The story of a border city during the Civil War

by Galusha Anderson

"The Story of a Border City During the Civil War" by Galusha Anderson is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the unique experiences of St. Louis, a border city caught in the tumult of the Civil War, detailing the city's social, political, and military dynamics during this turbulent period. Anderson, who lived in St. Louis from 1858 to 1866, aims to provide an unpartisan narrative of the significant events and sentiments among the citizens during the war. At the start of the narrative, Anderson reflects on the city of St. Louis prior to and during the Civil War, describing its physical characteristics, economic conditions, and population demographics. He emphasizes the varied backgrounds of its residents, including a mix of Northern and Southern sentiments regarding slavery and loyalty to the Union. The opening section highlights the growing tensions within the community as the threat of conflict looms, capturing the essence of a border city caught between the ideals of loyalty and disloyalty, ultimately setting the stage for the more detailed accounts of the war's impact on St. Louis that are to follow.