November 1, 1863 - Again, following the rules of engagement of the Civil War, the 37th Alabama is officially declared "exchanged." It is reorganized at its parole camp near Demopolis, Alabama.

The only weapons available to the men of the 37th Alabama at Demopolis are antique muskets - which have previously been condemned as unfit for military service. Yet they are issued anyway. To add insult to injury, there is not even enough muskets to supply each man in the unit. There is also only a meager supply of ammunition available, as well, and much of it is even the wrong caliber for the available weapons. General Moore complained that the weapons would be useless in battle, but was assured by his superiors that the situation was temporary and new weapons would soon be issued.

In the meantime, Gen. Moore observed that fallen leaves from the trees had to be employed as additional "wadding" in order to wedge and hold the smaller ammunition (.69 caliber balls) in the barrels of some of the larger bore (.75 caliber) barrels.

http://alabama37th.com/History-f.htm