This book was written by Thomas Beck Walton, edited by Robert A. Taylor, published in 1995, the narrative is 38 pages and is illustrated with black and white photos. Walton's book was put together from entries in his pocket diary that he kept. Thomas Walton was a member of Company H, 195th Pennsylvania Infantry Regiment. He enlisted on 2 March, 1865 for a term of one year. Several reasons are given as to why he chose to enter the Union Army at such a late date. He had tow brothers already serving in Pennsylvania regiments, and he was soon to be married. By the time Walton did enlist, both brothers had been killed in action. His diary entries are mostly brief recounts of the daily events in his company during the last phase of the Civil War and the first few months of peace. This is a rare account of the impact of the end of the war on the Army of the Potomac. A resident of Lancaster County, Walton served with the 195th Pennsylvania in the Shenandoah Valley and later as part of the post war garrison of Washington, D.C. His journal recounts the gritty, unromantic life of the common soldier, long marches, exposure to the elements, dull and at times short rations, illness and problems with disciple and desertion. Walton's is an interesting tale that historians and Civil War enthusiasts will value and enjoy. This paper back book is in very good condition.

Item # AA2386