re Kerse/Kerce family of Worth County, Georgia
Thanks to an email with pictures of some actual articles in the newspapers; I now know more about the death of George Kerce [60 yrs] and his son, John Kerce [14 yrs]in the year of 1862.Their deaths happened during the years of the CIVIL WAR wherein most men in the county and their young sons were drafted into the Confederacy to serve.Initially, I know that George Kerce served in the Civil War. [George W. Kerce Sr. born abt 1804. Was registered in Company A. - 7th Regiment - Florida Infantry. No information about fighting in battles is known.[ email from Latrell Mickler.]My question about the information is why Florida?? and not Worth Co. Georgia??? More research needs to be done on this.]Apparently George W. Kerce was back in Worth County, Georgia with his family by 1862.George had several sons that served in the Confederacy.In the court newspaper articles, it states that fourteen of the citizens in Worth County, GA. were involved in the murder of George W. Kerce and his son, John Kerce.It was stated that George had been harboring deserters.The articles stated that George and John Kerce had been taken to a Capt. Green of the Civil War.There is also mention of Abram's Creek to be the site of the deaths and it is stated their deaths were barbarious.Harboring deserters during the Civil War would have made citizens furious and it is possible that the 14 fourteen citizens took it upon themselves to punish both George and his son John Kerce by death.????? Or, did Capt. Green order their deaths?One would need to follow up and read the court findings to know.This whole incident has captured my attention because I know a lot of bad stuff happened during and after the Civil War for several years.It wasn't just in Worth Co. GA either.If there is anyone with more information please contact me at [email protected] or call 850-973-2282.Lanette