Order Your Copy Today
On this day in the Civil War, Federal mining engineer Colonel Henry Pleasants creates a plan to dig a tunnel toward Confederate earthworks at Petersburg.
When the tunnel is completed, the mine is to be filled with powder to blow up Confederate fortifications.
Petersburg, Virginia
On this day in the Civil War, Federal artillery increases shelling the besieged city of Vicksburg, Mississippi.
A civilian observer, in describing the condition of the population of Vicksburg, says, “There were some stores that had supplies, and the prices climbed steadily, but first nobody had the money, and then nobody had the supplies.”
Shirley House
Vicksburg, Mississippi
On this day in the Civil War, President Lincoln leaves Washington City on a trip to West Point.
He intends to discuss military strategies with retired Union General Winfield Scott.
General Winfield Scott
(Photo Credit: Library of Congress)
On this day in the Civil War, Confederate troops under General Robert E. Lee move into Chambersburg, Pa.
Chambersburg, Pa
Circa 1864
(Photo Credit: Library of Congress)
On this day in the Civil War, Union General U.S. Grant decides to extend the siege around Petersburg and cut Confederate supply lines.
Union General David Birney is ordered to seize the Weldon Railroad. General Birney dies of malaria in October 1864.
General David Birney
(Photo Credit: Library of Congress)
The Civil War Book 