Our Window To The Past...
Articles researched and written by Sheila D. Tindle, Annie H. Darracott Chapter President (click on name to read article)

James Appleton Chapman

James A. Hart

Jordan A. Kilgore

 James Appleton Chapman  (1835-1935)
Christian, Physician, Veteran, and Honored Citizen  

In the will of his grandfather, Henry Chapman, dated April 6, 1841 James was bequeathed “all effects to be equally divided among my living heirs, except James, of which shall be entitled to fifty dollars more than either of the others because of their not  having had given to him a horse as good as the others of my heirs.”  The estate was satisfied on August 12, 1844.

Alabama seceded from the union on January 11, 1861 and became a part of the Confederate States of America.  The Army of Alabama was mustered into Confederate service.  Chapman, at 26, closed his practice to join the 4th Regiment,  Company B in Tuskegee County, Alabama on April 10, 1861.   Two days later he would learn that Fort Sumter in South Carolina had been fired upon by the invading Union army.  This would be the onset for the War Between the States.  

While away, he would have received word, either from a friend in the war or a letter from home telling him the bad news that his brother, Alpheus was killed in 1861.

He spent 2 years serving in the ranks before transferring to the medical field.  The unit fought in the Battle of First Manassas, under General Barnard E. Bee. In this fight it lost thirty-three percent of the 750 engaged, including all its field officers. Later the 4th was assigned to Captain Evander McIvor Law's and W. F. Perry's Brigade, Army of Northern Virginia. It was active in the campaigns of the army from Seven Pines, to Cold Harbor except when it was detached with Longstreet at Suffolk, Chickamauga, and Knoxville. The regiment was placed in the trenches of Petersburg, Virginia.

Chapman was captured at Boonesboro, Maryland on September 14, 1862.  After serving as a prisoner-of-war for a month, he was exchanged probably because of his profession.   He returned to his unit in poor health and was transferred to work in the hospital caring for the sick and wounded at different military hospital camps. 

On April 9, 1865 his unit surrender at Appomattox Courthouse, in Appomattox, Virginia. One of his most vivid and precious memories was that of General Robert E. Lee mounted on his horse Traveller saying farewell to his men. Chapman served with distinction first as an infantryman, then as a  physician.

Hundreds of miles separated him from Alabama.  He probably hopped trains until he reached the rails that were destroyed by Sherman’s famous march to the sea.  Chapman most likely walked the many miles back to Macon County.  After returning home he re-establish his medical practice and again his practice and reputation grew. 

He began to court Alpheus’ widow, Elizabeth C.  Fluellen Seagrest Chapman who was born April 29, 1829 in Lownes County, Alabama.  Elizabeth first married (1) George W. Segrest on May 21, 1846 in Macon County Alabama (d. abt. 1858 and buried at Clough's Station in Macon County, Alabama) and (2) Alpheus S. Chapman on December 22, 1859 Macon County Alabama (d. 1861 in the war,  61st Alabama Regiment, Company H, as a Private. His widow, E. C. Chapman filed a claim at Tuskegee, Alabama,  October 31, 1864.)   After a short courtship James wed Elizabeth on October 21, 1865 in Macon County, by Reverend Jesse Wood.

In 1870 the Chapmans lived in Franklin, Macon County owning property worth $2,500 with personal property valued at $500.  Elizabeth had a son, Zebulon “Randolph” Segrest, by her first husband.  At age 19, he was living next door with Elizabeth’s sister Eliza and her children.

Zebulon Randolph Segrest was born in 1852.  He married Caroline Emma Dickinson on December 15, 1870 in Macon County, Alabama, by M.G. L. M. Dowdell.  This union produced a daughter, Emma C. Segrest (b. 9/12/1872).  Caroline died during the birth of their second child.  On November 12, 1873 he married Caroline’s sister, Laura Alice Dickinson born 1856.  This union produced two daughters, Carrie Randolph Segrest (b. 6/08/1874 d. 1/11/1919 married Lawson B. Prine in Polk County Florida in 1894) and  Florence Segrest b.1883.  Randolph died in 1878.  

During Chapman’s travels in the county on house calls, he grew fond of the strawberry community to which he would later relocate.

Herbert J. Drane reminiscences, “In the month of November 1884, while riding through the wilderness from old Pemberton’s Ferry to the little village of Lakeland I discovered in this almost unbroken wilderness, a new house in process of building, the last of the shingles then being placed upon the roof.  The house bore the marks of civilization in that for that day and time it was a modern house and was being painted, and it had glass windows, so much impressed was I that I asked the name of the owner and a gentleman who resided in that country told me that it was being built by a Dr. Chapman.”  He immediately sought the acquaintance of that advance agent of civilization and discovered Chapman. So began their friendship.

The Chapmans became members of Galloway Methodist Church.  It can be said that the Chapmans were Christians who had a strong faith in the Lord.   James’ favorite gospel hymn was “Sweet Beulah Land.”

When Griffin, Galloway, and Kathleen were little more than wilderness, Dr. Chapman donated land for a cemetery for their dead. After doctoring in the War Between the States, he had seen many die and knew the importance of a burial place.   His mother was possibly the first to be laid to rest in the new cemetery.  There is no headstone listing Mary’s name in the cemetery, however, there are several vacant sites  in the Chapman plot.

United States General Land Office Records recorded the land deed for 160 46/100 acres of land in the Galloway/Griffin area.  The Homestead Act of 1862, certificate number 7310 was approved on June 5, 1890 by President Benjamin Harrison  in the name of James A. Chapman.

In 1892, he retired at the age of 57 from his medical practice after serving the community for ten years due to his declining health. That same year Emma married Earl W. Crawford on March 17, 1892.  They wed at Alta Villa, the residence of Colonel Nathaniel B. Bowyer, C.S.A. and former Lakeland’s Mayor.  The parlor was richly decorated with flowers, and an arch of orange blossoms, under which the couple was married, suspended from the ceiling.  

There is no finding that James ever fathered any children.  On the 1900 federal census Elizabeth reports that she had 3 children from previous unions.  All of her children were deceased.  By 1900 Chapman classified himself as a farmer in the rural community owning 53 acres worth $500 at Section 34, Township 23, Range 27. There is no evidence as to how 107 46/100 acres of land was disposed of.   Their personal property had been valued at $200.  He stated he did not own livestock, stocks, bonds, or mortgage.

Florida’s legislature passed a law stating that all Confederate Veterans were entitled to a pension.  Chapman, age 66, submitted Soldier’s Application for Pension, number A05761, to Tallahassee on June 11, 1903 stating, "I am at this time, by reason of age, disease and the infirmities incident to old age unable to support myself or family by manual labor."   He application was approved on August 15, 1903 were he began receiving $96 per year.   

In his pension paperwork contained a letter from Brigade General Evander McIvor Law, his commanding officer who resided in Bartow, verified his service.  This letter was forwarded to the pension board in Tallahassee.  Letterhead reading "The Polk County Printing Company, Manufacturers of Superior Printing, E. M. Law, Editor."

  Bartow, FLA. July 19, 1909
 
My Dear Doctor;
 Your card rec’d. We left Tuskagee on Sunday April 25 1861. The reg’m muster was organized at Dalton May 2 or 3rd and we were mustered into Confederate service May 7, at Lynchburg Va.
 Glad I am able to answer you inquiry. Hope you are getting on as well as old fellow could expect, at our age, and that the world is kind to you.
     Sincerely your old comrade
     E M Law 

In 1911 tragedy struck the Crawford/Chapman families.  Ruth Crawford (born 10/29/1909), the daughter of Earl and Emma Crawford, died January 17, 1911.  Eight months later Elizabeth succumbed to her illness on September 29, 1911.  Her pastor, Reverend W. K. Piner of Galloway Methodist, officiated over the service. She was laid to rest at Griffin Cemetery, a few yards from her great-granddaughter Ruth.  

Chapman was awarded the Southern Cross of Honor medal most likely by the Lakeland Chapter, No. 791, United Daughters of the Confederacy for his loyal, honorable service to the South and given in recognition of this devotion.  The medal is in the shape of the Maltese cross with a wreath of laurel surrounding the words “Deo Vindice (God our Vindicator) 1861-1865” and the inscription, “Southern Cross of Honor” on the face.  On the reverse side is a Confederate battle flag surrounded by  laurel wreath and the words “United Daughters of the Confederacy to the UCV.” The date of the actual bestowal is unknown.

Pvt. John J. Baldrick, Co. K, 53rd Alabama  

John James Baldrick was born to Mary F. and Thomas R. Baldrick in the State of Alabama around 1848. At the tender age of 16, he enlisted in the Home Guard, Montgomery County Militia Regimental Unit, T. R. Stacey’s Company as a private August 8, 1864. He later transferred into Company K, 53rd Alabama Cavalry. Baldrick was on the Muster Roll for Montgomery, Alabama.

