William Edmondson Grumble Jones was among the most notable Southwest Virginians to fight in the Civil War. The Washington County native graduated from Emory & Henry College and West Point. While an officer in the Old Army, he watched helplessly as his wife drowned during the wreck of the steamship Independence. He resigned his commission in 1857.
Resuming his military career as a Confederate officer, he was a mentor to the legendary John Singleton Mosby. His many battles included a clash with George Armstrong Custer near Gettysburg. An internal dispute with his commanding general, J.E.B. Stuart, resulted in Jones’ court-martial in 1863. He rejoined the war during the 1864 Shenandoah Valley campaign and died in battle, leaving a mixed legacy.