Yeah, my Thomas Smith was born and grew up in Columbiana, Ohio, as did Charles Drake of the 11th Kansas Regiment. This at a time when its population was around 500. 13 year age difference, but Thomas smiths older brother was about the same age.

Ohio abolitionists—their Colombiana fathers would have traveled in the same circles together. Along with probably Ohio abolitionists Thomas Ewing Sr and Jr.

And note 11th Kansas’ Charles Drake name similarity to another Ohio Abolitionist, the famous Missouri Radical…Charles Drake. Don’t know if they were related but it all fits like a glove.