Here is a well-worn book carried by a Confederate cavalryman apparently studying to be a lawyer after the war.

The book is “Every Man His Own Lawyer” by John G. Wells, 1859. “Being a complete guide in all matters of law and business negotiations…with full and complete instructions for proceeding, without legal assistance, in suits and business transactions of every description.” And much more, a more detailed look at the title page is most amusing!

The inside covers and flyleaf are covered with ink inscriptions of ownership and even some calculations. Of interest to us here is the inscription on the flyleaf page facing the title page. It reads, in part, “W.G. Thurmond / Yellow Branch / Campbell / VA. / 2^nd VA Cavalry / Co. B. / Fitz Lees Brigade”.

Walker G. Thurmond was born 1844 in Nelson, Virginia. The 1860 census lists him living in Castle Craig, just south of Yellow Branch, Campbell County, Virginia (about 10 miles south of Lynchburg, Va.) and enlisted into Co. B of the 11^th Virginia Infantry on April 23, 1861. Exactly two years later he transferred to the 2^nd Virginia Cavalry. He was wounded in 1861 at Dranesville, Va., and again in 1862 at Second Manassas. He took the Oath of Allegiance on May 31, 1865 at Campbell Court House, Virginia. Records indicate that his name was filled as “Thurman” and “Thurmond”. Walker Thurmond died in 1889 in St. Louis, MO.

The book itself is well-worn, the cover and spine being taped. The front and back covers are show extreme wear with much of the text and cover art being worn away. The text pages within remain in exceptionally good condition with the exception of a few water stained pages.

An interesting book with a fine Confederate Cavalryman’s inscription.  [jet]

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