E. J. Atkinson
Kershaw News and Notes
Camden Chronicle
Jan. 23, 1919
Mr. E. J. Atkinson after an illness of ten days died at the Sumter hospital on January 11th, at 8pm. He was a gallant soldier of the Confederacy and served four years in Company E, 19th SCV. He was 74 years old and leaves a wife two sons and three daughters and many grandchildren. He was buried at the Primitive Baptist church Cemetery, funeral conducted by Rev. J. W. Brown. Mr. Atkinson was a good citizen and was in his usual health till taken with his last sickness.
Dr. Andrew William Burnet
1894 Newpaper
Death of Dr. A.W. Burnet
He Died of Apoplexy in Charleston, Great Grief at the announcement of His Demise
Camden was sadly bereaved last Friday evening when the news flashed over the wires that Dr. A. W. Burnet had died at his father's home in Charleston of apoplexy. On every hand could be heard expressings of deep regret. It was hard indeed to realize the truth of the announcement.
Dr. Burnet left Camden in apparent good heath Wednesday evening to visit his aged father who was on the verge of dissointiou (?). On Friday at 12 o'clock he was stricken with apoplexy, and died three hours afterwards. After recieving the stroke he wrote a message requesting a physician to be sent for, but his strength did not hold but for him to complete the note. Mrs Burnet and Dr John W. Corbett, his son in law, were immediately notified of his illness and they took the afternoon train for Charleston, but he had been dead some time before they reached there.
The remains were brought to Camden Saturday and the funeral services took place from Grace Episcopal church, of which the deceased was a communicant, Sunday evening at 5 o'clock. The church could not contain all the people who assembled there to pay a last tribute of respect to the memory of the one we all loved and esteemed so highly through life, and over whose departure we now grieve so deeply.
The following gentlemen acted as pall bearers: Seniors--Dr A. A. Moore, Dr. D. L. DeSaussure, Gen. J. D. Kennedy, Maj. E. B. Cantey, Messrs, J. R. Goodale, W. E. Johnson, Sr., T. J. Ancrum and J. Blake Steedman.
Juniors-- Messrs. J. T. Hay, H. G. Carrison, Dr. I. B. Alexander, Col. E. Miller Boykin, Dr. F. M. Zemp and Mr. C. W. Birchmore.
The funeral services were conducted by Rev. J. M. Stoney, and were deeply impressive.
Andrew William Burnet was born in Charleston January 20th, 1840, and was therefore in the 55th year of his age at the time of his death. He served as a surgeon throughout the entire Confederate War. On December 1st, 1863, he was married to Miss Harriet Shannon, a daughter of the late Col. W. M. Shannon, he having obtained a furlough to come to Camden at that time. A wife and eight children survive him. Dr. Burnet was a graduate of the S. C. Medical College, and after the war he came to Camden to live. He resided near Camden on a farm for a short while, after which he moved into Camden and resumed the practice of his profession. He was a fine physician and a splendid man. His strong individuality always made a fine impression upon those with whom he came in contact. He was a cool, brave man, possessed with a sympathetic nature, and in his happy home the gentleness of his noble nature shone most brightly.
With a large portion of this community, his death is a personal bereavement--indeed it is a sad calamity. It is a sad thought with those whose family physician he had been for years, that never again will they hear his footsteps at the door when sickness is lurking in their homes.
Dr. Burnet had an unusually large family connection, and by them all he was greatly loved.
Many of the friends of the family and of the deceased called at his late residence to take a last look into the face of him who was asleep to wake no more in this world. To the bereaved family the heartfelt sympathies of our entire community is extended.
With the grave beautifully decorated with flowers, Rev. Mr. Stony approached it, with the statement that he had been requested to read the following beautiful hymn over the grave of the deceased, which, with the benediction closed the services:
Whate'er my God ordains is right;
His will is ever just;
Howe'er he orders now my cause,
I will be still and trust,
He is my God;
Though dark, my road,
He holds me that I shall not fall/
Whate'er my God ordains is right;
He never will deceive;
He leads me by the proper path,
And so to Him I cleave,
And take content
What He hath sent;
His hand can turn my grief away
And patiently I wait His day.
Whate'er my God ordains is right;
Though I the cup must drink
That bitter seems to my faint heart,
I will not fear nor shrink;
Tears pass away
With dawn of day;
Sweet comfort yet shall still my heart,
And pain and sorrow all depart.
