Rare Antebellum Theological Debate Book with Civil War Provenance

Rare Antebellum Theological Debate Book with Civil War Provenance - Inventory Number: HIS 257

A Discussion of the Conjoint Question (1835)

Inscribed to the Library of Co. A, 110th New York Volunteer Infantry

An exceptional Civil War-era relic combining 19th-century religious debate with direct regimental provenance. Titled A Discussion of the Conjoint Question: Is the Doctrine of Endless Punishment Taught in the Bible? (New York: P. Price, 1835), this 190-year-old volume records a theological exchange between Ezra Stiles Ely, D.D. (Presbyterian), and Abel C. Thomas (Universalist), reflecting the era’s fervent doctrinal divisions.

This example is in good condition for its age, with expected foxing throughout, tight binding, and all original pages intact. Of particular significance is the period ink inscription noting:

“Company A, 110th N.Y. Vols. Infantry / To be returned in 10 days” — identifying the book as once belonging to the regimental library of a Union unit organized in Oswego, New York, and heavily engaged in the Gulf Campaign, including Port Hudson and the Red River expedition.

Such inscribed volumes used in Civil War regimental libraries are scarce survivals, offering a rare glimpse into the intellectual and spiritual life of soldiers in camp. A truly unique artifact bridging theology and wartime history.

The 110th New York Infantry Regiment was organized in Oswego, New York, and mustered into service on August 25, 1862. Composed primarily of men from Oswego County and surrounding areas, the regiment was quickly deployed to the Gulf region, serving under the Department of the Gulf.

The 110th New York participated in major operations along the Mississippi River and Gulf Coast, including:

   •   Occupation of New Orleans

   •   Siege of Port Hudson (May–July 1863), one of the last Confederate strongholds on the Mississippi

   •   Red River Campaign (March–May 1864) in western Louisiana

   •   Garrison and provost duties in Florida, Louisiana, and Virginia

Though not always in the spotlight, the regiment endured harsh climates, disease, and difficult campaigning in the Deep South. Its service was vital to maintaining Union control of the Mississippi and Gulf ports, a key part of the Anaconda Plan to divide and suppress the Confederacy.

The 110th New York was mustered out on August 28, 1865, after three years of hard service. It left a proud record of endurance and loyalty, having served in some of the most challenging and disease-prone environments of the war.

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Inventory Number: HIS 257