30, 1864 in Franklin, Tennessee; in Williamson County. John Bell Hood's Army of Tennessee (around 33,000 men) faced off with John M. Schofield's Army of the Ohio and the Cumberland (around 30,000 men). Often cited as "the bloodiest five hours" during the American Civil War, the Confederates lost between 6,500 - 7,500 men, with 1,750 dead. The Federals lost around 2,000 - 2,500 men, with just 250 or less killed. Hood lost 30,000 men in just six months (from July 1864 until December 15). The Battle of Franklin was fought mostly at night. Several Confederate Generals were killed, including Patrick Cleburne, and the Rebels also lost 50% of their field commanders. Hood would limp into Nashville two weeks later before suffering his final defeat before retreating to Pulaski in mid December. Hundreds of wounded Confederate soldiers were taken to the John and Carrie McGavock home - Carnton - after the battle. She became known as the Widow of the South. The McGavock's eventually donated two acres to inter the Confederate dead. Almost 1,500 Rebel soldiers are buried in McGavock Confederate Cemetery, just in view of the Carnton house.
104 comments
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November 8, 2009 at 10:43 pm
BRADY BOWDEN
I HAVE 3 G G GRANDFATHERS WHO FOUGHT @ FRANKLIN…THEY ARE:
1. GEORGE PINKNEY WALLEY… 27TH MISS. INF… BRANTLEYS BRIGADE.
2. JAMES THOMAS NEWELL…14TH MISS. INF…ADAMS BRIGADE…
3. ALBERT EDWARDS…1ST. MISS. CAV. BATTALION…ARMSTRONGS BRIGADE…
November 11, 2009 at 11:34 am
Anonymous
i’m a descendant on my mother’s side of pvt.andrew jackson mclaney,co g 1st alabama infantry,who died at the battle of franklin.
April 16, 2010 at 4:55 pm
Anonymous
I’m a decendant on both my Mom’s and Dad’s side of Confederates and Union Soldier’s that fought at Franklin,Brentwood,Thompson’s Station and Spring Hill,etc… at least 30 or so confirmed Confederate McDowell Family members in various Units of Artillery,Calvery,and Infantry, also at least 8 Union Family members , it’s funny the more you dig the more you find and that doesn’t even cover the other Cousin branches like Sawyer, White, Ransom, Cathey, Crowe, Guthrie, Waller, Wall, Kennedy, Hays, Hughes, Tarkington, Read, Reed, Griggs, McGavock, McClure, McFadden,Goodrich,etc…Since my family settled in and around Brentwood, Franklin, Columbia, and Nashville the Historic Roots run deep,I’m really enjoying all the blog here and hope to see much more saved,and discovered….Bully! to the BFPS,and all involved keep up all the good work, don’t forget everyone to let your family’s History be known.
Chuck McDowell
Administrator McDowell Genetic Project
November 16, 2009 at 5:08 pm
tellinghistory
All of the following comments are taken from the Facebook group page.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Battle-of-Franklin/172853329480?ref=mf
Franklin descendants
Last updated 11/29/09
Brett Herndon
Having had six ancestors who fought in the Battle of Franklin, I will always remember the date November 30, 1864.
Benjamin Allen – 2nd Arkansas Mounted Rifles (dismounted) -Walthall’s Division – Reynold’s Brigade
Frank Gray – 6th Arkansas Infantry – Cleburne’s Division – Govan’s Brigade – Buried at Carnton Cemetary…. See More
John Lea – 9th Mississippi Infantry – Johnson’s Division – Sharp’s Brigade
Thomas Hawkins Herndon – 12th Tennessee Cavalry – Forrest Cavalry Corps
Thomas Young Craig – 19th Arkansas Infantry – Cleburne’s Division – Govan’s Brigade
Johnathan Milton Gray – 35th Alabama Infantry – Loring’s Division – Scott’s Brigade
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Freddie Howell
Pvt. Abraham Howell(24), Co. A (Red Rovers) 5th Mis’sippi. Out of (17) in his Co. He and one other man were the only ones not killed or captured. After the battle of Nashville He went back to his home in Monroe County Mis’sippi.
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Trent Johnson
My Great Great Grandfather Sgt. John Crooks served in Co. “I” 51st Ohio Vol Inf. along with his brother Private Henry Crooks who was detached to the Ambulance Corps during the Battle of Franklin. My Great Great Great Grandmother’s cousin Jacob Francis was in the 97th Ohio Vol Inf. at the Battle of Franklin.
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Tim Stowers
My great-great grandfather was Moses Merrideth Burt. 52nd Georgia. Family stories say he was an ambulance driver. I imagine he was very busy after battle.
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Leo Baker
i’m a descendant on my mother’s side of pvt.andrew jackson mclaney,1st alabama infantry,co g,who died at the battle of franklin.
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James Stanley
Well even though my uncle was a darned yankee, Pvt. Joseph Regnier 37th Illinois, I had one grandfather who we speculate was with Quantrill or in the Missouri Infantry.
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Matthew Rector
My 3rd Great Grandfather, Pvt. Jerome Bonapart Dooley,40th Indiana. Fourth Army Corps, Second Div. [Wagner], 2nd Brigade [Lane] His pension records state he was wounded there.
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Michael R. Phelps
My GGGrandfather was Lt Richard W Hastings, 120th Indiana, Co F. Stood strong between the rail and the river!’
As an author, I going to start compiling info on the 120th and write a unit history. would love to hear from all descendants of the 120th!
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Scott Busenbark
My ancestor,1st Sgt. William W. Taylor 31st Tennessee Inf., Company E (Strahl’s Brigade), later captured at battle of Nashville.
My wife’s ancestor, Pvt. John Carpenter, 120th Indiana, Company K.
Scott Busenbark
Small world! We have copies of his service record and pension paperwork. He was present at the battle of Franklin. The only funny notation was in March and April of ’65; “Stoppage of pay for one bayonet and one waist belt.” He must have lost them marching through North Carolina. He was charged $2.40 for the loss.
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David Richmond
I think my ancestor Robert Bacot of Pike County, Mississippi may have been there with N. B. Forrest, but am not sure. He was not killed in the war, but was with Forrest for several years, including 1864. If I can find any details, will send them to you. My others from Miss. were with R. E. Lee’s army.
