APPLING COUNTY MILITIA

During the later years of the War Between the States there came a need for local defense. With all the existing militia units mustered into the Confederate States Army new local militia units were formed . In Appling county two such units were established; Captain John Mayers' Appling County Cavalry was the first that was formed. This unit was headquartered at Holmesville (the County Seat). Later when Sherman had begun his march through Georgia, more local units were needed. Benjamin Milikin, formerly a sergeant in Co.I, the Appling Grays, organized a company of "old men and young boys" in order to help defend against Sherman. Although Capt. Ben had been discharged due to being seriously wounded in the cornfield at the battle of Sharpsburg, Md., he responded to the call as did many a southern patriot. Captain Milikin's Company became Co. F, 1st Symon's Reserves .

At the close of hostilities a third company was formed, Captain Silas Crosby's Militia. There has been no roster found for this unit but an account of them being ambushed by a band of deserters at Coleman Creek in Appling County has been preserved.

Captain John Mayers Appling County Cavalry:
Officers and Non commissioned Officers
Roster of the Company

Captain Ben Milikin's Militia:
Officers and Non commissioned Officers
Roster of the Company

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