Subject
United States -- History -- Civil War, 1861-1865 -- Regimental histories -- Massachusetts Books
Best books
Charles P. (Charles Palfray) Bosson
History of the Forty-second regiment infantry, Massachusetts volunteers, 1862, 1863, 1864
"History of the Forty-second Regiment Infantry, Massachusetts Volunteers, 1862…" by Sergeant-Major Charles P. Bosson is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work chronicles the experiences and organization of the Forty-second Regiment during its service in the Civil War, touching on various aspects such as recruitment, training, and early encounters in the conflict. It serves as a detailed reminiscence and a record of military life, emphasizing camaraderie, challenges, and notable events throughout the regiment's service. The opening of this historical account discusses the organization and initial steps of the Forty-second Regiment, as it began to recruit and prepare for duty in late 1862. The author describes the efforts of Colonel Isaac S. Burrell and other officers in establishing the regiment, the trials faced during recruitment due to dissatisfaction with the draft process, and the interactions among various companies as they sought to fill their ranks. The narrative captures the essence of military preparation, detailing daily camp life in Readville, challenges in maintaining discipline, and the experiences of the soldiers as they faced the realities of impending service.
Caroline Elizabeth Whitcomb
History of the Second Massachusetts Battery (Nims' Battery) of Light Artillery, 1861-1865
"History of the Second Massachusetts Battery (Nims' Battery) of Light Artillery" compiled by Caroline E. Whitcomb is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book details the military history and experiences of the 2d Massachusetts Light Artillery, known as Nims' Battery, during the American Civil War from 1861 to 1865. Its purpose is to preserve the account of this artillery unit, highlighting its formation, notable battles, and the lives of the men who served in it. The opening of the text outlines the origins of Nims' Battery, initiated in response to urgent military needs in the early days of the Civil War. It describes the rapid mobilization of volunteers from the Boston area and their early training, as well as their initial movements and engagements in Baltimore. Key figures, such as Captain Ormand F. Nims, are introduced, setting the stage for the battery's significant contributions to various military campaigns in the South. The author emphasizes the organization’s diligent preparations and the camaraderie among the soldiers, hinting at the challenges and triumphs they would face throughout the war.
Henry B. James
Memories of the Civil War
"Memories of the Civil War" by Henry B. James is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The author, who served in Co. B of the 32nd Massachusetts Volunteers, recounts his personal experiences and memories from his time as a soldier during the Civil War. The book aims to provide insight into the life of a private soldier, detailing events from enlistment to various battles, as well as the camaraderie and hardships faced by the men who fought. The opening of the work sets the tone with James reflecting on his enlistment and the circumstances that led him to join the Union Army. He describes his initial reluctance and the pivotal moment following the attack on Fort Sumter that ignited his resolve to fight for his country. Throughout the first chapter, he shares anecdotes about his experiences at Fort Warren, including encounters with notable Confederate prisoners and the rigorous military training he endured. The narrative establishes a deeply personal perspective on the shared sacrifices and feelings of the soldiers, while hinting at the arduous journey ahead as they prepare to head towards the front lines of the war.
Charles Eustis Hubbard
The Campaign of the Forty-fifth Regiment, Massachusetts Volunteer Militia "The Cadet Regiment"
"The Campaign of the Forty-fifth Regiment, Massachusetts Volunteer Militia" is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book documents the experiences of the Forty-Fifth Regiment, which served during the Civil War, primarily detailing their campaign in North Carolina. It is likely to appeal to readers interested in military history, personal narratives of soldiers, and the day-to-day aspects of life in the 19th-century army. At the start of the book, we are introduced to the formation of the Forty-Fifth Regiment after President Lincoln's call for enlistment amid the Civil War. The narrative describes the regiment's camp life at Readville, Massachusetts, capturing the initial excitement, camaraderie, and humorous misadventures of the soldiers as they adapt to military life. As the regiment prepares to sail to North Carolina, the author portrays their early experiences with rations, guard duty, drilling, and the relationships formed among the soldiers, as well as their anticipation of the challenges ahead in the war. The opening sets a vibrant scene of military routine and the personal stories of the young men who rose to the duty of service.
Daniel Oakey
History of the Second Massachusetts Regiment of Infantry: Beverly Ford.
"History of the Second Massachusetts Regiment of Infantry: Beverly Ford" by Oakey is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This book provides a detailed narrative centered on the Second Massachusetts Regiment of Infantry during the Civil War, particularly focusing on the events and experiences surrounding the Battle of Beverly Ford. It captures the challenges faced by the soldiers and offers insights into military life and the nature of cavalry operations during this pivotal conflict. The narrative begins by recounting the experiences of the regiment during the Chancellorsville campaign and leads into the preparations for the battle at Beverly Ford. Oakey shares vivid details about the regiment's movements, the atmosphere within the camp, and the dynamics among the soldiers. Through personal anecdotes and descriptions of key events—from the initial march towards the ford to the fierce cavalry battle—the author paints a vivid picture of the conflict and the camaraderie among the soldiers. The book also reflects on the emotional toll of war, illustrated through the losses and victories experienced by the cohort, ultimately underscoring the significance of their actions against the backdrop of the larger Civil War narrative.
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