Civil War Soldier Identified

Researched and written by Phillip Jackson, Jr.

Photo from the Asbury Wilkinson Photo Collection

The Civil War soldier appearing in one of the glass negatives found in a building on the east side of the Greensburg Square has been identified as Arnold Murray.

Careful examination of the glass negative revealed the name "Murry Arnold" scratched at the side of the image. By entering various spellings and first/last combinations of the name in the database for the Indiana State Archives, "Arnold Murray" was found as having served in the 123rd Indiana Infantry. This regiment was organized in Greensburg in late 1863 and early 1864.

The 123rd Indiana was commanded by Colonel John C. McQuiston who was a railroad locomotive engineer, conductor, and the Greensburg Road Master. This regiment had a good record in the Civil War, including taking part in the Atlanta Campaign, the battle of Nashville, and serving in North Carolina.

In the "Report of the Adjutant General of the State of Indiana" Arnold Murray is listed as one of the two Musicians (Drummer Boys) serving in Company E, 123rd Indiana. His residence is Rushville. He mustered in March 3, 1864 and mustered out August 25, 1865 at Raleigh, North Carolina.

Arnold Murray was born in 1847. He is found in the 1860 Rush County Census. He is 13 years old. His parents were James (1826-1863) and Evaline (1826-1915) Murray. Three younger siblings are Eli age 9, a name difficult to read but appearing to be "Viola" age 6, and jasper age 2.

Arnold Murray died in 1903. He is buried in East Hill Cemetery, Rushville, near an exceptionally large white oak tree. Other graves in the family plot include his parents, his wife Martha (1852-1882) and several of their children.

Photo by Phillip Jackson, Jr.