Arabella Reynolds
Arabella Reynolds
Arabella ("Belle") Reynolds was born in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts in 1843. In her early teens she moved with her family to unsettled Iowa, where she later became a schoolteacher. In 1860 she married John G. Reynolds, who enlisted with the 17th Illinois when the war began. She followed him.
She clearly did not enjoy the deprivations of army life, but she soon settled in and began caring for the sick and wounded. She followed her regiment into battle, although she is not identified with engaging in any military activity. Refusing privileges, Reynolds faced the same conditions as the regiment. She was awarded an honorary commission as a "major". It did not really change her rank or status, but it did recognize her important contributions. Despite not engaging in any military service, her courage is undisputed.
She clearly did not enjoy the deprivations of army life, but she soon settled in and began caring for the sick and wounded. She followed her regiment into battle, although she is not identified with engaging in any military activity. Refusing privileges, Reynolds faced the same conditions as the regiment. She was awarded an honorary commission as a "major". It did not really change her rank or status, but it did recognize her important contributions. Despite not engaging in any military service, her courage is undisputed.