The Last Ninety Days of the War in North-Carolina

by Cornelia Phillips Spencer

"The Last Ninety Days of the War in North-Carolina" by Cornelia Phillips Spencer is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work reflects on the final days of the Civil War, specifically examining North Carolina's role and experiences during this tumultuous period. The author aims to preserve the truths of the time, focusing on the state’s leaders, the war's impact on its citizens, and the complexities of secession and conflict as perceived locally. At the start of the narrative, Spencer sets the stage by discussing the challenges of accurately documenting the Civil War's history, noting the tensions and passions that still linger post-conflict. She introduces key figures, including Governor Zebulon Vance, and highlights North Carolina's precarious position during the war and her people's call to arms despite reservations about secession. Through personal correspondence and public attempts, such as delegations for peace, the opening portion paints a portrait of a state grappling with its identity and loyalties while laying the groundwork for a detailed exploration of its contributions and the hardships endured as the war drew to a close.