Subject
Pennsylvania -- History -- Civil War, 1861-1865 -- Regimental histories Books
Best books
Various
History of the Fifty-Seventh Regiment, Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteer Infantry First Brigade, First Division, Third Corps and Second Brigade, Third Division, Second Corps, Army of the Potomac
"History of the Fifty-Seventh Regiment, Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteer Infantry" is a historical account compiled by James M. Martin and others in the late 19th century. The book chronicles the service and experiences of the Fifty-Seventh Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry during the American Civil War, detailing their organization, battles, and daily life as soldiers. It provides a thorough examination of the regiment's contributions to key campaigns and includes personal anecdotes that bring the history to life, making it a valuable resource for those interested in military history and the specific experiences of Civil War soldiers. The beginning of the book sets the stage for the regiment's formation and early activities. It describes the recruitment of soldiers from various counties in Pennsylvania and their initial training at Camp Curtin. Following their mustering into service, the regiment faces the challenges of camp life, disease, and the harsh realities of military duty. The narrative conveys a sense of urgency and camaraderie among the soldiers as they prepare for their deployment to Washington, D.C., and eventually into the fray of the Civil War, against a backdrop of growing conflict and expectations of glory in battle.
Henry Martyn Kieffer
The Recollections of a Drummer-Boy
"The Recollections of a Drummer-Boy" by Henry Martyn Kieffer is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book details the personal experiences of a young drummer boy, Harry M. Kieffer, who served in the Civil War, recounting his journey from enlistment through various military campaigns. It aims to depict life in the army through the eyes of a child, highlighting both the nobility and the harsh realities of war. At the start of the narrative, Kieffer introduces Harry, a restless schoolboy who longs to join the war effort as the Civil War unfolds around him. The opening passages describe his conversations with friends reflecting on the absence of older boys in school, indicating their enlistment. Eventually, Harry, fueled by excitement and the influence of peers, finds himself determined to join the army, despite his father’s hesitations. Before long, he receives permission to enlist as a drummer boy, setting the stage for his adventures, trials, and growth throughout his military journey.
Frederick L. (Frederick Lyman) Hitchcock
War from the Inside The Story of the 132nd Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry in the War for the Suppression of the Rebellion, 1862-1863
"War from the Inside" by Frederick L. Hitchcock is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The narrative recounts the experiences of the 132nd Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry during the American Civil War, particularly focusing on the battles from 1862 to 1863. The author, who served as the adjutant and major of the regiment, shares firsthand observations and vivid descriptions of the life, challenges, and camaraderie of soldiers as they faced countless perils in the war. The opening of the book introduces the reader to the author's initial days as an adjutant, beginning with the excitement and chaos in Washington following the Union's setbacks at the battles of Chantilly and Bull Run. Hitchcock reflects on the daunting transition from civilian life to military service, highlighting his own struggles with inexperience and fears as he steps into his new role. He describes the regiment's formation, their early drills, and the anxiety felt by the men as they prepared to march into battle, illustrating an engaging picture of the mental and physical trials they encountered in the lead-up to military engagements.
Hampton Sidney Thomas
Some Personal Reminiscences of Service in the Cavalry of the Army of the Potomac
"Some Personal Reminiscences of Service in the Cavalry of the Army of the Potomac" by Colonel Hampton S. Thomas is a historical account written during the late 19th century. The book recounts the author's experiences as a cavalryman in the Union Army during the American Civil War, specifically focusing on the operations of the Army of the Potomac. The narrative provides personal insights into the challenges and adventures faced by soldiers in a tumultuous period of American history. In this memoir, Thomas shares vivid recollections of battles, cavalry charges, and the complexities of military life. He details significant events such as the engagements at Dranesville, Cedar Mountain, and Gettysburg, highlighting the bravery and tactical maneuvers of the cavalry units amidst the changing tides of war. The author reflects on the camaraderie among soldiers, the hardships endured during campaigns, and the shifting perceptions of cavalry in a predominantly infantry-focused war. Through Thomas’s eyes, readers gain a deeper understanding of the personal sacrifices and valor exhibited by those who served, along with the broader implications of their actions during the Civil War.
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