Whate'er my God ordains is right;
My Light, my life is His
Who cannot will me aught but good;
I trust Him utterly;
For well I know;
In joy and woe,
We soon shall see, as sunlight clear,
How faithful was our Guardian here.
Whate'er my God ordains is right;
Here will I take my stand,
Though sorrow indeed or death make earth
For me a desert land.
My Father's care
Is round me there
He holds me that I shall not fall;
And so to Him I leave it all
Uriah A. Blackwell
June 22, 1904
Bethune, Jan. 19??
Mr. Uriah A. Blackwell, an old and respected ex-Confederate soldier, who served in Co. A. Seventh SC Battalion in the War Between the States, died yesterday morning at the residence of his brother-in-law. Mr. Tom Dixon. Mr. Blackwell was 72 years old and leaves a large circle of relatives and friends to mourn his death.
Alfred L. Ballew
Camden Chronicle
Jan 1, 1902
Alfred L. Ballew, 63 year old Confederate veteran, met horrible death at Walhalla when he was burned to death while confined in a guard house.
E. B. Blackwell
Aug. 8, 1930
91 Year Old Veteran Dies
Columbia
E. B. Blackwell, 91, well known Confederate veteran, died at a Columbia hospital Sunday.
Funeral services were held in the Confederate Cemetery Monday afternoon.
Neal James Bennett
Camden Chronicle
(Reprinted from the Kershaw Era)
Aug. 5, 1927
Neal James Bennett died at the home of his son, R. C. Bennett, Saturday morning at 5:30 o'clock after an illness of only a few days. Had he lived until August 4, he would have been 84 years of age, having been born in 1843. Mr. Bennett was one of the few remaining Confederates of this immediate section. He served three years in Company A, Seventh Battalion, Hagood's Brigade, his captain being Allan McCaskill, and he made a good record as a brave soldier. As a citizen he lived a quiet upright life and was a consistent member of the Kershaw Presbyterian church. Mr. Bennett's remains were laid to rest Sunday afternoon in Hanging Rock cemetery beside those of his wife, who departed this life November 4, 1917. The funeral services were conducted by his pastor Dr F. M. Hawley, in the presence of a large assemblage of relatives and friends. He left surviving one son, R. C. Bennett, and three grandsons, R. C. Jr., Carl and Jackson Evan Bennett.
Alexander Moultrie Brailsford
Camden Chronicle
Aug. 26, 1927
Last Clear Call Sounds For Leader of The Grey
The final chapter of a long and active and useful life was noted with the passing early Saturday night of Captain Alexander Moultrie Brailsford at the home of his son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs James H. Burns of this city. Captain Brailsford had been confined to his room for a number of years and his death, which had its immediate cause in severe rheumatic attack, was not surprising to relatives and friends.
Captain Brailsford, born October 27, 1839 was the son of Alexander Barron and Anna DuBose Brailsford of Clarendon County and the great - great - grandson of General William Moultrie of Revoluntionary fame. He took an active part in the first battle of Fort Sumter which marked the opening of the Civil War and served throughout the conflict as a captain in the Palmetto Guards of Kershaw's Brigade.
Captain Brailsford was the first man of Clarendon county to enlist under the forces of Longstreet and during his service he received wounds at Savage Station, Averysboro and Gettysburg. At Gettysburg he was taken prisioner and sent to Point Lookout Md., where in a wounded condition he remained imprisioned for nine months.
Captain Brailsford was approaching his eighty-eight anniversary of his birth and his twenty-fifth year as a citizen of Camden. He took up residence with his daughter in this city following the death of Mrs Brailsford who before marriage was Miss Julia Richardson of Clarendon county. During his stay here he was closely associated with the upbuilding of the Episcopal Church and as an eager comrade among every group of younger people he gained heights of love and admiration no less immortal than those awarded through his record as a soldier of the proud Confederate ranks and as a splendid, Christian gentleman.
Surviving Captain Brailsford are two daughters, Mrs J. H. Burns of Camden and Mrs John Cantey of Orangeburg and one son, Major A. M. Brailsford, United States army medical corps, now stationed at Fort Worden in the state of Washington. His nephew, Bishop W. A. Guerry of the diocese of SC, diredted the funeral services, which were held Monday at old St. Mark's Church in Clarendon county and interment
followed in the adjoining cemetery. Many beautiful floral offerings accompanied the body along its motor route tothe lower Carolina of its nativity and numbers of Camden Friends joined with those from other parts of South Carolina to pay final tribute to a man held in highest esteem by everyone Active pallbearers were James Brailsford, Orangeburg; John Brailsford, Summerton; L. E. Brailsford of Pinewood; William Richardson, Orangeburg, and H. B. Richardson of Summerton; Honorary pallbearers included W.D. Barrett, John T. Mackey, J. Willis Cantey, W. H. Haile, W. S. Burnett, all of Camden and G. W. Patton of Winnsboro.