David Richmond
Am pretty sure at least one of my relatives was there because he was with Forrest in 1864. Will do some research if I can find any, and send it to you. Have been meaning to do that for many years anyway. He was not killed in the war. If he had been, I would not be here today, because he was not married until after the war.
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Stephanie Foley
Pvt. Isaac Jones, 8th MS Infantry,Plot: Section 32-MS-Grave 156
Sgt. A.J. Jones,8th MS Infantry,Plot: Section 27-MS-Grave 80
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Steven L. Brock
My G-G Granduncle, Pvt William Thomas Gamel, Co. C, 30th Georgia Infantry.
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Timothy Patrick
My great, great grandfather, Benjamin Harrell fought in the 20th Mississippi Infantry and participated in this battle as a 16 year old boy.
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Billy Adcock
think my great great grandfathers was in it have to check to make sure
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David Andrews II
My 3xgrandfather James R. Humphries rode in a unit with Ole Bedford Forrest…the Wizzard in the Saddle. He was a part of the Consolidated 10th/11th Tn Cavalry. He surrendered with Forrest in Selma and the stinkin’ Yanks made him walk all the way back to nashville with his brother…horseless and gunless….Yello-belly Yanks!
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Jan Turner
my gggreat uncle was Capt. George W. Holtzclaw, Company F 16th South Carolina. He survived the Battle of Franklin, was wounded at the Battle of Nashville but survived the war. His brothers grandson is in his 90′s and still living and working at his antique store in Charleston SC.
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ames Stanley
yes, I am 95% sure my uncle Joseph Regnier, who was with the 37th Illinois fought there. Thats what it says on his papers I looked up on Civil War Soldier Search.
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Betty Callis
I am descended from Dempsey John Corbitt (Corbett), 55th Brown’s Tn. Inf. He was killed in the Battle of Franklin and is buried at McGavock Cemetery. I have the genealogy written down, but have not turned it in yet.
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Larry Cockerham
GG Grandpa Pvt. Whitfield Monroe Parker 63rd VA Inf., guarded ordinance during the battle then on clean-up duty on Dec 1.
GG Grandpa Farrier James Patterson Cockerham 10th TN US Cav was at Wilson’s headquaters, Williams farm near present-day 96-Mack Hatcher intersection. Skirmished with Forrest early on the 30th.
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Bobbie Ford
I am a direct descendant of Dr. Joseph Franklin Smith who was killed during the Battle of Franklin, TN. I am his great, great granddaughter. His brother Andrew Gill was there too, but survived.
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Steven N Cone
Will dig up my info and send it to ya two on the confederate side and 1 on the union side .. the fed was across the river and saw no action.
Steven N Cone
there were in the general area that Deas brigade hit. I had a relative in the 22nd Alabama in Deas and 1 in the 28th alabama
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Randy Rubel
I had two great grandfathers who fought at Franklin, both on opposite sides.
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Gene Harmon
Had ancestors there and the Confederate impression of my reenacting unit was part of Jackson’s Division which helped punch the hole in the federal line near the Carter House ( 2nd Battalion Georgia Sharpshooters ).
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Patty Paschal Ceran
Two great grandfathers served with the 56th GA inf. and fought at the battle of Franklin, I am a huge Gettysburg fan, but a true southerner at heart so your group interested me
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November 23, 2009 at 8:31 pm
Brian Heitzman
I’m an indirect descendant of Todd Carter and the Carter Family. I can remember Dr. Rosalie Carter used to visit her alot when I was a kid.
September 3, 2012 at 1:26 pm
W Clay Crook
An uncle, Pvt Elliott H Crook, and a cousin, Pvt Wiley M Crook, Co.I, 13th Tenn Inf, CSA at Franklin. Wiley captured the flag of the 52nd Indiana Inf.
December 15, 2009 at 3:17 pm
Bret Arnold
My GG Grandfather Emanuel Cisero Waters fought in Bate’s Division, Jackson’s Brigade, 1st Georgia Confederate Regiment, 2nd Co. H at Franklin.
December 17, 2009 at 6:23 pm
Mark Dolan
My great grandfather, Pvt. Nathan Richardson (“NR”) Oakes fought in the Battle of Franklin in Cleburne’s Division, Lowrey’s Brigade, 32nd Regiment, Co. D. If fact, he published a couple of short letters in the Confederate Veteran. One in the Vol. VII (Sept., 1899) issue, he wrote about a comrade he saw fall “on top of the breastworks to the left of the pike leading from Columbia into the town.” He enlisted in Corinth in March 1841, and surrendered at Durham Station on April 26, 1865. Weeks after the war, back in Mississippi, he married the sister of another of his comrades, my great uncle, Sgt. William Turner, of the same company.
July 28, 2010 at 1:25 am
George Dorrill
My Great-Grandfather, George E. Dorrill, was in Company E of the 5th Mississippi at Franklin, Tennessee. It was also in General Mark Perin Lowery’s Brigade. He was known as “the Fighting Preacher. After the war, he founded Blue Mountain College for females, at Ripley. He was also president of the Mississippi Baptist Convention for ten years.
There are no biographies of General Lowery, but Dr. Andy Kennedy did his Doctors Disertation on General Lowery at Mississippi State in the 1970s. I have a copy of that Disertation
July 28, 2010 at 4:41 pm
Anonymous
Thanks for your post. I was unaware of the dissertation. I’ve come to admire Lowrey. Is there very much info in the paper about the 32nd? Would it be possible to get a copy?
February 22, 2011 at 4:44 pm
Mark Dolan
Do you have a copy of that Lowrey dissertation you could share? How might I obtain a copy?
January 6, 2010 at 2:56 am
Anonymous
Col. William Wallace Witherspoon, was my great, great, great, uncle and he was killed at the Battle of Franklin. (36th Mississippi). If anyone has any info about him or his involvement here, I would love to gather all the info I could.
Thanks, Sheilah Broughton
February 7, 2010 at 3:03 am
Elizabeth Coker
Your ancestor is listed as buried in the McGavock Confederate Cemetery
Section 48 , Mississippi Section, in grave Number 391.
