The Civil War Book

On this day in the Civil War, the Secretary of War , with President Lincoln’s approval, issues orders to release political prisoners who will take the oath of allegiance to the United States.

Edwin Stanton

Secretary of War

(Photo Credit: Library of Congress)

On this day in the Civil War, an attack on Fort Donelson occurs. The Confederate reinforcements are under the command of General John Floyd, and the Federal attack is led by Generals C.F. Smith and McClernand.

Storming of Fort Donelson

(Credit: Library of Congress)

On this day in the Civil War, President-elect Lincoln continues his journey to Washington. He makes numerous stops along the way to speak to crowds gathered along the route.

On this day in the Civil War, President-elect Abraham Lincoln leaves Springfield, Illinois to begin his journey to the inauguration in Washington.

Lincoln Home

Springfield, Illinois 

On this day in the Civil War, Union gunboats on the Tennessee River capture three Confederate vessels, while six more are burned to prevent their falling into Union hands.

Union Gunboat

(Credit: Library of Congress)