From NKAA, Notable Kentucky African Americans Database (PIONEERS & PATRIOTS: Anderson County Military Servicemen, Revolutionary War - WWI)
Gillin, James
(born: c. 1841) Gillin was born a slave in Anderson County about 1841. He was a soldier during the Civil War, serving in the Union Army as a private in Company E of the 5th U.S. Colored Cavalry Regiment USA. He enlisted September 19, 1864 at Camp Nelson.The 5th Regiment of the Colored Cavalry began enlistments in June 1864 and was officially organized at Camp Nelson on October 24, 1864. Although not at a full complement of men, those enrolled at the time took part in Burbridge's Campaign into southwest Virginia and were active at the 1st Battle of Saltville on October 2, 1864. After a fierce engagement, the Federals were driven back, leaving a good number of dead and wounded behind; the wounded were all eventually killed. In December another attempt was made to destroy the salt works, and the 5th were then part of Stoneman's Raid. On December 17 and 18, 1864, the Federals attacked and captured Confederate lead mines near Marion, Virginia, and on the 20 and 21 captured and destroyed the salt works at Saltville.
After returning from the Saltville Campaign, the 5th saw duty at various posts in Kentucky until August 1865, when it was transferred to the Department of Arkansas. The regiment was engaged in that state against renegade groups until March 1866. It was then mustered out of service at Helena, Arkansas on March 20, 1866.
In January 1865 while stationed at Camp Nelson, Company E of the 5th was detailed to escort a herd of cattle from Camp Nelson to Louisville. As this column passed through Shelby County, the rear guard was attacked by rebel renegades, and the troopers were virtually massacred.
Report of Brigadier General Hugh Ewing, U. S. Army, Commanding Second Division, District of Kentucky.