Life Stories of Civil War Heroes

Learn about the lives of Civil War heroes: General Philip Kearny, General Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain, Colonel Robert Gould Shaw, Clara Barton, Corporal Charles Hopkins, Major Henry Lee Higginson...and more.

Biographies and Stories of Civil War Heroes

This page provides links to biographies and stories of Philip Kearny, Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain, Robert Gould Shaw, Clara Barton, Charles Hopkins, Henry Lee Higginson.

Index to Philip Kearny's Pages

Kearny's courage earned him the respect of his soldiers and fellow officers alike, the greatest of which came from General-in-Chief Winfield Scott who called him 'the bravest and most perfect soldier' he had ever known.

The Biography of Philip Kearny

Biography of General Philip Kearny (1815-1862). Kearny's courage earned him the respect of his soldiers and fellow officers alike, the greatest of which came from General-in-Chief Winfield Scott who called him 'the bravest and most perfect soldier' he had ever known.

Welcome to 1st Dragoon's Civil War Site

Welcome to 'Voices from the Fields,' 'Life Stories of Civil War Heroes,' and 'Poetry and Sketches of the Great War.' These Web sites have been established in memory of soldiers who served in the American Civil War or in World War One.

Contents of 1st Dragoon's Civil War Site

This page provides a list of contents at this site: 'Life Stories of Civil War Heroes.' Publication dates are included.

Philip Kearny and the Battle of Solferino

The Battle of Solferino, fought in northern Italy in 1859, was a key battle in military history.

The Fifth New York at Second Manassas

Hiram Duryea reflects on the Fifth New York in the Battle of Second Manassas.

Monuments to New York Regiments at Manassas

This page features monuments to New York regiments at Manassas Battlefield Park: 5th New York, 10th New York, 14th Brooklyn.

Remembering Our Civil War Veterans

Our Civil War veterans are honored in words by Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain, Hiram Duryea, Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr., and Brian Pohanka. Also included are write-ups on Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and Remembrance Day.

Memorial Day Address by Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.

This Memorial Day address written by Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. and delivered by him on May 30, 1884, contains memorable words about the noble deeds of fallen Civil War heroes.

Friends of Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.

Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. recognized his Civil War comrades and friends in his Memorial Day address, in which he proclaimed that in youth their 'hearts were touched with fire.'

Friends of Henry Lee Higginson

Henry Lee Higginson valued friendship above all else. His circle of friends included: Charles Russell Lowell, James Savage, Stephen George Perkins, Robert Gould Shaw, James Jackson Lowell, and Dr. Edward Dalton.

Index to Robert Gould Shaw's Pages

In just a few months with the 54th Massachusetts regiment, Colonel Robert Gould Shaw transformed from 'an ordinary mortal' to a compassionate and selfless leader who 'laid down his life' for his men and 'for a race.' This is what makes him a true hero.

The Biography of Robert Gould Shaw

Biography of Robert Gould Shaw (1837-1863). In just a few months with the 54th Massachusetts regiment, Shaw transformed from 'an ordinary mortal' to a compassionate and selfless leader who 'laid down his life' for his men and 'for a race.' This is what makes him a true hero.

The Raid on Darien, Georgia

Colonel Robert Gould Shaw writes a letter to his wife Annie about the recent raid on the town of Darien in the summer of 1863.

The Shaw Memorial

Shown on this page is the plaster cast of The Shaw Memorial that honors Colonel Robert Gould Shaw and his troops, the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Regiment.

Portraits of Valor

Depictions of valor during the Civil War era can be found in poetry, paintings, and photos in this section of 'Life Stories of Civil War Heroes.'

The Brave at Home

This page features the poem 'The Brave at Home,' by Thomas Buchanan Read. Also featured are paintings by Civil War-era artists.

In Memory of Philip Kearny

General Kearny is remembered through the Kearny Cross and Kearny Medal, in the poem 'Kearny at Seven Pines' by Edmund Clarence Stedman, and in the lithograph 'Death of General Philip Kearny' by Allen C. Redwood.

The Unsung Heroes

'The Unsung Heroes' is a poem by Paul Laurence Dunbar, an African-American poet who lived during the Civil War era.

The Blue and the Gray

Civil War-era poem 'The Blue and the Gray' by Francis Miles Finch.

The Women Who Went to the Field

This poem by Clara Barton honors the women of the Civil War who aided countless soldiers on the battlefield.

Ode

This poem by Henry Timrod of Charleston, South Carolina honors the Confederate dead on the occasion of Confederate Memorial Day.

The Artilleryman's Vision

This poem by Walt Whitman describes an artilleryman's view of the battlefield upon reflecting on the Civil War after it ended.

