James Washington Martin

Born: 17 Jul 1844 in Tennessee

Died: 9 Feb 1921 in Putnam County, Tennessee

Company G, 52nd Regiment, Kentucky Infantry, USA

7 Dec 1863-17 Nov 1864

Company D, 17th Kentucky Cavalry, USA

18 Nov 1864-20 Sep 1865

James was the son of Samuel Houston Martin and Rebecca Bryant.  After the war, he married Celia Catherine Elrod, daughter of Giles W. Elrod and Senith Howell.  They had eight children between 1869 and 1884. Six were living at the time of the 1900 census.

James first enlisted with Company G, 52nd Kentucky Infantry, USA on 7 Dec 1863 in Bainbridge, Kentucky. He served as a Private during this period and was present for all company roll-calls. No particular action was noted during this period. He served with them until 17 Nov 1864 when he was released in order to reenlist with Company D, 17th Kentucky Cavalry, USA. This transfer was conducted at Russellville, Kentucky. While with Company D, he was present for all roll-calls. He was promoted to Sergeant during this period but for some reason was reduced to Corporal on 1 Apr 1865. Again, no particular activity was noted on the Company records. However, it only seems logical that these two companies were engaged with the enemy at some time during this period.

James drew an invalid pension from 15 Aug 1890 until his death in 1921. After his death, his wife drew a widow's pension.

Both James and wife, Celia, are buried in the Allison Cemetery in Putnam County, Tennessee.