Sherman‘s march through North Carolina continues, with Fayetteville falling today. The Federals promptly destroy the city’s arsenal, dealing yet another setback to the now nearly defunct Confederacy.
With increasing frequency, Confederate civilians and soldiers, knowing the end is near, are giving up the fight and taking the Oath of Allegiance to the United States. Today George Henry Postell (1834-1910), member of the Sauldam Baptist Church in Ravenel, South Carolina, takes the oath.
Having fought for the Confederacy as a private for the 5th South Carolina Cavalry (Ferguson’s Regiment) since enrolling March 12, 1862, Postell is ready to move on with his life.
Upon his death in 1910, Postell’s obituary recounts his life:
George H. Postell, a solider of the South, and one of Colleton’s [County] most respected citizens, died a few miles from here in the 76 year of his age. The funeral services were solemnized at Saul. Dam Baptist Church, the Rev. J. H. Tuten officiating, and the interment took place in the church yard. Mr. Postell had been a prominent and successful farmer in this section for the past thirty years, and was always known as a correct and conscientious man. He was a patriot from his heart, and during the reconstruction period did active work in the cause of good government.
He is survived by his wife and the following children: Mrs. F. C. Baldwin, Mrs. J. A. Peeples, of this place. Mrs. William Newton of Adams Run, Mrs. Pink Warren of Stokes, and Messrs James, RIchard, Sam and William Postell, and 45 grand children and 4 great grandchildren.
Sources: “Sherman Captures Fayetteville,” Library of Congress (link); “George Henry Postell,” Find a Grave (link)