Only a Private

This poem by Margaret Junkin Preston, sister-in-law of General Thomas Stonewall Jackson, is universal in its subject and appeal.

Life of the Common Soldier

Find out how the common Civil War soldier lived in the field in this section of 'Life Stories of Civil War Heroes.' Included are passages by Union soldiers Daniel Crotty, John West Haley, and Edward Murray, and Confederate soldiers Sam Watkins and Randolph Shotwell, and modern day writer Dutch Hoffmann. Also included are songs and recipes, and illustrations by Charles W. Reed.

Tales of Dutch Hoffmann

Dutch Hoffmann of Terry's Texas Rangers tells his Civil War tale in letters to 1st Dragoon.

The Bottle of Moonshine

Fictional letter from Dutch Hoffmann of Terry's Texas Rangers, dated April 4, 1862.

The Battle at Murfreesboro

Fictional letter from Dutch Hoffmann of Terry's Texas Rangers, dated July 21, 1862.

Story of the Stars

Fictional letter from Dutch Hoffmann of Terry's Texas Rangers, dated December 12, 1862.

A Syrupy River of Mud

Fictional letter from Dutch Hoffmann of Terry's Texas Rangers, dated March 15, 1863.

A Christmas Cabin

Fictional letter from Dutch Hoffmann of Terry's Texas Rangers, dated December 28, 1863.

Tale of the Prodigal Pistol

Fictional letter from Dutch Hoffmann of Terry's Texas Rangers, dated January 16, 1864.

The Magnificent Cake

Fictional letter from Dutch Hoffmann of Terry's Texas Rangers, dated March 9, 1864.

The Civil War Memoirs of Daniel Crotty

Selected excerpts from Daniel Crotty's memoirs, 'Four Years Campaigning in the Army of the Potomac,' are presented for insight into the life of the common Federal soldier.

In the Words of Sam Watkins

Selected excerpts from Sam Watkins' memoirs, 'Co. Aytch: A Sideshow of the Big Show,' are presented for insight into the life of the common Confederate soldier.

Singing for Their Supper: The Common Soldier's Fare

The fare of the common soldier may not have always been very tasty or palatable but was often a topic of discussion amongst the men in the ranks, as well as the subject of songs, correspondence, and journal entries. Included on this page are passages by Confederate Private Randolph A. Shotwell and Union Private Edward Murray, songs and recipes, and illustrations by Charles W. Reed.

Pages from My Civil War Journal

This section of 'Life Stories of Civil War Heroes' features stories, letters, and images from the lives of people who lived during the Civil War.

Robert E. Lee's Letter to His Daughter Anne

Robert E. Lee's letter to his daughter Anne reveals the gentler side of the stalwart general.

The Last Days of Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln's last days are remembered today in Ford's Theatre and Museum, at the Petersen House across the street from the theatre, and in poetry by poets such as Walt Whitman.

Jefferson Davis in Richmond

Jefferson Davis's most famous residence was at the Executive Mansion, also known as the White House of the Confederacy. Richmond was a significant place for Davis during and after the war. Davis and many of his family members are buried at Hollywood Cemetery in Richmond.

Ulysses Grant's Thoughts after the Surrender

Ulysses S. Grant's Personal Memoirs are considered an important source for military students. This excerpt from his memoirs express his thoughts after the surrender at Appomattox.

Vinnie Ream: Sculpting a Name for Herself in History

Though the name may not be familiar to many visitors of the Capitol today, during the post-Civil War days 'Vinnie Ream' was the talk of the town.

General Thomas 'Stonewall' Jackson: Life of a Resolute Soldier in Lexington

Stonewall Jackson had accomplished much through persistence and perseverance. He earned respect from his fellow man and also earned his place in history as a legendary figure of the Civil War.

Links to Civil War Sites

This page provides links to Civil War Web sites.

Another Look at the Civil War

This page features another look at the Civil War, as expressed in diary excerpts, photos, illustrations, and commentaries.

From the Diary of Clara Solomon

Clara Solomon was 16 when the war began. A native of New Orleans, she was the second of six daughters born to Solomon and Emma Solomon, members of an elite group of Sephardic Jews.

The Battle of Shiloh

Clara Solomon writes in her diary of the Battle of Shiloh from newspaper accounts.

Family and Friends Lost in the Battle of Shiloh

Clara Solomon writes in her diary of friends and their family members lost in the Battle of Shiloh.

Collecting Goods for the Hospital at Corinth

Clara Solomon writes in her diary of her school's collection of goods for the hospital at Corinth.