Baldrick most likely took part in the last operations of the army. His company surrendered a small number with General Joseph E. Johnston at Durham Station, Orange County, NC, on 26 April 1865.

At war’s end, Baldrick was given a letter written on May 2, 1865 by Commanding Brigadier General B. D. Fray stating,   "The bearer, John J. Baldrick, a private in Company K, 53rd Regiment Alabama Cav., Volunteers, a paroled prisoner of the Army commanded by General J. E. Johnston, has permission to go to his home and remain there undisturbed on condition of not taking up arms against the United States until properly relieved of the obligation of his parole."       

After the war he courted Rebecca S. Powell and they wed in the County of Montgomery, Alabama on the 19th day of January, 1869.

The federal census of 1880 for Alabama shows that "John J. Baldrick, age 32, born 1848, white, male, married, was living in Autaugaville, Autauga County, Alabama as a Mechanic.

They later relocated to the Polk County in 1885, settling in the Lakeland area. The Baldricks lived a quiet life in Lakeland as no mention of them are found in the area.  John James Baldrick passed away on 25th day of January, 1904 and was laid to rest in Lakeview Cemetery, a city cemetery in Lakeland, Polk County, Florida.

Mr. L. J. Baldrick, son of Rebecca and John, wrote a letter to Colonel James L. Roquemore, a member of the Lakeland Camp No. 1543, United Confederate Veterans,   August 19th, 1907  

Dear Colonel:      
     Referring to recent correspondence between you and my Mother in regard to her application for a Pension. I beg to advise that owing to so many of my Father’s comrades having passed away, we have found it impossible to secure the necessary signatures in Montgomery and consequently must avail ourselves of your offer to secure a letter from the Lakeland Camp of Veterans, testifying as to his membership there; which they can readily do, and this supported by his parole, will be all that is necessary to establish my Mother’s claim. At least, so we are informed by Mr. Knott, Clerk of the Circuit Court.
     I beg to enclose the application in question, to which is attached his original parole, this, we are very anxious to preserve and if you allow the papers to leave you hands, will you now caution the Officers of the Camp and ask them to see that the parole is not lost but returned with the application for pension. After you have secured the latter for us, will you now attach a letter of your own which I am sure will strengthen her claim, and return all papers to me. Thanking you in advance and assuring you that your kindness is highly appreciated by us both, I am,   
Yours Respectfully,
L. J. Baldrick      

  
On the 20th day of August, 1907, J. L. Roquemore responses by completing a sworn affidavit of Baldrick’s membership,   State of Florida)  County of Polk)        Personally appeared before the undersigned authority, J. L. Roquemore, who being duly sworn according to law deposes and says that he was well acquainted with J. J. Baldrick deceased, and also with his wife, Rebecca Baldrick, and, that they had resided in Lakeland, Fla. some eighteen or twenty years prior to the death of the said J. J. Baldrick, which occurred in January 1904 and that they had lived continuously together during that time, as husband and wife.   
Subscribed and sworn to before me 
at Lakeland Florida this 20th day
of August 1907,
J. W Cannon, Notary Public        

As additional proof of her husband’s service with the Confederate States Army, a compatriot testifies to Baldrick’s membership in the U.C.V.   Lakeland, Fla    August 20, 1907       This is to certify that Mr. J. J. Baldrick was a member of Lakeland Camp No. 1543, U.C.V. and was in good standing at the time of his death which occurred at his home in Lakeland, Fla. on January the 25th 1904. Comrade Baldrick was ever ready for any duty required of him.
Urban H. Hane, Adjutant   
Sworn and subscribed to before me
this 20th day of August, 1907
J. L. Roquemore
Notary Public
My commission expires Feb. 17, 1908.       

After nearly two years of acquiring documents to prove her husband’s military service, she finally applied for a pension.  On August 2, 1909 Rebecca S. Powell Baldrick, stated she was "a resident of Tampa, Hillsborough County, Florida" on the Widow’s Pension Claim under the Act of 1909.

She acknowledged that "I am the lawfully married wife of John James Baldrick. We were married in the County of Montgomery, Alabama on the 19th day of January, 1869 and that she was not divorced from him and that she had not remarried since his death, which occurred on the 25th day of January, 1904, A.D., in Polk County, Florida." Also, Mrs. Baldrick stated, "...I have continuously resided in the State of Florida since the 17th day of January, 1885 A.D."

Mrs. Baldrick lists her property at the time of the pension application as owning "210 Platt Street of Tampa Florida, the same being the East Half of Lot 30 of Hyde Park Place, and house thereof, and the value of $3,500."

She was granted a pension from the State of Florida under Certificate No. 5913 in the amount of $120 per annum.

Lakeview Cemetery’s records are not complete and the exact burial site was undetermined. A search for descendants in the area was unsuccessful. After reviewing the UDC chapter’s minutes, it was discovered that the chapter has ownership of 16 plots, of which 4 were already used, in Roselawn Cemetery, adjacent to Lakeview Cemetery.

Sheila Tindle, a member of Annie H. Darracott Chapter 791, U.D.C., advised Supervisor of Cemeteries, Tom Wheatley of her discovery and was granted permission to have the headstone placed as a memorial in the UDC’s Confederate Veterans plots.

Baldrick’s military headstone was ordered from the Department of Veteran Affairs, Washington D.C. on September 3, 2003 and delivered on December 10, 2003.

Baldrick’s, one of seventeen markers placed, was honored with a Marker Dedication Ceremony on May 1, 2004, in conjunction with the chapter’s 100th Anniversary. Attending the special occasion was Florida Division President Meta Parkinson and Florida Division Vice President Faye Castile.     

If in the future a family member contacts the cemetery with the correct burial site, the stone will be moved to the correct location. 

Private John Butler, Co. A, 6th Florida Infantry

John Butler was born July 6, 1837 in Gadsden County, Florida. In the 1850 Gadsden County, Florida Federal Census it states: Father:  Raphael Butler 40, Farmer with  150 acres, and born in NC, Mother:  Nancy 33, born in North Carolina, siblings:  John 7, born in North Carolina, Elizabeth 6  born in North Carolina, Redding 5 born in Florida, and Jane 4 born in Florida.

He enlisted in Appalachia, Florida in May of 1862 in Company A, 6th Florida Infantry as a Private.

The 6th Infantry Regiment, organized at Chattahoochee, Florida, in March, 1862, contained men from Gadsden, Jackson, Union, Collier, and Washington counties. During April the unit had 31 officers and 511 men, and soon moved to East Tennessee. Later it was assigned to Colonel R.C. Trigg's, and General Finley's and J.A. Smith's Brigade, Army of Tennessee. It served on many battlefields from Chickamauga to Atlanta, was active in Tennessee with Hoods, and ended the war in North Carolina. This regiment reported 35 killed and 130 wounded at Chickamauga and in December, 1863, totaled 214 men and 133 arms. Only a remnant surrendered in April, 1863. The field officers were Colonels Jesse J. Finley, Daniel L. Kenan, and Angus D. McLean, and Lieutenant Colonel Robert H.M. Davidson.

Butler served under Bragg, Johnson, & Hood’s command and was honorably discharged at Greensboro, North Carolina on April 26, 1865 "on account of Johnson’s surrender."

He married Martha Mobley on February 21, 1867 in the County of Wakulla, Florida. In the 1860 Wakulla County, Florida Federal Census it states, "Mother: Eliza Mobley 64, with 200 acres and born in Virginia,  siblings: Burrel Mobley 21, Farmer and born in Georgia,  Martha Mobley 19  born in Georgia,  Amanda Mobley 16 born in Georgia,  Ellen 13 born in Georgia and  George Busby 16 born in South Carolina.

Butler filed a Soldier’s Application for Pension May 20, 1903 and recalls that he was in Captain H. R. M. Davidson’s Company from Liberty County, Florida. He states the reason why he is requesting the pension, "I am over sixty-five years of age and from the infirmities thereof, am unable to make a living for my family consisting of wife and two daughters who are dependant upon my labor for support."

As additional proof, Doctors W. R. Moore and J. D. Griffin state, "that he is not physically able to make a living by manual labor which is his only way of making a living for self and family. We further more deem him honest and worth of help." His application was approved August 12, 1903 at the rate of $96. During the pension time, he received two increases (dates unknown) to $100, then to $120 per annum.

Butler filed for a Soldier’s Pension Claim on July 20, 1909 under the Act of 1909. He listed that he lived in Galloway and the value was $900. Also, he owned one horse and a cow and calf valued at $75 and personal property of $25. At the time of the pension he was 72 years of age and was requesting the pension due to "old age and disability." He related that the was "struck by shell on left shoulder but did no permanent injury."

Doctor C. L. Hyatt gave a written Physician’s Affidavit stating, "The said John Butler is seventy-two (72) years old. Has very good health for his age. Not suffering from any injury received in the civil war. Has been threatened with paralysis but did not from (?) nor chronic (?) trouble."

He was granted a pension from the State of Florida under pension certificate No. 2150, at the rate of $120 per annum.

