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After a long illness, Hansford Duncan Norrell entered into rest at the age of eighty years at his home, on Monte Sano, Augusta, Ga., in August, 1914.

In the summer of 1861 Mr. Norrell closed out his business in Augusta and proceeded to Richmond, Va., with his wife and infant son, considering this the best point to locate in order to seek employment with the Confederate government. With him he bore letters to Vice President Stephens, Hon. Robert Toombs, and others from some of the most influential men in Augusta. These letters spoke of him as "a young man if unblemished character, entirely exemplary deportment, and worthy of all confidence." HIs first position was a clerkship in the Produce Loan Office with Mr. J. D. DeBon. Wishing another position, Mr. Norrell was most highly recommended by Mr. Debon to the Secretary of the Treasury in these words: "If Mr. Norrell were appointed, I have no doubt that he would faithfully, diligently, and energetically perform the duties of the office to the entire satisfaction of the Treasury Department."

On April 1, 1862, Mr. Memminger, Secretary of the Treasury, appointed Mr. Norrell as clerk in this department and on June 3, of the same year, as courier for the Confederate States of America. By strict attention and faithful discharge of duties assigned him he won the entire confidence of the department: so little wonder was expressed when, returning one day from one of his trips, he was notified that the government had appointed him for a secret mission to Europe, and he was to leave within twenty-four hours. At this time such a trip required nerve and courage. Mr. Norrell proved that he had both, and he safely carried out the mission which he was sent.