The Matthews family resided in Brickerville, Lancaster Co., Pa. before and during the American Civil War. John D. Matthews was the son of Joseph M. Matthews, a toll collector, and the brother of Joseph D. Matthews. His wife was Lydia A.D. Matthews. John was mustered into the 195th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Regiment as a private on Feb. 17, 1865 and served until Jan. 31, 1866. His brother, Joseph, enlisted as a private in (Thompson's) Independent Battery C of Pennsylvania on Aug. 29, 1864 and was later transferred to Battery L of the 204th Pennsylvania Volunteer Regiment. Joseph was mustered out of the service on June 30, 1865. Both brothers saw limited action during the war. Following the war, John served as Elizabeth Township's magistrate from 1867 to 1872, 1878 to 1880 and again in 1883.
From the description of Matthews family Civil War letters and diary, 1864-1866. (Millersville University Library). WorldCat record id: 50723528