He is listed as Col. William W. Witherspoon of the 36th MS in Sears Brigade.
February 21, 2011 at 2:30 pm
Tim Burgess
AS a longtime researcher on the Confederate Soldiers killed at Franklin I have quite a bit of material on Col. Witherspoon along with an image. Feel free to contact me for copies and information. Sincerely, Tim Burgess
td2005@comcast.net
February 1, 2010 at 4:46 am
Roy Freudenthal
My great, great uncle Pvt. Samuel Thomas Walker of the 49th Tenn Inf. Co D. was captured at Franklin. He was Pull over the breast works as recorded in his pension papers, by his Capt. John M. Nesbitt. He was made a prisoner and sent to Louisville then to Camp Douglas which was his second visit to the place. He was held till after the war. My great, great grandfather Pvt. Phillip Henry Deason he also had a stay at Camp Douglas and was with The 49th Tenn Inf Co. B also fought at Franklin and was later captured at Nashville.
February 16, 2011 at 4:05 am
Steven Deason
Pvt Philip Henry Deason was my great-grandfather, his son John Sidney Deason Sr. was my grandfather, his son John Sidney Deason Jr was my father.
April 26, 2012 at 5:03 am
Betty Hamilton McAndrews
P.H. Deason is also my great-grandfather. His daughter, Noma, was my grandmother, and my father was Butte Hamilton. I have a photo of P.H. if you would like it.
“He served as a Private in the Confederate Army. In 2/23/1865 he was described: Residence: Dickson Cty, Tn.; Complexion: Fair; Hair: Brown; Eyes: Blue; Height: 5 ft 11 in”
He served in the 49th TN Infantry Regiment, organized 12/24/1861; captured at Fort Donelson, paroled at Vicksburg; reorganized Sept 1862. He enlisted 11/29/1861 at Charlotte, TN for one year, was assigned to Lt Col Thomas K. Grisby, Rbt H. McClelland, Co “b” with other men from Dickson Cty. He was captured 2/16/1862.
February 15, 2010 at 5:06 pm
Jerry A. McCain
my greatgrandfather C.W. McCain 4th Miss. was wounded at Franklin but he remained on line . He also was at basttle of nashville. His brother James captured battle of Nashville died at camp morton. C.W. escaped to Tupelo, Miss. for winter. C.W. Was in many battles in Miss.,Tenn. & Ala. His brothers also included Robert W. 4th inf.,William E. 4th inf. Issac 29th Co.A. Dont have much history on the brothers.
I just finished The widow of the South and love to read about C.W. Battles.
thanks. J.M.
February 17, 2010 at 3:03 am
Betty j Cowles
My husband’s Grandfather fought in the Battle of Franklin. Co.G 107th Illinois
Chester Cowles
March 10, 2010 at 3:16 pm
Ben Griffin
my grandmother was a mc gavock,all my life ive heard stories of the family,ive been to vickburg battlefield but never frankland but iam a coming,i believe family fought there along with my great-great grandmother Carrrie was there makes you proud of family
March 11, 2010 at 11:33 pm
Cindy Robinson - Robst
At Battle of Franklin:
My gg grandfather, John H. Robinson (7/1840 GA – 8/31/1909 MS)
Private, 8th Mississippi Infantry, Co. A “Yankee Terrors of Smith County, MS”
Others include distant uncles, cousins:
Co. G: Augustus Atwood
Co. E: Crosbys (5), William T. Hossey, Miley (2), Ulmer, A.J.
Co. C: Cornelius McLaurin
I also have other relative whom were in the 40th Mississippi Infantry – Atwoods, Mileys, Palmers, and Ulmers. I am sure there are probably more I can add to my list.
April 5, 2010 at 5:07 am
Angela Bates Holloway
I am not sure if my great uncle, William Bates fought at Franklin or not, but feel that he might from the notation of him in Sumner County’s Goodpeed
“William Bates, an enterprising farmer of the Third District, was born in Wilson County, Tenn., June 21, 1843. He is the eldest of four children of John and Ann (Brown) Bates. The father was of Irish descent, born in 1820 in North Carolina, and settled in Wilson County about 1830. He was a farmer. Our subject enlisted in Company K, Eighteenth Tennessee. He took part in all of the great battles in Tennessee and Georgia. He was captured at Fort Donelson, and was exchanged. He was again captured at Atlanta, Ga., but made his escape and tried to join his regiment. He endured many hardships and privations; he had no food for eleven days. After his return home he engaged in farming on his father’s place for about three years. June 20, 1867, he married Miss Sallie J. Britton, by whom he had seven children: James H., John Britton, Hinton Monroe, Tolliver, Eugene Head, William C. and Clara May. Two years after marriage Mr. Bates located on the Scottsville pike, remaining there seven years. He then moved to the east fork of Bledsoe Creek. In 1880 he settled at present place of residence. He was a Whig, but since the war has been a Democrat. He is a Master Mason and a respected, well known citizen. The entire family belong to the Baptist Church. ”
William was my father’s uncle (my great grandfather, John Bates, is also William’s father.) There has much confusion on my part at the William Bate and William Bates, but from dates of birth they are not the same, however they may be related.
April 6, 2010 at 11:43 pm
Shawn Billingsley
Benjamin F. Birdwell of the Tennessee 28th Infantry was my great great grandfather and he lost his left arm up to his elbow at Franklin. He was captured by the Union and then sent to Camp Chase near Columbus, Ohio. Ben’s obituary quotes him as saying the injury did not stop him from doing anything but tying his shoes.
There is a supposed picture of him available on the internet and I have visited his gravesite at Flynn’s Creek near Gainesboro, TN. The cemetery is difficult to reach since it is down a steep holler and is almost completely covered over with weeds and such. I sometimes wonder what it would take to move him and his wife,from the site. Anyone have any advice?
My grandmother told me her mother feared that Ben would be forgotten. I appreciate the opportunity to post his name on this site and Kraig’s interest in the Battle of Franklin.
