Col. Neely lived in Metropolis, IL (Massac County) when he entered the service. He was born in IL (probably Pope Co.), was married to a lady named Mary. Had no children. His age at the time of his Commission (Aug. 1862) is listed as 32 yrs.

When the 131st was consolidated with the 29th IL Inf, Col. Neely was mustered out of service. (there were too many officers at consolidation). He returned to Metropolis. This would have been Nov. 1863.

He was half of the firm of Neely and Clark Law offices immediately after the war (and possibly before). He was also the prosecuting attorney for the 19th district in IL at the time of his death. He lived here in Metropolis, but died while on a trip in Newburg, IN May 15th, 1867. His body was shipped down river where it was let ashore in Pope County. He was buried at the Neely grave-yard there.

John F. McCartney was appointed to take over his position as State's Attorney. Later, John took over all remaining cases of Neely's (mostly veteran's pension cases). (McCartney also served in the 131st, trained in law under Neely, later organized New Co D of the 56th IL Inf. and was made Captain).

I "think" that Geo. W. was the son of a John Neely who lived in Pope Co. in 1850. His home was in the same area that the Neely cemetery is located. I have no proof of this though, and the age is a little off, but often is in our early census records. Also, there were several marriages between Neely's and women named "Mary", so can't help with that at this time either. Mary Neely died at Metropolis in Sept. 1867. Her probate files don't tell you much though.

At one time I had made a list of things I needed to look up for G.W., but I'll have to find my list.

Hope this helps some.
Ann