Federal Occupation of New Orleans

Clara Solomon writes in her diary of the Federal's occupation of New Orleans.

Orders Issued by General Butler

Clara Solomon writes in her diary of general orders issued to the citizens of New Orleans during Union occupation.

Civil War Places

This photo essay features significant places relevant to the Civil War, organized in chronological order by occurrence of the historical event.

Places: Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

This photo shows the stone foundation ruins of the armory at Harpers Ferry.

Places: Fort Sumter National Monument

Depicted in this photo is an image of Fort Sumter, taken during our Charleston Harbor tour.

Places: Manassas National Battlefield Park

These photos depict the Henry House, Brawner Farm, and Deep Cut from Manassas (Bull Run) Battlefield.

Places: Antietam National Battlefield

Depicted in these photos are Burnside Bridge and the Sunken Road from Antietam National Battlefield.

Places: Fredericksburg National Military Park

Depicted in these photos are sites from Fredericksburg Battlefield, including a view of the town across the Rappahannock River, and the Stone Wall on Marye's Heights.

Places: Chancellorsville Battlefield

This photo shows the position of the Confederates in the Hazel Grove at Chancellorsville.

Places: Gettysburg National Military Park

Depicted in these photos are images of the Culp's Hill, farmlands, the Valley of Death, the left of the Union line on Little Round Top, and The Angle.

Places: Olustee Battlefield State Historic Site

Pictured here is an image of the pine woods and palmetto shrubs of Olustee Battlefield.

Places: Spotsylvania National Military Park

This photo show the Bloody Angle and the monument to the 15th New Jersey Infantry.

Places: Cold Harbor Battlefield

This photo shows the original trenches dug by General Anderson's men during the engagement at Cold Harbor.

Places: Petersburg National Battlefield

Depicted in these photos are sites from Petersburg Battlefield.

Places: Appomattox Court House National Historic Park

Depicted in these photos are Appomattox Court House N.H.P.'s Clover Hill Tavern, Wilmer McLean House, and Surrender Triangle.

Places: Monuments in Savannah and Arlington

Depicted in these photos are Confederate monuments in Forsyth Park and monuments in Arlington National Cemetery.

1st Dragoon's Civil War Site News

Welcome to 'Voices from the Fields,' 'Life Stories of Civil War Heroes,' and 'Poetry and Sketches of the Great War.' These Web sites have been established in memory of soldiers who served in the American Civil War or in World War One.

The Battle of Olustee (Ocean Pond)

Seven months after their gallant charge on Fort Wagner, the 54th Massachusetts Colored Infantry was engaged in the Battle of Olustee (Ocean Pond) under their new commander Colonel Edward Needles Hallowell. This battle of the Florida Campaign would be the largest battle of the Civil War fought in the state.

Places Seen by the 54th Massachusetts

Depicted in these photos are places seen by the 54th Massachusetts.

The Biography of Henry Lee Higginson, Page 1

The biography of Henry Lee Higginson (1834-1919). The first of two parts tells of his boyhood days, and his adult years as an amateur musician and Civil War soldier.

Henry Lee Higginson and the 1st Massachusetts Cavalry at the Battle of Aldie

For Major Henry Lee Higginson—who commanded a battalion of two squadrons led by Captains Lucius Sargent and John Tewksbury—this would be the fiercest of all contests in which he and the 1st Massachusetts Cavalry would engage during the Civil War.

Remembering Their Comrades at Aldie

The following is an excerpt from the book A History of the First Regiment of Massachusetts Cavalry Volunteers by Benjamin W. Crowninshield, Major First Massachusetts Cavalry and Brevet Colonel U.S.V.

Index to Henry Lee Higginson's Pages

From Henry Lee Higginson's boyhood days, to his adult years as an amateur musician, Civil War soldier, Boston banker, founder of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Harvard benefactor, and philanthropist, Higginson felt 'a deep and passionate wish that we should live according to our highest ideals.'

The Biography of Henry Lee Higginson, Page 2

The biography of Henry Lee Higginson (1834-1919) continues with his years as a civilian, Boston banker, founder of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, Harvard benefactor, and philanthropist.

Henry Lee Higginson's Soldiers Field Address

Henry's first contribution to Harvard College was land that he asked be used for athletic functions and named Soldiers Field, in honor of six friends and comrades who died as a result of service to their country in the Civil War.

The Life Story of Henry Lee Higginson: Part I

This section of Henry Lee Higginson's story begins with his birth in New York City, and continues through his boyhood years, up until the first half of his adulthood.

