Grand Army of Republic connected to Stones River President's Father died here in 1863 MIKE WEST, Managing Editor - 3 opinions posted

Headless Horseman haunts Stones River Battlefield Does the ghost of a headless horseman still haunt Stones River Battlefield? Yes, if you believe anonymous witnesses to the sight and postings on the Internet. MIKE WEST, Managing Editor - 4 opinions posted

Looking Back: Allen Chapel Church still strong MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

William Stokes turned from politics to war MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Gen. Hardee wrote the book on Civil War tactics MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Which Murfreesboro church served as the state capitol? MIKE WEST, Managing Editor - 1 opinion posted

Sons of Confederate Veterans reunion to be held in 'Boro 9 opinions posted

Hardtack & howitzers: A Civil War encampment

Forrest caught Yankee troops snoozing in Murfreesboro Editor’s note: Part one dealt with the moving of Confederate troops into Woodbury and then, in the early morning hours, to Murfreesboro were Bedford Forrest launched his attack. SHIRLEY FARRIS JONES, Special to the Post - 1 opinion posted

Ole Bedford’s birthday bash in the ’Boro SHIRLEY FARRIS JONES, Special to the Post

New book targets Kentucky-Tennessee connection

Civil War: Riverside discovery points to Hazen’s Brigade monument MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Was there a wrong side to Civil War? Battlefield examines life-changing plight MIKE WEST, Managing Editor - 1 opinion posted

Access restored to most of battlefield

Group acts to preserve state's Civil War heritage

Hallowed Ground: A lantern tour of Stones River Cemetery 1 opinion posted

For one of oldest generals in war combat leadership ended poorly MIKE WEST, Managing Editor - 1 opinion posted

Concerning the Battle of Stone River A Paper Read by Request before the Illinois Commandery of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the U.S., at Chicago, Ill., Feb. 14, 1889. MILO HASCALL

Politics, religion ended Milo’s military career MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Tracking great-grandpa on his Civil War journey For those of us who are really “into the Civil War,” sometimes it is a nice escape from the hustle and bustle of the modern day world to take a journey back in time and follow in the footsteps of our Civil War ancestors. SHIRLEY FARRIS JONES, Post Contributor

Thomas Cartwright to offer walking tours of Franklin

Link of the Day: Junior Ranger program online

Smyrna's Sam Davis Home is Civil War gem Compiled by Mike West

Looking for more information about Civil War? MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Civil War resources abound in community Since the inception of The Murfreesboro Post, an article about the Civil War or local history has been featured in each edition.Here, in part 1 of a 2 part series, are some of the places we go to learn more about the community’s heritage: MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Are you familiar with the story of ‘Johnny Shiloh?’ For those of you alive and kicking during the Civil War Centennial, you likely remember the Walt Disney TV movie featuring Kevin Corcoran as Johnny Clem, an orphan who becomes a drummer for the Union Army. MIKE WEST, Managing Editor - 1 opinion posted

Fannie Battle: Confederate ‘spy’ turned social reformer MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

The Battle family gave its all for the CSA Efforts of daughter surpassed her father MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

This Custer mustered at Battle of Stones River Tom Custer died at Little Bighorn MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Two first cousins shared nicknames, but not fates Both ‘Jack’ Gooches suffered during war MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

H'haid's corner: A Confederate funeral Mike West

‘Sisters in Black’ sour Ocey’s domestic bliss MIKE WEST, Post Managing Editor - 1 opinion posted

Fearless Confederate died mysteriously in NYC Did his wife do him in? Part III MIKE WEST, Post Managing Editor

The plot thickens as Colonel Martin takes a bride Part II MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

The man who would have burned New York City MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Here's the text of the Emancipation Proclamation

Victory at Stones River impacted Emancipation Proclamation MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Make way for Gen. John Hunt Morgan Part 2 MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Tactics give Union a victory at Vaught’s Hill Rebel Raider falls short near Milton MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Just what is the significance of Stones River Battlefield? MIKE WEST, Managing Editor - 3 opinions posted

Historic weathervane towers over battlefield

Civil War soldiers longed for ‘Home, Sweet Home’ MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Ready and Morgan Mattie Ready Morgan: The hardships of war Mattie Ready Morgan loved her husband deeply and despite the hardships of war tried to be with him whenever and wherever she could. SHIRLEY FARRIS JONES - 3 opinions posted

McFadden's Ford circa 1890. Winter proved bitter foe at Stones River You know what they say about Middle Tennessee’s weather ... “If you don’t like it, just wait a minute.” The unpredictability of Tennessee weather came as a surprise to Union troops stationed here during the Civil War. MIKE WEST, Managing editor

