Reuben Randolph Tann was born in January 1841 in Illinois. Reuben Tann is the son of Austin and Sally (Cole) Tann. 

Reuben Tann enlisted in the 6th U.S. Colored Infantry, on August 19, 1863 in Philadephia, Pennsylvania.  He was described as "Yellow" (Asian). Other documents he is described as "Mexican".

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On May 22, 1874 in Washington County, Mississippi, Reuben R. Tann married Mary F. Carroll. 

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Reuben and Mary (Carroll) Tann's children:

• Bertie A. Tann born in Washington County, Mississippi. 

• Edward R. Tann born in Washington County, Mississippi

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