The Life Story of Henry Lee Higginson: Part II, Page 1

This section of Henry Lee Higginson's story begins with his enlistment as a Union officer in the Civil War.

Thoughts on Life, Dreams, and Pursuits by Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.

A few of the words of wisdom by Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. are presented on this page, along images of the former associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court and his gravesite.

The Life Story of Henry Lee Higginson: Part II, Page 2

This section of Henry Lee Higginson's story continues with the death of his friends and comrades in the Civil War.

The Life Story of Henry Lee Higginson: Part II, Page 3

Henry Lee Higginson's story continues with his war diary, and concludes with his final days in the Civil War.

The Life Story of Henry Lee Higginson: Part II, Page 4

Henry Lee Higginson's story continues with his war diary, and concludes with his final days in the Civil War.

The Life Story of Henry Lee Higginson: Part III, Page 1

Henry Lee Higginson's early business ventures may have been a failure, but his founding of the Boston Symphony Orchestra brought a lasting treasure to the world.

The Life Story of Henry Lee Higginson: Part III, Page 2

Henry's first contribution to Harvard College was land that he asked be used for athletic functions and named Soldiers Field, in honor of six friends and comrades who died as a result of service to their country in the Civil War.

The Life Story of Henry Lee Higginson: Part III, Page 3

From the late 1800s throughout the early 1900s, Henry contributed to numerous schools and universities. His letters to friends and associates, and his addresses to students show his gift of wisdom.

The Life Story of Henry Lee Higginson: Part III, Page 4

The final chapter of Higginson's story tells his thoughts on WWI, and how the war affected him and members of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.

Acknowledgments for The Life Story of Henry Lee Higginson

The articles in this collection would not have been posted here if it were not for Brian Pohanka who introduced me to Henry Lee Higginson. I am grateful for
Brian's encouragement, assistance and inspiration throughout this project, and for his significant contributions to this body of work.

Henry L. Higginson's Thoughts on Charles Lowell and Stephen Perkins

In 1907, Edward Waldo Emerson's 'Life and Letters of Charles Russell Lowell' was published, citing in it a letter from Henry Lee Higginson to Emerson. In this letter, Higginson shares his thoughts on friends from childhood who died during the war: Charles Lowell and Stephen Perkins. He remembered these friends all his life, and what they represented to him motivated Higginson's actions in his later adulthood.

Henry Lee Higginson: "A Great Private Citizen"

In March 1920, four months after Henry Lee Higginson's death, an article about Higginson by Mark DeWolfe Howe was published in the 'Atlantic Monthly.' The excerpts that follow are from this article, with accompanying comments by Brian Pohanka.

Remembering Henry Lee Higginson

In March 1920, four months after Henry Lee Higginson's death, an article about Higginson by Mark DeWolfe Howe was published in the 'Atlantic Monthly.' The excerpts that follow are from this article, with accompanying comments by Brian Pohanka.

Brian Pohanka's Thoughts about Henry Lee Higginson

Historian Brian Pohanka writes that 'Henry Lee Higginson was a wonderful man, one of my favorite people. Student, aspiring musician, traveler, soldier,
businessman, banker, philanthropist, founder of the Boston Symphony Orchestra--Higginson led a full life, a long life. His example is so noteworthy, valuable and inspiring.'

Memorial Day Address by Charles Hopkins

Charles Hopkins delivers a Memorial Day address to New Jersey veterans on May 31, 1920

Index to Charles Hopkins's Pages

Charles Hopkins revealed the true hero within himself through his positive thoughts, words, and deeds: from his selfless act of rescuing his sergeant on the battlefield--though he himself was twice wounded--to his hopeful spirit he maintained while imprisoned at Andersonville.

The Biography of Charles F. Hopkins, Page 1

Biography of Charles F. Hopkins (1842-1934). From his selfless act of rescuing his sergeant on the battlefield though he himself was twice wounded, to his hopeful spirit he maintained while imprisoned at Andersonville, Hopkins revealed the true hero within himself through his positive thoughts, words, and deeds.

The Biography of Charles F. Hopkins, Page 2

Biography of Charles F. Hopkins (1842-1934). From his selfless act of rescuing his sergeant on the battlefield though he himself was twice wounded, to his hopeful spirit he maintained while imprisoned at Andersonville, Hopkins revealed the true hero within himself through his positive thoughts, words, and deeds.

Philip Kearny at the Battle of Chantilly

During the Battle of Chantilly General Philip Kearny was killed, along with General Isaac Stevens. Kearny's final burial spot is at Arlington National Cemetery.

The Significance of Veterans Day

The history and meaning of Veterans Day, a national holiday formerly called Armistice Day, is featured on this page.

