Thank you George. Sadly, Jane, Thomas's wife moved to Galveston about July 1864, destitute with 2 boy infants. I don't have a clear story (as you know by now) - we were told Thomas was hung by mistake. She left Beaumont for help in Galveston. She died Sep 30, 1864. Her sister Mary went with her to help with the babies. Mary died two days later. (Mary was married to George Hartly, a private in the same Spaight's 11 battalion, Co E. I am not sure what happened to him, but I did see an ad that he opened a cigar-restaurant in Galveston.

A widow nursing the two sisters, promised to take the boys, and adopt them. The second son, Joseph was my Great Grandfather. They didn't know they were adopted until they were about 18 when he went to the church to get married.

Tragic story. I wish I could find out more about Thomas H. Cussen. I am wondering since he was reported as "deserted" if he did escape and move to Galveston? or was he hung after he escaped? I read life was is such disarray - I feel spoiled even though the world seems politically tough in the present. My son served in the Navy, my father was a marine but I wonder if war on home soil is more harsh. Ah, just tired tonight. All war, any place, any time is horrible for all. Thanks for your caring enough to take the time.
Did you find the indigent list on the link I sent? I though you probably had heard of it. I know it is not the same as the pension.
Regards!!