Civil War: Kentucky’s orphans in peril MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Two Lytle families meet amidst the Civil War MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Taking time to water his horses cost Union artillery captain Part 2 of 2 SHIRLEY FARRIS JONES, Special to the Post

Gallant steeds at the Battle of Stones River Part 1 of 2 By Shirley Farris Jones, Special to The Murfreesboro Post

Like the Army of Tennessee, Bushrod Johnson faced both glory, despair MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Tennessee home to tragic Civil War ghost story MIKE WEST, Managing Editor - 3 opinions posted

Strategic victory at Tullahoma didn’t mean much Rosecrans, Bragg’s woes deepened in aftermath MIKE WEST, Managing Editor - 1 opinion posted

Stonewall of the West makes a stand against a communist MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Saber charge pushes Rebels out of Shelbyville MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Deception, firepower made Hoover’s Gap an easy victory MIKE WEST, Managing Editor - 1 opinion posted

Repeating rifles gave Wilder’s Brigade an edge MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Rosecrans exploits a weakness in the Confederate defenses Tullahoma campaign starts with a feint MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Garfield’s report puts Union army into action MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Garfield was powerful speaker in pulpit and in Congress MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Preacher turned politician arrives in occupied Murfreesboro The battlefield decapitation of Union Gen. William Rosecrans’ chief of staff changed the political climate of the army occupying Murfreesboro and maybe that of the United States. Mike West, Managing Editor

Gen. Henry McCulloch followed his brother’s footsteps When Tennessee frontiersman Ben McCulloch decided to join David Crockett in Texas, he brought along a close compatriot, his younger brother Henry. Mike West, Managing Editor - 1 opinion posted

Rare Civil War spur found at Harding House site Sweltering temperatures, pesky bugs and blisters brought on by combating the hard battlefield soil weren’t enough to discourage volunteers who, for the second weekend in a row, braved the 94-degree heat to participate in the Harding House Civil War History Survey on July 19-20.

Harding ‘evidence’ bolsters Stones River battlefield accounts MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

Civil War artifacts uncovered at Harding House site Some 40-50 artifacts were recovered near the Stones River Battlefield on the first day of the Harding House Civil War History Survey, a geospatial/archaeological project that is being conducted this month on land slated for development this summer.

Battle destroyed Giles Harding’s dream of grandeur His farm was focus of Union, Rebel armies By MIKE WEST, Managing editor - 1 opinion posted

Gen. Phil Sheridan Archeologists to pinpoint Harding House/ brick kiln site Dubbed the Harding House Civil War History Survey, the project will be conducted two weekends in July, on the area around the Harding House site, where Brig. Gen. Philip H. Sheridan’s Union division held up the Confederate advance during the first day of the Battle of Stones River on Dec. 31, 1862. 1 opinion posted

Rutherford native was famous Texas Ranger In the decades before the outbreak of the Civil War, it wasn’t uncommon to find the letters “GTT” painted or carved in the front door of a rural Tennessee cabin. “GTT” was short for “gone to Texas,” which meant the occupants of said home had high-tailed for the opportunities presented by the Lone Star republic. David Crockett – trapper, Indian fighter and former politician – was just one of the famous Tennesseans to try his luck in the Southeast. By MIKE WEST, Post Managing Editor

Cincinnati correspondent gives perspective on Forrest’s Raid aftermath

Smyrna native was brigadier under Robert E. Lee Gen. William Barksdale was fire-eating secessionist By Mike West, Post managing editor - 1 opinion posted

Norsemen weren’t afraid to fight at Stones River 15th Wisconsin was only all Scandinavian unit in army By Mike West, Managing Editor – June 8, 2008 - 5 opinions posted

Union army destroyed historic church Citizens angered by cemetery desecration By MIKE WEST, Managing editor

Fabulous military career cut short James St. Clair Morton was fortification pioneer By MIKE WEST, Managing editor

Union ‘topog’ mapped ‘Boro, revamped District of Columbia By MIKE WEST, Managing editor - 1 opinion posted

Leading ‘Copperhead’ was deported to Murfreesboro By Mike West, Managing editor - May 11, 2008

‘Bully for Bragg. He’s hell on retreat’ Mixture of diversions helped soldiers survive By MIKE WEST, Managing editor - 2 opinions posted

