WATKINS, JOSEPH L (1844~1931) Joseph L. Watkins, a private in Company A of the 5th Texas Cavalry, was born in St. Clair County, Alabama. Not much is known about his early life there. When Watkins was about 15 years old he came to Texas and at some point became a ranchman and farmer. He married his wife, Mary, July 13, 1910 in Eastland County, Texas.
Joseph Watkins enlisted in the Confederate Army in the Fall of 1862. He served three years for Company A, Green?s Regiment, Sibley?s Brigade. The 5th Cavalry Regiment was formed at San Antonio, Texas in the summer of 1861. Watkins, a volunteer, joined later. The regiment?s most notable engagement was in Louisiana, at Cox?s Plantation, which was considered a confederate victory. They later moved to Huntsville, Texas and disbanded before the surrender in June of 1865.
At the time of Joe Watkins? Confederate Pension Application he was 69 years old. He and Mary had been living in Water Valley, Texas, in Coke County for five years at the time. It is not known how many children they had together, but it is certain they had at least one daughter, named Minnie, who also lived in Water Valley with her husband Pleasant B. Turner.
Entering the Confederate Men?s Home on June 22, 1929, Joe Watkins listed his religion as Baptist. His wife, Mary was admitted at the same time and lived with him in the home. At some point she was transferred to the Woman?s Home. Joe Watkins died January 17, 1929 at the Confederate Home and was buried at the Texas State Cemetery the next day. Mary was discharged from the Woman?s Home on the day of her husband?s burial and moved to Water Valley, Texas to live with her daughter. She died there, and it is uncertain where she is buried.
Information from: Confederate Soldier?s Application for a Pension, Widow?s Application for a Pension, Confederate Home Roster, Death Certificate, Mortuary Warrants, and the National Park Service website www. itd.nps.gov. |
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