Bounty Money

[rbruno]

In looking at the Official Records for members of the 1st MD Cavalry CSA, I have come across several troopers receiving a bounty of 50 dollars. The government receipt has the troopers name, date, amount, the usual officer signatures, and just the word "bounty" under the description. The receipts are from different years and months, but all, so far, just say "bounty" and all are for 50 dollars. Has anyone seen other bounties paid for $50 with a description of what they were getting paid for? Does anyone know of an item that was always accepted as being worth $50.

I posted this under cavalry discussion because that is the area I am researching and have the records. If anyone has similar info from and infantry soldier, that would be great too.
Rob Bruno
1st MD Cav

[jigadier brindle]

Re: Bounty Money

I haven't dealt much with Maryland Cavalry - however it sounds like these boys were receiving a cash bounty, not an item. The bounty could have been provided by the government or a local committee that raised funds for new recruits. Bounties are pretty commonplace and come in varying denominations depending on the regiment and year. This is of course where the lovely term "bounty-jumper" comes from; one who accepts the bounty and then leaves to re-enlist for more loot.

What years during the war did they receive these bounties?


My .02 cents,

[NC5thCav]

Re: Bounty Money

Just a thought, but when my gg-grandfather enlisted in the 5th bttn, NC cavalry each man was paid a bounty for his horse. I don't know how much it was, but that might be an explanation.

[rbruno]

Re: Bounty Money

Thanks for the responses. The bounty were at different times during the war, but mostly from '64. All of the troopers had been in services for a year or so before they recieved the bounty. The receipts came from the Confederate Gov't. There are separate payments for the use of the horse. More on that later. I have been taking notes on when they were getting paid for the horse and will post that question when I get more details so I ask a clear question.
Rob Bruno
1st MD Cav