Vicksburg Parole of James Files Gresham

Did you know some members of the 26th were involved in the Siege of Vicksburg? It's true! Take a look at the parole voucher of James Files Gresham below:

The regiment itself was spared this ordeal. After the Battle of Champion Hill, the Confederate army retreated toward Vicksburg. The 26th was attached to Loring's division which was cut off from the rest of the army while covering the retreat. Loring chose not to continue in the direction of the retreat, but to march completely around the left flank of the Federal army to join Gen. Joseph Johnston at Jackson, MS.

This decision resulted in Loring losing his wagon supplies, as well as his artillery. His supplies continued along with the rest of the retreating army. That's why James Files Gresham found himself in Vicksburg. Why would Gresham be with the wagon supplies? He was the Quartermaster of the 26th Miss!

The parole reads as follows:

Vicksburg, Mississippi, July 7th 1863

I, J. F. Gresham a Capt. & A. C. S. of 26th Miss Reg't Vols C.S.A., being a prisoner of war, in the hands of the United States Forces, in virtue of the capitulation of the City of Vicksburg and its garrison, by Lieut. Gen. John C. Pemberton, C. S. A., Commanding, on the 4th day of July, 1863, do in pursuance of the terms of the said capitulation, give this my solemn parole under oath-

That I will not take up arms again against the United States, nor serve in any military, police or constabulary force in any Fort, Garrison or field work, held by the Confederate States of America, against the United States of America, nor as guard of prisons, depots or stores, nor discharge any duties usually performed by Officers or soldiers, against the United States of America, until duly exchanged by proper authorities.

Jas. F. Gresham
Capt. & A. C. S.*

Sworn to and subscribed before me at Vicksburg, Miss, this 7th day of July, 1863.

C. A. Catlin Capt. 101 Reg't Ill. and paroling officer.

* A. C. S. = Assistant Commissary of Subsistence