Submitted by former Brundidge resident Dr. Jack Hataway.

The annual reunion of the Quitman Guards, known in the Confederate States army as Co. “L” 15th Alabama Regiment, met with Joseph Bell and J.W. Harris in Troy on July 17, 1909, to celebrate the 48th year since their departure for the battlefields of Virginia.

There were present L.N. Andress, S.B.Smyth, J.Q. Deese, John McLendon, Green McLendon, C.N. Mallett, J.C. Hill, David Stroud, Joseph Bell, J.W. Harris, H.A. Thompson, S.H. Burgess, K.P. Powell. T.B Railey and I. P. Folmar.

There were also present as honorary members Mrs. Anna Gardner, widow of Benjamin Gardner, the first captain of the company; and Mrs. Sam Gellerstedt, Miss Sallie Strickland, the daughter of the late captain W.H. Strickland and T.M. Murphree, commander of the Pike County Confederate Veterans. Mrs. Dave Stroud was also among the number.

The entire roll call of the company was called out and, as each name was called, those present gave an account of what they knew of each man, his location and what became of him.

After the roll call, veterans enjoyed a treat of cigars sent to them by Sam A. Williams who rarely ever fails to remember the Quitman Guards. After this, a great conversation was indulged in by the “boys” relating the times of the past.

Dinner was announced by Mrs. Harris and Mrs. Bell all were invited to a well-filled table and like good soldiers in the war that they were, they did justice on this occasion. The dinner was delicious. The large watermelon brought by Comrade Burgess and the cold lemonade were enjoyed by all.

A ride on Comrade Bell’s Reo automobile, with the flag of Camp Runin flying above the car was enjoyed by all. The trip included a spin around the courthouse and over several of the city thoroughfares.

There were 15 of the old company present, the average age being 67 Their children number 90 and their grandchildren 200.

 

Editor’s Note: The Quitman Guard of Troy fought against the left side of the Union Army commanded by Col. Chamberlain at Gettysburg.