The Youngest Soldier! CHILD SOLDIER IN THE CIVIL WAR! Benjamin Williams Redux
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 13 ก.ย. 2024
- In this episode of Adventures into History, we journey to the final resting place of Benjamin Franklin Williams, a figure often believed to be the youngest soldier to serve in the Civil War. Born on March 7, 1854, Williams' life story is a fascinating glimpse into the past, filled with tales of bravery and resilience.
At the tender age of nine, Benjamin Franklin Williams found himself amidst the chaos of the Civil War, contributing to the Confederate effort in a unique and critical role. Though too young to carry a weapon, Williams served in the Quartermaster Supply Department, where he was responsible for transporting essential supplies to Confederate troops. His intimate knowledge of the local terrain made him an invaluable asset, and his efforts did not go unnoticed.
Williams’ story, however, remained a mystery for many years, with historians struggling to verify the details of his life and service. It wasn’t until the dedicated research of Professor Hoar, who uncovered crucial evidence, that the pieces of Williams’ life began to fall into place. From his early days in Louvale, Georgia, to his final years spent in Decatur, Williams' legacy is one of determination and commitment.
Join us as we explore the life and legacy of this remarkable individual, visiting his grave and recounting the incredible journey that took him from a young boy in Georgia to one of the Civil War’s youngest participants. This is a story of history brought to life, a tribute to a boy whose contributions were far beyond his years.
In this quiet grove, the weathered stone of Benjamin Franklin Williams marks the resting place of one of, if not the youngest, enlisted participants in the Civil War. Born on March 7, 1854, in Louvale Georgia, Williams was thrust into the chaos of the war at a remarkably tender age. Though too young to enlist in a fighting role, Williams officially joined the same company as his father, contributing to the war effort as a wagoner, transporting supplies and food to Confederate troops. Historical records suggest that he may have been as young as seven when he began this service, though Williams himself claimed to be nine. Discrepancies in records are not uncommon from that era, and census data along with family histories provide conflicting details. However, most accounts agree that he was between seven and nine years old when he became involved.
Williams' enlistment as a non-combatant still placed him directly in the war's path. His participation highlights the many ways in which young boys were drawn into the conflict, performing essential support roles alongside their older counterparts. Despite his age, his contributions were seen as vital to his company, reflecting the reality of wartime where necessity often blurred the lines of age and eligibility.
Family history, as recorded in a Stewart County history book, supports the idea that Williams was born in 1854, giving weight to the belief that he was likely only seven when he began his service. This makes his story particularly remarkable-not just for his involvement, but for the level of responsibility placed on someone so young.
Today, Benjamin Franklin Williams' grave stands as a testament to the resilience of a child thrust into a nation’s greatest conflict. Whether he was seven or nine when he began, what is certain is that he served, contributing to the war effort in ways that no child should have had to. In this quiet resting place in Georgia, Williams remains a poignant reminder of the young lives shaped by the Civil War.
Touching history in that part of America, this never gets old.
Bless that young lad for his service 🙏
I had a great great grandfather in the Civil War who was only 15 and his 13 yr old brother went with him. I can't believe these kids lived through the war. But a 7 yr old, what a brave little guy he was.❤
Wow! You seem to find cemeteries in some of the most out of the way places. This one is tiny but mighty.
It's got at least one historical figure buried there. Benjamin's story needs to be recognized more by both educators (particularly college and university) and us regular folks.
I can imagine his mom - proud but scared for him, too.
He served his country well. Sounds like the military kept him busy, and safe.🇺🇸
That is so young! My uncle was a 17 year old German soldier who was killed by Russian soldiers on the Eastern front in 1945 and we thought that was young. Wars steal so many generations of young men. 😢 Thanks Robert and Joy.
Germany conscripted kids as young as 12 at the end of the war. Such a waste of life.
@@cherylschantz9893I heard that too😢
This was a fun project to research and then to get to see the grave in person was a treat. Also neat to see the excitement from Robert's first video finding this grave to this one now. It’s still exciting and there’s always more to learn! Thanks for letting me be a part of it, Robert!
Ty for doing the research and sharing...very very cool
Joy, I see I'm not the only one who thinks you should make videos.
Always a pleasure to have you grace the vids...
