Death of Jenkins

Another installment in the “Tales From the Tombstone” series in conjunction with the 150th Anniversary of the actual event. 

A product of Edisto Island, South Carolina and a graduate of The Citadel, Micah Jenkins was a product of the wealthy South Carolina Low Country. Like more recognizable Confederate military leaders, Jenkins also swore off alcohol at an early age upholding a promise to his mother.

Like two other famous Confederate teetotalers, Jenkins would share a connection with both. Unfortunately, that connection was as a casualty figure.

The volley that severely wounded Confederate Lieutenant General James Longstreet also struck 28-year old Micah Jenkins in the forehead. Instantly paralyzing one side of the South Carolinian’s body and knocking him unconscious.

Carried to the rear, Jenkins continued to move his non-paralyzed hand to the wound in his forehead and continue to mutter uncomprehendingly. Approximately five hours later, according to observers and eyewitnesses, Micah Jenkins died.

His body was sent back to Charleston, South Carolina where he was buried in Magnolia Cemetery.

Jenkins, like Longstreet, was cut down approximately three miles from where “Stonewall” Jackson was also mortally wounded by friendly fire. In addition, Jenkins was reportedly sick when the campaign began, similar to Jackson who was also under-the-weather as the Chancellorsville Campaign unfolded.

Five days later, J.E.B. Stuart, the other teetotaler, was mortally wounded at Yellow Tavern outside Richmond, Virginia.

The woods of the Wilderness claimed another Confederate general officer. The month of May struck the Army of Northern Virginia officer corps another blow.