Willam B. 'Grumble' Jones was a controversial figure in the army both before and during the war. He graduated from West Point in 1848, twelfth in a class of 48. He served in Oregon, returning home on leave in 1852 to marry his sweetheart. Unfortunately, on the return trip the ship foundered in a storm and his young wife was literally swept from his arms, and drowned. Jones was permanently embittered by this personal tragedy, which rendered the poor fellow ever after "...complaining, and suspicious." His "grumbling disposition and manner" soon earned him his army nickname. Though hard to get along with, Jones was a talented and accomplished officer.

At the outbreak of the war Jones raised a company of cavalry which fought stoutly under his command at the Battle of First Bull Run as part of J.E.B. Stuart's 1st Virginia Cavalry. Stonewall Jackson, rather a hard case himself, recommended Jones for promotion.

More Peidmont: June 5, 1864

Introduction and Historical Background
Brigadier General William E. 'Grumble' Jones
Scenario for Johnny Reb
Scenario Map and OOB (very slow: 279K)

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