April 19, 2010 at 10:18 pm
Jay McMullan
My great great grandfather James Wilson Speck was in the 31st Mississippi Co. K. He died around 1930 in Oklahoma and is buried in a little cemetery at the top of hill in the middle of a farm field.
April 23, 2010 at 8:52 pm
Sallie Hood
I am a direct decendent of Toliver Taylor. He was my gr gr grandfather. His Uncle or cousin was Zachary Taylor. Ancestors says uncle and the family said cousin but all of the records of the family past Toliver was lost after the war. Everything was burned and raided. I would love to find something about Toliver or his father George Elijah or there wives etc. If George was not a brother of Zachary we don’t even know who he really was. We have no family left ancestry and all on ancestors says brother. Would love more information. Maybe one of you has a bible or diary that tell something. Thank you sallies_cottage@yahoo.com
May 4, 2010 at 5:52 am
Karen McKeown
My great-great-uncle Francis Marion Eddins, 17th Alabama Co H fought and died at Franklin and is buried at McGavock. He had 2 brothers were also in the 17th, they were captured at the Battle of Atlanta and sent to Camp Douglas in late July 1864. Another, younger brother, my g-g-grandfather may have been with them, but we cannot find any records yet. Just hearing from others who have relatives that fought on either side somehow makes me feel more connected with Francis; knowing he won’t be forgotten. I am researching where he actually fell, he was with Stewarts Corp/Canteys Brigade.
February 13, 2011 at 9:06 pm
Bob Martin
My great grandfather, Sgt. William John Martin, 26th Alabama, was at the Battles of Nashville/Franklin. He was captured, but escaped.
May 4, 2010 at 8:15 pm
Kim
My g-g-g-g-grandfather Edward Nix son John Edward Nix Private Company C 33 Infantry Alabama is buried at McGavock Cemetery. Stroy has it that Edward Nix lost his life in a train werck in Cleveland, TN. The family had not heard from John and his father enlisted and was enroute to locate him when the accident occured 4 Nov 1862.
February 21, 2011 at 2:34 pm
Tim Burgess
Kim: AS a long time researcher on the Confederate Soldiers killed at Franklin I have some material available on Pvt. Nix and an image I received from a descendant years ago. I would be happy to share with you. Sincerely, Tim Burgess
May 12, 2010 at 2:21 am
Ken Stone
My great great grandfather, Reuben J Stone, Tennessee 23 rd, later consolidated to 17th was wounded through arm by minie ball. He was captured. Arm amputated in Nashville. He ended up prisoner in Point Lookout, Maryland until end of war. I have documentation from National Archives on him and his record.
May 15, 2010 at 3:48 pm
John Grayson
My G.G. grandfather pvt William P. Grayson 34th infantry division Tennessee Volunteers I beleive under Johnson was wounded and captured at the battle of Franklin and spent the rest of the war in Davis prison camp in Illinois. I would like to find out more about him if possiable if you can point me in the right direction.
Thanks John Grayson
May 19, 2010 at 8:46 pm
Paul Kroener
My great grandfather, David Duguid was in Co. K, 129th Indiana Infantry. He moved to Southern Illinois after the war and died in 1919. He is buried in Oakdale, IL.
August 7, 2010 at 4:33 am
Mary Calderon
Paul- I am a Duguid descendant from Jane Duguid and Robert McNaughton. There was also another David Duguid and Moses Duguid who served on the Union side of the civil war. Their father was Adam Duguid. The 2 David’s and Moses would have been 1st cousins. We have verified that your great grandfather and Moses both served in the 129th Indiana Infantry, Co. K. We are still trying to find Moses’s brother David and where he would have served. We do know that Moses died of acute Dysentry with Sherman’s March to the Sea.
Mary Calderon
mary@calderon.com
November 24, 2010 at 3:00 pm
Paul Kroener
David, the son of Adam Duguid Died in 1862 of typhoid fever. He is buried in his home town of Ray, IN. I have not been able to find out which unit he was in. It could have been an Indiana or Michigan regiment since they lived on the state line. I have seen the name Duguid spelled differently in some records.
June 4, 2010 at 4:15 pm
RS Galloway
My grandfather’s oldest brother, Henry D Garrison, was killed at Franklin along with one of his cousins, John W Garrison. A younger brother Thomas J Garrison was also believed to be there along with several other Garrison family members. My great-grandfather, NW Garrison Sr, would have been there, but was furloughed a few months prior due to illness. They fought in Company B of the 16th SC Regiment commanded by States Rights Gist. The 16th was originally made up of recruits from Greenville County South Carolina. I’m not certain if those killed at Franklin were buried there or were brought back to Greenville SC.
February 21, 2011 at 2:44 pm
Tim Burgess
Mr./Ms. Galloway? As a long time researcher on the Confederate Soldiers killed at Franklin I have reviewed my research for information on your brave ancestors.
Cpl. Henry D. Garrison, age 20, of Co. B. 16th South Carolina was killed at Franklin. He is not listed among the known dead buried in the McGavock Confederate Cemetery.
Also of Co. B. 16th South Carolina was Pvt. John W. Garrison, age 20, killed at Franklin.
Both of these brave men are believed to be among the 565 Unknowns buried in the McGavock Confederate Cemetery at Franklin. Co. B. lost (9) men killed.
The 16th South Carolina lost the most of any of the (4) South Carolina Regiments at Franklin, (65) killed or mortally wounded. Of these (65), (30) are known to be buried in the cemetery, (29) are believed to buried as Unknowns, and (6) are Distant Burials (died from wounds received here but buried at a different location).
I hope this information is of some assistance to you. Sincerely, Tim Burgess
December 7, 2011 at 4:57 pm
Richard Galloway
Mr Burgess, many thanks for the information. My apologies for the delay in responding, but I haven’t been accessing this discussion board very frequently. In my earlier post, I neglected to mention that another cousin of Henry and John W Garrison was KIA there as well. He was John A Garrison. Based on your information, it appears likely they were buried as unknown soldiers in the area. My best regards, Richard Galloway.
