Here is the third edition of the history of a group of men who valiantly fought to preserve the Union during the American Civil War. The first edition was published in 2010 to wide acclaim. An updated second edition was printed in 2013. Now, seven years later, this third edition expands on the previous ones with a new chapter and many more stories, burial locations, maps and photos.
The men of the 26th Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry were among the first to answer their country’s call to duty, and among the last ones to finally be mustered home. The “Old 26th” fought in numerous western theater campaigns and battles; including: Shiloh, Corinth, Stones River, Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge, Kennesaw, Peachtree Creek, Atlanta, Spring Hill, Franklin, and Nashville.
After the war’s end, the veterans yearned to publish their regiment’s proud history as so many other units had done. Regrettably, the high cost of publishing proved too steep for the aged veterans, and their dream died with them.
The descendant of three veterans of the 26th Ohio, Jeffrey A. Hill resurrected their dream and brought it to fruition. Meticulously researched, their history is based on over five hundred primary source documents including letters, diaries, military and pension records, regimental and company records, and other first person accounts. Their narrative conveys their omnipresent sense of duty and loyalty.
This book chronicles the involvement of the 26th Ohio from the initial fervor following Fort Sumter and throughout the war, as well as the postbellum activities. The appendices include a roster, list of burial sites, photo gallery, and index. This history is a lasting tribute to the men who so bravely fought to protect what they held most dear—their beloved country. At long last, here is their story…