The Gettysburg Address

The Gettysburg Address was delivered by President Abraham Lincoln on November 19, 1863, on the former battlefield in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

The Battle on Little Round Top

This page features excerpts from Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain's 'Through Blood and Fire at Gettysburg:' Death's Soft Whisper and Unforgotten Sons of God.

Index to Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain's Pages

Joshua Chamberlain served in more than 20 engagements, was wounded six times, and finished his service breveted Major General. His final honor came when General Ulysses S. Grant designated him to receive the first flag of surrender at Appomattox Court House.

The Biography of Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain

Biography of Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain (1828-1914). Chamberlain would serve in more than 20 engagements, be wounded six times, and finish his service breveted Major General. His final honor would come when General Ulysses S. Grant designated him to receive the first flag of surrender at Appomattox Court House.

Fredericksburg: A Bivouac with the Dead

'A Bivouac with the Dead,' from 'My Story of Fredericksburg,' by Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain.

Gettysburg: Through Blood and Fire

'To the Rescue or All is Lost!,' from 'Through Blood and Fire at Gettysburg,' by Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain.

Appomattox: The Last Campaign

Excerpt from the chapter entitled 'Appomattox,' from 'The Passing of the Armies,' by Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain.

Disbandment: The Passing of the Armies

'Excerpt from Disbandment,' chapter from 'The Passing of the Armies,' by Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain.

The Inspirational Words of Joshua Chamberlain

This page features excerpts from Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain's 'Through Blood and Fire at Gettysburg:' Death's Soft Whisper and Unforgotten Sons of God.

Index to Clara Barton's Pages

Clara Barton is best known as being the founder of the American Red Cross and, prior to this significant achievement, as a nurse who tended to countless wounded soldiers on Civil War battlefields. Her tireless, compassionate work during the Battle of Antietam in the Civil War would inspire praise of her as being 'the true heroine of the age, the angel of the battlefield.'

The Biography of Clara Barton, Page 1

Biography of Clara Barton (1821-1912). Clara Barton is best known as being the founder of the American Red Cross and, prior to this significant achievement, as a nurse who tended to countless wounded soldiers on Civil War battlefields. Her tireless, compassionate work during the Battle of Antietam in the Civil War would inspire praise of her as being 'the true heroine of the age, the angel of the battlefield.'

The Biography of Clara Barton, Page 2

Biography of Clara Barton (1821-1912). Clara Barton is best known as being the founder of the American Red Cross and, prior to this significant achievement, as a nurse who tended to countless wounded soldiers on Civil War battlefields. Her tireless, compassionate work during the Battle of Antietam in the Civil War would inspire praise of her as being 'the true heroine of the age, the angel of the battlefield.'

Monument to Clara Barton at Antietam

A monument to Clara Barton was raised at Antietam National Battlefield, in honor of 'the Angel of the Battlefield' for her supplies and aid to the wounded soldiers.

Places in the Life of Clara Barton

Depicted in these photos are significant places in the life of Clara Barton.

Sketch of a Civil War Hospital Patient

Louisa May Alcott's compassionate heart and brave soul are evident in this passage from 'Hospital Sketches.'

Kearny's Corner

This page is dedicated to the memory of General Philip Kearny and features stories and anecdotes about the heroic warrior.

A Dashing Dragoon: The Murat of the American Army

Writer Mayne Reid who served in the Mexican War writes about Philip Kearny whom he considered 'the image of as fine a dragoon officer as ever drew sabre or set foot in a stirrup'.

Index to Brian C. Pohanka's Pages

This page includes links to pages containing content contributed by Brian Pohanka. For all his notable and innumerable accomplishments, he was perhaps most widely recognized for his commentary in the 'Civil War Journal' series on the History Channel; as an extra in films such as 'Cold Mountain' and 'Glory' and as captain of the 5th New York (Duryee Zouaves) Volunteers Infantry, Company A, living history organization.

A Memorial Tribute to Brian C. Pohanka: Page 1

Despite the publicity he received for his work, Brian Pohanka was a private person who did not seek the limelight. He was among the Civil War battlefield preservationist pioneers of the late 1980s whose efforts would found what is known today as the Civil War Preservation Trust. A student of not only the Civil War, but also the Great War (World War I) and the Battle at Little Bighorn, Brian unselfishly shared his knowledge and time with those who were not even among his peers. His loyalty to the soldiers he admired was reflected in his ceaseless service towards honoring their memory.

