The Execution of
Pvt. James M. Miller
We honor
James M. Miller
not for leading any
attacks against the
enemy, nor of bravery
in the heat of the
battle. The story of
James M. Miller is one of a Confederate Soldier willingly giving up his life to save the life of another fellow soldier.
During a trip home on furlough, James Miller was captured by federal troops. A series of incidents occurred in the weeks leading up to his death where yankee bummers had been caught by Confederate Troops and killed for burning property, stealing goods from farms, and raping and killing a Southern Lady. W.T. Sherman had ordered a retaliation execution if further federal troops were killed. One such yankee soldier was found dead, but truth be known years later, not by the hands of Confederate soldiers, but by a loyal Southern Slave who had been taken by this yankee. When the opportunity arose, the slave killed the yankee and return to his masters farm.
At the Confederate prisoners camp, lots were drawn by orders from Sherman. A young man was the unfortunate winner of the draw, but legend has it that James M Miller of older age, stepped forward to take his place in front of the firing squad.
As witnessed and documented in a yankee diary entry.
“At noon the prisoners had by lot selected one of their number and was sent under guard to the 30th Ills - and was by them shot at 2 P. M. . The unfortunate man was over 40 years of age and the father of a numerous family - he met his fate like a hero, five balls entered his breast. On visiting his grave afterward I found the following inscription: "James M. Miller Co C. Browns Batt. S. C. Infy. Who was shot to death in retaliation for a regularly detailed forager who was murdered and found near Big Lynch Creek S. C., March 2nd 1865"
V
Not for fame or reward, Not for place or for rank,
Not lured by ambition, Or goaded by necessity,
But in Simple Obedience to Duty
As they understood it, These men suffered all,
Sacrificed all, Dared all-and died.
Inscription on the monument to the dead of the Confederate States Army
Arlington National Cemetery, Washington, D.C.
James M. Miller gravesite and memorial directions: From Monore N.C., take 601 south to Pageland S.C. 16 miles, follow 601 into Downtown Pageland. Take a right onto Hwy #9 towards Lancaster, Go approx 3 miles, and bear left onto Hwy 601 South, take the 1st road to the right, Taxahaw Hwy (rd. sc-s-13-67) Go about 100 yards and the cemetery will be on the right side.
Please send us an email of your visit.
