I had not heard about this 1865 article in the "Rolla Express." It may help to know in which company of which Missouri State Militia (MSM) regiment your great, great, great, great grandfather served. Please tell us which officers were listed in this article, as that may help with identification, too. Some of the MSM units changed from regiment to regiment as the needs of that service changed over time from the inception of the MSM program in the winter of 1861-1862. Knowing which unit was involved would help greatly trying to figure out the full meaning of that chilling phrase "they still dare not attempt to enjoy the benefit of their property." I can answer in general, but I think you would appreciate a more specific reply, right?

Bruce Nichols