Four blocks from our current city hall lies a pre colonial grave with revolutionary and civil war soldiers. Buried....took rubbings astonished to find kids and quakers who were forced to fight in revolution or their property. Taken and they chased out by. City gov. Cruel and saf
The heroism, sacrifice and devotion of Southern People during that time is nothing short of amazing and inspiring.
from one military family to another, thank you Mr Benjamin Williams for your service at so young an age. Ty Robert for introducing us to him and his family.
Wow, I thought 17 was young to join the Army. What a tough young man. He will not be forgotten.
I am a mom and grandma, and I can not even begin to think about how this woman managed to cope during this time in her life, having both her husband and a son fighting in this war. Bless her heart for enduring and for keeping their home going during this awful time in our nation's history.❤
Benjamin said that his older brothers served also. I can't imagine what the mother went through.
I saw a documentary about post WW2 this very old lady living alone , said she had no one her father , brothers , husband > all killed fighting for the motherland !
From one Georgian to another, thank you for bringing our history to the eyes of those who perceive so little of Southern, American history.
how wonderful it would have been to talk to Benjamin and hear all his stories of the war, I'm sure he would have had hours worth.
Thank you Benjamin and your father for your service 🇺🇸 Rest In Peace.
Truly amazing. RIP Benjamin. Well done Joy 👏👏
I recall the first visit. Amazing find, and revisit, awesome information, story and photos. Just occured to me that Benjamin passed away after WWII began. He certainly did see many changes in his lifetime. Brave and determined yongster. His personal account so wonderful to hear. It is difficult to imagine, but especially men shooting at a child. What a nightmare to be faced with for both sides. Joy👍 Great hosting, Robert. Excellent video! 👍👍❣️❣️
I remember this story and I think about William so he won't be forgotten ❤
Always interesting recalling our country's history and the people who lived it. To us it may seem unusual that a boy of such a tender age could function,and perform such a task of purpose. Not impossible though. It was a time of great disruption and lives were at stake. My own father was a young boy during the Great Depression. He lived on a farm and was quite fortunate to do so. He didn't get to attend school much during that time either because farm work had to get done. He didn't have any brothers and his Dad needed his help. He was able to learn to read and write, thanks in part to his Mom. At 13 he was driving a farm truck to Louisville to get sour mash to feed hogs. At 17 he joined the Navy,by 19 he was married to my Mom and driving a bread delivery truck from daylight to dark. So certainly this country has it's share of unusual stories but also some really great people!! God blessed America past and present. Thanks Joy and Robert for sharing and inspiring, with another life story.😊💞from Ky.
I love this channel even though I’m across the pond in England, I also love American history especially as I have the Cullen’s of Tennessee and the Janes of Massachusetts and many more who crossed the pond to have the American dream and provide a prosperous future for their family. ❤
Loved this story. It is unimaginable to think of someone that young doing what he did. God Bless him. Thank you Robert and Joy.
I was happy to hear Mr. Benjamin Williams story! He sure was a positive person from the time he helped in the war! Thank you to Joy for the interview given in the paper. I am just in awe by this man!
Very interesting story. Our UDC Chapter is named for Martha McLeod’s father who served in the war. He was Judge in our county for 28 years. Martha went to all of the CSA Reunions with her Father and interviewed soldiers, North, South, black and white.
That's an incredible story! The history in these hidden places is amazing. All throughout this country there are many places like this. I hope everywhere there are people who go out and find them. Thank you, Robert and Joy.
Aw, I'm in tears, thinking about how much he must have seen and done. This is delightful. Thank you, Robert and Joy!
I remember this before. It is so incredible that a child served as a wagon driver. I can’t even imagine! I really love it that you have a photo of him. That’s very poignant that we can see who he is. Thank you Robert! ❤
its amazing how these 7 to 9 year olds back then could outperform most teenagers and young adults in everyday tasks not only in pure braverly but physicality in today's society
Thanku Robert and Joy….histories mysteries never get old! ❤
What a long life. He saw so much history from the Ci😂vil War to World War II.
What a fascinating story! Thank you and Joy for sharing!
Anybody interested in these old civil war veterans, there are two awesome organizations that are always looking for members. The Sons of Confederate Veterans, and the Sons of Union Veterans are fraternal organizations opened to men who had ancestors who fought on either side. There are also women organizations for both Confederate and Union veterans.
