Pvt. Cephus Feelings
Cephus Feelings was born in Statesboro, GA, on December 29, 1896. He was the son of Thomas Feelings, a farm laborer, and Maggie (Mary) Williams, who managed the household. Cephus had two brothers, Charlie and Abram. Feelings worked as a farm tenant on S.G. Stewart's farms until he turned 21. During this time, he did not attend school and lacked the ability to read or write, a common experience for many Black Americans in the United States. On April 1, 1918, Cephus Feelings was ordered to report to the local board in Statesboro to be shipped to Camp Gordon for training during World War I. Feelings' destination after his training remains unknown. However, according to his death certificate, he passed away in France on November 26, 1918, due to illness, and was laid to rest on November 27th. In 1921, Cephus Feelings' remains were transported back to the United States. His father later identified him, preparing for his burial at home.
Due to prevalent racial segregation during that era, festivities honoring Black American soldiers were rare. However, on June 15, 1918, William James, a native of Statesboro and superintendent of the colored industrial school, organized a commemoration for Black soldiers, attended by family and friends. Cephus Feelings' life journey from humble beginnings in Statesboro, Georgia, to his service and passing during World War I highlights both the challenges faced by many Black Americans of his time and the resilience they demonstrated. Despite the racial segregation and lack of recognition for Black soldiers, moments like the commemoration organized by William James show glimpses of unity and acknowledgment within their communities.
Black soldiers at Camp Gordon, the facility where Feelings trained.
Works Cited
Dexter Allen American Auxiliary. Box 1, Folder 7. “War Saving Certificates and Stamps.” Zach S. Henderson Library Special Collections, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA.
Feelings, Cephus. “Death Record of Cephus Feelings.” National Archives, 1918.
Feelings, Cephus. “United States World War I Draft Registration for Cephus Feelings.” National
Archives and Administration, 1917.
Feelings, Cephus. “1900 United States Federal Census.” 1900. Statesboro, Georgia.