Butler died April 20, 1910 and was laid to rest at Mount Tabor Baptist Church Cemetery at 3504 Mount Tabor Road in Lakeland, Polk County, Florida.  

James A. Hart was born in Baker County, Georgia on August 22, 1838.  He enlisted under Captain James T. Brady’s Company B, 18th Alabama Regiment Infantry, Covington County in July 26, 1861 at Andalusia, Alabama as a Sergeant. He rose in the ranks of sergeant. While serving under Captain Eli S. Shorter, who was killed in the line of duty, Hart found himself next in command. He was given the title of 2nd Lieutenant. He served under Colonel James T. Holtzclaw.

 This regiment was organized at Auburn, Sept. 4, 1861, and the field officers were appointed by President Davis. A few weeks later, it went to Mobile, by way of Huntsville, and was there brigaded under Gen. Gladden of Louisiana, with the Nineteenth, Twentieth, Twenty-second, and Twenty-fifth Alabama regiments, Withers' division. Ordered to Corinth in March 1862, the regiment was there brigaded under Gen. J.K. Jackson of Georgia, with the Seventeenth and Nineteenth Alabama regiments. The Eighteenth fought the first day at Shiloh, and lost 125 killed and wounded out of 420 men engaged. It was detailed to escort the brigade of Gen. Prentiss, which it had largely aided to capture, to the rear, and did not take part the second day. After the battle, the regiment being without field officers, was for a short time under officers detailed for the purpose. It was under fire at Blackland, and soon after was sent to Mobile. There the Eighteenth remained till April 1863, when it rejoined the army of Tennessee, in a brigade with the Thirty-sixth and Thirty-eight Alabama regiments, and the Ninth Alabama battalion (the latter being soon after raised to the Fifty-eighth regiment, and consolidated subsequently with the Thirty-second Alabama), commanded successively by Generals Cummings of Georgia, Clayton of Barbour, Holtzclaw of Montgomery, and Colonel Bush Jones of Perry. At Chicamauga the Eighteenth was terribly mutilated, losing 22 out of 36 officers, and 300 out of 500 men, killed and wounded. At Mission Ridge the Eighteenth was engaged, and lost about 90 men, principally captured. Having wintered at Dalton, it began the Dalton-Atlanta campaign with 500 effective men, and fought all the way down to Jonesboro, losing constantly in killed and wounded, but with no severe loss at any one place. It lost very nearly half its number during the campaign, and rendered effective service. The regiment went with Gen. Hood into Tennessee, and lost about 100 at Franklin, principally captured. When the army moved to the Carolinas in February 1865, the regiment was ordered to Mobile, and placed in the field works at Spanish Fort. It participated prominently in the siege of that place several weeks later, with some loss, and escaped when the 
defenses were evacuated. It surrendered at Meridian, Mississippi, May 4, 1865, with the military department.
At the Battle of Chickamauga on Sunday, September 30, 1863, he was shot in the right thigh and lost about 4 inches of his leg muscle. Hart was given an Army Surgeons certificate of disability and was given a discharge on March 14, 1864. He was paroled at Meridian, Mississippi on May 10, 1865.

He married North Carolina "Carrie" Anderson in Hawkinsville, Pulaski County, Georgia on March 3, 1881 by H. R. Felder, M. G. 
The Harts moved to Lakeland, Florida on December 15, 1891, a little further south along the road toward Bartow. His occupation was a dentist. His wife, North Carolina and their niece, Samantha and nephew, Daniel Pipkin set up homes in 1879. Soon, Tennessee’s David and Sarah Fitzgerald Moore, Daniel and Samantha’s parents Nathan and Margaret Elizabeth Hart Pipkin, and their relation Jim Spence had joined them. 

In 1882 Medulla nonetheless hummed with activity. Building houses, fences, and improving the land generally, is the common practice of the day. Lewis M. Ballard commented, "We visited the lumber yard yesterday and found there a very large pile of lumber for Co. James A. Hart."

In June, 1907, he stated that he had been a residence of Lakeland, Polk County, Florida for more than 23 years. He joined a veteran’s organization called United Confederate Veterans (UCV), Lakeland Camp #1543. On July 6, 1907 U. (Urban) H. Hane, Adjutant of Camp #1543, stated, "Hart was known or by documentary proof submitted to the Camp on application for membership, that the said applicant was a soldier or sailor in the service of the Confederate States during the war between the States, that he did not desert the same, and that he was a. member in good standing of the United Confederate Veterans." Also, Hane recalled, "I have read his statement on page one and examined his wound and verily believe the statement therein set forth to be true." UCV was later renamed to Sons of Confederate Veterans (SCV).

Hart applied for a war pension, application For Pension Under Laws of Florida on July 6, 1907, at the age of 69 years. He states, "Three (and ) a half muscles of right thigh were torn away at Chicamauga. I am paralyzed to a very great degree and am unable for the above cause to do manual labor of any arrangement. I am unable to care my own or my family’s livelihood by manual labor." When asked to describe his injury sustained during the war, "I lost 3 ½ muscles inside my right thigh. Have practically no flesh there. My leg has never been ?, has always been tender and as age advances, draws symptoms of paralysis." He endorsed the application Jas. A. Hart. 

Dr. William P. Groover states, "That wound that he has on front part of right thigh is a space of about four inches of muscles are torn away and he is now suffering from polsy and is unable to do much manual labor, and is unable to earn a living for self or family." 

Affidavit of Wiley F. Martin of Walton County, Florida recalls, " James A. Hart rendered faithful service as a Confederate soldier during the war between the States, and I was with said Hart from beginning of war until his resignation late in the war, after Battle of Chickamauga, on account of desperate wound."

He was granted a pension on January 6, 1908 and with pay from August 8, 1907 at the rate of $120 per annum, same being awarded on certificate number 5746.

Hart died on the 10th day of February, 1920 and was laid to rest at Fitzgerald Cemetery, Lakeland, Polk County, Florida.
Mrs. North Carolina Hart at Route A, Box 208, Lakeland, Florida petitioned for a Widow’s Claim for Pension Under General Pension Law of Florida as Amended by Acts of 1921on March 22, 1922. She endorsed the application North Carolina Hart. 
A letter for the War Department, The Adjutant General’s Office, Washington written on March 29, 1922 stated:

James A. Hart, sergeant and 2nd lieutenant Co. B, 18th Regiment, Ala. Inf. C.S.A., enlisted July 26, 1861, at Andalusia, Alabama. Muster roll for Nov. and Dec. 1862 (last on file) shows present. His resignation was accepted to take effect March 14, 1864. endorsed P. C. Harris, The Adjutant General.

She was approved July 26, 1922 with pay from July 6, 1922 at the rate of $300 per annum. same being awarded on certificate number 4816.

Annie H. Darracott, No. 791, Lakeland chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy held a Memorial Service and 4 marker Dedication on Saturday, June 5, 2004 at Fitzgerald Cemetery. A total of 60 members and guests were present for the ceremony.

Pvt. Jordan A. Kilgore, Company D, 47th Regiment Alabama

Jordan A. "Alex" Kilgore was born on the 24th day of January, 1838 in Chambers County, Alabama.  He enlisted on the 22nd day of March 1961 in Captain James Jackson, Company D, 47th Regiment, in the County of Chambers, in the State of Alabama. He was detailed as ambulance driver.

The 47th Alabama Volunteer Infantry Regiment was organized at Loachapoka, Alabama, on May 22, 1862 with men recruited from Chambers, Cherokee, Coosa, and Tallapoosa counties. It reached Virginia in late June and was assigned to Major General Thomas J. 'Stonewall' Jackson's Corps and brigaded with Brigadier General William B. Taliaferro's Brigade, with the 48th Alabama and three Virginia regiments. A few weeks later, the regiment engaged in its first battle at Cedar Run (August 9) where it lost 12 killed and 76 wounded, or nearly one-half of its strength. At the 2nd Battle of Manassas (August 30), the 47th lost 7 killed and 25 wounded. It was present at Chantilly (September 1) and at the capture of Harper's Ferry (September 12-15). It engaged at Sharpsburg with 115 men and lost every commissioned officer present on the field, mustering 17 men the next morning under a sergeant. 

The 47th Alabama spent the winter on the Rappahannock and witnessed the repulse of Burnside at Fredericksburg. Transferred in January, 1863, to the Alabama Brigade of Brigadier General Evander McIver Law (4th, 15th, 44th, 47th and 48th Regiments) and Hood's Division, Longstreet's Corps, the 47th lost several men in the fighting at Suffolk.

After they rejoined the main Army of Northern Virginia, the 47th Alabama marched into Pennsylvania and Gettysburg (July 1-3) where they suffered 40 casualties. Two months later, Longstreet's Corps was transferred to north Georgia and the Army of Tennessee, and the 47th lost heavily at Chicamauga (September 20). It took part in the investment of Knoxville (November 17 through December 4) with only light loss, and in the operations in East Tennessee. 

