In The Memoirs of Colonel John S. Mosby, readers are given a firsthand account of the Civil War from the perspective of one of its most legendary figures. Colonel Mosby's writing style is engaging and easy to follow, providing detailed descriptions of his experiences as a Confederate guerrilla fighter.
Throughout the memoir, Colonel Mosby offers valuable insights into the strategies and tactics employed by his unconventional unit, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs of waging a guerrilla war. His reflections on friendships forged and battles fought bring a personal touch to this historical account, making it a compelling and insightful read for Civil War enthusiasts.
Overall, The Memoirs of Colonel John S. Mosby is a valuable addition to any Civil War library, offering a unique perspective on the conflict from a renowned and controversial figure. Colonel Mosby's storytelling skills and vivid descriptions make this memoir a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the Civil War.
Book Description:
This is not a work of fiction! These are the actual memoirs of a legendary leader of partisans who bedeviled the Union army for years, almost within sight of the capitol. With only a few local men under command, John Singleton Mosby’s ability to strike fast and then melt away before an effective pursuit could be organized kept the Yankee forces awake and often snarled in knots. With daring feats like capturing a Yankee general out of his bed within his defended headquarters, Mosby made his name a synonym for guerrilla warfare. Even today you can purchase in Middleburg, Virginia, a map showing “Mosby’s Confederacy.”
The mettle of the man may be judged by the enemies he kept. Said General Joseph Hooker, “I may here state that while at Fairfax Court House my cavalry was reinforced by that of Major-General Stahel. The latter numbered 6,100 sabres. . . . The force opposed to them was Mosby’s guerrillas, numbering about 200, and, if the reports of the newspapers were to be believed, this whole party was killed two or three times during the winter. From the time I took command of the army of the Potomac, there was no evidence that any force of the enemy, other than the above-named, was within 100 miles of Washington City; and yet the planks on the chain bridge were taken up at night the greater part of the winter and spring.”
Mosby outraged many of his Southern admirers after the war when he publicly endorsed General U.S. Grant for President. After an appointment as U.S. Consul to Hong Kong and a 16-year career with the Southern Pacific Railroad, he came to Washington as an assistant attorney in the Department of Justice. Loyal to the end to his commander, J.E.B. Stuart, Mosby also answered accusations that Stuart’s grandstanding cost Lee the battle of Gettysburg.