A Memorial Tribute to Brian C. Pohanka: Page 2

As I came to know Brian better, I shared with him some recent poems I had written, and he shared with me his interest in the Great War (World War I) and his fondness for poetry from that era. On several occasions, Brian had visited WWI battlefields in Northern France on the Western Front.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Wilfred Owen

Under Sassoon's mentorship, Owen's poetry flourished, expressing the brutal realities of combat in an innovative way. Shot and killed one week before the war ended, Owen was awarded the Military Cross for serving with distinction. Most of his works were published posthumously by Sassoon.

Voices from the Fields: Introduction

Voices from the Fields features poetry and sketches of the Great War.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry

This section of the site features poetry by Laurence Binyon, Rupert Brooke, G.K. Chesterton, Wilfrid Wilson Gibson, Thomas Hardy, Joyce Kilmer, Robert Nichols, Wilfred Owen, Isaac Rosenberg, Siegfried Sassoon, Alan Seeger, Charles Sorley, and W.B. Yeats.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches

This section of the site features writings and images pertaining to the Great War.

Voices from the Fields: Links

The links page for Voices from the Fields features links to other Great War sites and poetry sites.

Voices from the Fields: Contact

Voices from the Fields features poetry and sketches of the Great War.

Voices from the Fields: Comments

This section of the site includes a bibliography and dedication page.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry and Sketches of the Great War

Voices from the Fields features poetry and sketches from the Great War.

Welcome to 1st Dragoon's Web Sites

Welcome to 'Voices from the Fields,' 'Life Stories of Civil War Heroes,' and 'Poetry and Sketches of the Great War.' These Web sites have been established in memory of soldiers who served in the American Civil War or in World War One.

Voices from the Fields: Comments: Bibliography

This section of the site includes a bibliography.

Welcome to 1st Dragoon's Web Sites

Welcome to 'Voices from the Fields,' 'Life Stories of Civil War Heroes,' and 'Poetry and Sketches of the Great War.' These Web sites have been established in memory of soldiers who served in the American Civil War or in World War One.

Voices from the Fields: Comments: Site Dedication

This section of the site includes a dedication to Brian Pohanka, contributor to this site.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Brian Pohanka

Historian and writer Brian Pohanka is a major contributor to this site. Over the past decade, Brian has visited a number of Great War battlefields on his trips to France.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Excerpt from Ceux de 14

This excerpt from Maurice Genevoix's Ceux de 14 is a translation from the French by Brian Pohanka.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Gravesite of Joyce Kilmer

This text and image of Joyce Kilmer's gravesite are provided by Brian Pohanka.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: In Honor of Veterans

The photo and beginning text in this piece are both provided by Brian Pohanka.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Saki Remembered at Thiepval

The photo and text in this piece are both provided by Brian Pohanka.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: The Somme, Beaumont Hamel

This photo and comment are provided by Brian Pohanka.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Serre Road Cemetery No. 2

This photo and comment are provided by Brian Pohanka.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: A Tribute to Alan Seeger

This comment is provided by Brian Pohanka.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: John M. Powers Album Photos

The photos and commentary in this piece are provided by Brian Pohanka.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Part 1, Belloy-en-Santerre and NW

In Part 1, Brian Pohanka writes of his visit to Belloy-en-Santerre, and northwest of this region.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Part 2, Flaucourt, Bray, Albert, and La Boiselle

In Part 2, Brian Pohanka writes of his visit to Flaucourt, Bray, Albert, and La Boiselle.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Part 3, Y-Sap, Lochnager Craters

In Part 3, Brian Pohanka writes of his visit to La Boiselle and the Y-Sap and Lochnager Craters.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Part 4, Memorials, Thiepval

In Part 4, Brian Pohanka writes of his visit to La Boiselle, the Memorials, and Thiepval.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Part 5, Ulster Memorial Tower, Beaumont Hamel

In Part 1, Somme, Brian Pohanka writes of his visit to the Thiepval Memorial to the Missing.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Part 6, The Somme

In Part 6, Brian Pohanka writes of his visit to the Somme.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Part 7, The Fallen Soldier

In Part 7, Brian Pohanka writes of 2nd Lieutenant David Cuthbert Thomas.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Part 8, Mametz Wood

In Part 8, Brian Pohanka writes of his visit to Mametz Wood.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Part 9, Delville Wood, High Wood, and Martinpuich

In Part 9, Brian Pohanka writes of his visit to Delville Wood, High Wood, and Martinpuich.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Part 10, Newfoundland Memorial Park

In Part 9, Brian Pohanka writes of his visit to Newfoundland Memorial Park.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Part 11, Hawthorne Crater, Auchonvilliers

In Part 11, Brian Pohanka writes of his visit to Hawthorne Crater and Auchonvillers.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Part 12, Arras