June 13, 2010 at 9:31 pm
Lura Kaufffman
I have identified 15 ancestors in the Battle of Franklin including 2 great-great-grandfathers. Of all these only one died, George L. Taylor who was listed in the surgeon’s list at Carnton and is buried in an unmarked grave there. John Mitchell Hasting, Co F 4th MS Infantry and John S. Nail MS Partison Rangers (with N.B. Forest) were my great-greatgrandfathers.
July 5, 2010 at 2:41 am
Gregory J. Branson
GGGrandfather, Erastus Denman Branson, Private, Company A, 57th Indiana Infantry. Drafted, Mustered in at Terra Haute, Indiana and sent to meet the 57th in the field. Arrived in Tennessee the day before the the engagement at Spring Hill. He was captured at the battle of “Franklin”, was sent to Andersonville CSA Prison and died there 6February 1865 of pneumonia.
July 7, 2010 at 8:46 pm
Bill Garner
I have two great grandfathers who fought in the Battle of Franklin:
Gideon George Garner, Co. H 43rd Mississippi, Adams Brigade, Loring’s Division, Stewart’s Corps.
John Robert Whitesides, Co. C 10th Mississippi, Sharp’s Brigade, Johnson’s Division, Lee’s Corps.
July 9, 2010 at 10:11 pm
Joe Szymaszek
From what I know for certain, even though I’m only 19, my maternal great great grandfather on her father’s side of the family was at Franklin. Pvt Samuel Hufstedler of the 25th Arkansas, Reynolds Brigade.
July 22, 2010 at 6:37 pm
R.S. Burk
At least two relatives, both in the 57th Indiana Infantry, Co. I (Lane’s). One missing or KIA (John Beatty) second captured (Daniel Norris) sent to Andersonville. Upon exchange was sent to Camp Fisk, Ms. then boarded the Sultana.
I am always looking for info on the 4th Corps and 57th Ind.
August 4, 2010 at 10:51 pm
Daniel Graham Clark
My great-grandfather Abner Warner Graham fought at the Battle of Franklin while serving in Company A, 50th Regiment, Ohio Volunteer Infantry.
April 22, 2013 at 2:31 pm
Daniel Graham Clark
See https://www.facebook.com/notes/daniel-graham-clark/civil-war-ancestor-abner-warner-graham/10150308668715227
August 5, 2010 at 1:16 am
Andy L Hansford
The letter from Willis Hansford to his mother got my attention. Willis was a brother to my Great Grandfather. As such Thomas ‘Pap’ Hansford mentioned as being wounded was my GGGF. My family still lives in the same general location as when the battle of Franklin was fought.
August 11, 2010 at 2:56 am
Kate Logan
Wilson Blain Logan, 175th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, killed at the Battle of Franklin, November 30, 1864. He was my Gr Gr Grandfather. Left a widow and 4 children between the ages of 2 and 10.
December 16, 2011 at 4:37 am
Jan Bjorge
My great-great grandfather was Lt Col Daniel McCoy, who led the 175th Ohio Volunteer Infantry. There is a newly published book called “Baptism of Fire” which focuses on the importance of the 175th Ohio, the 44th Missouri, and the 183rd Ohio in the battle of Franklin. You should check it out.
January 30, 2012 at 4:59 pm
Chip Huffman
Jan…I am in the process of reading that book now. I heard a presentation by the author, Eric Jacobson, at the Nashville Civil War Round Table last month that was fasinating!!
August 16, 2010 at 6:20 pm
Mary E Hanke
Samuel Miner Trulock (72ndRegiment of the Illinois Infantry) was my Great Great Grandfather – he lost his life in the battle at Franklin (Nov 30,1864).
He was an attorney and left his widow Elizabeth Stark Trulock and ten children.
His 2nd to the youngest daughter, Elizabeth Matilda married David Henry Fisk, who are my Great Grandparents.
My Grandfather was their son, Carl Bismark Fisk.
My Mother, G. Darlene Fisk Boardman
Mary Boardman Hanke/Omaha, NE
June 25, 2011 at 7:04 pm
randy j rogers
my grandmother was mary frances “mame” fisk rogers, brother of carl fisk
August 16, 2010 at 9:34 pm
Sallie Hood
Toliver Taylor was in 1st State Troupers Co C. His Capt. B. F. Duncan and Col . Ellison Capers. He was definately my gr gr grandfather. And I would like to be included in any decendent things Thank you Sallie Hood.
September 28, 2010 at 6:40 am
james perrin caldwell
My great, great, great uncle was Mark Perrin Lowrey. Promoted brigadier general in Oct. 1863 under Cleburne. Started in the 32nd. Mississippi guards My great, great grandfather, James Perrin Lowrey, was Mark’s nephew. I remember him when I was a small boy General Lowery was also an ordained babtist minister with a congregation in N. Mississippi. He survived the war (I find it amazing that he did, seeing action at Shilo, Perryville, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, and the Atlanta campains), and founded Blue Mountain College for Women in Mississippi.
Really enjoyed your website, and the stories other descendants
October 19, 2010 at 2:39 pm
Sallie Hood
I have had it proven to me that Toliver Taylor from S. Carolina who died in the battle was definately George Taylor, President Zachary Taylor’s brother’s son. It is documented on Find a grave under George Taylor and has also been told to me by the Kentucky Museum that they were father and son. find a grave memorial #3307012. Thought you might like this for your decendents book Sallie
October 28, 2010 at 4:16 am
Susan
My gggrandfather, Henry Yarbrough and his brother-in-law, Robert A Croxton, both fought in the battle of Franklin for the 17th Alabama. Robert was mortally wounded and is supposed to be buried there. The book I have on the history of the 17th Alabama says that Henry stayed behind on burial detail. I know I read about this battle in U.S. History, but after reading it now knowing I had a family member die there, really makes it surreal. I cannot imagine what these few hours were like on that day or the aftermath that followed. I am interested in any information or pictures of graves in the Alabama section. Thanks for a wonderful website and tribute to these men.
February 21, 2011 at 2:50 pm
Tim Burgess
Susan: Lt. Robert Allen Croxton, Col. F. 17th Alabama Infantry killed at Franklin and buried in Section 69, Grave 26 of the Alabama Section, McGavock Confederate Cemetery in Franklin, Tn.
