Robert T Parsons

Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War

Photos from the Past

Robert Taylor Parsons

Robert Taylor Parsons was born in Carter County, Kentucky on November 20, 1847. His parents were Thomas Parsons and Clarinda (Oney) Parsons. On September 25, 1863, he enlisted along with his brother, James, in Company D, 40th Kentucky Mounted Infantry at Paris, Kentucky as a Private. The 40th Kentucky was organized for one year to serve in eastern Kentucky and southwestern Virginia engaging Confederate Cavalry and guerilla units. Many of the units that the 40th went up against were made up of men who were their brothers, relatives, and neighbors. The 40th Kentucky Infantry participated in the Battle of Cynthiana, Kentucky, where they played a major role in routing the forces of General Morgan’s Cavalry. They also fought at Paintsville, Kentucky and Saltville, Virginia. Robert Parsons mustered out with his regiment on December 30, 1864 at Catlettsburg, Kentucky.

After the war, Robert studied law and became a lawyer and county judge. In 1866, he married Emily Whitt. They had eight children. He also was a delegate to the 1925 Constitutional Convention in Kentucky. He died in 1934 in Greenup County, Kentucky.

Photograph and information submitted by Robert Taylor Parsons' great great nephew, Vince Barker, Old Abe Camp #8, Department of Wisconsin, SUVCW and Wisconsin Commandery, Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States.


Robert Taylor Parsons