My 4x great grandfather, Almeron Benson, was a drummer in the 12th WI Infantry, Co B. I am writing a short bio on him for my heritage album. I have a couple of questions about the life of a drummer.

When Benson enlisted in the army, he was 50 years old. I was surprised at his age. He had been part of the Ohio Militia before moving to WI. Most of what I read is about drummer "boys." Why would a 50 year old man be a drummer boy, instead of carrying a gun?

What was the life of a drummer like? Would a 50 yo drummer have been respected? Was it usual for men of his age to enlist? Is there a way to determine how many miles he would have march from Sept '61 to Aug '62? How do I determine the route he marched? Also, on the page of the WI Roster where his name appears is a notation "pioneer rifles." Any explaination?

Thanks for any assistance you can give me. When you respond, would you please send a copy to my e-mail, Lkn4kin@comcast.net?