In December 1860 the South Carolina legislature authorized the governor to raise troops to repel invaders. This act called for ten regiments for twelve months' service, one of which was the 8th South Carolina Infantry Regiment. In mid-April 1862 the term of enlistment expired for these regiments. William A. Courtenay was the captain of Company B of the 8th S.C. Regiment. He later served in Kershaw's Brigade.
From the description of Special requisition, 1862 March 31. (The South Carolina Historical Society). WorldCat record id: 37522873