Experiencing History: Pictures from Appomattox: Part 3 Soldier Life

Today, I’ll share a collection of photos about the life of a soldier.

Campground:

Can you imagine, opening  your front door and finding this on your lawn? Everywhere they went, they were on someone’s property. Someone’s field. Someone’s barnyard. Someone’s home.

 

The men used tents of various shapes and sizes. Basically, whatever was available. Here’s a nice example of a group of men that chose to throw their lot in together and build a palace.

 

If they were lucky, they had hay. Our friends in the picture above didn’t.

 

And here we have the kitchen.

 

We complain about school food, but they had it far worse. Since they didn’t have the food preserving technology that we have now, their rations were often served with maggots. It’s sad but true.

Infantry Drill:

 

 

The United States Christian Commission was a vital operation to the soldier. There were several other organizations like this one, but the USCC is the most well known and the most organized during the war. Their purpose was to collect and distribute common items like: food, clothing, blankets, medical supplies, and Bibles. Here are a few pictures showing these angels at work.

🙂 In this picture, the men are enjoying a game of cards, but don’t worry, they’re not gambling! And yes, I did ask. 😉

 

Artillery Demo:

Cavalry Demo:

 

One of the most important people to any regiment was their flag bearer.

 

But not all their fighting was done on horseback.

Last but not least. Another important member of the army was the band. No army was complete without one. These men helped give orders, wake up calls, and boosted morale.