Ed, I just saw the movie Cold Mountain. How much of the film is factual? The Crater seemed pretty accurate. How about the Home Guards? How widespread was desertion? My great grandfather, Micaja Wilkerson (about whom you previously sent me some information) was in the 18th regiment. He deserted and was found, arrested and then returned to his unit, apparently. I just found an old letter from an uncle who described a conversation in which he remembered Micaja talking around 1910 about the accidental shooting of Stonewall Jackson. Micaja said, according to my uncle's account, that his company was behind the company which fired on Jackson's group. Micaja said he didn't recall anyone blaming the men who fired on Jackson as the General and his party had been somewhat careless in approaching the 18th regiment's lines. How true is this? Micaja, incidentally, came from Cold Creek, North Carolina. How far is that from Cold Mountain? Thanks, Ed, for all the enthusiasm you put into your research and the help you give everyone. Have a good New Year. Jim Downs 1303 Crestridge Drive Oceanside, CA 92054 downs24@cox.net