My great grandfather, Benjamin Braxton, joined first the 11th Florida Inf., Co. I - the Confederate side. But the way family history goes, he deserted, then joined the Union side in the Florida Cavalry Volunteers. He was in Co.A, 1st Regiment, Florida Calvary Volunteers.
Could you please tell me why he was most likely to desert the Confed. side and join the Union side?? Also, did men change their names, sometimes out of fear of being killed? Family history also says that he called himself John William Braxton, at one time. But every census record, military record, etc., says Benjamin, not John William.
Any help would surely be appreciated. So many questions, and no answers!!
Thanks, Della