Private James L. Lambert was born ca. 1837 in Virginia. His family had relocated from Virginia between 1839 and 1841. In 1860, he was living at the residence of his mother Lucy near Quincy, Gadsden County, Florida, along with an older sister and two younger brothers (Thomas and Benjamin F.), both of whom served in the same company.

Madame Lambert was a woman of no small means, owning real estate valued at $3,000 and a personal worth of $10,000. James’ profession was given as laborer.

He enlisted in Captain Davidson’s Company on May 15th, 1862 at Rico’s Bluff, Liberty County, Florida; he stated his age as “22”. He was present with the company from the date of his enlistment until May 14th, 1864.

He was appointed 3rd Corporal on May 7th, 1863; his only documented absences from the company were two assignments in Knoxville, Tennessee. He was assigned police duty on the streets of Knoxville, Tennessee on the 17th-18th of August, and then as Corporal of the Guard[1] on August 22nd-23rd.

James lost his right arm at Resaca, Georgia during the battle on May 14th, 1864; he was apparently furloughed home to recuperate, as he was paroled at Tallahassee, Florida on May 18th, 1865.

The date and place of his death, and place of interment are unknown.

[1] “Article 326. This is the most important duty that falls to the corporal. He should be perfectly familiar with the duties of the sentinel, and able to instruct the members of the guard in their duties.” See Kautz, August V. “Customs of Service for Non-Commissioned Officers and Soldiers”. J. B. Lippencott & Co. 1864. 303 pages. ISBN-13: 978-0811703994

James L Lambert