My First Campaign

by Joseph W. Grant

"My First Campaign" by Joseph W. Grant is a historical narrative written in the mid-19th century. The book recounts the experiences of the author during his enlistment with the Twelfth Rhode Island Volunteers during the American Civil War. The narrative likely provides insights into the day-to-day life of soldiers, the hardships they faced on the battlefield, and the camaraderie developed among comrades in arms. The beginning of the book introduces the author’s journey as he recounts his enlistment, describing the formation and mobilization of his regiment in Rhode Island. It details the initial travels of the regiment to various locations, such as Washington D.C. and Baltimore, highlighting the challenges of army life, including transportation, camp conditions, and interactions with locals. As Grant continues to provide a detailed account of the regiment's movements and experiences, readers get a vivid sense of the wartime environment, from the excitement of departure to the realities of military discipline and the anticipation of combat.