Again rejoining the main Army of Northern Virginia in the spring of 1864, the 47th fought in The Wilderness (May 5-6) and lost 111 men. They participated in the charge on Union General. Gouverneur K. Warren's Corps at Spottsylvania where the Alabama Brigade opened the battle. In all the subsequent operations around Richmond, the regiment took part, and in the defense of Petersburg, it suffered 49 casualties. As part of Brig. General William F. Perry's Brigade, the 47th Alabama surrendered about 90 men at Appomattox Court House.

He married Susan Warlick in Cusseta, Chambers County, Alabama on the 1st day of April year 1869.  In 1901 Alex resided in Pebble, Florida. Kilgore applied for a Soldier’s Application for Pension dated the 4th day of November, 1901. He stated that he surrendered "at Appomattox Courthouse, Virginia on or about the 9th day of April, 1865 and was honorably discharged at the expiration of my service." He relates, "I received a gun shot wound in the left foot which has partially disabled me ever since. I also suffer from a rupture in right side for which I have for many years been compelled to wear a brace and which totally disables me from manual labor of any character. The wound in foot renders it stiff and in many respects useless. While the rupture totally ? me from manual labor. The said company and regiment were a part of my brigade in Hood‘s Division, Longstreet‘s Corps., Army of the Northern Virginia." He endorsed the application Jordan A. Kilgore.

On November 4, 1901 Doctors A. F. Fletcher of Mulberry, FL, and J. P. Statham (?) of Bartow, FL gave sworn statements "That he received a gun shot wound of the left foot which has fatally disabled him ever since. We also find that he is ? On right side and has to wear a truss and totally disables him for manual labor of any kind."

E. M. Law, former Major General of C.S. Army attested that Jordan A. Kilgore "personally knew the above applicant for pension during the civil war of 1861 to 1865 and that I served with him in Co. D, 47th Alabama regiment."

He was approved on December 18, 1901 with pay for November 8, 1901 at the rate of $96.00 per annum, as being the same on certificate number was 874.

Kilgore passed away on January 5, 1902 in Polk County, Florida. He was buried at Fitzgerald Cemetery in south Lakeland, Florida.
His obituary reads: 

The following is republished from last week on account of some errors which were allowed to slip in affecting the sense of the article.
Almost since my infancy I have known J. A. Kilgore, who died near Pebble on the 5th last. He has always been a good man, loved by all who knew him. He was born sixty six years ago in chambers County Alabama. His life began in the pure atmosphere of a Christian home, whose inspirations developed the sterling qualities of mind and heart, which tempered his childhood and youth, and glorified his noble manhood.

In 1861, consistent in his love of home and fidelity to his country, Mr. Kilgore responded to the call signaled from the smoking walls of Sumpter, and with Spartan courage marched with God, his homage through the civil war, until the battles from Manassas to Appomattox with their consecrated crimson fields and the deeds of their fallen heroes and scarred veterans were dedicated to history.
Mr. Kilgore’s distinguished commander in that war, and his children’s loving and honored friend, General E. M. Law, was noticed by the open tomb, dropping tears near the bier, and words of pathos in grief and praise were heard from the lips of the dead soldier’s Comrade Chief. True to God and the heritage of a faultless name, the virtues of J.A.Kilgore’s life were consonant to the joyous memories he cherished and in their graceful perpetuity exemplified the beauty of Christian love and holiness. Of the swords drawn one was sheathed in 1865, the other only three days ago, when the soldier-knight, looking back through 50 years of conflict and triumph, laid down the untarnished aceptre of a victory mightier than the conquests of countries and prouder than the admiration and plaudits of his people. The world is much poorer now that Alex Kilgore is gone. He is mourned and missed by the thousands to whom he bequeathed a long life of exceptional uprightness, purity and usefulness. He honored God, who also honored him. May my last end be like his." 
Tribute not signed.

On January 22, 1903 Mrs. Susan Kilgore applied for Widow’s Application for Pension. At the age of 51 she states "This information is now on file in the pension department at Tallahasse on my late husband’s original application, the number of his pension being #874. J. A. Kilgore died at his home near Pebbles, Polk County, Florida on January 5, 1903." It was endorsed Susan Kilgore. Claim for Pension was approved on February 13, 1903 with pay for January 5, 1903 at the rate of $96 per annum, as being the same on certificate number 4856. It was later raised to $120, date unknown. 

On February 5, 1903 a letter written by C. H. Dickinson, Secretary Board of Pensions to Honorable H. J. Drane of Lakeland, Florida states:

Dear Sir:

I am this day returning you the application sent me by you for Mrs. Kilgore. You omitted to insert when her husband died. If you will write this in just under the number 874 I will take the matter up and attend to it without delay. There will be no trouble about her getting the pension. Atend (misspelled) to this and sent (misspelled) me this application and it will be hurried right through, Yours truly.

A notation at the bottom written in "All right Charlie. I have made the correction. JHD

On July 14, 1909 Mrs. Kilgore reapplied for a Widow’s Pension Claim under the Act of 1909. She stated that she had no real estate and a value of $140 for personal property. That she has heretofore been granted a pension from the State of Florida under certificate no. 874. It was approved on September 6, 1909 with pay from July 1, 1909 at the rate of $120 per annum.

Annie H. Darracott, No. 791, Lakeland chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy held a Memorial Service and 4 marker Dedication on Saturday, June 5, 2004 at Fitzgerald Cemetery. A total of 60 members and guests were present for the ceremony.

Pvt. William A. McClelland, Co. E, 7th Florida Infantry

William A. McClelland was born on November 16, 1831.  He enlisted on March 8, 1862 in Company E, 7th Florida Regiment Infantry. The 7th Infantry Regiment was organized at Gainesville, Florida, in April, 1862. Its companies were recruited in the counties of Bradford, Hillsborough, Alachua, Manatee, and Marion. During the war it served in R.C. Trigg's, Finley's, and J.A. Smith's Brigade, Army of Tennessee. The 7th took an active part in the arduous campaigns of the army from Chickamauga to Nashville, then fought its last battle at Bentonville. It sustained few casualties at Chickamauga and in December, 1863, totaled 278 men and 206 arms. The unit surrendered on April 26, 1865. Its commanders were Colonels Robert Bullock and Madison S. Perry, Lieutenant Colonel Tillman Ingram, and Major Nathan S. Blount.

McClelland moved to Florida approximately in 1869. The Lunns moved to Polk County, Florida around 1868. William married Sabra Ann E. Lunn on March 27, 1870 in Polk County, Florida. She was born in Decatur County, Georgia on September 1, 1846. 
In 1873 William, along with Readding B. Parker, and William H. Willingham apparently killed "a drunken desperado named William T. Branch" at Bartow, Polk County, Florida.

William A. McClelland died August 16, 1900 in Polk County, Florida and was laid to rest at Fitzgerald Cemetery, Lakeland, Polk County, Florida.

Sabra Ann E. McClelland of Plant City, Florida applied for a Widow’s Pension on August 19, 1907 in Polk County, Florida. She states, "I am the widow of William A. McClelland, deceased who departed this life on the 15th day of August 1900 A.D. in the County of Polk, in the State of Florida and I have not remarried since the death of my said husband." Sabra stated that she has lived in Florida for thirty-nine years and was born and raised in Georgia. She said William died at home. 

Witnesses for McClelland’s military service, states "Henry R. Hill of Homeland and William H. Johnson of Bartow attest that they have know Mrs. McClelland for thirty-seven years, that she resided near Medulla, that they lived in the neighborhood where she now resides and she was married to McClelland. McClelland fought in Tennessee, Kentucky, Georgia and Carolina campaigns. He was discharged only by reason of the termination of the war." She endorsed the application with a mark.
The Claim for Pension certificate number 5869 was approved on January 11, 1908 with pay from September 4, 1907 at the rate of $120 per annum.

Mrs. McClelland reapplied for a Widow’s Pension Under the Act of 1909 on August 3, 1909. She states that she has 10 acres in Polk County valued at $600 and 1 horse valued at $100. Also, that she had been granted a pension from the State of Florida under Certificate number 5869, reapplied Certificate number 183. It was approved on September 6, 1909 with pay from July 1, 1909 at the rate of $120 per annum. An increase in her pension on July 1, 1913 at the rate of $150 per year.

A letter written on January 7, 1955 from Mrs. Bertha C. Volves of Thonotosassa, Florida to Mr. Ray E. Green of Tallahassee, Florida states:

Kind Sir:
My information shows that SAMUEL Y. STANFORD, WILLLIAM H. STANFORD were Confederate Vet & Widows of Vet residing in Hillsboro Co were on pension rool (roll) and will you see if you have a rec (record) of Sabra A. E. McClellan. I belive (believe) this were of Plant City Fla. Thank you for past favors.


On January 10, 1956 a response letter was sent to Mrs. Bertha C. Volves of Thonotosassa, Fla.