St. Leger Grenfell: His name was worse than Mudd By MIKE WEST, Managing editor

Coldstream guard takes a look at Army of Tennessee By MIKE WEST, Managing editor

Disheartened at Stones River, Confederates retreat south By Mike West, Managing editor

Civil War: Valor and Lace Part 3 By SHIRLEY FARRIS JONES, Part III of a series

Civil War: Women faced danger in roles as spies By Shirley Farris Jones

Civil War: Valor and Lace By SHIRLEY FARRIS JONES Part 1 - 2 opinions posted

10 Most Endangered Civil War Battlefields

Stones River: A bitter night ends walk to gates of hell It was a bitterly cold New Year’s Eve and the wounded from the Battle of Stones River were freezing to death. By MIKE WEST, Managing editor

Stones River: A look at the first day of battle Why fight at Murfreesboro? Only 2,500 people lived here in 1862. So why would 83,000 Federal and Confederate troops clash over such an insignificant burg? By MIKE WEST, Managing editor

Fort Donelson: One soldier’s story February 1862 was not a good month for the Confederacy! By SHIRLEY FARRIS JONES

Black Southerners in Confederate gray February marks the beginning of Black History Month – a remembrance of important people and events of African American origin that began in 1926. By Shirley Farris Jones - 12 opinions posted

‘Co. Aytch’ recounts war from a private’s view If you watched Ken Burn’s 1990 documentary, “The Civil War,” you might be familiar with Sam Watkins of Columbia, Tenn. By MIKE WEST, Managing Editor

The USS Carondelet Island No. 10 hero dies valiant death at Stones River A key player in one of the most interesting interludes of the Civil War, the Battle for Island No. 10, met an unkind fate at Stones River. By MIKE WEST, Managing editor

W.S. Featherston Rutherford County’s forgotten general At the Battle of Franklin, a Confederate brigade led by a Rutherford County native, took some of the heaviest losses of that bloody conflict as they tried to breach Federal lines. The Confederate brigadier general had the improbable name of Winfield Scott Featherston, nicknamed "Old Swet,” who had been transferred from the Army of Northern Virginia. By Mike West, Managing editor

Johnnie Morgan Mattie Ready Morgan: From wife to widow in 630 days Part 3 in a series. Gen. John Hunt Morgan made his miraculous escape from the Columbus, Ohio prison on Nov. 27, 1863 (the day his daughter was born) and managed to reach his beloved wife Mattie in time for Christmas. By SHIRLEY FARRIS JONES

Mattie Ready MARTHA READY MORGAN: From wife to widow in 630 days The Civil War was a time of uncertainty, especially for those living in the recently established Confederate States of America. Happiness was a brief interlude from the reality of the horrors and deprivations inflicted upon a people trying to protect their homeland. For some it was a bittersweet time of both joy and sorrow. Such is the story of Martha Ready of Murfreesboro, Tennessee and John Hunt Morgan of Lexington, Kentucky. By SHIRLEY FARRIS JONES

Why does the legend of Sam Davis endure? “Google” the phrase “Confederate hero” on the Internet and you will get thousands of hits with many of them mentioning names like Stonewall Jackson and Robert E. Lee. So why does the memory of Confederate scout Sam Davis still endure? By MIKE WEST Managing Editor - Dec. 16, 2007 - 1 opinion posted

On the White House tree. White House tree features Stones River ornament Stones River National Battlefield’s ornament is prominently displayed on this year’s official White House Christmas Tree. Dec. 4, 2007 12:57 PM

Confederate scout returns home a hero Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2007 was 143rd anniversary of Sam Davis Death. It passed without much notice except at his final resting place behind the historic home that bears his name on Stewart’s Creek in Smyrna. How his body came to rest there is an interesting story indeed. . By MIKE WEST, Managing Editor - 1 opinion posted

Gen. Patrick Cleburne Cleburne felled by Union metal at Franklin The holiday 1862 festivities at Murfreesboro seemed to have diverted the attention away from the realities of the dire strategic situation of Bragg’s Army, which was not nearly as secure as the social calendar might have suggested. By SHIRLEY FARRIS JONES

Irishman Cleburne made his name known IThere were many brave and honorable men whose paths crossed and sabers clashed at the Battle of Stones River. Bullets flew and men fell – men from varying walks of life with both similar and dissimilar backgrounds. Some were fighting literally in their own backyards, while the homeland of others was far away. Some died and some lived to fight another day. One such man whose presence was first made known to the Middle Tennessee area early in 1862 was Patrick Ronayne Cleburne – Irishman, American, Major General, CSA. By SHIRLEY FARRIS JONES