N. A. Bethune
Camden Chronicle
October 25, 1929
Death Claims Another Most Valuable Citizen
Bethune, Oct. 22, ____
The entire community was shocked and saddened at the news of the death of Mr. N. A. Bethune, 82 which occurred very suddenly about noon Tuesday, while Mr. Bethune was on the streets attending to business.He was one of the oldest and most influential citizens of the town. He was extensively engaged in farming and had other business interests. For a number of years, he was president of the Bank of Bethune. Mr. Bethune was of Scotch descent--a man of stauch and uncompromising principles, always using his influence for the uplifting and betterment of his town and community. He was a Confederate Veteran, mason and the oldest member of the local Presbyterian church, being senior elder of the church for which he possessed a rare devotion, always using his time, talent and means for its support. He was a man of strong religious convictions, living his religion day by day which mede his beautiful Christian life an inspiration to all thoes with whom he came in contact. The town and community have suffered a distinct and irreparable loss in his passing.
Mr. Bethune is survived by four daughters: Mrs B. L. Norwood of McBee, Mrs Mark King of Neeses, Mrs W. Z. Truesdell and Miss Stella Bethune of Bethune; nine grand children and a number of nieces and nephews.
The funeral services were held at the Presbyterian church Wednesday afternoon at three o'clock, conducted by his former pastor, Rev. J. M. Forbes of Great Falls, assissted by Rev. Derrick and Rev. Jerman. Mr. Forbes paid a beautiful tribute to the Christain life of Mr. Bethune.
The honorary pall bearers were: Messrs. S. B. King, John McDonald, Sr., A. B. McLaurin, G. E. Parrott, J. C. Foster, A. K. McLaurin, Al. Bethune, J. N. McLaurin.
Active pall bearers were six nephews: Tom Bethune, Robert Bethune, John Bethune, Crowell Bethune, Ralph McCaskill, and Leonard Yarbrough.
Interment
was in the Scotch cemetery a few miles from town. The beautiful and numerous floral tributes and immense number of people from far and near showed the love and esteem felt for Mr. Bethune.
Camden Chronicle
August 25, 1922
Death of Mr. H. F. Boykin
Mr. H. Frank Boykin, a well known planter of the west Wateree section, died at his home Thursday afternoon, death being due to heart trouble. Mr. Boykin was 77 years of age and was one of the substantial men of his section. He was married twice, five children surviving by his first wife. They are Mrs Laura Briscoe of Knoxville, Tenn; Mrs Nellie Poole of Greenville; Mrs J. K. Smith, Herbert Boykin, and Alex Boykin, all of Lugoff. By his second wife, who also survives him he leaves three young children;Irvin Boykin, Clyde Boykin and Martha Cloud Boykin.
(Henry Fleming Boykin, b. Sept. 22, 1845, d. Aug. 8, 1922) (Served in the 7th SC Cavalry, Co. H)
William Branham
Camden Chronicle
September 7, 1928
Aged Veteran Dies Near Lugoff
William Branham 87 year old Confederate veteran and outstanding citizen of the Rabon’s Cross Roads section of this county, died at his home near Lugoff Sunday and was buried at Ebenezer Methodist church. The Services were conducted by Rev. Mr. Best, pastor of the church.
Mr. Branham had maintained his residence in this county throughout his entire life. He enlisted under the Confederate forces and served during the entire period of the war. He was the son of Jim Branham and Frankie Irvin of this county.
Mr. Branham who had been in declining health for the past two years, is survived by a wide family connection and numbers of friends throughout the county.
Jan. 5, 1923
Uncle Dick Brown Dead
"Uncle" Dick Brown, a well known citizen of the Mt. Zion community, died on Thursday night, December 28th, at the age of 78 years. Mr. Brown had been in failing heath for several years. He was a Confederate veteran and leaves a wife and two daughters and a large family connection. The funeral and burial took place the following day at Mt. Zion church, services being conducted by Rev. S. B. Hatfield.
Aug. 20, 1926
Confederate Veteran Dead
Thomas Wilson Brown, 80 years of age and a veteran of the Confederate war, died at the Confederate infirmary in Columbia early Sunday morning. He had been in poor heath for some time.
