Next of Kin Documentation

[PLKeeley]

Hi, I'm a fairly old hand at ancestral research but brand new to this site. My question is, when a Union recruit was enlisted and mustered in, did they have to give next of kin information in the event of their wounding or demise?
Thanks,
Peter

 

[Zella]

Good question! I can't say that I have ever seen that information in a CSR, though their officers may have kept some sort of record.

Since so many regiments were raised locally, my assumption is a lot of them would already know next-of-kin for their comrades on the company level since they were often family or friends or neighbors. But that is pure speculation on my part. Would love to learn more about this.

 

[huskerblitz]

I don't know a definite answer. However, I have come across a notation for a sick soldier which stated he was staying with his sister in Louisville and gave her name. But I can't seem to find the card right now. So maybe? Or maybe in certain circumstances?

 

[Zella]

I don't know a definite answer. However, I have come across a notation for a sick soldier which stated he was staying with his sister in Louisville and gave her name. But I can't seem to find the card right now. So maybe? Or maybe in certain circumstances?

That's really interesting! I've seen vague notations for them being home sick/wounded but not specifying whom they were with.

 

[SJU5]

In my research in the 13th NJ, the info they gave in Newark NJ at the enlistment area was name, age, occupation and town they were from. If they were not citizens, also what country they were from.

 

[Seduzal]

Welcome to CWT from the Smoky Mountain side of North Carolina. Thank for sharing this interesting question although I do not know the answer but just wait a little while and someone will be along.

 

[Larryh86GT]

Welcome from WNY

 

[Patrick H]

I've never given it any thought, either. Seems like next of kin should have been given, whether or not it actually was. Welcome!

 

[PLKeeley]

Thanks to everyone who has sent replies and for making me so welcome! It does seem like it should have been a basic requirement. How else would the military have known to inform the surviving family? A different time, I suppose. I will wait to see if anyone else has more information but it doesn't look good. Thanks again to everyone!