He was born in 1816/17, in Germany. [sources: date: 3 (44 in 1861). place: 3]
When he enlisted, he was a labo[rer]. [source: 3]
When he enlisted, he was 5 feet 7 inches tall, and had a dark complexion, blue eyes, and dark hair. [source: 3]
He enlisted and was mustered into service on 12 October 1861. He was enlisted for three years, at Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, by Captain Casner. He was mustered in as a private in company K. [sources: 1, 3, 5-6]
He deserted from a hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on 24 December 1861. He was a private, in company K. [sources: 1, 2, 5-6]
He may be the John Scovell who died the week ending 24 July 1885, in the Almshouse, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He died of old age and debility. [source: 4]
1 Bates, Samuel Penniman. History of Pennsylvania volunteers, 1861-5. Harrisburg: B. Singerly, state printer, 1869-71. 5 volumes. 'Ninety-first regiment', volume 3, pages 186-233. (In the roster) (John B Scovell)
2 company K, register of deserters, entry 16 (John B Scovel [?])
3 company K, descriptive roll, entry 80 (John B Scowel)
4 death record, Philadelphia Pennsylvania, July 1885 (John Scovell)
5 index to compiled service records of volunteer Union soldiers who served in organizations from the state of Pennsylvania (John B Scowl)
6 index to compiled service records of volunteer Union soldiers who served in organizations from the state of Pennsylvania (John B Scowel)