Linda, I found only one John Anderson in the 10th Illinois Cavalry, and he was in Company F instead of Company A. This makes sense if Alton was his home, because only Companies E and F originated in Madison County, which is where Alton is located. According to the roster of Company F, John Anderson enlisted in Quincy on March 13, 1862, but received a disability discharge on September 22, 1862. Portions of the regiment were operating in Arkansas before September, so it is possible that he received his discharge in state.

The Soldiers and Sailors System reveals three by the name of John Anderson in the 10th Illinois Cavalry, the aforementioned in Company F, one in Company H, and one in Company E. A perusal of 10th Cavalry rosters, however, failed to show a John Anderson in either Company E or Company H.

There is a very good 10th Illinois Cavalry site you might wish to investigate at http://www.rootsweb.com/~ilcivilw/reg_html/cav_010.htm

The truth might be found, as Alan suggests, in Anderson’s service record.

I hope this is helpful.