• Offers latest information on sources and techniques, including online resources • Contains contact information for hundreds of sources • Provides examples of specific documents included in genealogical research It has been more than 40 years since the last comprehensive guide to tracing and researching Civil War ancestors was published. The Civil War Research Guide goes beyond, but does not exclude, such major national sources such as the National Archives in Washington, and features information on little-known publications, websites, auctions, memorabilia dealers, and patriotic organizations. The authors lay out a systematic procedure for performing research and recording the results in order to build a proper file on a Civil War soldier, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

"With all the many hundreds of books on the Civil War coming out every year and thousands now available on line, the challenge for the non-professional Civil War researcher is to zero in on the relevant material that will aid in your research. John Rigdon, a professional Civil War researcher, and author of dozens of Civil War books has finally authored a volume that will aid your research in Georgia. The book is 250 pages in length and it will open up the universe of materials available to you in a way never shown before." --Publisher description.

This book is designed to aid and guide your research of South Carolina in the Civil War. Many beginning and some experienced researchers try to do their research in a vacuum, without considering that all of our ancestors were involved in different social, cultural, religious, and political events. Many participated in wars, had extended families, and worked either on a farm or at other business activities. A proper study of these ancillary events that made up their lives is not only rewarding, but is the key to turning up the golden nuggets or clues for proceeding with your research. To accomplish genealogy research within the broader context of historical sociology or social history, approach your research topic considering the relevancy and interaction of each of the following elements with your subject: political, cultural, economic, linguistic, legal, geographical, and chronological. Basically research can be broken down into 3 areas: People Places Events This book focuses on the people from South Carolina who fought in the war. In a concise, well-organized format, we show you how to identify and organize the research materials for South Carolina. It also explains where to look for historical documents concerning Civil War soldiers, their regiments, and the actions of their regiments. We explain how to use the National Archives, (for Union regiments), State Archives (for Confederate regiments), historical and genealogical societies, Civil War shows, books, auctions, and web sites. In addition to providing sound research methodology, this guide provides an array of helpful research materials. The appendices also contain contact information for museums, libraries, and archives in South Carolina. This book is an effective time-saver and a valuable resource for people interested in investi-gating their ancestor's Civil War experiences. It is a must-have for amateur historians and a useful tool for those already conducting research.

Dr. Richard A. Sauers has drawn upon his many years of Civil War research experience to produce this handy guide to both traditional and electronic sources that will aid in almost any Civil War project.