Since he was so young, the likelihood of him being a Civil War Veteran is not possible. The Regular Army in 1898 consisted of only 27,000 men TOTAL. In order to prepare for war, it needed more men It was supplemented by numerous volunteer organizations. These were of two types. The Volunteer Army of the United States, which was formed of various State militias, and the United States Volunteers, which was an "at large" group.

So, in addition to checking the Infantry and Cavalry Black Units (9th and 10th Cav. and 24th and 25th Inf.-you can check with state historical organizations and archives for possible militia rosters.

If you know about when he died, or where-you can check census records. Since 1930 is now available-it may help you. If he had a family, it gives you more sources-

The Social Security Death Index is another possibility. The SSDI lists 13 possibilities. Several are just too young. A couple could be sons. One potential is listed as Jessie P. Bryan, from Shelby Co. Tn. but born in 1904. So both the name and age are a little off. But remember there are always potential misspellings in any records, and variations are common.

Other than that, I agree with Bennie that Anthony Powell is the best source for that period.

Best of luck

Sharon