A collection of rare archival images and biographical sketches of the dauntless women who served as nurses and caregivers during the Civil War. During the American Civil War, women on both sides of the conflict, radiating patriotic fervor equal to their male counterparts, contributed to the war effort in countless ways: forming charitable societies, becoming nurses, or even marching off to war as vivandières, unofficial attachés to the regiments. In Faces of Civil War Nurses, Ronald S. Coddington turns his attention to the experiences of 77 women of all ages and walks of life who provided care during the war as nurses, aid workers, and vivandières. Their personal narratives are as unique as fingerprints: each provides a distinct entry point into the larger social history of the brutal and bloody conflict. Coddington tells these determined women's stories through letters, diaries, pension files, and newspaper and government reports. Using identified tintypes and cartes de visite of women on both sides of the war, many of them never before published, Coddington uncovers the personal histories of each intrepid individual. Following their postwar stories, he also explains how the bonds they formed continued long after the cessation of hostilities. The fifth volume in Coddington's series on Civil War soldiers, this captivating microhistory will appeal to anyone with an interest in the Civil War, women's studies, social history, nursing, or photography. Praise for Ronald Coddington's Faces Series "An engaging look at a neglected part of the history of the American Civil War."—Booklist "Coddington has hit upon a unique and fascinating niche in the seemingly endless march of Civil War books."—C&RL News "A lavishly produced visual record of southern Civil War soldiers . . . will appeal to serious photography enthusiasts and collectors, as well as those readers captivated by the personal stories of Civil War soldiers."—Civil War Books and Authors "Coddington's prose is as unpretentious as the faces he shares, yet authoritative. It resurrects details that broaden our understanding of those sad times and sheds valuable light on the shape of modern culture."—Atlanta Constitution "Even at a distance of over a hundred years, the faces staring out of these pages create an undeniable emotional connection with the reader. This book is highly recommended."—H-CivWar, H-Net Reviews "A fascinating window into the war's impact on the individual soldier . . . well researched and engagingly written. Any teacher of the Civil War would do well to consult this volume and incorporate some of the captivating tales into lectures and readings."—Journal of Military History

Archival images and biographical sketches of Union soldiers tell the stories of their lives during and after the Civil War. Before leaving to fight in the Civil War, many Union and Confederate soldiers posed for a carte de visite, or visiting card, to give to their families, friends, or sweethearts. Invented in 1854 by a French photographer, the carte de visite was a small photographic print roughly the size of a modern trading card. The format arrived in America on the eve of the Civil War, fueling intense demand for the keepsakes. Many cards of Civil War soldiers survive today, but the experiences?and often the names?of the individuals portrayed have been lost to time. A passionate collector of Civil War–era photography, Ron Coddington researched the history behind these anonymous faces in military records, pension files, and other public and personal documents. In Faces of the Civil War, Coddington presents 77 cartes de visite of Union soldiers from his collection and tells the stories of their lives during and after the war. These soldiers came from all walks of life. All were volunteers. Their personal stories reveal a tremendous diversity in their experience of war: many served with distinction, some were captured, some never saw combat while others saw little else. The lives of survivors were even more disparate. While some made successful transitions back to civilian life, others suffered permanent physical and mental disabilities, which too often wrecked their families and careers. In compelling words and haunting pictures, Faces of the Civil War offers a unique perspective on the most dramatic and wrenching period in American history.

Step into the heart of the Civil War era with Louisa May Alcott's Hospital Sketches. This poignant collection of letters offers a firsthand account of life in a Union hospital, filled with the courage, suffering, and humanity of soldiers and nurses alike. Alcott's vivid descriptions and personal reflections immerse you in a world of war, illness, and compassion. Through her eyes, you'll witness the strength of the human spirit even in the darkest of times.But here's the question that will challenge your perspective: How would you endure the trials of war, if you were caught between the suffering of others and the desire to help? What does Alcott's account teach us about resilience in the face of adversity? As you read, you'll encounter the raw emotions and unwavering determination of both nurses and soldiers. Alcott’s intimate portrayal of their struggles offers a window into a world shaped by conflict, yet filled with hope and kindness. Are you ready to explore the true cost of war through the eyes of one who lived it?Immerse yourself in these unforgettable sketches, where Alcott's powerful words bring history to life. Her personal experiences in the hospital offer a unique glimpse into the Civil War and the unspoken courage of those who served. This is more than a memoir—it's a call to honor the resilience of the human spirit. Purchase Hospital Sketches now, and step into a world where compassion triumphs over fear.Don't miss the chance to experience Louisa May Alcott’s powerful reflections on war and humanity. Buy Hospital Sketches today and witness history through the eyes of one of its most insightful chroniclers.

Many of the earliest books, particularly those dating back to the 1900s and before, are now extremely scarce and increasingly expensive. We are republishing these classic works in affordable, high quality, modern editions, using the original text and artwork.

The chief nurse of the Union Hospital in Washington, D.C., describes life and stress in the hospital and comments on notable persons of power. Her heretofore unpublished diary and letters comprise a fresh, hightly significan document concerning the medical history of the Civil War and the contributions of women nurses in the Northern military hospitals. This book is edited, with Introduction and Commentary, by John R. Brumgardt. Published by The University of Tennessee. 150 pages

She was called "The Florence Nightingale of America." From the fighting at Gettysburg to the capture of Richmond, this young Quaker nurse worked tirelessly to relieve the suffering of soldiers. She was one of the great heroines of the Union. Cornelia Hancock served in field and evacuating hospitals, in a contraband camp, and (defying authority) on the battlefield. Her letters to family members are witty, unsentimental, and full of indignation about the neglect of wounded soldiers and black refugees. Hancock was fiercely devoted to the welfare of the privates who had "nothing before them but hard marching, poor fare, and terrible fighting."

Reprint of the original, first published in 1866.