I am researching a letter written from Charleston, SC Feb. 22, 1861. The letter mentions Marion and wanting to get back home to Marion. He also mentions the Marion Volunteers who have enlisted for six months and are waiting to attack Ft. Sumter. I believe the writer's unit to be Co. E of Gregg's 1st Battalion. The friends and family that are mentioned are: Mrs. Martha E. Rowell, Miss Betsy Odom who is engaged to Mr. Sam Shaw, Miss Sally Odom who is engaged to Mr. Sam Wall, "old cousin" Tommy Shaw and cousin Becky, Baker Wiggins, John D. Shaw, Cage Wiggins, "little" Tommy Shaw, & Henry Shaw. The signature appears to be M.C.C. Avant but I am not positive. I have found several of these people in the 1860 census. The Odom girls reside with an Avant and there are Wiggins and Shaws in close proximity. I have not found anything that could be a match for the writer except an M.G. Avant. Does anyone have any of these names in their Marion County research? Thanks! Kevin Lassen