Re: Mrs. Sabra A. E. McClelland
Widow of William A. McClelland

Dear Mrs. Voyles:
Replying to your letter of January 7th, I wish to advise that the records in this office show that Mrs. Sabra A. E. McClelland received a pension from the State of Florida based on services rendered by her husband, William A. McClelland, in Company E, 7th Florida Regiment, C.S.A.
Mrs. McClelland stated in her claim for pension that Mr. McClelland enlisted on the 8th day of March, 1862, in Company E, 7th Florida Regiment and served until the close of the war according to the affidavits of two comrades serving with him.
Mrs. McClelland stated in her claim that she was born in Decatur County, Ga., in Sept. 1st day, 1846, and that she was married to William A. McClelland on March 27, 1870. He died Aug. 5, 1900...
With best wishes, I am, Yours very truly
Ray E. Green, Comptroller by: 
W. C. Hoffman, Chief Auditor Confederate Pensions.

William A. McClelland’s service was recognized at a Memorial Service and Marker Dedication Ceremony hosted by Annie H. Darracott 791, United Daughters of the Confederacy. It was on Saturday, June 5, 2004 at Fitzgerald Cemetery, Lakeland, Polk County, Florida. A total of 60 members and guests were present for the ceremony.

Pvt. Hilliard McInnis, Company E, 1st Florida Cavalry

Hilliard McInnis was born on June 21, 1837 in the County of Chesterfield, in the State of South Carolina. He moved to Florida in January 1858. He enlisted in White Springs, Hamilton County, Florida on November 14, 1861 in Company E, 1st Florida Cavalry. He was in the campaigns of the Tennessee Army until the close of war. McInnis surrendered with the CSA army at Greensboro, North Carolina on May 1, 1865. 

1st Florida Cavalry rode out of Lake City, they had all the dash of a marching band- fresh horses and new uniforms all brightly colored with yellow piping that covered the sleeves and chests of the uniforms. 

The 1st FL Cavalry rode to join the Army of the Mississippi. They reached Mississippi in time to make a push into Tennessee and join the fray at Shiloh. I suppose one could say the regiment was christened with a bloodbath.

There were many bloody skirmishes fought after Shiloh, and by Spring 1862, over half of the remaining 1st FL Cavalry had voluntarily dismounted. Those of the dismounted 1st Cavalry who had not become casualties during the fighting, deserted, or died of disease. They joined the Kentucky Campaign under General Bragg who led them into the Battle of Murphreesboro, New Year's 1863. The following year brought the battle that ended Silas' and L.B.'s participation in the war- Missionary Ridge.

Everything seemed to be going well until the Army of Cumberland and Army of Tennessee hit the proverbial brick wall at Chickamauga. The whipped Yanks fled to Chattanooga and Britain was ready to acknowledge the South as a nation, at this point, and the Yanks were starting to feel they had bitten off more than they could chew.

The beaten Yankee armies dug in and waited for their destruction, and Bragg also waited...and waited, and waited, and waited, and, well, by the time he had decided to move (about two months later), Grant had relieved the defeated Gen. Rosencrans from duty and replaced him with several of the North's finest. This lot included the nefarious W.T. Sherman .

The 1st FL Cavalry had fought gallantly at Chickamauga, but all the Florida regiments had taken severe casualties and could not be readily re-supplied or reinforced. The few Florida soldiers who were still able to fight were clumped into one large brigade. Once again, on November 23, 1863 they were thrown into battle as Grant made a frantic lunge at the gap dividing him and the heartlands of Dixie at Lookout Mountain, TN.

The Rebels made their stand on Missionary Ridge on November 25, 1863. Many of their brave companions, soon found themselves trapped behind a fence on the steep slope of the ridge, bleeding, devoid of ammo, with misdirected friendly fire flying over their heads, waiting for it all to end. 

McInnis applied for a war pension. In his pension he states he stated, "that during my service my feet were badly frost bitten in the winter of 1864 and now owing to old age and exposure during my service." He endorsed his application H. McInnis.

On August 21, 1902, comrades of the war, Wiley Robson and J. W. Brooks, late of Company E, 1st Florida Cavalry stated, "The above applicant for pension during the civil war of 1861 to 1865, that we served with him and know of our own knowledge that he did receive the injuries set forth in the above application at the time and place claimed, and the disability there from claim to exist does exist, and that he never deserted the Confederate Army."

On August 22, 1902, Doctors Francis L. Brooks and L. F. Henley, both of Lakeland, stated, " he is suffering from Organic Heart Trouble - with general disability in consequence rending him unfit for hard manual labor. We find also that his eyesight is very much impaired."

He was approved October 10, 1902 with pay from September 10, 1902 at the rate of $96 per annum and later raised to $120 per annum in pension certificate no. 1689. 

On December 7, 1907 a letter from the War Department, the Adjutant General’s Office, Washington to the Comptroller, State of Florida Tallahassee states:

The records show that Hillard McInnis, private, Company E, 1st Florida Cavalry, C.S.A. enlisted November 14, 1861, and that he was paroled May 1, 1865, at Greensboro, North Carolina. (signature unreadable), The Adjutant General.

He reapplied for Soldier’s pension Claim Under the Act of 1909 on July 18, 1909 and stated that he served "from the beginning of 1862. I was in all the campaigns of the Tennessee Army until the close of the War. That I was with the army at Greensboro, North Carolina at the time of the surrender." He settled "near Lakeland, owns 40 acres valued at $500 and personal property valued at $25 and is nearly blind, partial paralysis left side." Doctors L. F. Henley and W. R. Groover’s Physician’s Affidavit state "Old age, blindness, and general disability." He endorsed his application Hilliard McInnis. 

He was approved on August 25, 1909 with pay from July 1, 1909 at the rate of $150 per annum, being under certificate 10871. 
McInnis died October 30, 1911 and was laid to rest at Fitzgerald cemetery, Lakeland, Polk County, Florida.

Annie H. Darracott, No. 791, Lakeland chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy held a Memorial Service and 4 marker Dedication on Saturday, June 5, 2004 at Fitzgerald Cemetery. A search for descendants living in the area was unsuccessful. A total of 60 members and guests were present for the ceremony.

Private David Arnold Moore, 
Company H, 1st Mississippi Partisan Rangers Cavalry

Pvt. James Bennett Odom, 
Company D, 29th Alabama Volunteer Infantry

James Bennett Odom, was born on April 27, 1845 in Barbour County, Alabama. In August 1863 he enlisted in Colonel Conolley regiment, Captain Gardner’s unit, Company D, 29th Alabama Infantry.

The 29th Infantry Regiment was formed at Pensacola, Florida, in February, 1862. This unit was organized by adding two companies to the 4th Alabama Infantry Battalion which had been assembled at Montgomery. Its members were recruited in the counties of Blount, Shelby, Talladega, Barbour, Russell, Montgomery, Bibb, and Conecuh. It was drilled in artillery and remained between Pollard and Pensacola for over a year. The regiment then moved to Mobile where it was stationed until the spring of 1864. At that time it joined the Army of Tennessee with more than 1,000 men. Assigned to General Cantey's and Shelley's Brigade the unit participated in many conflicts from Resaca to Nashville, then fought at Kinston and Bentonville. It lost about 100 at Resaca, and had many disabled at New Hope Church, Peach Tree Creek, Franklin, and Nashville. Less than 90 surrendered on April 26, 1865. The field officers were Colonels John F. Conoley and John R. F. Tattnall, Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Morris, and Major Henry B. Turner. 

During a battle in Nashville, Tennessee he was wounded in the head and leg, but not serious wounds. "I do not attach great importance to wounds, long since healed except that I occasionally have pain from it (leg) and stiff knee. My wound being in knee. Also slight wound on head."

He was discharged from the hospital in Eufaula, Alabama "on account of sickness at time of surrender." Odom was paroled April 1865 at Macon, Georgia.  He moved to Florida in November, 1887. 

On July 30, 1907, Urban H. Hane, Adjutant of Camp 1543, United Confederate Veterans of the Lakeland, County of Polk, states that Mr. J. B. Odom was a member in good standing with Camp 1543.

He applied for Application for Pension dated July 31, 1907. He stated, "I have for many years been a sufferer from rheumatism contracted from exposure in war. I am past the age of sixty-three years and am unable to gain a livelihood for myself by manual labor."  His endorsed the application J. B. Odom. An Affidavit by 2nd Lieutenant James A. Stewart states that J. B. Odom "rendered faithful service as a Confederate soldier during the war between the States, and that he had not seen him in 20 years."  Doctor L. H. Healey stated on his Physician’s Affidavit that "he’s suffering from chronic rheumatism and believes that he is not able to make a living by manual labor."  Odom endorsed the pension application J. B. Odom. 

A letter written December 4, 1907:

Bronwood, Ga.

Mr. J. B. Odom
Lakeland, Fla.

