Personal recollections and experiences concerning the Battle of Stone River   By: Milo S. Hascall (1829-1904)

In his memoir, Milo S. Hascall shares gripping personal recollections and unfiltered experiences of one of the most harrowing battles of the American Civil War—The Battle of Stone River. With fervor and authenticity, Hascall invites readers to step back in time and witness the brutality, resilience, and brotherhood that defined this pivotal moment in history.

As a seasoned veteran of the Union Army, Hascall's account offers a rare glimpse into the everyday life of a soldier during wartime. Through his vivid descriptions, readers are propelled into the chaos and uncertainty of battle, allowing us to intimately understand the fears and anxieties that haunted those brave men fighting for their cause.

What sets Hascall's memoir apart is his unwavering honesty and willingness to confront the harsh realities of war. He brings to light the devastating consequences of conflict, unafraid to acknowledge the sacrifices made and lives lost. Hascall's raw and emotional prose forces us to confront the profound human toll that war imposes, challenging our perspectives on glorified heroism.

Moreover, Hascall's attention to detail and meticulous recollections paint a vivid picture of the Battle of Stone River. His descriptions of the landscape, the maneuvers, and the strategic decisions made by both sides offer a comprehensive understanding of the historical significance of this particular battle. It is through his eyes that we witness the ebb and flow of the engagements, breathing life onto the pages of history.

One of the most striking aspects of Hascall's memoir is the sense of camaraderie he conveys. Amidst the brutality and chaos, he captures the unwavering fraternity shared among soldiers, illustrating the solidarity that emerges from shared hardship. Hascall's narrative reminds us of the power of human connection in times of crisis and serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit.

While some readers may find the detailed accounts of military strategy overwhelming at times, Hascall's unwavering dedication to accuracy and his unique perspective as an officer offer a comprehensive examination of the battle. His insights into the leadership and decision-making processes give readers a clearer understanding of the complexities and challenges faced by commanding officers on both sides.

In conclusion, Milo S. Hascall's memoir provides an invaluable account of the Battle of Stone River, delving deep into the personal experiences and recollections that shaped this significant event in American history. His unwavering commitment to authenticity, coupled with his emotional and vivid storytelling, creates an unputdownable narrative that will captivate history enthusiasts and general readers alike.

First Page:

In doing so I shall not undertake to give a general account of the battle, but shall confine myself to that portion which came under my own observation, and to necessary inferences as to what happened elsewhere. In setting out it will be well to give a brief account of the history of the Army of the Cumberland, and its commanders, so far as I know, up to the time of the memorable battle which is the subject of this paper. My having been a cadet at West Point from June, 1848, to June, 1852, when I graduated in the same class with Sheridan, Stanly, Slocum, Crook, Bonaparte and others, whose names have since become so distinguished, and my service in the regular army subsequently till the fall of 1853, threw me in contact with, and was the means of my knowing personally, or by reputation, most, if not all the prominent characters on both sides, that were brought to the knowledge of the public by the War of the Rebellion... Continue reading book >>