BISHOP ELLISON CAPERS was born in
Charleston, in Oct., 1837 and was the fourth son of Bishop WILLIAM
CAPERS. At an early age he entered the South Carolina Military
Academy as a cadet, graduated in 1856. When he entered the
Confederate army he was made major of the first Regiment of
Rifles. In 1862 he became colonel of the 23d South Carolina Regiment
and served as such with distinction. He was severely wounded at
Jackson, Miss and again at Chickamauga, where on recommendation of
Gen. Joseph E. Johnston, he was promoted to brigadier general for
gallant and meritorious services. At Franklin, Tenn., he was again
wounded. Rejoining his command at Bentonville, N.C., he was at the
surrender of General Johnston's army in 1865.
General Capers had
begun to prepare himself for the Episcopal ministry before
entering the army. Immediately after the close of hostilities he
was appointed Sect. of State by Gov. Orr, holding that position
until his State was given over to the radical reconstruction of
Republican rule. Soon after his resignation...was consecrated a
priest, in the Episcopal Church and called to the parish of
GREENVILLE, S.C. , where he remained for 20 years, greatly beloved
by the people of all religious denominations.....
For several
months prior to his death- which occurred at his home in Columbia,
on the 24th of April, 1908.
A few seconds
before the last breath left his body his face became radiant with
a smile of triumph, and he exclaimed " Cease firing, the victory
is won " !