The Men of Randolph-Macon College and the Civil War

In 1861, talk of secession transformed into armed conflict. Many of the men educated at Randolph-Macon College in the preceding 29 years immediately responded to the calls of their state militias to serve, while others later enlisted or were conscripted into the Confederate or Union armies. Others served in public office, or were ultimately drawn into the conflict in the last days in reserve units in local defense. These are their stories.

Monday, October 10, 2011

William S. Davis, class of 1859

In May 1861, he left classes at the University of VA and enlisted in the 12th NC Infantry, 2nd Co. C (the “Warren Rifles”). He was elected 1st Lieutenant in 1861, promoted to Captain in 1862, and promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel in 1863. He was wounded at The Battle of Belle Grove (Cedar Creek), VA, on October 19, 1864 and his arm was amputated. Davis resigned due to disability on February 10, 1865.