Eli Mills was a devoted son of Peter Mills an early Settler of Richland Township, Keokuk, Iowa, his mother was Mary Jane Stanley. Eli was born August 2, 1798, in Deep River, Guilford, North Carolina.
At just 31 years old (born in 1831), Eli made the heart-wrenching choice to volunteer for the Union Army in the Civil War, driven by a deep sense of duty. Married to Mary Smith, he was the proud father of three young daughters, all under eight years old, and Mary was expecting their fourth child at the time of his enlistment. Together, they were part of the Quaker faith community, forging a new life in Richland Township, Keokuk, Iowa.
Eli enlisted on August 13, 1862, with the 33rd Regiment, Iowa Infantry, embodying the bravery that so many soldiers displayed during this tumultuous time. Sadly, he mustered out in Little Rock, Arkansas, where he tragically passed away on March 24, 1865. His death record reveals he succumbed to syphilis, a condition identified with tuberculosis, highlighting the silent struggles endured by many during the war.
Eli, like so many brave souls, would never return home to embrace Mary, to hold with his daughters, or to meet his newborn son, Eli Elvin Mills, who was born in 1863. His sacrifice is honored at The Little Rock National Cemetery, gravesite #429, a poignant reminder of his love and commitment to his family and country.
Resources:
Battle Unit Details 33rd Regiment, Iowa Infantry
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