The Thirty-Ninth Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers, 1862-1865

A historical account written in the early 20th century. The work chronicles the experiences of the Thirty-Ninth Regiment during the American Civil War, providing insights into their recruitment, daily life, and engagements in various battles. Roe aims to document the sacrifices and contributions of the regiment, presenting a focused narrative on their unique role within the broader context of the war. The opening of the book sets the tone for a detailed recounting of the regiment's formation and the challenges they faced as they entered military service. In the preface, Roe explains the long-awaited history of the Thirty-Ninth Regiment, emphasizing the importance of preserving the experiences of these soldiers, many of whom have passed on. The narrative begins with the historical backdrop of the Civil War in the summer of 1862, detailing the urgent calls for troops, the organization of the regiment, and their initial experiences at Camp Stanton. The text portrays the commitment of various companies as they enlist to serve, outlining the camaraderie, hardships, and the fervor surrounding their preparations to fight for the Union.