Robert Carson was born about 1820 the son of William and Bethiera "Thera" Hall Carson. He is listed in the 1860 Census of Harrison County with his wife, Mary ?, and their five children, including a son, Benjamin E. who became a Private in Company G of the 5th WV Infantry. According to a report from the Adjutant General's Office included in his pension file : He was "enrolled on the 20th day of August, 1862 at Clarksburg VA for 3 years and is reported on muster rolls of company to February 28th 1863 present. Roll March and April 1863 absent in confinement by order of Col. John B. Klink. Rolls May and June, July and August 1863, present. Roll Sept and October 1863 absent on detached service at Williamsport MD as ?? Guard since Sept 28, 1863. Roll November and December 1863 same report. Roll January and February 1864 present with remark 'detailed as Regimental Wagoner'. Rolls March 1st to October 31st 1864 present. Roll November and December 1864 absent without leave since December 19th 1864. Rolls January and February, March and April 1865, present. Muster out roll dated Richmond VA. June 16th 1865 shows him mustered out at that time and place with the remark 'Slightly contused on shoulder by shell' in action at Fort Gregg VA. April 2nd 1865, Regiment was in action at that time and place. Not absent on Reg. Returns March, April and May 1865. Company morning report and returns are not on file. Company Descriptive Book shows him wounded in action at Fort Gregg VA April 2nd 1865, 'contusion by shell' . Location not stated. No charge of Desertion on Rolls of this office. ** Records show no evidence of wound in arm or leg and furnish no further evidence of disability."
     Robert married Margaret J. Darrah, widow, while living in Wetzel County WV in 1866. He again married in 1867 to Mary Watkins, a widow, while living in Monroe County, Ohio. Robert and Mary later moved to Ohio County WV at 2745 Jacob Street, Wheeling (which still stands today). Robert died there on June 18th 1892 of pneumonia. He is buried in Peninsula Cemetery with his wife, Mary and their son, William.
     Robert Carson's Civil War Medal was jointly claimed 10/2000 by his great great great grandson, James P. Clark and his daughter, Errin R. Cain.