Danny, thanks for taking the time to send the info. Yes, I have seen the info. Several years ago I really got involved in researching Maj. Black once I obtained his CMSF and learned that he was at Port Hudson, LA, POW'ed and sent to Johnson's Island. I even exchanged some info with Dr. Dave Bush, Site Director, Johnson's Island. Maj. Black's brother, Sgt. George Black, also participated in the seige. Not being an officer, he was paroled and returned to Arkansas to continue the fight. I found one or two references to Maj. Black in the Official Records as well as some period accounts. Funny thing, I live only an hour and a half from the Port Hudson site yet previous to my research knew nothing about my great-grandfather serving there. I have since visited several times, they have a re-enactment every spring so I usually try to make it there. On one occasion I found a reprint of an article which appeared in the "St. Francisville Democrat" newspaper, 1863, by a Lt. Howard Wright. It is quite interesting and states: "The Twenty-third Arkansas, Col. O. P. Lyles, played a conspicuous part in the defence...Col. Lyles was more than once called from the immediate charge of his position to do the duties of a brigadier, and Major Black proved himself a splendid soldier." (pg. 59) Don't know if you have ever visited Port Hudson, but if not and you find yourself in the Baton Rouge, LA area, it is certainly worth the side trip. And of course, Vicksburg is not far away and another great site to visit (if you haven't). Both have excellent museums and as you probably know, Vicksburg has the Cairo on display. The folks at Port Hudson were really great, they let me go through their files on the 23rd Arkansas and make copies of some info which they had collected. Also showed me some artifacts not on display. I am starting to sound like a tourism promoter so I'll stop.

Anyway, thanks again for you input, it's really appreciated.

PS: my ultimate goal, the Holy Grail, is to find a photo of Maj. Black. I have been in contact with another descendant and she claims that she "thinks" she has one but so far she hasn't come up with it. Another fellow did a lot of research on the family and indicated that he had one but when I tried to make contact, I found out that he had just died so I didn't press the issue with his family. So I will just keep plugging away.........