photogaphy by Michael ClanahanCapt. Rice's Artficial Limb
After arriving early to set up for the NMHS picnic meeting Troy Marshall asked me if I would like to see my ancestor's artificial limb.
That ancestor my Great Great Great Uncle William Hamilton Rice. Capt. Rice was one of 12 children of Dr. John Walter Rice, the builder and owner of Stanly Hall, currently Shenandoah Valley Village just north of town.
Capt. Rice was the organizer of an artillery company organized in New Market, the Virginia Light Artillery (8th Star Artillery).
The first regular engagement in which this company took part was at Greenbrier River, October 3, 1861 in which Capt. Rice was severely wounded.
This necessitated in the amputation of his foot between the ankle and knee. This was quite an experience holding Uncle Bill's artificial limb; more than 150 years old.
Written by Danny Rice, President NMHS, Inc.
Capt. William Rice is seated in the center of the bottom row.
Around New Market, James R. Graves/John D. Crim
photogaphy by Michael Clanahan