He is buried next to Lt. Luther Calvin Fisher, Co. K. 57th Alabama and Pvt. Francis M. Eddins, Co. H, 17th Alabama Inf. May they rest in Peace. Sincerely, Tim Burgess
March 14, 2011 at 12:31 am
Anonymous
Susan, it looks like your decendant is buried next to mine! (Francis Eddins) I have some pictures my mother took when she visited the area 2 years ago, I also have a few books that go into a lot of detail about the McGavock site. There are not many from the 17th buried here, only 6 or 7 I think. My mother has lived in TN for almost 12 years now (about 30 minutes from Franklin) and we never knew about Francis until about 2 years ago.
November 23, 2010 at 3:05 am
Keith Schuch
George Schuch of the 183rd Ohio Volunteer Infantry Co E was at Franklin. He was my Great Great Grandfather and survived the war.
November 23, 2010 at 4:35 am
tellinghistory
Keith, do you have any surviving personal items from George? Letters? Diary? Images? Anything?
I found him listed as George Schuck in some records. Company E. Mustered in 10/16/64. His first action his unit would’ve seen was the Spring Hill/Franklin engagement in late November. The 183rd also fought at Nashville. Most of the 183rd seems to have been mustered out at Salisbury, NC.
January 8, 2011 at 1:39 am
Marilyn Spohn
Revillow Newton Spohn was a Corp. for Co. K of the 183rd OH Inf. and was at the Battle of Franklin.
November 26, 2010 at 4:20 pm
John C. Cox
I have two cousins who fought and died at Franklin:
1. PVT George W(ashington) Samandal Bell, Company “E” Oakland Rifles, 29th Miss. Inf
99% certain killed at Franklin. Co. E, 29th Mississippi was in BG William F. Brantley’s Brigade of MG Edward Johnson’s Division, LTG Stephen D. Lee’s Corps at Battle of Franklin. John Bell Hood’s Army of Tennessee. He was present for the battle, and never returned home, Company “E” was “virtually” wiped out according to records.
2. PVT Leftrick Reynolds Powell, Company “F” Eleventh Tennessee Inf. Regiment was either killed at Franklin or mortally wounded. Is buried in an unmarked grave near Cedar Hill between Nashville and Adams, TN.
Both of these men are direct descendants (as am I) of John Bell, Sr. who’s family is the focus of the famous “Legend of the Bell Witch.”
Leftrick (I have also seen it as “Leftwich”) was Elizabeth “Betsy” Bell and Richard P. Powell’s son, and Samandal as he was known in the family was Jesse Bell’s son
February 21, 2011 at 2:55 pm
Tim Burgess
Mr. Cox: As a long time researcher on the Confederate Dead at Franklin, Tennessee I have some material I would like to share with you on your brave ancestors. Pvt. Powell does have a marker on his grave and I have a photographs of same I would be happy to share with you. Please contact me. Sincerely, Tim Burgess
td2005@comcat.net
February 22, 2011 at 11:56 pm
Tim Burgess
Sorry, it is td2005@comcast.net Tim
November 28, 2010 at 4:51 am
Stacey Knight McMullen
My GG grandfather, John Glen Neal (went by Glen) was killed Dec. 1, 1864 in Franklin….like so many others. He was in the Mississippi Vols in the 43rd regiment, company D, and he enlisted on 4/25/1862. He was a farmer and left 7? children at home. My mother said when he was killed, his wife, Leanna Hill Moore Neal worked their children to death to keep the family farm..which they did. She never did marry again. Glen came from Bellefontaine, Webster County, Ms. and he was a private.
December 24, 2010 at 8:31 pm
Linda D Neal
my husband is also decended from John Glen Neal–to contact me
lindaneal@click1.net
February 21, 2011 at 2:58 pm
Tim Burgess
Stacy: I have been conducting research on the Confederate Dead at Franklin for many years. I have some material and correspondence I have collected on on Pvt. John Glen Neal that I would be happy to share with you, including a photograph if him I received from a descendant. Please contact me at td2005@comcast.net Sincerely, Tim Burgess
December 7, 2010 at 8:58 pm
Donna Hartley Lucas
Descendant Wm. G. McDonald, 10th/15th Texas
December 9, 2010 at 2:47 am
Brian Lambert
My great great grandfather 1 Lt Daniel W. Melton, 7th Aransas Inf. Co. B
December 9, 2010 at 3:10 am
Andy Maloney
Sgt. Joshua Denton Phillips, 16th TN, Company A, Cheatham’s Corps, Brown’s Division from Smithville, Dekalb County, TN. He was a sharp shooter with a Whitworth rifle that he had won at winter quarters near Murfreesboro in 1862.
December 9, 2010 at 3:14 am
Joe Szymaszek
My great great grandfather, Pvt Samuel Hufstedler, fought with the 25th Arkansas at Franklin
December 9, 2010 at 3:16 am
John V Brogden
My G/G Grandfather John Alexander Brogden Pvt. 16th Tn Inf. CSA somehow survived the battle.
Claiborne Brogden 27th Alabama Inf. a distant relative.
December 9, 2010 at 4:23 am
Joel H. Hutto
My 3rd great grandfather, 2nd Lieut. Robert Benjamin Hendricks, Co. K, 46th TN Infantry was wounded 30 Nov 1864 and died 2 days later on 2 Dec 1864. He is buried in the TN Section of the McGavock Cemetery. I have a photo of him in his Civil War Uniform.
Also his brother William D. Hendricks – Sergt, Co K 5th TN Infantry was wounded at the Battle of Franklin with a bullet through his eye, he survived and later married, but never had any children.
December 9, 2010 at 1:56 pm
John Wernick
My Grandfather’s dad (my Great grandfather) – sounds closer doesn’t it? Was Ernest Wernick, and fought there as a member of the 75th Illinois Infantry. Survived the war and died in 1919 in Dixon, Illinois.
December 9, 2010 at 2:15 pm
Scott Lee
John Henry Lee, Company C, 52d Tennessee Infantry Regiment – Gordon’s Brigade, Brown’s Division
December 9, 2010 at 3:28 pm
Leah A. Van Driest
Great-great-great Uncle J.K.Bivins fought under Granbury at the Battle of Franklin and lived to tell of it.