Mr. Brown had been an inmate of the SC Confederate home at one time but left there some time ago. He returned to the home only about 30 days ago.
During the Confederate war the veteran served gallantly with Company D Seventh, SC Battalion, Hagood's Brigade. He is survived by three sons, L. J. Brown of Eastport, Fla., W. L. Brown of Camden and T. J. Brown of Columbia and one daughter, Mrs Elizabeth
Whitesides of Johnson City, Tenn., three half brothers, W. J. Brown, J. A. Brown, and Robert Brown and two half sisters, all of Cheraw, also survive. The body was brought to the Evans funeral parlor Monday morning and the funeral and burial occurred at Mt.
Olivet Baptist church Monday afternoon.
Joseph P. Cunningham
Camden Chronicle
August 7, 1863
Died on the field at Gettysburg, in the 2nd of July, 1863, Captain Joseph P. Cunningham, Company G 2nd Regt. SCV in the 29th year of his age----valued and beloved in life, in death most deeply lamented by all who knew him.
Immediately after his graduation at the South Carolina College, he devoted all his energies to the congenial pursuits of agriculture; and although yet quite young, eminent success, both in South Carolina and Arkansas, crowned his intelligent and well-directed
energy.
Unambitious, dave to do right, and to be right, he found his duties and pleasures in the planter's avocation and in the sweets of social life; but at the first note of war he promply laid aside everything, and joined the "Flat Rock Guards" Kershaw District, Captain Haile, as a private and was immediately made Orderly Sergeant. This company joined Col. Kershaw, when forming his regiment for Virginia and was a part of that nuclous on which was formed the glorious "Army of the Potomac".
In every field from Bull Run to Gettysburg, that glorious old Regiment has borne its part and young Cunningham was ever at his post. First Manassas made him Lieutenant--he was promoted to the Captaincy at the commencement of the campaign in the Peninsula, in April 1862. In the battles on the Chickahominy, in front of Richmond, on the Potomac, in Maryland, at Fredericksburg and the Wilderness, he ever led his company most gallantly, and yet passed through all these fiery ordeals, unscathed. His noble life nobly closed on the hard fought field of Gettysburg, while it was yet a victory.
The names of his battle-fields are too numerous for this brief sketch. It is a matler of just pride to have been a member of the Army of the Potomac-a Captain in the glorious "Old Second" --much more so, never to have missed a duty and to have had his share in every field. Alas !! that so much rich experience, so much usefulness should perish, with so much yet to do.
Captain Cunningham was unmarried, but in the circle of his brothers, sisters and friends he filled a place made terrible vacant by his death.
Useful citizen ! Gallant soldier ! true, generous friend ! devoted brother ! manly hearts heaved deep sighs as they deposited thy noble form in a hostile soil, and saddened faces marked their comrades loss, as defiantly they strode back to the Potomac, and in thy loved
Carolina tender forms are now bowed down with grief, and will miss thee sadly, in all life's changes, until thy smile "shall greet them in that happy land to which thou hast but "gone on before".
Lewis Lee Clyburn
Kershaw Era
Issue of March 6, 1925
Captain Clyburn Dead
Was One of The Most Prominent Citizens of The County
Captain Lewis Lee Clyburn, on of Kershaw county's most prominent citizens, died at his home near DeKalb Saturday night, being ill only from Thursday and was buried at Bethany graveyard Sunday afternoon. The funeral services were conducted from the home by Rev. Mr. Graham, pastor of the Baptist chuch in Camden.
Captain Clyburn was born in Kershaw county April 12, 1840, the youngest son of the late William Clyburn and at at the time of his death was the only surviving child. He fought on the Confederate side during the whole period of the war serving as first lieutenant of Company G South Carolina Regiment, Hagood's Brigade, afterwards attaining the rank of captain. He was wounded in the leg and at home recuperating when Sherman's army came through South Carolina.
Captain Clyburn was twice married, his first wife being Mary Jane Kelly, and of that union the following children survuve: Thomas B. Clyburn, Steve S. Clyburn, Lewis C. Clyburn, all of the Westville section and Dr. W. R.Clyburn and Mrs J. H. Clyburn of Camden. Many years after the death of his first wife he married to Mary Helen Kirkland who with a young son, James Kirkland Clyburn, also survive him. Captain Clyburn had been engaged in farming nearly all of his life and was one of the very largest land owners in the county. He was also engaged in banking, being one of the organizers or the Loan & Savings Bank of Camden and its first president. He was for a while one of the larger stockholders in the Peoples Bank of Kershaw and served as president for a while prior to the reorganization in 1920, when he declined further service in that position. Some time prior to his death he retired from active affairs of life and lived in quietness at his country home. Captain Clyburn had a large family connection and a wide circle of friends who came from near and far to attend the funeral in the little country cemetery near the church where he had held his membership and in the vicinity of which he lived out practically all his life, following the war period, when he entered again upon civil life as a citizen of his native county.