Dear Sir,

I signed your paper to the best of my knowledge. I signed it with pencil if it isn’t right you can sign it with ink. If there is anything else I can do I will gladly do it if you will just let me know.
Yours Truly, Neal McLeon, Bronwood Ga. R.F.D. #1

He was approved for pension under certificate number 4845 on December 12, 1907 with pay from August 8, 1907 at the rate of $120 per annum.

He reapplied for Soldier’s Pension Claim under the Act of 1909 on July 17, 1909. He stated that he "was honorably discharged at Macon (paroled), Georgia in April 1865 on account of the close of war. That I was in the hospital at Eufaula, Alabama (sick)." Odom lived near Lakeland and his real estate was valued at $500 and personal property was valued at $50. He was granted a pension from the State of Florida under pension certificate number 4845 at the rate of $120 per annum. He stated that his health problems "none except rheumatism. He received 2 slight wounds, of but little consignence." He endorsed the application James B. Odom.
Doctor W. R. Groover stated on his Physician’s Affidavit that Odom had "infirmities due to age."

He was approved for his Claim for Pension dated August 15, 1909 with pay from July 1 1909 at the rate of $120 per annum under certificate number 5621.

Odom filed an Application For Increase of Pension under the Laws of Florida dated July 15, 1913. He endorsed the application James B. Odom. 

Physicians Affidavit by Doctors R. R. Sullivan and W. R. Groover stated "This deponent further says that the said Jas B. Odom is permanently disabled by reason of such conditions from earning a livelihood for himself by manual labor. 

He received a raise to $150 per annum. James passed away on September 7, 1926. He was laid to rest at Fitzgerald Cemetery, Lakeland, Polk County, Florida. 

James Bennett Odom’s service was recognized at a Memorial Service and Marker Dedication Ceremony hosted by Annie H. Darracott 791, United Daughters of the Confederacy. It was on Saturday, June 5, 2004 at Fitzgerald Cemetery, Lakeland, Polk County, Florida. A total of 60 members and guests were present for the ceremony.

Sgt. Nathan Levi Pipkin, Co. I, 15th Alabama Cavalry

Nathaniel “Nathan” Levi Pipkin was born December 16, 1830 in Pulaski County, Georgia to Moses Pipkin and Delila Winnie Cobb Pipkin. Pipkin’s siblings were Phillip, Lemeyoe, Elizabeth Merer, Asa Williamson, Edna, Samson, Boby Ann, Mathew, Stephen, Winnie, Jane, Nancy, Wiley, and William Moses Pipkin.
 
Nathan Pipkin married Margaret “Elizabeth” Hart on November 2, 1852 in Dooly County, Georgia. She was born October 15, 1836. Her siblings were Dr. James Hart, John Hart, and Mary Hart. They were orphaned at a young age and raised by her mother's brother who may have been named Smith.
 
The children of Nathan and Margaret Elizabeth Hart Pipkin were Mary Elizabeth, Samantha, Daniel Moses, Levi Nathaniel, James Harris, and Donna.
 
Alabama seceded from the union on January 11, 1861 and became a part of the Confederate States of America.  The Army of Alabama was mustered into Confederate service.  When his state asked for men to form an army, Pipkin enlisted in Covington County, Alabama on August 1862 in Colonel Harry Morrow Regiment, Captain William Amos’ Unit, Company I, 15th Alabama Cavalry.
 
He came to Florida with his family on covered wagons from Hawkinsville, Georgia in 1883. Confederate Veteran John Pollock’s acquaintance with the Pipkin family led to his family traveling in the same wagon train as the Pipkins to Polk County.  The Pipkins arrived in the Greenwood community. Greenwood community was located near Carter Road and covered about a 3 mile radius with two main dirt roads running through it.
 
Pipkin built his 180 acre homestead on the southeast of Land Pebble Road, near Bartow Road. He constructed his log and timber home out of the dense Florida pine timber on his property and was completed by early 1884. While the house was under construction, the Pipkins lived with their son, Daniel, who developed his property two miles west. 

On September 24, 1907 Mrs. C. R. Dickinson was accepted in the United Daughters of the Confederacy, (formerly known as) Lakeland Chapter No. 791.  Her membership application reads as follows:
 “To the Officers and Members of the Daughters of the Confederacy, located at Lakeland, County of Polk, State of Florida.  I, the undersigned, would respectfully petition to become a member of the Daughters of the Confederacy.  And, if accepted, do hereby promise a strict compliance to the laws and usages of this Organization.

I was born in the Town or City of Hawkinsville, County Pulaski, State of Georgia, Country America.  I am the daughter of Nathan Pipkin who belonged to Company I, 15th Confederate Cavalry Regiment, and he was paroled or discharged went through the war and is living  Present address Mulberry, County of Polk, State of Florida.
No remarks given explaining her father’s service.
    Signed Mrs. C. R. Dickinson”
 
Pipkin applied for Application For Pension, Pension Certificate number 6108, on October 8, 1907. He stated, "I live in Mulberry, Florida. I am over the age of 60 years, and on account of old age. I am not able to perform manual labor sufficient to make my support." He endorsed the application Nathan Pipkin.
 
On October 8, 1907 B. F. Holland, Adjutant of Camp Frances S. Bartow #284 stated that Pipkin "was known or by documentary proof submitted to the Camp on application for membership, that the said applicant was a soldier or sailor in the service of the Confederate States during the war between the States, that he did not desert the same, and that he was a member in good standing of Camp Francis S. Bartow #284 of the United Confederate Veterans." UCV was later renamed to Sons of Confederate Veterans (SCV).
 
An Affidavit dated October 18, 1907 by Abram and Reuben Hart states that Nathan Pipkin "rendered faithful service as a Confederate soldier during the war between the States, and that they resided in R.F.D. #6, Andalusia, Alabama and served with him." The surrendered near Cleburn, Monroe County, Alabama. "The Company was stampeded by the Federals, some were captured and the others got away and made for home."
 
Physician's Affidavit by H. K. Murphy, M.D., dated October 30, 1907 states that he finds the applicant's physical conduction "on account of old age he is not able to do manual labor."
 
On July 30, 1909 Pipkin, at 78 years of age, reapplied for a pension under Pension Certificate number 7241. Pipkin states that all the property owned by me or by my wife, jointly and separately in this or any other State is Real estate located at Polk County, Florida and valued at $200 and personal property valued at $200. That I have heretofore been granted a pension from the State of Florida under pension certificate No. 6108, at the rate of $120 per annum. He endorsed the application Nathan Pipkin.
 
Physician's Affidavit by H. K. Murphy, M.C., dated July 30, 1909 states that applicant is "Age 78 years - Hydroede."
 
He was approved on August 25, 1909 with pay from July 1, 1909 at the rate of $120 per annum, certificate number 7241.
 
On October 8, 1913 Pipkin filed an Application for Increase in Pension. He states, "Hereby make application for increase in pension because of being unable to earn a livelihood by manual labor. I am 82 years of age." He endorsed the application Nathan Pipkin. Drs. H. K, Murphy and P. L. Goss state that applicant is "in infirm health." No paperwork stating that the increase was granted in his pension files.
 
Pipkin died on April 28, 1921. He was laid to rest at Fitzgerald Cemetery, Lakeland, Polk County, Florida.
 
Mrs. Margaret Elizabeth Hart Pipkin applied for Widow's Pension Claim under the Act of 1917 on June 6, 1921. Mrs. Pipkin stated that she lived in Mulberry, Polk County, Florida and "for proof of husband‘s war service refer to number 7241." She endorsed the application with her mark "x."
 
As proof of their marriage a friend named Lucia McCall gave a sworn statement on June 6, 1921 that: "She was formerly a resident of Dooly County, Georgia and knows that subsequent to 1852 the records of said Dooly County, Georgia were destroyed by fire."
 
On June 17, 1921 H. B. Blount and A. S. McKillop stated that they were "personally acquainted with the late Nathan Pipkin and his wife, Elizabeth Pipkin, and knows of his own knowledge that the said Nathan Pipkin and Elizabeth Pipkin lived together as man and wife continuously for the past 25 years and were living together as husband and wife at the time of the death of said Nathan Pipkin on April 28, 1921."
 
Her application was approved on July 14, 1921 with pay from April 29, 1921 at the rate of $300 per annum., certificate number 2307.  Margaret “Elizabeth” Hart Pipkin died October 25, 1921 and was laid to rest at Fitzgerald cemetery, Lakeland, Polk County, Florida.
 
Nathan's sons, Levi and Daniel Pipkin, were instrumental in the reconstruction of what became Florida Southern College in Lakeland. It’s campus around Safety Harbor suffered a devastating fire.  Levi  was instrumental in assisting the Florida Southern College to secure a loan of $250,000 to fund a building program at the new Lakeland campus. The L. N. Pipkin Athletic Field was dedicated on March 25, 1954. Also, the L. N. Pipkin Bandshell was named after him.
 
