Home Bishop Ellison Capers
Confederate Veteran Vol. XVI June 1908

 

BISHOP ELLISON CAPERS was born in Charleston, in Oct., 1837 and was the fourth son of Bishop WILLIAM CAPERS. At an early age he entered the South Carolina Military Academy as a cadet, graduated in 1856. When he entered the Confederate army he was made major of the first Regiment of Rifles. In 1862 he became colonel of the 23d South Carolina Regiment and served as such with distinction. He was severely wounded at Jackson, Miss and again at Chickamauga, where on recommendation of Gen. Joseph E. Johnston, he was promoted to brigadier general for gallant and meritorious services. At Franklin, Tenn., he was again wounded. Rejoining his command at Bentonville, N.C., he was at the surrender of General Johnston's army in 1865.
 
General Capers had begun to prepare himself for the Episcopal ministry before entering the army. Immediately after the close of hostilities he was appointed Sect. of State by Gov. Orr, holding that position until his State was given over to the radical reconstruction of Republican rule. Soon after his resignation...was consecrated a priest, in the Episcopal Church and called to the parish of GREENVILLE, S.C. , where he remained for 20 years, greatly beloved by the people of all religious denominations.....
 
For several months prior to his death- which occurred at his home in Columbia, on the 24th of April, 1908.
 
A few seconds before the last breath left his body his face became radiant with a smile of triumph, and he exclaimed " Cease firing, the victory is won " !



 

 
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