Description
Pictured in this tintype are William M. Bearden (standing) and Rufus M. Bearden of Bibb Co. GA. William enlisted on April 15, 1861 as a private in Co. C, 8th GA Infantry (Macon Guards). He is wearing the uniform of the Macon Guards in this image, and the letters “MG” can be seen on his shako. William was slightly wounded in the arm at first Manassas, and the bible flag that he carried throughout the war has stains from his blood. That flag is pictured here and is part of the grouping. The 8th GA was part of Bartow’s Brigade at first Manassas and suffered heavy casualties, with 40 killed, 87 wounded and 7 captured. William was present at the CSA General Hospital in Charlottesville VA on August 1, 1861. On October 28, 1861 William was commissioned into Co. D, 39th NC Infantry as a second lieutenant. He was retired on January 1, 1864, but evidently joined Co. D, 1st VA Cavalry on August 1, 1864. Rufus enlisted on April 20, 1861 as a private in Co. B, 2nd Bttn. GA Infantry. Rufus also left his GA unit and became adjutant of the 2nd TN Infantry.
