The Utah Batteries: A History A complete account of the muster-in, sea voyage, battles, skirmishes and barrack life of the Utah batteries, together with biographies of officers and muster-out rolls.   By: Charles R. Mabey

The Utah Batteries: A History by Charles R. Mabey offers readers a comprehensive account of the lesser-known involvement of the Utah batteries in the Civil War. Mabey meticulously details the entire journey of these brave soldiers, documenting their muster-in, sea voyage, battles, skirmishes, and barrack life with remarkable depth and accuracy.

One of the most compelling aspects of this book is the inclusion of biographies of the officers, which allows readers to gain a deeper understanding of their backgrounds and motivations. These personal narratives lend a human touch to the historical events, making them relatable and emotionally resonant. Mabey's research is commendable, as he provides ample details for each officer, ensuring that their stories are not forgotten.

Moreover, the inclusion of muster-out rolls adds further credibility to the historical accounts presented in this book. By including these official documents, Mabey adds a layer of authenticity and completeness to the narrative, making it an invaluable resource for historians and Civil War enthusiasts alike. The meticulous attention to detail in compiling these rolls demonstrates Mabey's commitment to providing readers with an accurate and comprehensive portrayal of the Utah batteries' experience.

There is no denying that The Utah Batteries: A History is an essential addition to any Civil War library. Mabey's writing style is accessible and engaging, making it easy for readers of all levels of expertise to absorb the information presented. Additionally, his unbiased approach to recounting the Utah batteries' experiences further enhances the book's appeal, as it ensures a fair representation of both the triumphs and challenges faced by these soldiers.

However, it is worth noting that this book primarily focuses on the Utah batteries' involvement and may not provide an encompassing view of the entire Civil War. While this is a minor caveat, readers seeking a broader perspective on the conflict may need to supplement their reading with other sources.

In conclusion, The Utah Batteries: A History is a commendable work by Charles R. Mabey, shedding light on the often-overlooked contribution of the Utah batteries in the Civil War. Mabey's meticulous research, inclusion of personal biographies, and comprehensive muster-out rolls make this book an indispensable resource for understanding the experiences of these soldiers.

First Page:

Sometime after the Utah Battalion left San Francisco for the Philippines the author conceived the idea of writing a history of that organization after its return from the war. With this purpose in view he kept a diary during the entire campaign and also collected what other material that could be utilized for such a work. Immediately upon the arrival in Salt Lake City of the discharged volunteers he, with others, set to work to bring about a completion of this plan. This little volume represents the result of the labor expended at intervals between that date and the present time. The author claims no more for it than its title assumes a brief history of the Utah batteries... Continue reading book >>