John Hampton Cooper
Fairfield News and Herald
May 9, 1924
John Hampton Cooper of the Bear Creek section, who moved to Columbia about two years ago after the death of his wife, gently passed away on Friday last at the home of his daughter, after a lingering illness of several months.
Mr. Cooper was born and reared in the Bear Creek section formally in Fairfield County and spent practically his whole life there. At the outbreak of the civil war he volunteered in defense of the Stars and Bars, and served in Stonewall Jackson's command and was on the Picket line when Jackson fell, only 100 yards away when the fatal error occurred. Mr. Cooper was with Jackson during his whole brilliant Shenandoah Valley Campaigh and fought in many of the great battles of the memorable struggle for state rights. Mr. Cooper was a brave and fearless soldier and served with great distinction throughout the whole war and only surrendered with Lee at Appomattox. Mr. Cooper was wounded three times but only returned to his home once during the entire war on a brief furlough. After the close of the war he returned to his home to begin life anew quite a young man.
Mr. Cooper married Miss Mell Kelly of Kershaw who preceeded him to the grave two years ago. To them were born 9 children, all of whom are still living.
Mr. Cooper was one of 6 brothers that served in the Confederate Army. His eldest brother James, fell severly wounded, was captured and died in the enemies lines. His fourth brother, Preston, after seven color bearers had fallen was the eighth to raise the colors and bore them from the field at Gettysburg, but subsequently, he too, lost a limb.
Samuel, his fifth brother was shot and only two of the six brothers returned home uninjured. Mr. Cooper had reached his four score years and two, when death came. His remains were interred at Zion Church on Sunday morning [illegible] in the presence of [illegible] Rev. Mr. Pierce conducted the funeral.
Thomas A. Cauthen
Camden Chronicle
June 17, 1921
Death of Mr. Cauthen
Mr. Thomas A. Cauthen, and old and highly respected citizen of the county passed away suddenly at his home in Kershaw Monday morning. Mr. Cauthen was in his 75th year and was a Confederate Veteran having served the latter years of the war with Capt. W. L. DePass as a member of the Palmetto Battery Light Artillery.
For a greater part of his life he redided at Westville where he reared a large family of children. In later years he removed to Kershaw where the end came without a struggle, the old gentleman passing away while seated in a chair on his front porch.
He is survived by four sons and four daughters; Messrs, Columbus Cauthen of McBee, and Charlie Cauthen, John Cauthen and Coke Cauthen. The daughters are; Mrs Fannie Truesdell, Mrs C. K. McDowall and Misses Alma and Eunice Cauthen who were with him at the time of his death. He is also survived by sisters; Mrs W. F. Russell of Camden, Mrs Nancy Truesdell, Mrs D. G. Fletcher, Mrs J. A. McDowell, Mrs J. M. Kirkley, Mrs R. H. Bell.
The funeral and burial occurred at Damascus Church near Westville on Tuesday, services being conducted by the Rev. Mr. Doyle, of the Kershaw church. A large number of friends and relatives had gathered to pay their last respects to the deceased.
James E. DuPre
Camden Chronicle
November 9, 1923
James E. DuPre died at his home near Pisgah in the northwestern section of Sumter county, Saturday, November 3rd aged 78 years. The end came without previous illness or warning. Mr. DuPre was able to attend to his ordinary duties up to the last and during the morning had walked over his farm. He had had symtoms of heart trouble for sometime, but his condition had neve assumed a serious form and his sudden death was a great shock to his family and friends. The funeral services were held Sunday afternoon and his body was laid to rest at old Pisgah church, of which he had been a member since childhood. He was survived by on son, V. C. DuPre of Pisgah and one daughter, Mrs B. L. Montague of Sumter.
Mr. DuPre was a Confederate veteran, having enlisted as a youth in the Confederate Army and serving until the surrender. He was a member of Camp Dick Anderson. and was always a regular attendant upon the meetings of the camp.Mr. DuPre was always interested in public affairs and served one term in the legislature as a representative of Sumter county. For more than forty years Mr. DuPre was the Pisgah correspondent of the Watchman and Southron and The Daily Item and the readers of these newspapers will miss his news letters from Pisgah.
