Member-only story

The Civil War Letters And Diary Of Four Brothers In The 10th Vermont Infantry

Carter Hayes

·4.2k Followers· Follow

Published in Bully For The Band : The Civil War Letters And Diary Of Four Brothers In The 10th Vermont Infantry Band

4 min read · 2 weeks before

1.4k View Claps

81 Respond

Save

Listen

“Bully for the Band!”: The Civil War Letters and Diary of Four Brothers in the 10th Vermont Infantry Band

by Herbert George

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5481 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	300 pages

Step into the heart of the American Civil War through the compelling voices of four valiant brothers who fought in the 10th Vermont Infantry. Their letters and diary, meticulously preserved for generations, offer a poignant and illuminating account of the conflict from the frontlines.

A Tapestry of Perspectives

Meet the four brothers: George W., Henry H., John P., and Charles E. Phelps. Their backgrounds were as diverse as their experiences in the war. George W., the eldest, was a seasoned farmer and family man. Henry H., a skilled carpenter, found himself thrust into the thick of battle. John P., the youngest, brought youthful enthusiasm and a deep sense of duty to the conflict. Charles E., the historian of the family, meticulously recorded their experiences in a diary that would become an invaluable historical record.

A Photograph Of The Four Phelps Brothers In Their Union Army Uniforms. Bully For The Band : The Civil War Letters And Diary Of Four Brothers In The 10th Vermont Infantry Band

Witnessing the Tumult

Through their heartfelt letters, the Phelps brothers convey the horrors and triumphs of the Civil War with unflinching honesty. They describe the brutal battles, the agonizing wounds, and the profound losses that tested their limits. Yet, amidst the darkness, they also reveal moments of camaraderie, resilience, and hope.

Henry H. Phelps's letter from the Battle of Gettysburg is a particularly vivid account of the conflict's intensity:

"The battle raged with great fury... The roar of artillery was deafening. The air was filled with smoke and the smell of gunpowder. I saw men fall all around me, some killed instantly, others writhing in pain."

A Window into History

The diary of Charles E. Phelps serves as a chronicle of the brothers' experiences. In its pages, we find detailed descriptions of camp life, marches, and battles. Charles's meticulous observations provide invaluable insights into the daily realities of a Civil War soldier.

One entry from Charles's diary captures the camaraderie and sacrifice that defined the 10th Vermont Infantry:

"We have formed strong bonds with our fellow soldiers. We share our hopes and fears, our dreams and our losses. When one of our comrades falls, it is as if we have lost a part of ourselves."

Legacy of Honor

The Phelps brothers' letters and diary not only offer a glimpse into the past but also serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human soul. Their courage, resilience, and determination in the face of adversity inspire us to this day.

The Civil War Letters And Diary Of Four Brothers In The 10th Vermont Infantry is an essential read for anyone interested in the American Civil War, military history, or the power of the human spirit. It is a timeless account that captivates and informs, leaving an indelible mark on the reader long after the final page is turned.

Embrace the opportunity to journey through the Civil War alongside four extraordinary brothers. Their words will transport you to a time of great turmoil and sacrifice, reminding us of the resilience and courage that resides within us all.

“Bully for the Band!”: The Civil War Letters and Diary of Four Brothers in the 10th Vermont Infantry Band

by Herbert George

5 out of 5