While preparing another blog post for this site, (which I'm juggling with my website) and lamenting the lack of posts lately, an idea occurred to me.
We are nearing the 150th Anniversary of the formation of the 13th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment. Militia groups began forming in April and May, 1861. In June, the original 5 rifle companies reported to Fort Independence, Boston Harbor. They mustered into federal service as the 13th Mass. in July.
With all the soldiers' letters I have, I could 'blog' the war in real time. That is, I could post a letter from the rank and file of the '13th Mass.' on the date which it was actually written, -- only 150 years later.
If successful, I could probably keep this up until September 2012, at which time the amount of letters might drop off somewhat significantly. (But it has the potential to go on longer). I thought the idea was sound.
My website contains many of these materials already, but it might be interesting to follow them along in 'real time.' Of course, I would include materials not on the website, and continue with other regular blog posts.
Those of you who happen to read this, leave a comment and let me know what you think!
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I really like this idea, and I hope a lot of blogs pop up solely to do something like this. I think it gives people a great idea of what these men were going through so long ago. I first read something like this when Harry Lamin's grandson blogged about his letters while in the British Army in World War I 90 years to the day for each letter.
ReplyDeleteI'll follow along with interest. If I had time, I'd try to pick a regiment with numerous letters and diary entries available and add my own efforts to this area.
That would be an interesting perspective. You might add periodic posts to offer some context, however. A few paragraphs explaining the 13th's location and activities during that time.
ReplyDeleteBrad, this is a good idea. I have done the same thing on my blog with my Emmitsburg articles. It has brought new people over to my blog. This is a powerful interpretive tool. Even though you have some of the content already on your web site, you allow your followers to read about the daily life of the 13th Mass. If you decide to do the day by day experience of the soldier of the 13th Mass, I would suggest what Markerhunter suggested by writing a small description and incorporated it in the posting. Good luck and have fun at it.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the feedback guys, I really appreciate it. I received some positive comments via email and fb too. I agree some context should be given.
ReplyDeleteI'll give it a try. I believe I have material to start with in April right after Ft. Sumter & Lincoln's call for troops.