I never know whether companies with some humerous aspect to them are real or a product of a waggish editor's sense of humor. Ran across this while doing some newspaper research relating to the Violett Guards (Co. K, 6th LA Inf.), the Orleans Fire Battalion/Regiment, and the Louisiana Fire Battalion/Regiment. Maybe others will share some of the more outre local companies they've run across! -- Jim Huffman, Gainesville Vols, SCV Camp 373, Pearl River County, MS

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New Orleans True Delta newspaper
May 1, 1861

THE ELEPHANT RANGERS. Quite a sensation is expected on the streets on the forthcoming appearance of the Elephant Rangers on parade. This company, we learn, is in process of formation, and is to be composed exclusively of citizens weighing 180 pounds and upwards, ad libitum. Various prominent citizens have been discussed for the various offices, and Vannuchi has been applied to, to negotiate for a vivandiere of approprite dimensions. The company, we understand, will be retained for home service, being short-winded and unsuited for long marches; but they will form an impregnable rampart for home defence.