Many women of the were wives of the soldiers, or other family members such as sisters, nieces, or daughters. Some of the women were betrothed to a member of the military unit. Very few single, unattached women were permitted into the ranks of the in fear that their possible turn to prostitution would cause unrest in the baggage train by disrupting family relationships. Unattached women allowed into the were those who possessed a skill or trade which made them a valuable asset not only to the unit but to the military unit as well. However, they were closely watched until they took a legitimate husband.