Sam Davis carries his secret to the grave Jailed in Pulaski, options were few for Confederate Scout Sam Davis. He could talk and walk away a free man or stay mum and die on the gallows. Perception was part of his problem. Sam Davis was perceived a courier/scout by Confederates and a spy by Union soldiers like Brig. Gen. Grenville M. Dodge. Part 3 of a series. By Mike West Managing Editor

Union ‘trick’ results in Sam Davis’ capture ‘Confederate courier Sam Davis had reason to be wary as he rested in a thicket on the Rain’s farm outside of Nashville. Union Brig. Gen. Grenville Dodge had the 7th Kansas cavalry looking for members of Coleman’s Scouts, a Confederate spy/courier unit of some 40 to 45 operatives. Davis, along with his older half-brother John G. Davis, were active members of the unit, which was led by former teacher Henry Shaw, who disguised himself an unkempt, bearded herbal doctor who hobbled along with a limp. By Mike West, Managing Editor - 1 opinion posted

CWPT attempting to save Glendale battlefield The Civil War Preservation Trust (CWPT), America's largest nonprofit battlefield preservation group, announced today the beginning of a $4.1 million national campaign to preserve four key parcels of land associated with the Glendale Battlefield in Henrico County, Va.

Why was Sam Davis important? Just who was Sam Davis? The short answer is that he was “the boy hero of the Confederacy.” Today his short life stands as one of the most interesting stories to survive the “Lost Cause” era of Southern history. By Mike West Managing Editor - 15 opinions posted

Library of Congress 'New movie brings life to Jesse James legend' Did Jesse James – that most infamous of American outlaws – once live in Rutherford County? The life and death of James, an ex-Confederate partisan, is the focus of a new motion picture starring Brad Pitt. The movie pitches Jesse as one of America’s first celebrities and has rekindled interest in the Missouri native. By MIKE WEST Managing Editor - 5 opinions posted

Pickin’ up the pieces 1865 began just as badly for the good folks of Murfreesboro and Rutherford County as 1864 had ended. With Hood's ill-fated attempt to retake Tennessee, the Battle of Franklin and the Battle of Nashville, which resulted in the more or less annihilation of the Confederate Army of Tennessee, the Southern boys withdrew forever from Tennessee soil. Murfreesboro was and had been under Federal occupation since the Battle of Stones River two years prior and there was no hope in sight. It was truly a very uncivil time in Middle Tennessee! BY SHIRLEY FARRIS JONES - 1 opinion posted

Dee Jobe CSA scout Dewitt Jobe died horrible death Most Rutherford County school children have at least been exposed to the story of Sam Davis, “the boy hero of the Confederacy.” Less glamorous is the story of another Confederate scout, Dewitt Smith Jobe and his two cousins, Dee Smith and Thomas Benton Smith. By MIKE WEST Managing Editor - 7 opinions posted

Daughters June Tomlinson and Roseanne Jacobs. UDC honors daughter of Civil War soldier Many of us have a father who is a veteran of military service. Some of them served in combat during World War II, Korea, Vietnam or in any of the other military conflicts of the last 50 years. But how many of you had a father who fought in the Civil War? By Mike West Managing Editor

The Death of Maj. Gen. J.B. McPherson I notice in your paper also in the Banner of the 24th, a letter from a correspondent at Shelbyville, Tenn., connecting my name and that of my company with the killing of Major-General McPherson, on the 22nd of July, before Atlanta. By Capt. Richard Beard of Murfreesboro, Tenn.

McPherson Death of high-ranking general raised a ruckus James Birdseye McPherson, commander of the Federal Army of the Tennessee, was the highest-ranking Union officer killed during the Civil War. By Mike West Managing Editor - 2 opinions posted

Harvey Man’s best friend went off to war, too The War Between the States made no exceptions ... it touched the lives of every man, woman, and child – just about every living creature -- that existed during this most defining time of our nations history ... few remained unscathed ... By SHIRLEY FARRIS JONES

Rousseau’s Report on the Battle of the Cedars Report of Major-General LOVELL H. ROUSSEAU, on activities December 5- 8, 1864.