December 9, 2010 at 5:16 pm
Bill Trebing
My great-grandfather on my mother’s side fought at the Battle of Franklin. His name was Pvt Robert Patten, 4th. Mississippi Infantry, Company E of Sears Brigade (Claudius W. Sears), General Sam French’s Division, A.P. Stewart’s Corp. He served with them since Fort Donelson all the way to the bitter end. Don’t know how he survived, he musta been a good ducker. He was captured at Fort Donelson and again at Vicksburg. He also served for 10 months on a gunboat on the Yazoo River.
Bill Trebing
December 11, 2010 at 6:48 pm
John Halliday
I had two g.g.grandfathers who were in the Battle of Franklin. Issac C. Clark of the 63rd Indiana Vols. and Jacob Barrett of the 9th Indiana Vols. Also many g.g. uncles in this battle. I have Issac Clark’s diary which includes comments of this battle: “Nov. 29-30, 1864. We marched all night. Arrived at Franklin, Tenn. in the morning. Here we halted, and built a line of works, and we thought (as the rebels seemed anxious for a fight) that we would try our hand on them at this place, so we made necessary preparations. We had cannon placed along our line of works, about 50 yards apart, besides a number of well fortified forts, containing several pieces of artillery. At 4 o’clock p.m., the enemy came, they drove in our pickets and made a desperate charge upon our works, but were driven back with great slaughter, however this did not satisfy them, and they came again and again until they had made as much as 8 or 10 different charges upon our works. They took a portion of our works at one time, but were immediately retaken by our men; they fought with a desperation worthy of a better cause. The battle lasted 7 hours; we retreated at 11 p.m. Co. D, had one man killed, Co. E., one wounded. The enemy loss was reported at 8 or 10 thousand. Our regt. , had helped build a great many lines of works during the war, but this was the first time that they had the privilege of fighting behind works during a general engagement.”
December 11, 2010 at 8:39 pm
63rd Indiana soldier, Isaac Clark wrote about Franklin «
[...] Halliday, recently posted a comment on this blog and he excerpted this quote from Issac Clark’s (63rd Indiana) [...]
June 29, 2011 at 2:56 pm
Mike Woods
Would you be willing to sell me a copy of the diary. I would use it as research for a regimental history I’m completeing of the 63 IVI?
June 30, 2011 at 1:21 pm
tellinghistory
Mike. Email me at tellinghistory[at]yahoo.com
December 19, 2010 at 2:08 am
jdtlr
My G G Grandfather on my mothers side
Cpl. John Marshall Eakin fought with the 46th Mississippi infantry / Sears brigade / French’s division was among the first wave and pinned down at the inner earthworks until the Federals pulled out. He survived the battle and went on with the rest of the war.
I have no doubt he never forgot that day.
Dan Tyler
December 24, 2010 at 8:29 pm
Linda D Neal
my husband,s GGGrandfather was John Glen Neal. Private John Glen Neal — missing after Corinth; captured Vicksburg; wounded Franklin, TN (thigh); died next day .
He was a member of The 43rd Regiment, Mississippi Infantry Volunteers, CSA, was also known as Moore’s Regiment, Harrison’s Regiment, the Camel Regiment, and the Bloody Forty-third.
The 43rd Regiment was Organized 15 May 1862.
He was in Company D — 43rd Mississippi Infantry
Captain Thompson’s Company
Bellefontaine, Webster County
25 April 1862
January 28, 2011 at 10:25 pm
Judy Barnette
My husband’s ggg-grandfather, Richard Albert Barry Craig was with the MS 22nd Company H, in Featherston’s brigade; was taken prisoner; Chicago in the winter of ’64 until the end of the war in April ’65. His g-grandparents Andrew and Kate Barry were heroes in the Battle of Cowpens, SC in the Revolution.
February 3, 2011 at 2:33 am
Bill Webster
First time to this site. My ggg-grandfather is Winfield Scott Featherston. Looking for family info.
February 11, 2011 at 1:57 am
Charles Fletcher
My Great- Great Grandfather was John Davis the man in the photo.
I have always wanted a picture of him and now through your web site I can finally see him. Thank-You and may God Bless!
February 23, 2011 at 12:11 am
Bill Garner
I have two great grandfathers who fought at Franklin.
Gideon George Garner Co.H, 43rd Mississippi and John Robert Whitesides Co.C, 10th Mississippi
April 5, 2011 at 5:21 pm
Carol Elliott
My Great Grandfather Pvt. Henry August (H.A.) Workover Co. D 2nd Mo Vol. Inf was wounded and taken as a POW at the Battle of Franklin. He and his brother Willam Workover joined on Jan 12, 1862. William was killed at the Battle of Corinth, Miss (Oct 4,1862). How do I go about finding out more?
April 17, 2011 at 5:00 am
John Paul Baremore
James Peter Barmore, Private, Company “H”, 12th Louisiana (Scott’s Brigade), somehow survived this battle and the War, giving my family an opportunity to exist. It’s awesome to consider that nearly every American, other than the most recent immigrants, are somehow or another the direct result of the Civil War, which impacted every man, woman, and child then living. If not for it, an entirely different people would populate this land.
September 4, 2011 at 5:03 pm
Scott Hatten
John Leander Bagwell, Private, Company “I”, 15th Mississippi. He joined the “Choctaw Guards” with 5 of his brothers. John survived the Franklin battle only to be captured later during the battle of Nashville. He spent the remainder of the war as a POW in Camp Chase.
September 6, 2011 at 6:54 pm
Murrey Black
My great,great,great grandfather James Mills, Private, Co. A 23rd Mississippi, fought at Franklin and was captured at Nashville, while covering the Confederate retreat from Nashville. He survived the war, but I never knew whether or not he was sent to a northern prison like so many others from this battle. Any ideas on how I might find out?