Great story Robert yes 7 or 9 way to young to be in war.😢❤ RIP Benjamin
It’s crazy to think about!
Robert this was a great recap of a child’s contribution in service. Your stories are such that brings so much information of times long ago. You woven the words with much thought and care and the soft and tender words you select simply enhance the time we spend with you. I must say I have fallen in love with them and your narrative. Until the next time Robert with heart filled love.
This is awesome! Thank you for sharing this with us,it does matter
Will the second Robert be coming back. Your interactions are perfect….no one seems to be able to replace him!
You are great, but together you guys are the best!
Another excellent video spotlighting the history of an incredible person we would have never known about. Thanks to you and Joy for putting in the time and research to bring us Mr. Williams' unique story. How neat it must have been to discover photos of him! Makes it much more meaningful and powerful to see the faces of those from the past. Thanks for all that you do!
My GGGrandmothers Grandfather went in to the Rev. War as a drummer about that age
Wow
Ty for your services R.I.P. hero. God bless.
Fascinating as usual Robert. Thank you.
I've always wondered where he was buried. I remember one of the movies on the Civil War showed that person.
These tiny forgotten and overgrown cemeteries need to be taken care of. Especially when there are war veterans buried there. If a veteran is killed, wounded, or uninjured, they sacrifice a piece of themselves and deserve the respect.
Amazing Benjamin RIP
I read about this young soldier..Then a while back you came across his grave..Amazing story...I recently found the grave of Captain Jack Hansen here in middle Tenn..Next is to find his infamous cave .
DEO VINDICE
The original posting of this grave and story was my first introduction to Sidestep Adventures. It got me hooked on that channel, now Adventures into History. Love the videos and information.
Thank you for bringing such a remarkable story to light. It's amazing!
I love your videos! I had no idea there's so much history to touch in this region. I'm in Harris County. The 1860 census shows Nathaniel to be 41, and Benjamin to be 8 years old.
Are there any records of the names of the other boys trained? This was interesting because my anserter fought under U..Grant as a drummer boy at age of 10.
One of your best videos yet.
Thank you very much for putting this together.
That doesn't surprise me so many kids served in the Civil war to help in some way or Drummer Boys a Horrible War that took many years to recover from . Would be Interesting to see more about Benjamin Williams & the site of his Family home . Great video!❤
You should look into finding Fort Scott down here in Seminole County, GA. There is some incredible history in this area, especially with regards to the Seminole Wars.
I remember you talking about this boy, age 7 or 9. Now hearing a follow-up with his own words adds to the depth of the story. It might be a fun endeavor to research the father's U.S. history before joining the Confederacy.
Wow, so young to join. Remarkable story. Thank you for sharing.
I think we need a movie of this fellow!!❤❤
Robert and Joy, Thank you for this very special glimpse into history! It boggles my mind to think of a 7 or 9 year old participating in a war in any capacity. To have seen the gravestone would have been a highlight, but to have seen photos of the boy as an aged man and to hear words he once wrote… well, just so far beyond what I reasonably could have expected! Thank you both for bringing this little piece of history to life!
Rest in Peace Sir so young! 🇺🇸🙏💕
Thanks for sharing. There are a fair amount of old cemeteries that are not readily available to see because they’re on what are now private roads.
Thanks again for sharing this amazing story
Great story. It looks like that area was clear cut. Thanks for sharing.
They lived happy life like us but now they are vanished. So sad. from Pakistan.
What a wonderful story thank you both for sharing this with us as again another wonderful part of history 😊😊😊
That was fascinating, thanks for sharing, guys. Have a great day. Kate from OZ.
Thanks for posting!
As always, great stuff Robert, well presented in your own inimitable style! BONUS!!! Miss Joy made the vid and amped the whole thing up a few notches in her own graceful way. Always a pleasure Miss Joy...
A great video. I have seen your other videos of these stones and it's good to hear his story in his own words. Great research, Joy. Thank you, Robert.
What a story about the northern war of aggression on the south! Rest well dear friend and rest in peace.