Gen. Joseph E. Johnston 45th Tennessee spared at Battle of Franklin The dwindling troops of the 45th Tennessee found themselves near home again in December of 1864 after nearly being marched to death by the Army of Tennessee’s new, overly aggressive commanding general. By Mike West Managing Editor

The 45th Tennessee fights at Chickamauga, Stones River After fighting in Louisiana, the return to Murfreesboro was undoubtedly difficult for the 45th Tennessee. It was a case of so close, yet so far away for the Confederate infantrymen who were encamped around their hometown, but not free to come and go. By MIKE WEST Managing Editor

Remembering Col. Searcy’s roots Little remains to commemorate the life of Col. Anderson Searcy Jr., who commanded the 45th Tennessee Infantry Regiment during the Civil War. There’s Searcy Street running off Medical Center Parkway and there’s his gravesite at Evergreen Cemetery in Murfreesboro. We should also mention the efforts of his many descendants to keep his memory alive. By Mike West Managing Editor - 1 opinion posted

Johnston 45th Tennessee fought at Shiloh’s Peach Orchard When you visit Shiloh Battlefield great significance is placed on an area called the Peach Orchard. The area is tour stop 13 at the national battlefield. The spot is where the Confederate Army of Tennessee tried to turn the Union left at 2 p.m. Sunday, April 6, 1862. By MIKE WEST Managing Editor – Aug. 19, 2007

Suffering touched all in battle’s aftermath Dealing with dead of both sides, wounded, food all difficult By Shirley Farris Jones, Special to the Post

In the 1930s. Civil War: How was battlefield saved? With so many Civil War battlefields gone and forgotten, just how was Stones River saved? After all, the federal government protects only 15 percent of all significant Civil War battlefields. So how was Murfreesboro so fortunate? By MIKE WEST Managing Editor

Shacklett's Photography. During occupation. Civil War: An important key to victory Modern electronic communications was an important tool that helped the United States win the Civil War. “Come to the key” was a message Union commanders received with increasing frequency. By MIKE WEST Managing Editor

Gen. Oliver O. Howard Civil War: Promotions often meant little When it came to promotions during the Civil War, officers were often honored for their bravery in the field by being brevetted. By MIKE WEST Managing Editor

Bierce ‘The Crime at Pickett’s Mill’ There is a class of events which by their very nature, and despite any intrinsic interest that they may possess, are foredoomed to oblivion. By AMBOSE BIERCE - 4 opinions posted

Building Fortress Rosecrans was ‘Un-Civil’ Following the Battle of Stones River, Dec. 31, 1862 – Jan. 2, 1863, Union Gen. William S. Rosecrans ordered the construction of an earthen fort on the outskirts of Murfreesboro to support the Union army in its drive into the Southern heartland. BY SHIRLEY FARRIS JONES

Forrest rides to Murfreesborough’s rescue Sunday, July 13, 1862 was an important day for “Murfreesborough.” Col. Nathan Bedford Forrest came knock, knock, knocking on the Rutherford County Courthouse door and liberated a number of citizens who were facing the hangman’s noose. By Mike West Managing Editor - 1 opinion posted

These veterans fought for independence Contrary to popular opinion Rutherford County’s history didn’t begin with the Civil War. In fact, a number of the county’s founding fathers participated in the conflict – the Revolutionary War – that made this community possible. By MIKE WEST Managing Editor - 1 opinion posted

Gordon honored for battlefield preservation WASHINGTON – In honor of U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon’s stalwart support of Civil War battlefield preservation, the Civil War Preservation Trust awarded him its National Preservation Leadership Award. June 27, 2007 10:07 AM

Battle at Hoover’s Gap key to Chattanooga Spencer repeating rifles gave edge to Union 144 years ago today By SHIRLEY FARRIS JONES

Carmack’s Pledge to the South The South is a land that has known sorrows;

Arthur MacArthur Hazen faces controversy at Missionary Ridge Whose men precipitated 'miracle' at Chattanooga? By MIKE WEST Managing Editor

Orchard Knob Hazen plays key role in Chattanooga campaign The Union's Chattanooga campaign brought William B. Hazen more acclaim and the wrath of some Army of the Cumberland top brass. By MIKE WEST Managing Editor

William B. Hazen Tenacious Hazen had stormy career Duty was the religion of one of the Civil War's most exasperating leaders. William Babcock Hazen was alternately described as a "soldier's soldier" and as the "best hated" man to don Union blue. The Union hero of the Battle of Stones River, Hazen had a distinguished career before and after the war, but it was a stormy one. By MIKE WEST Managing Editor - 1 opinion posted

Sen. John Crittenden Brother vs. brother vs. cousin When authors write about the Civil War, the phrase "brother versus brother" is often used. That concept was especially true with the tragedy-stricken Crittenden family of Kentucky. By MIKE WEST Managing Editor

Whitelaw Reid Correspondents did their part at Stones River Rosecrans tried to play politics via journalists By Mike West, Managing Editor _ May 20, 2007

Correspondents honored with unique memorial While the story of the many correspondents who covered the Civil War remains generally untold, there is a unique memorial to this group of unusual people.

