1863

For Freedom and HumanityThe Civil War Memorandum of Owen Thomas Wright, 14th Indiana Volunteers

1863: Epic Conflicts

1863 Stories

Tell Owen's story through Civil War historyUnderstand the Civil War through Owen's story

The recently discovered Journals of Owen Thomas Wright, 14th Indiana Volunteers, provide a fresh perspective on the Civil War through the pen of a young soldier who experienced almost the entire war. You can read the complete summary of Owen's story here:

I volunteered to fight for the sacred rights of Freedom and Humanity

While I build Owen's site, you are welcome to browse and comment. I especially appreciate your insights that will help me tell Owen's story through the context of history, as I hope that we can gain a better understanding of history through Owen's story.

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1863: Epic Conflict

Details: © 2020 by Brent A. Duncan, PhD

Christmas revelry results in cut whiskey rations. Owen has not been paid for six months. The diminished 14th Indiana is recognized as the best regiment in the division. The troops are stuck in the mud.

Details: © 2020 by Brent A. Duncan, PhD

Winter conditions take their toll, but the love of the country keeps heads high.

Details: © 2020 by Brent A. Duncan, PhD

President Abraham Lincoln reviews the reorganized army. Hooker approaches the enemy from their rear and surrounds Chancellorsville. Hooker delays the attack and waits. Jackson initiates a surprise early morning attack, triggering a stampede of Hooker's IX Corps. Owen and the 14th Indiana rushes into form a defensive line that slows Jackson's momentum and earns Hooker's praise.

Details: © 2020 by Brent A. Duncan, PhD

The 14th is eager to fight but receive orders to retreat in torrential storms and get stuck in the mud. Owen wishes for a Grant to lead the Army of the Potomac, and complains about a skunk in the ranks.

Copperheads

Details: © 2020 by Brent A. Duncan, PhD

The 14th Indiana rushes and skirmishes toward Gettysburg. Reconnaissance balloons receive sniper fire. Many die from dysentery in the forced march. Owen camps near Bloody Lane, the scene of their engagement during the battle of Antietam. Owen walks across a field of skulls and bones.

Summary: The 14th Indiana halts Early's assault on Cemetary Hill. The 14th Indiana most of the men and officers of the 21st North Carolina. The 14th repels an attack of the Louisiana Tigers and captures thousands of men. The victorious Union pursues Lee's retreating Confederates.

“The enemy behind us,” President Lincoln said, “is more dangerous than the enemy before us." He was referring to what Owen called “the infernal Copperheads.” [See 12 The infernal Copperheads]

Partly because they tended to be more sympathetic to the South than to the North, the Democratic party shattered during the secession crisis of 1860. As the war effort dragged on, some Democrats gained political favor by advocating peace at any price. “Defeat, debt, taxation, sepulchers, these are your trophies,” said Clement L. Vallandigham, a leader of the anti-war movement. “The war for the Union is…a most bloody and costly failure.” [1]