Dr Russell,

I can't tell you how exciting this is. My great-uncle Beverly spent the latter part of his life researching the Robinson family. He did it the old-fashioned way, on foot, in the courthouse, by snail mail. Only a few things really stymied him, and his grandfather's Civil War service was one. I know he regretted never quizzing his grandmother about the Civil War while she was alive. According to what he wrote, Capt Robinson was unfailingly referred to as "Capt Robinson" by one and all in Fannin County TX. That tells me that there was a great deal of respect (whereas my uncle thought it might have just been a courtesy.) I'm sure you know how revered the Confederate veterans were in East Texas. Second, my uncle could find no military records, nor could I. Nor is there a pension application by Robinson or his wife. I know through other ancestors, that the Texas Pension application was rigorous, and more than one relation had their application rejected. Without proof of service, Capt Robinson could never have filed.

I had read the mention of the old man Robinson murdered in Jasper County, and wondered if it were Capt Robinson's father, Beverly. When you put it all together-- it makes sense. Capt Robinson fighting with guerrilla forces. Brother James fleeing to Illinois. The county torn apart by constant guerrilla sniping. No wonder, Sarah Jane packed up and headed for Texas. (If I could post the photos I have of Capt Robinson and Sarah Jane, you would know which one was the real boss.) In her autobiography is the story of the stolen oxen, and how she returned them. Those oxen are just more proof, for me, that Capt Robinson was fighting with the guerrillas and thieving.

I have just ordered the Livingston book. But I'm most intrigued by the last entry you quote which mentions Capt Robinson, the rebel leader. What is OR? And will you tell me more about where that came from?

Thank you for your response, and for your patience. I am very new to Civil War history and completely unversed in military jargon, but my gut feeling is that all of this is finally the story of Capt Robinson. I am not proud of my great great grandfather's service, but it is deeply satisfying to have some pieces that fit and understand the context of his place and time. I believe my great-uncle Beverly Robinson is smiling down on me.

Alex