National cemeteries, like Stones River, suffer inadequate funding, organization says WASHINGTON, D.C. - National cemeteries within the National Park System are suffering from insufficient funding and other threats, the nonprofit National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) said today as America prepares to celebrate Memorial Day. May 14, 2007 3:27 PM

Capt. William Sadler Capt. Sadler CSA ... 'the bravest of the brave' The War Between the States was a very difficult and trying time for the men, women, and children of this defining period in our nation's history. By SHIRLEY FARRIS JONES

Where was the 'burned Cowan house?' Thompson Lane obscures what was key portion of battlefield 1 opinion posted

These 'Regular' soldiers oft forgotten Forgotten in most re-telling of the Civil War were those journeymen soldiers of the regular U.S. Army. Ironically, they were often the best-equipped, best-trained and most elite troops on the field of battle with many of them having combat experience from the Mexican-American War or from serving on the Western frontier. By MIKE WEST Managing Editor

Civil War: "A Bivouac of the Dead" by Bierce Away up in the heart of the Allegheny mountains, in Pocahontas county, West Virginia, is a beautiful little valley through which flows the east fork of the Greenbrier river. By Ambrose Bierce

Theodore O'Hara Civil War: Famous elegy written by Confederate officer Adventurers who explore inside Stones River National Cemetery often find their attention turned to a series of cast iron plaques bearing stanzas from a poem called "The Bivouac of the Dead." Bivouac is a French word meaning temporary encampment and was most often used in reference to a military camp even up to the 20th Century. MIKE WEST Managing Editor

Civil War: "Bivouac of the Dead" by O'Hara The muffled drum's sad roll has beat The soldier's last tattoo; No more on life's parade shall meet That brave and fallen few.

A surprise inside Hazen's Monument In addition to serving as a memorial, Hazen's Monument at Stones River Battlefield contained a surprise for a restoration team. 2 opinions posted

Hazen's Monument a rare historic treasure Hazen's Monument, at Stones River Battlefield, marks one of the first formal efforts at honoring Civil War dead. By Mike West Managing Editor - 1 opinion posted

UDC played key role in South's vindication Editor's Note: This is the second in a series on the recent Stones River Battlefield legacy symposium. United Daughters of the Confederacy used a concerted plan to change and revise the perception and legacy of the South following the Civil War. My Mike West, Post managing editor-April 15, 2007 - 1 opinion posted

Dr. Blair Fear, conflict continued long after Civil War Stones River symposium looks at battlefield's legacy By MIKE WEST Managing Editor

Calvin C. Lowe Calvin C. Lowe: From farmin' to fightin' Calvin C. Lowe was a peace-loving man. But when the call for arms came, he was more than ready to go. By SHIRLEY FARRIS JONES - April 1, 2007 - 3 opinions posted

Thomas Battle of Stones River: Ohio troops pull into the breech It was the turn for Ohio troops to take the brunt of the Confederate assault during the opening fight at Stones River. By MIKE WEST Managing Editor

Gen. Lovell Rousseau Ugly aftermath followed fight in cedars While Federal forces successfully delayed the Confederate onslaught during the opening hours of the Battle of Stones River, it was far from a Yankee victory. It fact, the morning of Dec. 31, 1862 would have been a complete rout, if the Army of Tennessee had attacked en mass instead of brigade after brigade. By MIKE WEST, Managing Editor - March 18, 2007 - 8 AM - 1 opinion posted

Shirley Farris Jones Murfreesboro: A town captured Located in the exact geographic center of the state, bounded by rivers, a railroad and productive farmland, war came to the people living in the quiet little town of Murfreesboro much sooner than any of her citizens ever could have imagined when the Confederate flag was hoisted above the Courthouse in the summer of 186l. By Shirley Farris Jones

Gen. B.F. Cheatham Battle of Stones River: A stand in the cedars Limestone was to be bloody grindstone that Gen. Phil Sheridan's Midwesterners were to be tested against as the relentless Confederate Army of Tennessee continued to wheel the Union right flank back upon itself. The rocky, cedar-pocked landscape was to prove both curse and ultimately savior to Sheridan's troops By Mike West March 4, 2007

Stones River was Greusel's high-water mark The holding action on Dec. 31, 1862 by Col. Nicholas Greusel was to be the last hurrah of his military career. The Battle of Stones River was his final engagement before a medical problem resulted in his resignation from the army.

