Civil War Places

Much has been written about place and Civil War memory, but how do we personally remember and commemorate this part of our collective past? How do battlefields and other historic places help us understand our own history? What kinds of places are worth remembering and why? In this collection of essays, some of the most esteemed historians of the Civil War select a single meaningful place related to the war and narrate its significance. Included here are meditations on a wide assortment of places--Devil's Den at Gettysburg, Hollywood Cemetery in Richmond, the statue of William T. Sherman in New York's Central Park, Burnside Bridge at Antietam, the McLean House in Appomattox, and more. Paired with a contemporary photograph commissioned specifically for this book, each essay offers an unusual and accessible glimpse into how historians think about their subjects. In addition to the editors, contributors include Edward L. Ayers, Stephen Berry, William A. Blair, David W. Blight, Peter S. Carmichael, Frances M. Clarke, Catherine Clinton, Stephen Cushman, Stephen D. Engle, Drew Gilpin Faust, Sarah E. Gardner, Judith Giesberg, Lesley J. Gordon, A. Wilson Greene, Caroline E. Janney, Jacqueline Jones, Ari Kelman, James Marten, Carol Reardon, Aaron Sheehan-Dean, Brenda E. Stevenson, Elizabeth R. Varon, and Joan Waugh.

Although the exact number will never be known, it is estimated that there were over 10,000 military engagements during the Civil War. Most have long since been forgotten, but the places where a number of them were fought have been maintained as historic sites. Others have been memorialized by statues or markers, as have many Civil War leaders and soldiers. Arranged by state, this reference work provides capsule descriptions and information on Civil War sites and collections throughout the United States, including battlefields, memorial markers and statues, museums, cemeteries and other landmarks. In addition to the description, the address and telephone number for each are given, along with admission fees (if any) and policies, hours open and other pertinent information. For each state, there is a brief profile of its role during the Civil War and a timeline of significant battles or other events that took place there.

This guide brings history to life with richly detailed, engaging descriptions of the most important battle sites, museums, and reenactuments.

Provides information about places to visit and things to do to commemorate the anniversary of the beginning of the Civil War and provides descriptions and images for each entry, plus clear directions on where to look or how to get there.

Essays, maps, and illustrations provide information on every major battle and campaign of the Civil War battlefields.

Presents a guide to major Civil War sites in each state, documenting battlefields, museums, cemeteries, and monuments, with maps and information for travelers about addresses, hours, and admission fees.

Walk in the footsteps of history with this stunning volume that brings more than thirty Civil War battlefields to life. From the “First Battle of Bull Run” to Lee’s surrender at Appomattox Court House four years later, this book celebrates the history and scenic beauty of these hallowed grounds in a large-format, beautifully produced volume. Explore more than thirty Civil War battlefields— from Antietam to Chancellorsville, Gettysburg to Shiloh—including the first five national battlefield parks preserved by veterans in the 1890s. Each battlefield features extensive photos of the key sites and monuments, as well as beautiful landscapes and historic archival photography. The essays enable the reader to understand each battlefield from a strategic perspective—its topography, geography, and military value—the battle’s seminal moments, and its historical significance, and guide the reader on how best to tour the grounds on foot. With maps, rarely seen archival photos, and stunning contemporary photography, this photo- and information-packed book is an inspirational bucket list for Civil War and history buffs, as well as those who wish to walk in the literal boot steps of American history.

Carolina, to far-flung locales in California and New Mexico. Book jacket.