Posted by
AJH on Saturday, May 03, 2008 4:06:00 PM
I have been continuing to read and research my paper. My most recent visit has been to the Hatfield Library at Willamette University. There is a great section on Civil War history.
Some new resources I will be using include the memoirs of Generals Grant, Sherman and Sheridan. Sheridan provides the most material as he was actually part of the battle. From Sherman I have learned there was actually an official investigation into the battle and the actions of the various commanders, though everyone was acquitted of any charges.
For a few weeks following Perryville stories of all kinds full of speculation and conspiracy theories were common among the soldiers. Some direct quotes from letters and journals are quite revealing. The immediate command had lost all respect. I don't want to give it all away here, but it makes for a very interesting story and hopefully readable and enjoyable, even by those usually bored by history.
I have just purchased another book on the Kentucky Campaign. It was cheap, and I have decided to write a full book on the subject, concentrating on the 123rd Illinois Infantry. So much of the story is fascinating to me. It is compelling, and I love finding more tidbits everyday.
While doing some reading and research I've discovered that two branches of my family likely knew Abraham Lincoln personally. For several years, Lincoln's father Thomas lived only a few miles away from my ancestors. Although I doubt any of this will be in my final paper, I do intend on writing about it at some point during this summer.
Aside from the paper, I have been reading about the May blizzard in South Dakota, where I have several relatives. My parents were both born there, in the northeast. I am so glad to be living out west.