Civil War Christmases

The intentions of this manuscript are to not only explore the variety of manners in which civilians and Nineteenth Century warriors observed Christmas during the years of the American Civil War, but also to note the ways in which those individuals and their practices enhanced and altered the previous generations' celebratory acts. Upon reading the related facts in this book, one will easily discern that the Christmas holiday evolved from a seemingly seldom or sporadically acknowledged event to one of reverence and commercialization. The horrendous sufferings of citizens of North and South, particularly those in areas of occupation or battles, coupled with the devastating loss of life, combined to create a populace more determined to set aside days surrounding December 25 as a special time for family, friends, and fellowship.