In Part 12, Brian Pohanka writes of his visit to Arras.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Part 13, Proyart and La Haute Chevauchee

In Part 13, Brian Pohanka writes of his visit to Proyart, and La Haute Chevauchee.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Part 14, Mort Homme and Fort Vaux

In Part 14, Brian Pohanka writes of his visit to Mort Homme and Fort Vaux.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Part 15, Verdun

In Part 15, Brian Pohanka writes of his visit to Verdun.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Siegfried Sassoon

After the war, he produced a series of semi-autobiographical novels that pursued an anti-war theme. Siegfried's Journey, 1916-20, published in 1945, completes this series of works. A collection of his poetry from 1908 to 1956 included many poems with religious themes. Sassoon was awarded the Military Cross for serving with distinction.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Absolution

This WWI poem is by Siegfried Sassoon.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Blighters

This WWI poem is by Siegfried Sassoon.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: The Kiss

This WWI poem is by Siegfried Sassoon.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: The Redeemer

This WWI poem is by Siegfried Sassoon.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Suicide in the Trenches

This WWI poem is by Siegfried Sassoon.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Wilfred Owen

Under Sassoon's mentorship, Owen's poetry flourished, expressing the brutal realities of combat in an innovative way. Shot and killed one week before the war ended, Owen was awarded the Military Cross for serving with distinction. Most of his works were published posthumously by Sassoon.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Asleep

This WWI poem is by Wilfred Owen.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: At a Calvary near the Ancre

This WWI poem is by Wilfred Owen.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Conscious

This WWI poem is by Wilfred Owen.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Disabled

This WWI poem is by Wilfred Owen.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Greater Love

This WWI poem is by Wilfred Owen.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: The Next War

This WWI poem is by Wilfred Owen.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: 1914

This WWI poem is by Wilfred Owen.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: The Parable of the Old Man and the Young

This WWI poem is by Wilfred Owen.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: The Sentry

This WWI poem is by Wilfred Owen.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Smile, Smile, Smile

This WWI poem is by Wilfred Owen.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Spring Offensive

This WWI poem is by Wilfred Owen.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Alan Seeger

In 1912 Seeger moved to Paris, and two years later joined the French Foreign Legion. Wounded in 1915, he was killed in action a year later during a charge on the Somme. The poems Seeger wrote at the Front were not published until a year after his death.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: I have a Rendezvous with Death

This WWI poem is by Alan Seeger.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Joyce Kilmer

His first volume of poetry was published in 1911 and received high acclaim, while his 1914 collection Trees and Other Poems included his lyric poem 'Trees' that won him popular recognition.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Rouge Bouquet

This WWI poem is by Joyce Kilmer.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Laurence Binyon

In his occupations, he was Keeper of Prints and Drawings at the British Museum; and a lecturer and professor at educational institutions such as Harvard University (1933-34), and the University of Athens. His publications include collections of his verse, plays, books on art, and a translation of Dante's Divine Comedy.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Fetching the Wounded

This WWI poem is by Laurence Binyon.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: The Unreturning Spring

This WWI poem is by Laurence Binyon.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Rupert Brooke

Poems, his first collection of poems, was published in 1911. Personal experiences of his visit to the United States and Canada are detailed in Letters from America, published in 1916.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: The Dead

This WWI poem is by Rupert Brooke.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Peace

This WWI poem is by Rupert Brooke.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: The Soldier

This WWI poem is by Rupert Brooke.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: G.K. Chesterton

Chesterton began his career as an artist and cartoonist, and later was known as an essayist, novelist, and poet. Over the course of time, the witty and controversial writer's philosophy changed from that of a liberal to a conservative.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Elegy in a Country Churchyard

This WWI poem is by G.K. Chesterton.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: For a War Memorial

This WWI poem is by G.K. Chesterton.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: To The Unknown Warrior

This WWI poem is by G.K. Chesterton.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Isaac Rosenberg

When war broke out, Rosenberg enlisted, and began serving in the British Army in 1916. A book of Rosenberg's poetry, Youth, was published just before he went to the front lines where he was killed. His work was admired by poets T.S. Eliot and Ezra Pound.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Break of Day in the Trenches

This WWI poem is by Isaac Rosenberg.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Dead Man's Dump

This WWI poem is by Isaac Rosenberg.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: The Immortals

This WWI poem is by Isaac Rosenberg.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: On Receiving the News of War

This WWI poem is by Isaac Rosenberg.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Returning, We hear the Larks

This WWI poem is by Isaac Rosenberg.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Wilfrid Wilson Gibson

