The Gilley War: From Angelina County Texas 1992, Abilene Public Library

(These paragraphs are from section T110 on Homer, an Angelina County town; author Ruth Grant.)

     In September, 1861 at Homer, a company for the Civil War was organized. It was known as Company D of the Seventh Texas Calvary. The company was mustered into service at San Antonio and became the Third Regiment of General Sibley's Brigade, later known as Tom Green's Brigade. In 1862, another company, commanded by Captain Brown was recruited at Homer and was mustered into service March 31, 1862 in San Antonio.

     Some men went to the Civil War under duress and there was trouble. George Gilley had no slaves and voted against secession. He was called a Unionist, but when war was declared, he was one of the first to join the Confederate Army. He was 44 years old at the time. In January, 1863, Ely Ashworth went in as a substitute for George Gilley. His son John Gilley joined March 1, 1862 at Orange, but later joined the Union Army.

     The Wheeler family was related to the Gilley's, and they were angry with a faction led by Jim Windham. Several soldiers were hanged while home on leave, possibly A.W.O.L The conflict finally climaxed in a battle on the courthouse square in Homer on a hot Saturday in July, 1866. George Gilley killed Jim Windham, and Isaac Gilley killed Eli Windham (son of J.D.Windham). Sheriff William Read McMullin and Charley Stovall were also killed. Eighteen men were wounded.