Matthew Doak Willson

Matthew Doak Willson

Patrick Sullivan

Quick Facts

Place of Birth:

Rockbridge County, Virginia

Date of Birth:

August 3, 1944

Unit: 14th Virginia Calvary
Rank: Private  
Enlisted: September 1, 1862
Muster Out: June 19, 1865
Photo Credit/Donated by: Mr. Patrick Sullivan

Description:

Matthew Willson was born in Rockbridge County on August 3, 1844. He passed away on December 8, 1917 in the same county.

On September 1, 1862 Matthew began his military career when he enlisted in the 14th Virginia Cavalry, Company H, “The Rockbridge Dragoons."

Matthew was captured at Greenbrier, Virginia (now West Virginia) on November 26, 1862. Next, he was imprisoned at Athenaeum West Virginia, Champ Chase, Ohio and Alton Illinois. The following year, Matthew was exchanged on April 1, 1863 and rejoined his regiment.

During his service in the Shenandoah Valley, Matthew was wounded twice. First with a saber cut to the head and then a gunshot wound to his left arm.

Matthew was captured again at Cedarville on November 12, 1864 and imprisoned at Point Lookout. He was released on June 19, 1865 at the rank of private.

Sources:

·  Patrick Sullivan,. Letter to the author September 2012