Philippine private

[frontrank2]

Described as a "South Sea Islands immigrant" (actually, the Philippines) Private Felix Cornelius Balderry enlisted in Company A of the 11th Michigan Volunteer Infantry at age 21 on Dec. 7, 1863, at Leonidas, Michigan. He joined the regiment at Rossville, Georgia on January 28, 1864 and later was transferred to Company F in March, 1864. He was mustered out at Nashville, Tenn., Sept. 16, 1865. His residence is listed as Colon, Michigan. Before enlistment, he was employed by sea captain Joseph Foster of Leonidas, Michigan, and had moved back with him to work as a farmhand. After the war, he returned to Michigan, where he worked as a tailor. On September 1, 1885 he married 16-year old Ada May Barns at Constantine, Michigan. Sadly, Balderry contracted tuberculosis, and passed away only ten years later on August 18, 1895 at the age of 49.
Source: https://sites.google.com/site/accsacw/Home/south-sea

 

[Pat Young]

Thanks for this this. I had not seen the photo before.

 

[frontrank2]

Thanks for this this. I had not seen the photo before.

I have to wonder if the change in climate from his native country to the harsh winters of Michigan, in some part led to him contracting tuberculosis.