Nathan Pipkin’s service was recognized at a Memorial Service and Marker Dedication Ceremony hosted by Annie H. Darracott 791, United Daughters of the Confederacy. It was held on Saturday, June 5, 2004 at Fitzgerald Cemetery, Lakeland, Polk County, Florida. A total of 60 members and guests were present for the ceremony.

John Pollock was born in Houston County, Georgia on the 25th day of July, 1840. The 1850 Federal Census of Houston County, Georgia, Page No: 707, Reel no: M432-74, Division: The Upper 11th District, Sheet No: 353B, Enumerated on: October 7, 1850 by: Geo. R. Clayton stated that on line 26, house number 670 Thomas Pollock, 53 male owned 2,000 and was born in Georgia; Elizabeth Pollock, 38 female, born in South Carolina, Elizabeth Pollock, 13 female, born in Georgia; Sarah Pollock, 7 female, born in Georgia; John Pollock , 10 male, born in Georgia; James Pollock 3 male born in Georgia; and John Pollock, 40 male was a Farmer. 
Pollock enlisted on May 1862 at Perry, Georgia in Southern Rights Battery Artillery (Reserve Artillery). He served under Captain William Havis and Majors Montgomery and Lumsden. 

Organized as the Southern Rights Battery in Perry, Houston Co., Georgia in March of 1862, this battery would later become known as "Palmer's Battery" and then as "Havis's Battery". Most of the officers and sergeants were recently discharged veterans of company C, 1st Ga. Infantry (Ramsey's) who had seen service in Virginia. The battery was mustered in to Confederate service, 14th Battalion, Georgia Light Artillery, by Captain Joseph T. Montgomery at Perry, Georgia on April 26, 1862. 

The unit went to camps of instruction at Griffin and at Calhoun. As the best drilled battery in the battalion, Southern Rights Battery was selected to join Bragg's army in the invasion of Kentucky (Battle for the Bluegrass), receiving their baptism of fire at Perryville, October 8, 1862, attached to Brown's Brigade, Anderson's Division of Hardee's Corps. 

Mounted as horse artillery and now known as Palmer's Georgia Battery, they accompanied John Hunt Morgan and his famous Morgan's Raiders on his Christmas Raid, distinguishing themselves at Elizabethtown, December 27, 1862. 

Relinquishing their cannoneer's mounts and losing the gallant Palmer through promotion and reassignment to Cheatham's Corps, Havis's Battery reunited with their old mates from the 14th, Anderson's Battery, and, along with Lumsden's Alabama Battery became the Artillery Reserve of the Army of Tennessee, under Major (later Brigadier-General) Felix H. Robertson. As one wag put it, " we are called Reserve Artillery because we are never in reserve." 

The Reserve Artillery saw action in the Tullahoma Campaign, Chickamauaga, the Siege of Chattanooga, Missionary Ridge, and all the battles of the Atlanta campaign. In the spring of 1864 Major Palmer returned to take command of the Reserve Artillery, and after the fall of Atlanta most of Hood's artillery was sent to Macon where were located the Confederate Macon Armory and an Arsenal. The rest of the Army of Tennessee marched off to their ill-fated meeting with Thomas at Franklin and Nashville. 

In the spring of 1865 Havis's Battery marched to North Carolina to rejoin the shattered remnants of the army, surrendering with Joe Johnston at Greensboro, N.C. April 26, 1865, three years to the day after mustering in on the steps of the Houston County courthouse.
John settled back in Houston County where he courted a local lady named Ailsa (Elsie) McClendon. On March 10, 1859 they married in Houston County. Elsie was born January 28, 1838 in Houston County, Georgia. In the 1850 Federal Census, Houston County, Georgia, Page No: 687 Reel no: M432-74 Division: The Lower 5th Distict Sheet No: 343B Enumerated on: September 26, 1850 by: Geo. R. Clayton:

That in house number 539, her father was Dennis McClendon, 54, occupation Farmer, he owned 1,600 acres and was born in South Carolina. Her mother, Rebecca McClendon, was 44, and born in North Carolina. Their children were all born in Georgia were:
Mary McClendon age 21, Jane McClendon age 20, Matilda McClendon age 18, Susanah McClendon age 16, Louisa McClendon age 14, Ailsa McClendon age 12 , Georgean McClendon age 10, Sarah McClendon age 8 , and Margarett McClendon age 6. Not one boy in the lot! 

The 1860 Federal Census of Houston County, Georgia, Eleventh District REEL NO: M653-127 PAGE NO: 1033 REFERENCE: Geraldus King, July 12, 1860, Page 82 states: line number 28, house number 579, Pollock, John 19 M, Farmer 2,000, 200 born in Georgia; Alcey 22 F, born in Georgia; and Jessie 6/12 M, born in Georgia.   The Pollock’s relocated to Florida in December of 1883.

Pollock applied for Application for Pension Under Laws of Florida on August 3, 1907. He stated that he was "sixty seven years of age, having been born on the 25th day of July, 1840." He endorsed his pension John Pollock. 

On September 10, 1907 two comrades W. H. Engram of West Tampa, Florida and J. W. Melvin of Plant City, Florida gave a statement that "John Pollock, he resided in Polk County, Fla. near Lakeland about twenty-four years ago." The military organization that the applicant served in was "Southern Rights Battery Artillery (Reserve Artillery) and that he surrendered at Greensboro, North Carolina. When asked what was the applicant’s occupation and physical condition they replied "Farmer. Physical condition is fairly good."

Urban H. Hane, who being by me first duly sworn, deposes and says that he is the Adjutant of Camp 1543 of Lakeland, of the United Confederate Veterans of the County of Polk , in the State of Florida and that he knew Mr. John Pollock, the within named applicant for pension under the laws of Florida, that the said applicant was a soldier or sailor in the service of the Confederate States during the war between the States, and that he is a member in good stand of Camp 1545.

Pollock’s application was approved under Pension Certificate number 5224 on December 27, 1907 with pay from August 8, 1907 at the rate of $100 per annum.

Pollock reapplied for a Soldier‘s Pension Claim Under the Act of 1909 stating that he was 69 years of age, and had been a resided in the State of Florida since December 1883. Also, that he enlisted in Southern Rights Battery in Georgia and was honorable discharged in Greensboro, North Carolina. That all the property owned by me or by my wife, jointly and separately in this or any other State was real estate, located 4 miles south of Lakeland and valued at $200, a horse valued at $60, and personal property valued at $150. He was requesting a pension due to "only of age." When asked if he had been injured in the war he wrote, "3 wounds, slight at Perryville, Kentucky and Atlanta, Georgia." He endorsed his pension John Pollock. 

Pollock’s application was approved under Pension Certificate number 4582 on September 23, 1909 with pay from July 1, 1909 at the rate of $100 per annum.

On October 1, 1909 a letter from the War Department, The Adjutant General’s Office, Washington states:

Governor, State of Florida, Tallahassee. The records show that John Pollock, a private, in Captain Havis’s Battery, Georgia Light Artillery (also known as Southern Rights Georgia Battery). Confederate States Army, volunteered April 26, 1862, at Perry, Georgia and was mustered into service May 31, 1862, to date April 26, 1862. On a muster roll of the battery covering the period from June 30 to December 31, 1864 (last roll on file). He is reported as absent sick. No later record of him has been found. (Pension number 4582 is written in red pencil at the top of document).

On September 30, 1913 he applied for Application For Increase in Pension stating that he makes application for increase in pension because of being unable to earn a livelihood by manual labor and that he was 74 years of age. He endorsed the application John Pollock.

Doctors W. R. Groover and L. F. Henley made statement "That the applicant is 74 years old therefore not able from age."
There is no mention in his pension file if he was granted an increase in his pension.

John Pollock died November 25, 1919 in South Lakeland, Polk County, Florida and was laid to rest at Fitzgerald Cemetery.
On December 4, 1919 J. A. Johnson, Clerk Board County Commissioner writes to Honorable Ernest Amos, Comptroller, Tallahassee, Florida:

Dear Sir:
With reference to attached Pension Claim, This Old Lady is unable to answer all of the questions, as well as some of the witnesses, but I think if you will look up John Pollock’s Soldier’s Pension you can get all of the information you will need. I will thank you to give this your personal attention as this Lady is in need."

On December 11, 1919 the Comptroller replies to Honorable J. A. Johnson:

Dear Sir:
Your letter of recent date enclosing application for pension filed by Mrs. John Pollock has been received, and upon examination I note that the black used by her has been out of use for several years and does not cover all the requirements of the blanks furnished under the present law.
I have filed the application, however, and should it be allowed she will receive the benefit of pensions from the date of filing.
I am enclosing herewith blank form under the present law, which she should execute. However, she need not have same approved by the Board of county Commissioners, but may send same in immediately upon furnishing the proper proofs outlined thereupon.

With kind regards and wishes, I am, Yours very truly.

On January 3, 1920 J. A. Johnson replies to Honorable Ernest Amos of Tallahassee, Florida. 

