I have done extensive research on Luther F. McNeal. I have letters written by him to his parents in New York.

Nora and Almira died in 1862 shortly after Luther enlisted. Willie survived until he and Lucy visited Luther while at the occupation of Vicksburg, after the surrender of Vicksbug. In a letter dated Sept. 8, 1863, Luther states, "I hardly know how to tell you of the terrible act of providence that has befallen us. When I enlisted we had three beautiful intelligent, and healthy children, but now we have none. When Lucy and Will arrived here they felt well, and no one ever enjoyed themselves better than Willie among the soldiers. But I was not in condition to enjoy the visit. I had been fo some weeks, off duty and confined to my tent with that almost fatal disease diarrhea, and just been examined by the medical director who decided hat a change of climate was necessary to save my life. The day that the examination was made I felt a little better having taken a few mouthfuls of food. The next day after Lucy and Willie arrived and I continued to improve slowly. I intended to go home with them immediately, but my leave of absence would not help the division general, there being no officer to take command of the company in my absence. Two weeks after their arrival they both took sick with the same disease, but Lucy being in constant attention upon Willie night and day and laboring under considerable excitement which seemed to give her double strength overcame the disease, while little Willie sunk fast and died the third week of his stay."

Luther was injured at Missionary Ridge Nov. 25, 1863. He had taken a minie ball to the knee. His surgeon attempted to save the leg and did not amputate. He wrote his father Dec. 7th, very depressed… "I am still living, but n a most wretched place. An entire stranger, helpless and no one with me that cares whether I live or die." His father, Marcus, traveled from Williamsville to Chattanooga to be with his son. A telegram was sent home on Dec.16 that it was doubtful he would live. He died on Dec. 19th. and is buried in Williamsville, NY (presumably his father transported the body home).

He Fought in the following battles: Iuka, MS (Sept. 19, 1862), Corinth MS (Oct. 3-4, 1862), Magnolia Hills (May 1, 1863), Forty Hills, MS (May 3, 1863), Raymond, MS (May 12, 1863), Jackson, MS (May 14, 1863) Champion Hills, MS (May 16, 1863) Black River Bridge (May 18, 1863) at the assault on Vicksburg (May 19-22), at the storming of Fort Hill, Vicksburg, MS and all the lesser battles and skirmished in and around Vicksburg during its whole seige from May 19-July 4, at its surrender and at the assault on Missionary Ridge, Georgia, (Nov. 25, 1863).

Anyone wishing more information about Luther and his family should contact me at jacquel@tds.net

Luther F McNeal