Washington Drakeford
Camden Chronicle
June 28, 1929
Old Negro Pensioner Answers Final Call "Uncle" Wash Drakeford, the last negro in Kershaw County to draw a Confederate pension died at his home out fifteen miles north of Camden on June 15th. According to his records he was about 87 years of age. He spent the War Between the States with his master, Colonel William Drakeford, who was a member of one of Kershaw's first companies. He served faithfully and never deserted the cause. Up to a few weeks ago this faithful old Negro's mind was as bright and alert as one of younger years. He remembered dates, battles, commanders and personal experiences which could be proved by.
He was one of the few old-time Negroes left. He delighted in conversing over the past, and while he had never attended school he could read and write frim what had been taught him in slavery and around the camp fires during the war. He used remarkably correct English and could express himself in a clear manner. This old man had been thrice married. He is survived by his last wife and a number of children. He was a hard worker and up to a short time ago he walked straight and upward, having a soldierly bearing. His word was his bond and he lived in a way he made white people as well as Negroes respect him. His death came suddenly while sitting in a chair in his own household. His remains were buried near the home where he resided since his freedom. He carried on to the last and entered upon a well-earned rest.
Webmaster's note:
Washington Drakeford, born 1842 died June 15, 1929 is buried in Parker Baptist Church cemetery 3 miles past Flat Rock South Carolina on Route 58. His grave has a Confederate marker which reads " Washington Drakeford, Co. E 2 SC Regt., Confederate States Army, 1842-1929
W. L. DePass
The Columbia Register
May 15, 1881
Sudden Death of Captain W. L. DePass
We were much grieved to learn of the death of Captain DePass which occurred yesterday morning at the Columbia Hotel. He has been so often amidst us, so hale and hardy, that it is hard to realize that one so familiar to us all has passed away. Captain DePass was born in Camden about 1836 and was in his 45th year. He was admitted to the bar in 1857. He went into the army as First Lieutenant of General Kennedy's company in Kershaw's Brigade and was wounded in the First Battle of Manassas, very severely, by a shell. He was afterwards Captain of an artillery company and fought gallantly at Pocotaligo, where he received a second wound, from which he apparently recovered. He commenced the practice of law in 1857 and practiced from then until the beginning of the late war. After the war he returned to Kershaw, his native county, and carried on his profession with success until 1876 at which time all true men were called to the front. In 1876 he was a member of the board of County Commissioners and was also a member of the Executive Committee in 1876.
He has been suffering more or less for some time past and had several attacks of inflamatory rheumatism. He was feeling unwell when he arrived here Monday, but he nor his friends thought much of it, but he was shortly after taken desperately ill, and breathed his last yesterday morning about eight o'clock.
Captain DePass lost a son about two weeks ago, which grieved him sorely. He leaves a wife and five children. His wife was Miss DeLoach of Barnwell County.
Henry W. DeSaussure
Obituary
Date and Source Unknown
Henry W. DeSaussure, 1st Lieuntenant Co. C, 6th Reg., SCV, fell on the 31st day of June 1862, battling for his country in the fierce and sauguinary conflict of that date, on the Chickahominy River, VA. No greater calamity could have afflicted his family, his friends, or his company. Born and reared in Camden, he spent his short but honorable career, beloved and admired. As a boy, he was the impersonation of courtesy and moral deportment; at school he had no foes-as a man he was the idol of a circle of fond friends; the respected and genial companion- a citizen of worth and regard, On graduatiing at our State College ( where he bore the highest reputation for honor, candor and devotion to his friends and when he left, with the God-speed of his associates) he chose the profession of the planter. This he persued with strict attention to business, gaining experience year by year and adding to his ample means, by judicious investments, until the commencement of our revolution.
On the election of the representative of an abolition fanatical party, he counselled resistance. He connected himself with the association of minute-men, and was prominent in every movement calculated to foster the flame of secession. He contributed bountifully to equipping two volunteer companies raised in January 1861, under the call of the Legislature and when the third company was organized, he bent every energy to its completion. His comrades rewarded him with the position of 1st Lieutenant, (to which they re-elected him on their re-organization last April). They never had cause to repent their choice. By study and attention, together with an adaptedness to the military, he became an efficient, zealous officer-strict on duty, affable and kind in camp, he possessed the respect and love of his company. By his example of fortitude and self-sacrifice he cheered them under the heat and inactivity of last summer at Fairfax Court house and amid the snows of winter about Ceutreville. He assisted in drilling them in health-of attending them during sickness-. He stood the severe exhaustive Peninsula campagin with equal success, maintaining alike his health and spirits-he could stand privations and fatigue astonishingly. His power of will was remarkable in this respect.
