James H. Woodcock was born in 1839. He later married Sarah E. Woodcock and moved to a small farm outside of Payson, IL. He spent the early years of his life as a small farmer.

On August 20, 1861, James Woodcock enlisted as a private in the 50th Illinois Infantry, Company C. Then on September 12, 1861 he mustered out, but later re-enlisted as a Veteran. James Woodcock fought bravely for our country from the date of his re-enlistment, September 12, 1861, to the day he mustered out once again, July 13, 1865.

The 50th Illinois Infantry formed at Quincy, Illinois in August 1861. The Infantry was formed by Colonel Moses M. Bane. Most of the members of the regiment were from Adams County, but the Illinois counties of Fulton, Hancock, Brown, Warren and Clinton were also represented. The 50th Illinois Infantry bravely fought for the Union throughout the war. From the Fall of 1861 to July, 1865 the 50th Illinois Infantry has been to 11 different locations. On July 13, 1865 the infantry mustered out of the United States service by Captain W.B. Guthrie, they then arrived at Camp Butler, IL, July 14, 1865 for their final payment and discharge.

The life of a soldier fighting in the Civil War was very tough, little sleep, shortage of food, and very dangerous conditions. Food was scarce during the Civil War. The main course for a soldier’s daily meal was either beef, or biscuits. Sleep was very limited also. Soldiers had to go to sleep late after a long day marching to their next location, some even stayed on guard all night and received no sleep at all. On top of everything else, fighting in the Civil War was very dangerous. Soldiers had to fight in many battles throughout the Civil War, and soldiers were risking losing their lives in every battle that was taken place.

After James H. Woodcock returned home after he mustered out of the 50th Illinois Infantry July 13, 1865. When he returned home, he was faced with a court case. He was informed that John Johnson had killed his wife’s hog while he was at war, so he took John to court to get money for it. March, 1866 the court case took place and James H. Woodcock took possession of John Johnson’s land. Things didn’t turn out so bad after all.

I think that James H. Woodcock was a very brave man. As a citizen, he dedicated 4 years to fighting for his country. After he mustered out for the 1st time, he re-enlisted for 3 more years. That shows true loyalty! After the court case was settled, I assume that James and his wife, Sarah, farmed on their new land until their deaths.

http://www.rootsweb.com/~iladams/accw50c.htm

http://civilwarhome.com/entertainment.htm

http://www.rsa.lib.il.us/~ilalive/files/qh/htm1/qh000000.html

By: Alyssa K. Carmien