I am a collector of Civil War relics that deals mainly with the Gettysburg battle (I live near this battlefield). I have in my possession a .69 Cal. Harpers Ferry musket that was carried through the war up to and including Gettysburg by Pvt./Sgt. James McLaughlin, 21st Mississippi, Co. I. The Sgt. was KIA at Gettysburg on July 2, 1863 as Barksdale's Mississippians stormed Federal positions along the Emmitsburg Road. His weapon was picked up near the Peach Orchard shortly after the battle by a local picker. His name and regiment are lightly engraved up the side of the stock. He is listed on records as "killed on the field at Gettysburg". It is unknown where the Sgt's. final resting place is.

My question to anyone who might know is as follows. Does anyone know of a photo taken of Sgt. McLaughlin? Does anyone know of a photo of Company I (Sunflower Guard) pre Gettysburg? Does anyone know of a photo of the 21st Regiment taken pre Gettysburg?

Any and all information anyone may have and would like to share would be greatly appreciated. I would like to have a photo to hang along with the musket.

Thanks,

Glenn Spickler
spicks75@floodcity.net