John L. Barstow’s letters, most written to his wife Laura, describe camp life at Ship Island, New Orleans, and various locations in the Louisiana countryside, and include comments on the attitudes and conduct of white and black civilians, as well... Show moreJohn L. Barstow’s letters, most written to his wife Laura, describe camp life at Ship Island, New Orleans, and various locations in the Louisiana countryside, and include comments on the attitudes and conduct of white and black civilians, as well as the leadership of Generals Nathaniel P. Banks, Benjamin F. Butler, and William B. Franklin. Barstow served as brigadier general of Provisional Forces in St. Albans, Vermont, after he left the Eighth Vermont in June 1864. He was elected Governor of Vermont in 1882. Show less
Topics include the fleeing of Rebels to Texas, the destruction and loss of property near New Orleans, and Barstow’s belief that the war must not end until the Union is restored.