Civil War Era “Hymn Book For The Army And Navy” – United States Christian Commission

Description

Civil War Era “Hymn Book For The Army And Navy” – United States Christian Commission

 

A scarce and historically significant Civil War era Hymn Book for the Army and Navy, published by the American Tract Society of New York and distributed through the United States Christian Commission during the war.

 

The front cover features a patriotic American flag motif surrounded by decorative borders and period typography, while the reverse bears an important presentation imprint from the:

“United States Christian Commission
Central Office
13 Bank-Street, Philadelphia”

 

The United States Christian Commission played a vital role during the Civil War by supplying soldiers with religious materials, comfort items, medical assistance, and spiritual support in camps and hospitals throughout the conflict. Small hymnals such as this were commonly carried by Union soldiers in knapsacks, haversacks, and coat pockets during active service.

 

Inside is a touching handwritten family inscription reading:

“Dear Steve,
This belonged to your great great-great Uncle Jacob F. Harris who raised your great grandmother Heim. Love, Mom-Mom Leuter”

 

This wonderful period and family provenance adds a deeply personal layer to the piece and preserves the generational connection to the original owner.

 

The hymnal shows honest wartime wear throughout with age toning, handling marks, and use consistent with an authentic field-carried Civil War devotional. These signs of wear only enhance its historical charm and authenticity.

 

A wonderful survivor from the American Civil War and an exceptional addition to any collection of Civil War soldier personal items, religious field gear, or wartime.

 

Inventory Number: HIS 323