Gibson published poems in a number of Georgian poetry collections, and wrote a play, Daily Bread, that was produced in 1910. After the war, he continued writing poetry and plays. His work centered around the impoverished conditions of laborers in villages and industrial mills.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: The Dancers

This WWI poem is by Wilfrid Wilson Gibson.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: A Lament

This WWI poem is by Wilfrid Wilson Gibson.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: The Question

This WWI poem is by Wilfrid Wilson Gibson.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Thomas Hardy

Hardy was apprenticed to a local architect, then later pursued an occupation as an architect while writing poetry unsuccessfully. Hardy was able to make a living as a novelist. Following the death of his first wife, he produced a collection of poems entitled Veteris Vestigiae Flammae (Vestiges of an Old Flame) that eloquently captured his feelings of his loss.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: The Man He Killed

This WWI poem is by Thomas Hardy.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Charles Sorley

Sorley enlisted in the Suffolk Regiment as 2nd Lieutenant, and in the following year was promoted to full Lieutenant, and then later Captain. Sorley was shot by a sniper and killed at the Battle of Loos. Marlborough and Other Poems was published posthumously in 1916, from the writings discovered in Sorley's kit after his death.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: All the Hills and Vales Along

This WWI poem is by Charles Sorley.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Sonnet

This WWI poem is by Charles Sorley.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Robert Nichols

Nichols first volume of poetry, Invocations, was published while he was at the Front. Nichols visited the United States as a lecturer in 1918-19. Nichols' depiction of the war can be found in his collection of epic poetry entitled Ardours and Endurances; Also, A Faun's Holiday & Poems & Phantasies, published in 1917.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Battery Moving Up to a New Postion from Rest Camp: Dawn

This WWI poem is by Robert Nichols.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Comrades: An Episode

This WWI poem is by Robert Nichols.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: William Butler Yeats

Yeats helped found what became the Abbey Theatre in 1904, and was involved in the theater throughout his life. As a poet, his early works were mystical and symbolic, and in the later years deepened in complexity. Following WWI, Yeats turned to politics. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1923.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: An Irish Airman Foresees his Death

This WWI poem is by William Butler Yeats.

Voices from the Fields: Introduction: Timeline 1914

This section of the site features a timeline.

Voices from the Fields: Introduction: Timeline 1915

This section of the site features a timeline.

Voices from the Fields: Introduction: Timeline 1916

This section of the site features a timeline.

Voices from the Fields: Introduction: Timeline 1917

This section of the site features a timeline.

Voices from the Fields: Introduction: Timeline 1918

This section of the site features a timeline.

Voices from the Fields: Introduction: Timeline 1919

This section of the site features a timeline.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Spring Offensive

This WWI poem is by Wilfred Owen.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Siegfried Sassoon

After the war, he produced a series of semi-autobiographical novels that pursued an anti-war theme. Siegfried's Journey, 1916-20, published in 1945, completes this series of works. A collection of his poetry from 1908 to 1956 included many poems with religious themes. Sassoon was awarded the Military Cross for serving with distinction.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Part 1, Belloy-en-Santerre and NW

In Part 1, Brian Pohanka writes of his visit to Belloy-en-Santerre, and northwest of this region.

Voices from the Fields: Poetry: Alan Seeger

In 1912 Seeger moved to Paris, and two years later joined the French Foreign Legion. Wounded in 1915, he was killed in action a year later during a charge on the Somme. The poems Seeger wrote at the Front were not published until a year after his death.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: A Tribute to Alan Seeger

This comment is provided by Brian Pohanka.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: Brian Pohanka

Historian and writer Brian Pohanka is a major contributor to this site. Over the past decade, Brian has visited a number of Great War battlefields on his trips to France.

A Memorial Tribute to Brian C. Pohanka: Page 3

Brian's interest included psychology, the fine arts, traveling, and nature. He was fond of the natural beauty in this world.

Voices from the Fields: Sketches: The Somme, Beaumont Hamel

This photo and comment are provided by Brian Pohanka.

A Memorial Tribute to Brian C. Pohanka: Page 4

Brian regarded his comrades in the 5th New York Duryee's Zouaves living history organization as brethren. And he regarded his wife Cricket as a blessing to him. When Brian first told me the news about the diagnosis of his cancer, he wrote about his condition with grace and dignity. That chivalrous tone about this topic never ceased until his final days.

Life Stories of Civil War Heroes: Acknowledgments

My deepest gratitude to all contributors of this site who have provided their indispensable knowledge and assistance.



Search engine spider map courtesy of:
Web Site Search Engine Positioning