Stones River: Col. Greusel picks up the pieces Led by their German-born commander, the 36th Illinois stood their ground on what was left of the right wing of the Army of the Cumberland. Col. Nicholas Greusel's unit had proved itself during the Battles of Pea Ridge and Perryville where his leadership resulted in him being elevated to brigade command. By MIKE WEST Managing Editor

The untold story of Sgt. William Holland "What are the two graves outside of the Hazen Brigade Cemetery wall? The two graves located outside of the Hazen Brigade Monument wall are those of William Holland (1834-1909) and William Harlan (1895-1979). By Mike West Managing Editor - 1 opinion posted

Sheridan Battle of Stones River: Another respected Union general dies Confederates rule opening hours of Stones River conflict, but Union Gen. Phil Sheridan earns his second star. By MIKE WEST Managing Editor - 2 opinions posted

Real Rebel yell We aren't talking about the liquor or the song by Billy Idol, this is a rare recording of a rebel yell performed by a Confederate veteran.

Future of GE plant remains unclear; auction planned General Electric is holding an auction to sell the remaining equipment from its Murfreesboro plant, but the future of the 50-year-old facility remains unclear. Local officials want to see the facility and 30-acre site utilized for manufacturing again or redeveloped. Some Civil War enthusiasts would like to see the property either sold or donated to the Stones River National Battlefield. By ERIN EDGEMON Business Editor

Gen. Edward Kirk A grim awakening at Stones River None of them realized that by a peculiar twist of fate that both Union Maj. Gen. William S. Rosecrans and Confederate Maj. Gen. Braxton Bragg had fashioned identical battle plans _ a morning assault on the enemy right by the troops of their left wing. By MIKE WEST Managing Editor

Gen. James Rains Civil War Terms When we talk about "right wing" and "left wing" in military terms, we aren't discussing liberal vs. conservative.

Link of the Day: Col. Julius Garesche´ Here's a link to Dr. Homer Pittard's article on the strange death of Col. Julius Garesche´.

Julius P. Garesché Civil War: Did a knight's sacrifice win the battle? Did the sacrifice of one knight win the day for the Union at the Battle of Stones River? By MIKE WEST Managing Editor - 3 opinions posted

Civil War: Newspaper article revealed noble knight's character During the Battle of Stones River, journalists representing newspapers from both the North and South were present, including one from The National Intelligencer .

Artillery saved the day for the Union at Stone's River One of the most significant things about the battle is how the Union Army of the Cumberland used cannon fire to hold back the Confederate onslaught. By MIKE WEST Managing Editor

Rousseau Minie balls were battlefield revolution When it comes to weaponry, the Civil War is best described as the first modern war. By Mike West, Managing Editor

Board of Trade battery. The Post Top 10: Interesting Battle of Stones River sites The Top 10 sites associated with the Battle of Stones River Collected By Mike West, Managing Editor - 7 opinions posted

Civil War links Here's a place for Internet links to Websites with Civil War content, including a link to national battlefield sites.

T.L. Crittenden No way to celebrate Christmas 1862 One day after Christmas 1862, the Federal Army of the Cumberland moved out of Nashville with the intent of attacking the Confederate Army of Tennessee near Murfreesboro. By Mike West, Managing Editor

Dan Emmett "Dixie" still remains topic of controversy Just like many other issues raised by the Civil War, the origins, meaning and intent of the song, "Dixie," remains a topic of debate. By Mike West, Managing Editor - 6 opinions posted

Library of Congress Bands battled on eve of Stones River clash One of the most unique moments of the Civil War occurred on the eve of the Battle of Stones River."Every soldier on that field knew when the sun went down on the 30th that on the following day he would be engaged in a struggle unto death, and the air was full of tokens that one of the most desperate of battles was to be fought," said Brig. Gen. Henry M. Cist, Army of the Cumberland. By Mike West, Managing Editor - 4 opinions posted

Some links to Civil War songs

Confederate organization at Stones River As reported in the Official Records of the War of Rebellion.

Union order of battle at Stones River This document from Official Records of the War of Rebellion lists the units of the Union Army of the Cumberland.

