Identified Civil War Volunteer’s Manual – 132nd Indiana Infantry 

Description

Identified Civil War Volunteer’s Manual – 132nd Indiana Infantry 

 

Scarce early-war printed manual titled “The Volunteer’s Manual No. I,” published in Cincinnati by Applegate & Co., 1861. Compiled from U.S. standard authorities, it includes a military glossary, elements of Hardee’s tactics, and instruction relating to contemporary arms such as the Sharps rifle and Colt’s revolver—intended as a practical guide for newly raised volunteer troops.

 

The manual remains in its original paper wraps, showing handling wear, edge chipping, and age toning consistent with use, and is now housed in a protective sleeve. A period pencil inscription on the interior title page identifies the soldier owner by name and regiment, further supported by accompanying research attributing it to Cornelius D. Vannise, a private in Company G, 132nd Indiana Infantry. He enlisted May 18, 1864 and was mustered out September 7, 1864 at Indianapolis.

 

The 132nd Indiana was one of the 100-day regiments organized during the summer of 1864, serving primarily in garrison and rear-area roles during a critical phase of the war, allowing veteran troops to remain engaged in active campaigning.

 

A well-preserved and clearly identified example, offering both a representative early-war manual and a direct connection to an Indiana volunteer.

 

Inventory Number: HIS 308