Of his valor and determination of soul I need not speak. His company can with pride bear testimony to his coolness and endurance on the field of battle and during hours of danger. He entered into battle with ardor, his whole soul alive to the neccessity of victory. At Willaimsburg and Seven Pines, he gave his commanding officer every assistance, urging his men on and still on, though the wounded and dying were falling fast around him.
Exposed particularly at the latter, he was spared to fall, alast on Monday, the 31st of June, bravely leading his men to the very jaws of death, as the effect on his company told.
On Sunday, Gen. Longstreet, with his corps d'armee recrossed the Chickahominy from the Mechanicsville side-on Monday, marched down the Charles City Road; then toward the Darbytown Road, to within a few miles of Allen's Farm, where the by-road he took joined this road. Here Gen. R. H. Anderson's Brigade, South Carolina troops (5th, 6th,4th Regiments and Palmetto Sharpshooters) was thrown forward to open the fight. At 4 o'clock, pm, the ememy's pickets were driven in and shortly after the battle commenced with Gen. McCall's division of McClellan's army, in hot earnest. My friend continued to lead his men from point to point, against one battery and then another and every inch of ground was hotly contested, yet did this valient, famous brigade, with thinned ranks, but undiminished courage, press back the wall of living men for miles. Night was coming on-triumphant shouts were rending the air-victory was sure-Gen. A. P. Hill had arrived to give Longstreet aid-Gen. McGruder was on the road-our exhausted heroes took fresh courage, dismay was seizing the foe- He was making nearer night and the more desperate his fortunes grew, tremendous exertions to retrieve his losses, we met and charged him still more vigorously. At this time our men seemed to melt away. The noble spirits of patriots were returning to God who gave them and the youth and chivalry of the South were being offered up as sacrifices on the altar of their country. A fatal ball added Henry W. DeSaussure to the number . "Forward Men" were his parting words.Death dimmed that eye, eloquent with firey enthusiasm; seal those lips which were wont to cheer his comrades to deeds of heroism and closed a life of honor to his family, usefulness to his country and a proud satisfaction to his friends. No man leaves behind a more unsullied record. Beloved in the army, he sustained there the high reputation for gentlemanly rearing he had at home. He was the soul of generosity, honor and courage. Amiable in manner, dignified in carriage, chivalric in impulse, he spurned littleness, he knew no fear. He was a
devoted husband--a fond father, a dutiful loving son; as a friend, uncalculating and sincere.
His career is closed, but he leaves behind as an enduring monument, high deeds and noble achievements. Twelve months association with him as a brother officer heightened my admiration of his noble nature. I hope and believe his bright soul is enjoying paradisinc bliss.
Feb. 10, 1922
Death of Mr. Easler
In the passing of Mr. ? Robert Easler, of West Wateree, Kershaw County lost a good man and respected citizen. Another Confederate Veteran who enjoyed the last State Reunion held in Camden last May, has " crossed over the river to rest under the shade of the trees" with the majority of his comrades. He was a brave soldier, an honest man, a faithful friend and agreeable neighbor. Death closed a long and honorable career of 84 years. He leaves a wife and numerous relatives to mourn his loss.
John J. Folsom
Camden Chronicle
Friday, June 26, 1925
John James Folson Dead
Was Prominent Citizen of Tiller's Ferry Section
The news of the death of John J. Folsom, which occurred at the home of his son J. L. Folsom in the Tiller's Ferry section of Lee county in his 79th year last Saturday morning was received with profound regret, although not unexpected. Mr. Folsom had been sick about two weeks with pneumonia, but was thought to have been some better the day before the final summons came.
John James Folsom was born May 1, 1846, in the Tiller's Ferry section of what is now Lee county, and lived all his long and useful life in the same neighborhood. He was a man of strong character, a determined will and an even disposition. His life had been so spent that when he must have realized that his time on earth was drawing near to a close he prayed that he be relieved of further earthly responsibilities. this prayer was answered and death came peacefully and quiet and his life had been spent among his fellowmen.
Mr. Folsom was one of the few old Confederate soldiers that have been spared to live in this age. When a mere lad he entered the Cause of his native state and served with
distinction in Company E of Brown's Battalion.
