With the outbreak of the Civil War, Maffett enrolled in the "Pickens Guards," (Company C of the 3rd South Carolina Volunteer Infantry Regiment) on April 14, 1861, at Frog Level (now Prosperity, South Carolina). He was elected captain.
In the midst of the Civil War, Maffett enlisted in "Pickens Guards," a company within the 3rd South Carolina Volunteer Infantry Regiment, on April 14, 1861, at Frog Level (now Prosperity, South Carolina). He was chosen as captain.