Civil War Union Soldier’s Diary

Description

Civil War Union Soldier’s Diary

Frontline Entries from December 31, 1862 to April 20, 1863

 

Remarkable 38-page Civil War diary written in pencil by a Union soldier at the front. Measuring 8vo, written recto and verso, this firsthand account covers the period from December 31, 1862, through April 20, 1863. Rich with content on major battles and notable generals, including vivid descriptions of troop movements, battlefield experiences, and reflections on the morale and condition of the army.

 

Key entries include:

• Jan. 3rd, 1863 – “The army is fast recovering from the demoralized state caused by the disaster of Fredericksburg…”
• Jan. 5th, 1863 – General Sherman’s march to the rear of Vicksburg with 20,000 troops.
• Jan. 10th, 1863 – Observations from Vicksburg on the strength and strategy of Sherman’s army.
• March 9th, 1863 – The brutal four-day Battle of Vicksburg, described with gripping detail: “Our brave fellows had to scramble up bluffs under terrible fire… when the decimated remnant reached the crest… they found themselves opposed to a superior force, fresh, confident and well armed.”
• April 3rd, 1863 – A haunting reflection: “The destroying angel has swept over the Land and left his bloody footprints at the door of almost every family…”

Some pages are loose or torn from the binding, with minor candle wax drippings noted on one page. No original cover remains, but the diary is otherwise in very good condition. A moving and detailed document that brings the everyday experiences and horrors of the Civil War vividly to life.

 

Comes housed in a 12 x  16 riker display case with blue velvet and descriptive card.

 

Inventory Number: PER 465