When Fl. seceeded from the Union, in 1861, Capt. Jack Townsend, thenwell into his sixties, volunteered for local service in Capt. James H.Breaker's Company of 'Old Guards Mounted Rangers.' After several monthsthe company was discharged due to the advanced. My Uncle is buried in Dade city Florida.

Joined the home guard after hearing that Yankee raiders were approaching Marianna, Florida. He was wounded in the neck by a Yankee minie ball and sent to Ship Island Prison. Died of dysentery there due to the horrific conditions on December 19,1863.

Elijah fought with the Gadsden Greys at the battle of natural bridge. Had three children, one was a surgeon for the Florida state hospital in chattahoochie. I have found a pistol grip where he lived.