Draft:Benjamin Cunningham Yancey

• Comment: There is no significant coverage in reliable independent sources. All sources are original research, e.g. Find a Grave. In addition the article is written in a non-encyclopedic manner and not in an objective, neutral tone, but the reason I am rejecting the article is the lack of notability, not the style of writing. This article belongs in a family history site like Wikitree, not in Wikipedia. Lijil (talk) 17:45, 12 June 2025 (UTC)

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Benjamin Cunningham Yancey
Born	30 Jul 1836 Greenville, Greenville County, South Carolina, USA
Died	17 Mar 1909 Umatilla, Lake County, Florida, USA
Buried	Glendale Cemetery
Allegiance	Confederate States of America
Branch	Confederate States Army
Rank	Lieutenant colonel
Unit	17th Battalion of Alabama Sharpshooters
Battles / wars	Battle of Murfreesboro Battle of Chickamauga Battle of Missionary Ridge

Benjamin Cunningham Yancey (July 30, 1836 – March 17, 1909) was a notable Confederate officer during the American Civil War, recognized for his leadership and service in the 17th Battalion of Alabama Sharpshooters. Born in Greenville, South Carolina, he was the son of William Lowndes Yancey., a prominent figure in the Confederate government and a staunch advocate for secession

Early Life and Education

Yancey grew up in Montgomery, Alabama, and graduated from the University of Alabama in 1856 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. He later attended Cumberland University in Tennessee, where he received a law degree in 1858. Upon completion of his bar exam, he began practicing law in Montgomery, initially with his father.

Military Career

As tensions rose between the North and South, Yancey enlisted in Capt. Joe Bibb's artillery company in Montgomery. He quickly rose through the ranks, being appointed as 1st lieutenant and later captain. He served throughout much of the Civil War, eventually attaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel of the 17th Battalion of Alabama Sharpshooters.

The battalion fought valiantly at key battles including Murfreesboro, Chickamauga, and Missionary Ridge, as well as during the intense campaigns around Atlanta. By December 1863, the battalion had dwindled to just 59 men, many of whom were without weapons. Officially, the battalion was disbanded in August 1864, and its remaining members were likely absorbed back into their original regiments. Yancey’s integrity and leadership were well-regarded, with a witness to his pension application noting him as "one of the most reliable and gallant officers in our brigade."

Post-War Life

After the Civil War, Yancey moved to São Paulo, Brazil, joining many former Confederate soldiers who emigrated to South America. These expatriates were known as "Confederados" by the local population. While in Brazil, he met and married Miss Lucy Caines Hall on June 30, 1873.

In 1881, the Yancey family relocated to Umatilla, Florida. Here, they established a successful citrus business, capitalizing on Florida's favorable climate for orange cultivation. The Yancy's planted vast groves of orange trees, contributing to the growing citrus industry in the region. This venture not only provided a livelihood for the family but also enabled them to integrate into the local community, where they became well-respected members.

The Yancey citrus business thrived, with their oranges gaining popularity for quality and flavor. The family's commitment to agriculture reflected Yancey's resilience and adaptability after the hardships of the Civil War.

Confederados Community in Brazil

The Confederados were a group of American expatriates, primarily former Confederate soldiers and their families, who emigrated to Brazil after the American Civil War. This migration was motivated by a desire to escape the devastation of the war and seek new opportunities in a foreign land where they could preserve their Southern heritage.

Starting in the late 1860s, many Confederates began migrating to Brazil, particularly to the states of São Paulo and Paraná. By the 1870s, around 10,000 Confederados settled in Brazil, establishing communities that allowed them to maintain aspects of their Southern culture and lifestyle. They primarily engaged in agriculture, focusing on crops like cotton and sugar, and formed tight-knit communities with schools, churches, and social organizations.

Today, the Confederados community remains a fascinating aspect of both Brazilian and American history, with many descendants continuing to celebrate their heritage.

Death and Legacy

Lt. Col. Benjamin Cunningham Yancey passed away on March 17, 1909. He was buried in Glendale Cemetery, surrounded by the orange groves he had planted, reflecting his life’s journey from soldier to farmer and family man. His legacy endures as a testament to the experiences of many Confederate veterans who sought new beginnings after the war.

Family

Yancey was married to Lucy Cairnes Hall, the daughter of William Hervey and Catherine (Ives) Hall. They had six children:

1. William Lowndes Yancey
2. George Earle Yancey
3. Hervey Hall Yancey
4. Benjamin Cudworth Yancey Jr
5. Lucy Dillingham Yancey
6. Frederick Dalton Yancey

Yancey was a Democrat and a Presbyterian throughout his life, and his contributions and experiences continue to be remembered as part of Alabama's rich history.