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The Wade Hampton Chapter, U. D. C., of Varnville, S. C., pays tribute to its friend and hero:

"Rev. W. H. Downling, of Hampton, S. C., is a man worthy of the love and respect of all who knew him. His long life of seventy-four years has been spent in usefulness and kindness. He is a direct descendant of Robert Dowling, a soldier of the Revolutionary War, and was born and reared in what is now Hampton County, S. C. He enlisted at the beginning of the War between the States and fought throughout the four years, taking part in many battles in the Carolinas and Virginia, and he was distinguished for his bravery on many occasions. At Chester Station, being sent on picket with others, he captured eleven Federals and delivered them safe in prison. And when Jeffords made a charge from Beauregard's extreme right, drove back a flanking party of the enemy, and held them until their ammunition gave out, Sergeant Dowling led an advance of his company and was severely exposed to the bullets falling like hail around him.

"Though not an ordained minister at this time, Mr. Dowling was the only chaplain of his company throughout the entire war. He offered prayer on roll call the first night just as he did on the last night before disbandment. At the close of the war he was ordained as a minister of the Baptist Church, and since then he has labored most faithfully in his chosen calling. Much could be written of his service for the good of humanity"