November 7, 2011 at 11:12 am
Anonymous
My great great great uncle William Martin died at franklin He was in the tn army but dont know what unit. He is buried at mt moriah would love any info anyone has on him
November 11, 2011 at 7:30 am
Maribeth Zay FIscher
DESCENDANTS OF WILLIAM JASPER KILLION, 57TH INDIANA, LANE’S BRIGADE (a/k/a 2ND BRIGADE), WAGNER’S DIVISION:
William Jasper Killion and his cousin Aaron Leonard Killion were both in the exposed skirmish line in front of the main Federal entrenchments at the second Battle of Franklin, TN. They were captured and taken to the Confederate prison known as Andersonville in Georgia. He survived the war by only three years, though it took several years of petitioning for his widow and children to receive any sort of pension by proving that his death was connected to his military service (he was never in good health again after being incarcerated at Andersonville; though he arrived there after the severe overcrowding had been ameliorated, there was still a serious lack of food, clothing, shelter and medical attention).
My husband and his sibilings, my children and their cousins and my mother-in-law are the descendants of Jasper Killion.
April 8, 2013 at 1:33 am
Anonymous
Somehow I missed a notification from WordPress, when you submitted your ancestor’s information. Always interested in sharing any information about the men who served along side of my G.G.Grandfather. He was also with the 57th Indiana Infantry, Co. A, captured at Franklin and sent to Andersonville, where he died 6 Feb. 1865. Really would like to hear if your ancestor shared any of his experiences after his capture, or during his time at Andersonville.
Greg Branson
November 14, 2011 at 7:07 pm
Pete Williamson
I am a direct descendent of Josiah Hodson, Private(?) in Indiana 84th, Company K. We’ve been told he never talked about it but he supposedly was the only man left standing in his company after this battle. We have nothing to substantiate that statement and request as much info as possible about him and his outfit.
December 2, 2011 at 10:45 pm
L. Marlow
My GG Grandfather Was Enos A. Woods who enlisted at Muscatine, Iowa. I believe he was a part of the 8th Cavalry, though I am just getting started in my research. My grandmother’s handwritten note includes the enlistment information, that he was discharged at Louisville, Ky, and wounded at at unknown location. He moved to Kansas in 1878 and died there in 1908. He is buried there in the Lincoln cemetery. Grandmother said he was in Sherman’s March at Pittsburg Landing. Your blog is quite interesting! If you have any information to share regarding EA Woods, I would be thrilled to hear it. L. Marlow
May 21, 2012 at 3:49 pm
iowapeacechief
Check 7th Iowa Infantry.
May 19, 2012 at 1:49 am
Bops
My great-grandfather Warren H. Fishel was a private in Co. “B” of the 125th Ohio Volunteer Infantry Regiment. He volunteered at age 16 in the fall of 1862 and survived Chickamauga, the Atlanta Campaign, Spring Hill, Franklin and Nashville and mustered out in one piece in May of 1865. His father Samuel served in the 41st OVI (volunteered at age 47) fought at Shiloh and Stone’s River leaving the army after being seriously wounded there. His oldest son Ebeneezer Fishel fought at Perryville with the woefully trained 105th OVI, was captured and paroled there; died of disease in Louisville in May of 1863. Samuels’ second oldest son, Wesley C. Fishel, fought with Warren in the 125th OVI until seriously wounded at Kennesaw Mt.
Above you will see a posting by my relative Chuck McDowell, dated April 16, 2010. I am related to the McDowell’s through my grandmother Mary Elizabeth (Eagan) Fishel. She is a descendant of Rachel (probably Cathey) McDowell.
My sympathies and admiration are for men of Blue and Gray who fought so bravely through our country’s most difficult trial!
Dale Fishel
June 15, 2012 at 2:48 pm
Ford Davies
I believe my GG Grand Uncle, Jerome Grable, fought at the Battle of Franklin. He was a private in the 104th Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He mustered in his unit in Aug 1862, and mustered out in June 1865, His unit was in the very front near the Cotton Gin. Since discovering my GG Granduncle I’ve been studying the Battle of Franklin. I’m very thankful for the information provided on this site and for the chance to mention Jerome here. The terrible sacrifice made by the soldiers at Franklin are not to be forgotten. All the Grables that were of age during the Rebellion served in the Union Army in various Ohio units.
Ford Davies
July 3, 2012 at 7:13 pm
Anonymous
My great, great uncles Franklin Lafayette, James Westwood and Thomas Robert Armistead, along with first cousin John Horn Armistead, served in Company A, 12th Louisiana Infantry, Scott’s Brigage. All survived the war,
July 18, 2012 at 6:32 pm
Mike Maude
My gggrandfather fought at Franklin: Benjamin Newman was a Private in the 88th Illinois (“G” Company), Opdyke’s Brigade. He survived the war, made Sergeant just before the Rg’t was disbanded and passed away in 1901. His actual discharge, which has a handwritten inscription listing all the places he was in action (including Spring Hill, Franklin and Nashville), is framed in a place of honor in my office.
July 20, 2012 at 3:15 pm
John Wernick
Mike, Did you ever see the Confederate flag (staff) your G-grandfather captured during the battle? It was on load for a while at the Carter House visitor center.
July 20, 2012 at 3:48 pm
John Wernick
It was on LOAN…not load! Sorry!
July 21, 2012 at 1:32 am
Mike Maude
John: Nope, and Carter House was closed during my only visit to Franklin. Hadn’t heard about the flagstaff, all we have is his promotion and disacharge. No letters or any other records. Was it him personally, or the unit? Thank you very much
July 21, 2012 at 11:55 am
John Wernick
Mike, Actually, it was Benjamin that captured the flag from an Arkansas brigade. After the battle, soldiers were required to turn in their trophies to regimental headquarters, then in turn to division headquarters, All captured momentos from the battle of Franklin were displayed in Nashville at some point for General George Thomas. Afterwords, the flag and staff were sent home by Newman. The flagstaff had been shortened, apparently from being shattered by bullets during the battle.
What sparked my interest is that I own the flag staff which has the original stenciling depicting his name and the two regiments who were carrying the flag. I purchased it many years ago from an auction house in Kentucky I believe.
November 5, 2012 at 7:41 pm
Sybil Lewis Allen
My grandfather,Moses Wheat Lewis and his twin brother. Caleb Holloway
Lewis, both fought in the battle of Franklin. they were in Company H in the 46th Alabama Regiment.