During the War Between The States, Pinckney enlisted in Co. E, 31st Alabama Volunteer Infantry as a Private. After participating in the actions at Cumberland Gap and the battles of Chickasaw Bluffs, Port Gibson and Baker's Creek, Pinckney fought in the 47 day siege of Vicksburg. He was paroled on 4 July 1863. After Pinkney's unit was reactivated, he enlisted at Greensboro, NC, and fought in the battles of Chattanooga, New Hope Church, Big Shanty, Atlanta, Jonesboro, Spring Hill, Franklin, Nashville, Wise's Fork and Bentonville. Pinckney was again paroled at Salisbury, NC, in May of 1865 when General Joseph E. Johnston submitted his Army of the Tennessee to Federal forces.
The 31st Alabama had over 1100 men march off to secure Southern independence in 1862. After it was merged with another regiment (23rd Alabama Infantry) due to its high casualties, there were precisely 76 men in both units present to surrender and return home in May 1865.
Pinckney died on 4 January 1912 and is buried in Pole Bridge Cemetery, Talladega County.
Pinckney's brother, Isham, enlisted in the 25th Alabama Infantry. He was wounded at Shiloh, taken prisoner at Nashville and later interned at Point Lookout POW Camp. Pinkney's father-in-law, Aven Massey, at the age of 58, marched off in Capt. Joshua McCain's Home Guards. He died a few years after the War due to health complications incurred during the War.
Unfortunately, there is no photo of him available at this time.