Gen. T.L. Crittenden March to Murfreesboro began on Dec. 26 One day after Christmas 1862, the Federal Army of the Cumberland moved out of Nashville with the intent of attacking the Confederate Army of Tennessee near Murfreesboro. By MIKE WEST Managing Editor - 4 opinions posted

Did real coffee win the Civil War? When you enjoy all of those holiday treats, think about the not-so-delectable foods devoured by Civil War solders encamped outside Murfreesboro during the winter of 1862. By MIKE WEST Managing Editor

John Hunt Morgan 'The Wedding' still captivates after 144 years In the days before Christmas 1862, little Murfreesboro was the scene of one of the most glamorous and romantic moments of the Civil War. By MIKE WEST

Jefferson and Varina Davis When Jeff Davis came to town Murfreesboro is in the midst of a joyous Christmas celebration, 2007 style. Some 145 years earlier, the jubilation was similar, but for a much different reason. By Mike West, Managing Editor

Carter House Association acquires key part of Franklin Battlefield The Carter House Association Inc. announces the acquisition of a key part of Franklin's battlefield—a portion of the homestead garden of Fountain Branch Carter—from Chris Waller in a transaction that closed on Nov. 14, according to Rusty Womack, president of the Board of Directors of The Carter House Association.

Beauregard Did the Confederates have a master plan? 11/26/06 The Union had its modified "Anaconda plan," but did the Confederate States of America have a master strategy when it launched the Civil War? By Mike West, Managing Editor

Scott's outline of the plan SIR: I have read and carefully considered your plan for a campaign and now send you confidentially my own views, supported by certain facts of which you should be advised.

Anaconda helps strangle the South 11/19/06 It's time to talk a little strategy. Just why did Union forces decide to attack on the Cumberland and Tennessee rivers and force their way into Middle Tennessee during the early part of the Civil War? By Mike West, Managing Editor

Rutherford troops get taste of war at Fort Donelson Bad luck for Joseph B. Palmer's regiment during the unit's first battle of the Civil War. Mike West

Key dates of the Civil War 1 opinion posted

Stones River: Palmer's life illustrates Tennessee's plight Published 11/05/06 One of the stateliest houses on East Main Street does little to reveal the character of the battle-scarred general who built it. By Mike West, Managing Editor - 1 opinion posted

Confederate cast of characters Published 10/29/06

Union army had advantage Published 10/29/06

Putting a face on history Published 10/29/06 It's not easy to put a face on the soldiers who fought at the Battle of Stones River 144 years ago. Where were they from? How did they end up here? Combined together, the Federal Army of the Cumberland and the Confederate Army of Tennessee had 81,000 troops on the field of battle. That figure is equivalent to the city's current population. So if you can imagine every man, woman and child in Murfreesboro charging in en mass across Thompson Lane, you have an idea of the numbers involved. By MIKE WEST

The Battle of Stones River: Why here? 10/22/06 Only 2,500 people lived here in 1862. So why would 83,000 Federal and Confederate troops fight over such an insignificant burg? Why fight over it? After all, the Confederates surrendered the state's capital without a shot being fired. Nashville, with its valuable rail and river connections, was a Union-controlled city. By Mike West, Managing Editor - 1 opinion posted

Many significant Civil War sites outside of park Published 10/15/06 Many of them are outside of the national park's 570-acre boundaries and are in areas undergoing major development. In the last five years, three of the historic buildings on the list have either been destroyed by fire or demolished to make way for development. By Mike West, Managing Editor - 1 opinion posted

Civil War talk triggers childhood memories Published 10/15/06 By Mike West, Managing Editor

Heritage Center New Heritage Center to tell 'Boro's colorful story Published 10/8/06 It is obvious to the casual observer that Murfreesboro's Public Square is picturesque — with it accent light posts, flags and hanging baskets — and has a long history apparent by the stately Courthouse positioned at its center. By Erin Edgemon, Post business editor - 2 opinions posted

Skirmish surfaces over lot adjacent to battlefield 10/8/06 The owner of a small parcel of land along Old Nashville Highway is attempting to have his property rezoned commercial again. By Erin Edgemon, Post business editor - 1 opinion posted

Rare New York Times editions recount Civil War news Published 10/8/06 By Erin Edgemon, Post business editor

Broken cannon. In Stones River Battlefield important? Published 10/8/06 Have you ever visited Stones River National Battlefield? Or maybe it's just on your to-do list? Perhaps you wonder why you should even bother? Experts say the park is a major resource for Murfreesboro, the state of Tennessee and the nation. By Mike West, Managing Editor - 3 opinions posted

THE JENKINS HOUSE Historic Jenkins House to be removed from National Register of Historic Places Published 9/27/06 The review board for the Tennessee Historical Commission voted to remove the demolished Hiram Jenkins House from the National Register of Historic Places Wednesday. By ERIN EDGEMON