Question...... There is a marker to a group of old men called the "Gadsden County Grays" at Natural Bridge. Do you know anything about them?..... Richard White And here was Dale Cox's answer.......Enjoy, Betty Subj: Re: [FLJACKSO] "Gadsden County Grays" at Natural Bridge Date: 9/11/99 8:27:03 AM Eastern Daylight Time From: JaxDAC Betty, The Gadsden County Grays were a local militia or "homeguard" unit formed in Gadsden County by order of Governor John Milton after Florida was depleted of most of its defense force by the Confederate War Department. Like most similar units, this company was comprised of men either too old or too young for the regular or reserve forces. When news reached General Sam Jones in Tallahassee that Federal troops were coming ashore at St. Marks Lighthouse, telegrams were sent across North Florida calling for every available man to assist in repelling the invasion. Among the men responding were the "Gadsden County Grays." They boarded a train in Quincy and in Tallahassee switched trains and were taken to the "Oil Spring" (Woodville) on the old St. Marks Railroad (which is now a state trail). From "Oil Spring" they were marched through the middle of the night to Natural Bridge, where other Confederate troops were already digging in. They participated in the defensive segments of the battle, but I do not believe they were involved in the countercharge that took place as the Union forces began to withdraw. If you are interested, I have some eyewitness accounts left by members of this unit as well as a map showing their place in the line. Best, Dale Cox