Having been researching John Cussons, a distant relative, for quite a number of years, with the aim of the end product being a true account of his life and times, I've found lots of references relating to him which, by checking and double checking, I've proved to be in error. There are those which have been totally fabricated to either create or embellish a story, those that result from mistaken information, possibly due to hearsay, and those, including JC himself, which are as a result of errors of memory, due to the passing of time.

All I can confirm is that I've got a copy of the roll of the Governors Guard, Selma, Alabama, dated January 9th through February 23rd 1861: Fort Morgan, Garrison, Mobile Harbor, Ala. commanded by Capt. T. J. Goldsby. John Cussons is shown as a private. I believe that the militia company was formed in late 1860 and offered to Governor Moore, hence the title Governors Guard.

If you are able to confirm for definite, either one way or the other, any information regarding my enquiry, I'd be extremely grateful.

Regards
Len