97th Virginia Militia

Originally enlisted from July 1 - July 7, 1861, the 97th Virginia Militia was primarily formed of Page County (at least four companies) men who had not already joined regular Virginia organizations. Twelve companies (A through M) composed this organization. Companies E, H, I, & K were exclusively commanded by Page County men (See the listing of companies and their commanders below).

The 97th Regiment was one of eight regiments and one smaller militia to make up the 7th Brigade under Brigadier General Gilbert Simrall Meem. Other regiments and organizations in the 7th Brigade included the 58th (Rockingham), 116th (Rockingham), 145th (Rockingham), Infantry Company Second Class Militia (Harrisonburg), 13th (Shenandoah Co.), 136th (Shenandoah Co.), 146th (Shenandoah Co.), 97th (Page), and the 149th (Warren) Regiments.

Commanded by Colonel Mann Spitler, the 97th was called into service by the Governor on July 13, 1861, to rendezvous at Strasburg, except for companies already ordered to Beverly. Available records give some indication that the organization may have been disbanded in April 1862 by order of General T.J. “Stonewall” Jackson. The likely reason behind this would have been the need to “activate” those men who were able-bodied and could serve in the regular regiments of Jackson’s army. Some men formerly from the 97th can be found to have later served with such units as the 10th and 33rd Virginia Infantry Regiments.

A quick review of the 1850 census for Virginia indicated where each of the captains of the respective companies was from and is indicated in brackets [ ]. Companies of the 97th Included: