Notes about Storex Spain from Lt. George Emmerick
Submitted By Peggy Shaw
Capt.
I have the honor to make the following statements in regard to Private Storex S. Spain Co. H 1st Ala Cav. Vols who has been erroneously reported as a deserter.
One the 15th of Apr 1864 Major Tramel myself and twenty five (25) Enlisted men were detailed to recruiting service in Alabama. Private S.S. Spain was one of that number.
When we returned Spain was sick and we were compelled to leave him in the country.
Again on the 25th of June 1864 I was sent into the same country. Spain was still unable to come in with me. On the 5th of August 1864 I was again detailed as Recruiting Officer for the Regt and sent to the same part of the country. This time I found Spain well; and when I returned to our lines on the 18th of Sept 1864. Spain came with me. Col. Doolittle then Comd'g Post at Decatur, Ala learning of his extended knowledge of the country requested me to allow him to use Spain as a scout to which Spain objected, but said if he could there be of the most service to his country it was all right.
He was accordingly detailed and sent into the country. The following afternoon we were attacked by Hoods Rebel Army. Spain made his escape to the mountains, where being compelled to remain for a time, he at the head of the twenty five mounted union made himself the terror of the Rebel Cav.
At one time charged into Jasper the county town of Walker drove seventy five rebel Cav form the place capturing nearly all their horses and arms and released the union prisoners confined there. When the Federal Forces again occupied Decatur Ala. he returned to that Post. On the 10th day of March 1864 since wihich time he has performed well and faithfully the duties of a soldier. He was dropped from the Rolls as a deserter in October 1864 by Capt Ford Comd'g his Co. who did not know as well as the cause of his continued absence.
In consideration of the above facts I would respectfully recommend that he be restored to duty without loss of pay or a allowance which would be but justice to a good soldier and a true gentlemen.
I can certify to all that I have stated above and will further say that instead of being called a deserter with the lose of pay and his good name he should be rewarded, as he deserves for his great work fo the Union.
Hoping this may meet with your favorable concideration.
I am Capt, Your Obedient
Geo. W. Emerick
1st Lt A
Service records compiled by Glenda Todd and used with her permission. This and other information about the history of the First and the men who fought with the unit
can be found in her book, First Alabama Cavalry, USA: Homage to Patriotism.