Dear Sir:
I enclose herewith application of Mrs. Elsie E. Pollock for Pension, you will note, she was unable to answer some of the questions, but you have all the information required in the proof of her husband which I will thank you to add to her application.
With best wishes, I beg to remain, Truly yours, Jim.

Mrs. Elsie W. Pollock a resident of Medulla, Polk County, Florida applied for Widow’s Pension Claim Under the Act of 1917 on December 31, 1919. She endorsed the pension with her mark, an "x". 

On the application Mrs. Pollock was asked to list her family and their age:  "Jesse 60 years old, Mollie High 58 years old, Ed Pollock 54 Years old, John Pollock 52 years old, Tom Pollock 50 years old, Sallie Williams 46 years old, Louis Pollock 44 years old, Will Pollock 40 years old." She was then asked their earning capacity, "All married with families, I don’t know."

Mrs. Pollock’s Claim For Pension, Pension certificate number 4582, was approved on February 27, 1920 with pay from December 6, 1919 at the rate of $240 per annum.

Pollock’s military service was recognized at a Memorial Service and Marker Dedication Ceremony hosted by Annie H. Darracott 791, United Daughters of the Confederacy. It was on Saturday, June 5, 2004 at Fitzgerald Cemetery, Lakeland, Polk County, Florida. A total of 60 members and guests were present for the ceremony.

Pvt. Edward C. Sphaler Company H, 
20th Regiment South Carolina Infantry

Edward C. Sphaler was born on June 14, 1840 in Lexington, South Carolina. He enlisted in Williams Mills, South Carolina as a private on January 10, 1862 in Company H, 20th Regiment South Carolina Infantry. He was captured in February 1865 and paroled on or about the 20th of June 1865, discharged at Point Lookout, Maryland.  Sphaler moved to Florida approximately May 15, 1904.

On the 10th of April, 1912 he applied for a Soldier’s Pension Claim under the Act of 1909 in Hillsborough County Florida . He stated I "was captured and was taken to prison Point Lookout, MD. Captured near Columbia on 1864 and prisoned at Point Lookout Md. That all the property owned by me or by my wife, jointly and separately in this or any other State: Real estate located at ten acre land in Polk County valued at $100, six head of cattle and one horse valued at $160, and personal property valued at $300." He lists his disabilities as "old age and ruptures." He was at the age of 71 years old. He endorses the application E. C. Sphaler.

Doctor L. H. Harrell stated in his Physician’s Affidavit "that he is incapacitated from earning a living by reason of his old age, and are inguinal hernia (rupture). This deponent further says that the said E. C. Sphaler is permanently disabled by reason of such rupture and age from earning a livelihood for himself by manual labor."

On April 24, 1912 comrades James H. Spires and Britton E. Hutto of Lexington County, South Carolina that attest:  "Enlisted in Lexington, in the State of South Carolina on the 9th day of December 1861 in Company H, 20th Regiment of the State of South Carolina which was organization was regularly musted into the service of the Confederate States of America; that he knows of his owner personal knowledge that E. C. Sphaler enlisted in Company H, 20th Regiment of the State of South Carolina at Hampton Race Count in South Carolina near Columbia on or about the 15th day of December, 1861; that he served faithfully in the said organization until the 30th of May, 1865 when he was honorably discharged on account of taken oath of allegiance at Point Lookout in the State of Maryland and did not desert the Confederate States service nor take the oath of allegiance to the United Sates before the close of War. Served regular service from the time I entered service until the close of war. I know personally of the above stated service, because I served with E. C. Sphaler.

A letter dated May 24, 1912 from the War Department, The Adjutant General’s Office, Washington to the Comptroller, State of Florida, Tallahassee reads:

The records show that Edward C. Sphalar, private, Company H, 20th South Carolina Infantry, Confederate States Army, enlisted December 30, 1861 (also shown as January 10, 1862), and that he was captured February 14, 1865, at Lexington Court House and paroled June 19, 1865, at Point Lookout, Maryland, upon taking the oath of allegiance. W. P. Hall, The Adjutant General

His pension was denied on June 4, 1912:

Mr. E. C. Sphaler,
Plant City, Fla.
Dear Sir:-
I am directed by the Board of Pensions to notify 
your that your claim for a pension was considered at a meeting 
held yesterday and was not allowed. The law requires soldiers 
who apply for pensions to show citizenship in Florida since 1895. 
Your claim shows that you have only resided in this state since 1904.
Yours very truly, 
Secretary (no name)

On October 5, 1914 he reapplied for a Soldier’s Pension Claim under the Act of 1913 under certificate number 6558. He stated that he had been "captured in February 1865 Paroled on or about the 20th of June 1865. I was prisoner at Point Lookout. All he property owned by me or by my wife, jointly and separately in this or any other State: real estate, located or near Medulla, Florida valued at $100, cattle, horses and other live stock valued at $150, and personal property valued at $150. He stated that he "applied for a pension from the State of Florida" because he was "feeble from old age and rupture on both sides." He endorsed the application as Edward C. Sphaler.

Physicians’ Affidavit by T. C. Moyier and J. C. Knight, M.D. stated that Edward C. Sphaler has "double rupture and old age, 74 years of age, dated October 22, 1914.

Affidavit to be Made by Comrade, James. A. Spires and W. A. Spires of Gaston, Lexington County, South Carolina on the 7th of October, 1914 stated, "This man Edward C. Sphaler was captured there by Sherman’s army near Columbia South Carolina at Point Lookout and carried to Newbern, North Carolina and from there to Point Lookout and released at Point Lookout until taken oath of allegiance." 
.
The Adjutant General, H. L. McCain stated on November 12, 1914 that "The Union records of prisoners of war show him captured at Lexington Courthouse on February 14, 1865; sent to Point Lookout, Maryland, and released at the last-named place on June 19, 1865, on taking the oath of allegiance." 

A letter written by S. M. Roof states:

Lexington, S.C., November 20, 1914
Mr. Wm V. Knott, Com Gen Tallahassee FLA

My Dear Sir:

This is to inform you that Mr. E. C. Sphaler formerly of Lexington Co, South Carolina served through the Confederate War in my company and is fully entitled to a pension. Company "H" 20th South Carolina Regiment. 
Respectfully 
S. M. Roof, Captain of Co. H., 20th South Carolina

He was granted a pension on November 24, 1914 with pay from November 9, 1914 at the rate of $150 per annum, under certificate number 6558.

Edward passed away on the 29th of September, 1916 and was laid to rest at Fitzgerald Cemetery, Fitzgerald Road, in South Lakeland. His grave laid unmarked for 86 years.

On October 7, 1916 Mrs. S. E. McClelland Sphaler applied for a Widow’s Pension Claim Under the Act of 1915 in the County of Hillsborough, Florida. She stated she "was a residence of Polk County since February 28, 1905 and my address is Route 1, Box 76, in Lakeland." Also, she stated she "married Edward on the 28th of February, 1905 and that she was not divorced from him, and that she had not remarried since his death, which occurred on the 29th day of September, 1916, in Polk County, Florida." She owned ten acres valued at $100 and one horse and 6 head of cattle valued at $150. She endorsed the application S. E. Sphaler. That pension was granted from the State of Florida under Certificate number 6558. 

A letter written by J. A. Pearce, The Quality Store, Plant City, Florida states,

October 9, 1918

Charman (Chairman) Co. Com.,
Bartow, Fla.

Dear Sirs:--
Please sign the claim for pension of Mrs. S. E. Sphaler the widow of the late E. C. Sphaler and forward same to the Comptrooler (Comptroller) Tallahassee, Fla.
Yours very truly, J. A. Pearce

Her pension was approved on December 18, 1916 with pay from November 13, 1916 at the rate of $150 per annum, certificate number 4320.

In 2003 when Sheila Tindle, member of the United Daughters of the Confederacy, Annie H. Darracott #791, Lakeland chapter was conducted a cemetery survey of Confederate Veterans interred at Fitzgerald, an elderly gentlemen by the name of Julian H. Baggett came up to her and asked what she was doing. He was told him that she was a member of the United Daughters of the Confederacy and was logging the names of Confederate Veterans buried in the cemetery. Mr. Baggett was asked if he had an ancestor who was buried here. He stated yes, Edward C. Sphaler. A survey of the list of Confederate Veterans was checked for his name and noted that he was buried at the cemetery in and unmarked grave at an undetermined location. Baggett proceeded to his grandfather’s unmarked grave and confirmed where he was buried. 

He said that he remembered his grandmother coming to visit his grandfather’s grave but did not understand why she never marked his grave with a headstone. He was told him that a headstone would be ordered and a marker dedication ceremony would be schedule and he would be notified.

Annie H. Darracott, No. 791, Lakeland chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy held a Memorial Service and 4 marker Dedication on Saturday, June 5, 2004 at Fitzgerald Cemetery. A search for descendants living in the area was unsuccessful. A total of 60 members and guests were present for the ceremony, however, Mr. Baggett was unable to attend.