High Private

[Ed Harcourt]

i'm reading Sam Watkins' memoir 'Co. Aytch' in which he describes himself as a 'High Private'.

What does he mean - welcome thoughts on the meaning of this term.

 

[Championhilz]

"High Private" is not a rank, but a state of mind - Watkins was very proud to be a common soldier in the ranks, and "High Private" was his way of expressing this in print.

 

[M.Warren]

High private in the rear ranks was a common term for the day and meant experienced, or not green, but without promotion. A green or inexperienced officer 2nd Lt, replacement etc was referred to as a high private in the front ranks. Students at West Point who were 4th year but not yet cadet officer rank were also referred to as high private.

 

[mofederal]

Hello and welcome to the talk forum from Southeast Missouri on the muddy banks of the Mississippi River. Steamboat a comin' today.

 

[DixieRifles]

Welcome.

Good question---as there were some unusual ranks such as 3rd Sergeant.
I wasn't sure but I thought it was what Championhilz said.

 

[JOHN42768]

Welcome, enjoy