Abner Doubleday's firsthand account of his experiences at Forts Sumter and Moultrie during the tense period leading up to the outbreak of the Civil War provides a captivating and detailed glimpse into a pivotal moment in American history. His recollections are both informative and engaging, offering readers a vivid portrayal of the events that ultimately led to the bombardment of Fort Sumter and the beginning of the Civil War.

Doubleday's narrative is filled with rich, descriptive details that bring the fortresses and their surroundings to life, allowing readers to easily visualize the scenes he describes. His insights into the political climate and the actions of key figures during this time add depth and context to the events that unfolded. Additionally, Doubleday's personal reflections on his own emotions and reactions to the escalating tensions provide a human element to the story, making it all the more relatable and compelling.

Overall, Reminiscences of Forts Sumter and Moultrie in 1860-'61 is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the Civil War era, offering a unique perspective on this critical period in American history. Doubleday's firsthand account is both informative and engaging, making it a must-read for history buffs and casual readers alike.

Book Description:
Abner Doubleday was a busy man. He rose to be a major general during the American Civil War, started the first cable car company in San Francisco, and is credited (though perhaps erroneously) with inventing the game of baseball.

In 1861, he had the distinction as a captain to be second-in-command of Ft. Moultrie, one of the harbor defenses of Charleston, SC.. When that state seceded from the Union, Doubleday and the garrison of artillerists manning the fort were cut off from supplies and reinforcements. Through a tumultuous period, during which the command transferred to Ft. Sumter and soon found the Secessionists building batteries all around it, Doubleday had an additional target painted on him, as he was known as the only "Black Republican" in the fort and the mobs wanted to tar and feather him.

Doubleday walks us through a day-by-day account of the final weeks before the new Confederacy opened fire on Ft. Sumter to begin the Civil War. Our busy man sighted the gun for the first shot fired by the Union in response. And we learn what it is like to be the target of thousands of cannonballs, until, nearly out of ammunition and food, the fort is surrendered with the honors of war and the men are evacuated to New York.

The historical events are well-known. This first-person account allows us to experience them.