Forty - six years ago he was happily married to Miss Mary Jane Clements of Darlington county who with six children surivive him as follows: Mrs Lula Caughman and Mrs Maggie Kelley, W.H. Folsom, E. W. Folsom, S. L. Folsom and J. I. Folsom. Also two brothers, Z. T. and J. K. Folsom and two sisters, Mrs Lizzie Kelley and Mrs Lydia Parham of Orlando, Fla. and several grand children and great grand children. The funeral services were held Sunday morning at Bethany Methodist church of which the deceased had been a member for many years. Interment
followed in the church Cemetery, services being conducted by his pastor, Rev. German. The floral offerings were large and beautiful.
Bishopville Messenger
W. J. Fletcher
January 24, 1902
Obituary
Death of Mr. W. J. Fletcher
Another one of the old landmarks of the Flat Rock section has passed away. Mr. W. J. Fletcher, one of the oldest and most highly respected citizens of upper Kershaw county died last Friday night in the 71st year of his age. The burial took place on Sunday morning last at Bethany Baptist church, the funeral services being conducted by Rev. Mr. Tur..? {unreadable}a Methodist minister. Mr. Fletcher served in the Confederate War and while there received wounds from which he has ever since suffered and from the effects of which he died.
Joseph Walker Floyd
Camden Chronicle
March 12, 1915
Was Virginian by Birth But Had Long Been a Citizen of South Carolina
{Correspondence of the Chronicle}
Liberty Hill, SC March 9
Gen. Joseph Walker Floyd died at his home at Liberty Hill, SC Feb. 24, after an illness of more than four years. Gen. Floyd was in his seventy-fifth year, having been born in Northampton County, Virginia Aug. 16, 1840. He was a member of a prominent Virginia family, being the son of Berry and Lavinia Nottingham Floyd and is survived by one sister, Mrs John Ayers of Richmond, VA. The other members of his father's family having preceded him to the grave.
Early during the War Between the States, Gen. Floyd volunteered for service in the Confederate Army and was a gallant member of that historic command the Norfolk Light Artillery Blues. With that command, he rendered conspicuous and brilliant service to the cause of the Confederacy till shot down on the battlefield at Chancellorsville. In this battle he had his right arm shot off at the shoulder and also received several flesh wounds. As soon as he was sufficiently recovered he offered his services to his country upon whose alter he had so nearly given his life. He was appointed to a position upon the hospital commissary staff and in this position he continued to serve with patriotic devotion until the close of the War.
In 1869 Gen. Floyd came to Liberty Hill, SC where he engaged in mercantile business and agriculture. Thru-out his entire life he has continued in his chosen and loved occupation of farming.
Gen. Floyd was intensely Southern and the writer has heard him say on more than one occasion that he came to South Carolina because he felt that as South Carolina was the first to secede, the true spirt of the Old South would thereby live longest here and to the last he was an able and eloquent defender of the Confederacy and the Old South.
Gen. Floyd was public spirited, liberal minded and progressive and while regarding the past with hallowed reverence he turned his great energies along with other patriots who followed Gen. Lee towards the building of a new and even greater South. He was a brave and active leader during the period of Reconstruction and aided materially in delivering his adopted State from negro domination and in restoring a white man's government and actively participated in that government. He served as magistrate at Liberty Hill for a number of years, as trustee of the State Normal and Industrial College at Orangeburg and was appointed colonel on the staff of Gov. J. G. Evans. He was elected to the legislature of the State by the people of Kershaw county, also a member of the constitutional convention of 1895. Later he was elected by the Democrats of SC to the position of Adjutant and Inspector General and served for two full terms in this office. Throughout his extended public service Gen. Floyd served the people of his adopted State with earnest devotion and distinguished ability. He was an able debater and eloquent speaker.
Thousands of friends in South Carolina mourn his death.
Gen. Floyd is survived by his wife, Mrs Harriet Petit Floyd and by the following children: Miss Anna R. Floyd of Frederick, Md;Dr Joseph W. Floyd of Tabor, NC; Mrs Hammond Urner of Frederick, Md; Mrs J. Leon Lewis of Tabor, NC; Mr. M. A. Floyd of Greenville, SC; Mr. Frederick B. and Miss Elizabeth P. Floyd of Liberty Hill and by 11 grandchildren.
Gen. Floyd was a consistent member of the Presbyterian church and through his long and painful illness bore his suffering with great fortitude and christian resignation.
He was faithful even in death to the cause he loved so well and by his own request was laid to rest in his uniform, his beloved Confederate grey, and with the badge of honor he had won upon the battle field pinned upon his breast.
