The Columbia Carolinian vouches for the following “case:” A lady presented herself at Branchville to enter the car for Charleston. The sentinel told her it was contrary to law, and she could not go. She ordered him twice to take down his musket, which barred the entrance. He refused. She drew a revolver, and pointing it at him, threatened to shoot him if he persisted in excluding her. With some surprise, he demanded, “Are you a man in woman’s clothes?” “No.” was the reply, “I am a woman.” “Then come in,” said the sentinel, “for hang me if I fight a woman, or be killed by one; you can’t be classed with non-combatants, and they are what I am ordered to keep from going to Charleston.” So she was recognized as a belligerent power, and allowed to pass.
The Camden Confederate, Camden, SC, October 2, 1863
