June, Saw your question about the PA Dutch and fighting in wars. Since this question arose in my PA Dutch family, I wanted to respond. You mentioned that your Isaac was a Methodist. Generally, the PA Dutch who avoided armed conflict were Mennonites and other groups who were pacifists. One of my great-grandfathers fought in the Civil War; he was a Dunkard, but made the decision (very late--1865) to enlist as a volunteer, as he came from a very war-torn area in PA. Another great-grandfather was still a Mennonite by 1861 and did not enlist, but volunteered to help with bridge building on the Union side. He was captured and put in Andersonville prison. Though his health was permanently affected, he received no pension because he did not actually fight., After the war, this man became a Methodist. So the answer is, it depends--on religious affiliation and individual belief. Barbara