For more info: jarthurmoore.com/benjamin-franklin-williams/
www.agweb.com/news/crops/corn/farmland-detective-finds-grave-youngest-civil-war-soldier
Tip Jar For Gas: www.paypal.me/rwrightphotography
Follow me on my old farm: th-cam.com/channels/56vh2L-M0czmoTRLhSMaxg.html
eBay Shop: www.ebay.com/usr/oldbyrdfarm
Join The Official Sidestep Adventures Fan Group: facebook.com/groups/561758371276581/?ref=share_group_link
My flashlight link: www.olightstore.com/s/UPTJSG Save 10 percent: SAIH10 (not valid on sales items and X9R)
Mail: Sidestep Adventures
PO BOX 206
Waverly Hall, Georgia 31831
Awesome story this is incredible too see the proof of a dedicated young man too help the cause of the confederacy and in essence follow his father's footsteps into the unknown
What a life he lived.
What an amazing find. Thank you for sharing this wonderful story.
What an amazing story. So young but still willing to help however he could. Great job with the research, Joy! I always love the photos-they give a personal touch. Any chance you will clean these headstones in the future?
Thank you. I am truly touched.
When boys were men what a great life story thank you
beautiful story
So cool to hear that first person account.
Amazing history! Love all you do Brother to keep it alive
Always some interesting history
Fascinating. As a Mother, I do wonder what his Mother thought.
Glad to see that someone has cleaned up the site since you visited several years ago. Keep up the good work and I will be looking for future videos. Curious what Robert #2 is doing these days.
Wow awesome story and amazing history. Very interesting. Thank you Robert and Joy for sharing. ❤
Thank you guys!!
Wow my grandson is 7 and a half cant imagine him being in any war or holding a gun how sad that probably was .
Edward Black, 8 y.o., and Johnny Klem, 9 y o. Where the youngest union civil war soldiers. Both served as drummer boys. Johnny Klem suitably became a Major General. The highest rank of a non comissioned officer. He died at the age of 85...🇺🇸
Love and enjoy your videos Robert. May the lord bless and protect you and bringing out the past history
That's so amazing. Wow
So sad and traumatic for children! A shame they were sacrificed ....
Super historical channel ❤Thank you ❤from the Uk.
Another awesome video, thank you both.
Amazing
Unbelievable that young boy was so brave ❤️sure do miss the pass generations they don’t make them like that anymore 💔
I think his mother was made of sterner stuff than I am. But I am so glad his service was officially recognized and honored even though he couldn't "officially" join. Heck, he wasn't even old enough to join when the war ended!
Interesting . Used to Hunt in the area n knew it had a rich Civil War History.. Didnt know of that.
Miss that area ..
My great great grandfather, Francis Kirkus, was from Athens and enlisted at 14, wounded in the Battle of Peachtree Creek
There are probably more stories about the young ones in the Civil War…just amazes me that such a young age that he was a part of the Civil War
I grew up in Louvale and had no idea about this!
My 2nd great grandfather was 15 when he was mustered in. He was born and raised in Cherokee County, Alabama. And served under Joe Wheeler. Actually naming one of his children after Wheeler. I'll have to double check my facts and get back with followup.
Follow up: My 2nd great grandfather Jacob Alexander Graham "Jake" (1848-1921) enlisted in the summer of 1864 in 12th Alabama Calvary Co G, Capt Warren Stone Reese signing. Jake was captured at end of war and released. He and his family moved to Texas in 1882. He applied for and was granted Confederate pension in 1919. He named one of his sons Joe Wheeler Graham.
Mosquito are bad news this year, keep yourself protected.❤
Come on up to North West Ga...I would love to see some videos from my area . I'm right smack in the middle of civil war country Chickamauga,Ga
Great vid!! Super that you also give sources.
I was thinking he was about 6 when I told a few people on comments since then. The gravestones seem to me were not blackened either. Doesn't look like restoration cleaning going on midstream. Currently shows 9th x3 and 8th x 4 without Williams linked yet. Willis in common. Cool.
How did they even let a small child enlist? That's crazy. Reading history the navy had young boys called powder monkeys that kept gunpowder next to the cannons for immediate use.
My grandfather at the age of 10 was a drummer boy in the civil war.
Hope that these locals with so much history become something permanent and not just a youtube shout out
I retired from the Veterans Administration, and I recall a morning email informing that six or seven women were receiving federal pensions because their husbands had fought in the Union Army during the Civil War.
Just imagine what that little boys father would have been thinking as he fought in battle and obviously at the same time would have been filled with concern for his own little boy.