The Civil War Book

On this day in the Civil War, General Ambrose Burnside, newly appointed head of the Federal Army of the Potomac, reorganizes the troops into three divisions. The head of the divisions are Generals Hooker, Franklin, and Sumner.

General Ambrose Burnside

(Photo Credit: Library of Congress)

On this day in the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln and personal secretary John Hay visit General George McClellan to discuss issues with the army. McClellan is not home and Lincoln waits over a half hour for the general’s arrival. McClellan enters the home, passes by Lincoln without acknowledging him, and proceeds upstairs. Lincoln waits additional time and asks McClellan’s servant to please get the general. The servant returns and tells Lincoln that the general has gone to bed. John Hay is livid and tells Lincoln that he cannot be treated this way. Lincoln responds, “I would hold McClellan’s horse if he would bring us victory.”

President Abraham Lincoln with his secretaries John Hay (standing) and John Nicolay

(Photo Credit: Library of Congress)

On this day in the Civil War, Confederate General James Longstreet arrives at Louden, Tennessee. He and General Joseph Wheeler are to organize an assault on Federal troops at Knoxville.

General James Longstreet

(Photo Credit: Library of Congress)

On this day in the Civil War, under the direction of Professor Thaddeus Lowe, balloon ascents take place on the Potomac River.

Thaddeus Lowe

(Photo Credit: Library of Congress)

(Photo Credit: Library of Congress) 

On this day in the Civil War, the Federal bombardment of Fort Sumter continues. Over a three day period almost 1,800 shells reduce the fort to rubble; however, the Confederates do not surrender.

Fort Sumter