America's Civil War

America's Civil War was a time of turmoil in our nation, from 1861-1865. During this period, families, friends, and loved ones were separated or parted, and thousands suffered and died. But despite people's hardships and adversities, many persevered. Through their trials they accomplished great and extraordinary deeds that they might never have realized had they not been put to the test. Sadly, for some, their lives would end before they could completely fulfill their dreams.

The lives of a few of the noble and brave are presented here, along with sources that may be of interest for more in-depth study. Tributes to the common soldier, valiant unsung heroes, and veterans are also includedÐ'--that they will not be forgotten. It is my hope that the spirit of the countless heroic souls who fought or contributed significantly in America's Civil War will live on throughout the ages.

My family hails from not-so-far from Newark, Ohio. I have a wonderful picture of two brothers (my "cousins") Amos and Artelius Norman, taken on April 15, 1864, while they were on Veteran's Furlough. Their demeanor and clothes are so interesting. Lieutenant Amos Norman was a member of Co. B, 78th Ohio Infantry and his older brother, Artelius, was a 1st Sergeant in Co. G, 32nd Ohio Infantry. Both were from Hopewell Township, Muskingum County (near Mt. Sterling).

The picture of the two brothers was taken while they were on Veteran's furlough, April 15, 1864. Amos (on the left) was 21 years old and his brother Artelius (right) was 24. The first time Amos ever voted he voted for Abraham Lincoln. He was very proud of this and often spoke of it. At the time of this photograph Amos was a Corporal (date of promotion: March 1864). Later, he became a 2nd Lieut. in Co. B, 78th Ohio Volunteer Infantry (date of promotion: March 24, 1865). At the Battle of Raymond Amos's knapsack was shot off his back, and his elbow was hit by a spent mini ball. No serious damage was done, but his arm was numb for quite some time. He was at Fort Donelson, Shiloh, Corinth, Champion's Hill, Kenesaw Mountain, Atlanta, and Savannah--to name a few places. Amos married Mary Ann Sherrard and they had 6 children. He was an active member of Hamilton Post, No. 311, Grand Army of the Republic, Brownsville, Ohio. Amos died in 1930 and was buried in the Mt. Sterling Cemetery, Muskingum County, Ohio.

Artelius (called "Doc" by his friends) was in Co. G, 32nd Ohio Volunteer Infantry. As you know,