Ashbel Smith of Texas: Pioneer, Patriot, Statesman, 1805-1886 Book

Wow! As a student of history specializing in Civil War medicine, nothing is more exciting than reading a first hand account of women like Emma Edmond's work during the Civil War. Emma Edmond's memoir puts women at the forefront and examines their many roles in the conflict. Not only does Edmond's tell her story, but that of so many other notable men and women of the war. After studying the movement of troops and happenings of Civil War battles, it was refreshing to see this on a more realistic, personal scale as she takes you right down into the action and makes those battles and people who fought them, real. The vivid description of tragedy and carnage brings a new level of realization and humanity to the Civil War that many books do not address with such tenderness. In addition, Edmond's account of families in Vicksburg during the siege may be the most complete first hand account of the matter I have seen to date. A must read for students of history especially, but also anyone who is interested in gender relations. You won't be disappointed.