I am researching information on my g. grandfather Francis Marion Leroy Smith. He enlisted the 28th Infantry, (Gray's battalion) in April, 1862 at Vernon in Jackson Parish, Louisiana. He was seriously wounded in his right arm - losing three inches of bone and rendering his arm useless for the rest of his life. This occured, presumably, at the battle of Mansfield.
According to census records, he lived in Vienna in 1860 and in Vernon in 1870. His only other whereabouts are known to be in Texas. He lived in Hardin County Texas in 1900 but does not show up on that census. He applied for a confederate pension from that area. He was in Angelina County for the 1910 census. Also, the 1860 census implies that his daughter Mary was born in Mississippi in 1854.
He was born in Alabama around 1832 and his wife, Cynthia, was born about 1839 in Alabama.
His pension application cites as a witness - W.S. Robinson, Lincoln Parish, town of 'simson' (note - there was a Lt. Robinson listed for Co. F. of 28th Inf)
I would like to hear from anyone who may know of this Francis Marion Smith. I want to find out who his parents and wife were and who all of his children were.
A record exists that indicates he was held prisoner in Illinois, and was paroled in 1863. I cannot put together a scenario that would support his capture and release prior to 1863. This may be another Francis Smith or may be an artifact of inaccurate records. Does anyone know how this could be true?? I know of no engagements by the 28th that would result in a captive being sent to Illinois and back to Louisiana by 1863.
If anyone has any additional information on any battles of the 28th which may add to my understanding of his service I would surely appreciate that.
I also would like to hear from any descendants of the 28th Inf Co. F to compare notes.
Thanks in advance.
Morris J. McRae
Leesville, La