Tonia --

I don't find this man on the 1860 census in either Florida or Alabama. However, since Coffee County lies along the state line and the time line you developed would allow Nobles to desert from the 57th Alabama and join the 1st Florida Cavalry, I see no reason not to suppose these records all represent the same man.

General Clanton's recruits from south Alabama were often described as 'disaffected'. Considering that they remained at home during the war's first two years, it would be a mistake to think of them as enthusiastic volunteers. Nobles probably deserted at the end of 1863, about the time of the mutiny in Clanton's command.

Pension files became more expensive this year but they often yield valuable information about the family &c. The message board advertises a service for your request, but you may not have noticed the banner at the top of this page --