In honor of Veterans Day this week, I thought I’d reach back a little further and honor some of the Civil War veterans in my family. I’ve already written about my most direct descendant, David Phillips, so this time I’m going to share some of David’s first cousins. The sons of William and Mehitable Gould Phillips.
Franklin – The eldest son was a member of Co. E, Sixth West Virginia Cavalry, late Third Infantry. He was wounded and captured, but lived to father ten children by two wives. He died November 26, 1899.
Herbert (Cudge) – The fourth son was taken prisoner at Franklin in Pendleton County on May 25, 1862. He was sent to Libbey Prison and was never seen again. He had one child–Jerome.
James – A member of Co. E, Third West Virginia Infantry, James was killed at the Battle of Cross Keys, Virginia. It was around the same time Franklin and Cudge were taken prisoner.
Lafayette – Another member of Co. E, Third West Virginia Infantry, Lafayette survived the war.  He married Elizabeth Cogar and had seven children. He died November 13, 1907.
Lothrop – His first enlistment was in Co. E, First West Virginia Light Artillery. He re-enlisted in the First West Virginia Cavalry. He survived the war and had eight children.
Mortimer – Somehow, Mortimer ended up in the Sixth Illinois Infantry. He died February 28, 1885, in Illinois.
In 1976, Mona Phillips Morgan wrote this:
The New England patriotism of the Phillips family was renewed in its Upshur County branch during the Civil War. We are proud to say no Upshur County Phillips had to be drafted in that war. There are thirteen Phillips names listed.
Most of the Phillipses were fond of hunting and fishing. They did not strive for wealth although they lived well, and had plenty to eat and wear. They were honest, law-abiding people who always stood for the right and were ready to defend and protect the flag of our country.
They had a common purpose, that of building a nation under God. They had high hopes for their descendants.
As do I.