Civil War Letters

By analyzing preserved letters written by ordinary Americans historians can gain invaluable insight into daily life on both the battlefield and on the homefront. Letter writing was the primary means of communication during the 19th century. You will explore various authentic Civil War Letters to gather information and ideas to write your own letter home.

1. Read all the letters found at the links listed below. Read the authentic letter first and then click on the Modern-spelling version link and read that as well.
   • Sullivan Ballou Letter 
   • Samuel Potter to Cynthia Potter December 10, 1862
   • Samual Potter to Cynthia Potter July 20, 1863
   • Andrew Brooks to James Brooks May 28, 1861
   • Jacob Middows to Elizabeth Middows August 14, 1864
   • Jeremiah T. Cooper to Lt. G.D. Schott June 6, 1862
   • J. Milton Crawford to his parents May 18, 1865
   • Demus and Christy Family The War Years
   • Samuel Z. Maxwell to his Aunt and Cousin Oct 1, 1863
2. Complete a Document Analysis Worksheet for 2 letters of your choice. (Located by clicking on Worksheets from the menu on the left)
3. Using the information you have collected about your battle and life during the Civil War you will write a letter home to a loved one. You will pretend that you have just survived the battle and want to share your experiences with your family. 
   • If you would like to include some authentic Civil War Slang check out this resource
     • Soldier Talk & Civil War Slang
4. The letter must include at a minumum:
   • at least 3 accurate facts about your chosen battle
   • at least 3 accurate facts about your chosen role
   • at least 3 accurate facts about some aspect of your everyday life
5. Your letter will graded using the criteria outlined in the rubric available from the menu on the left.