Description
Book SynopsisAn account that will long stand as the definitive treatment. In this work, Charles A. Misulia, a lifelong student of the Civil War and expert on the Battle of Columbus, provides a comprehensive study of the Easter Sunday, April 16, 1865, conflict.
Trade ReviewThere is no arguing that Charles A. Misulia's position is thoroughly researched, organized, and thought out.
Columbus Georgia, 1865 is a fine addition to the continuing war of words that the American Civil War has become." -
On Point, The Journal of Army History"
Columbus, Georgia 1865: The Last True Battle of the Civil War is one of those refreshing and rare books in the veritable flood of Civil War-related literature, one that truly offers something new for readers. Far from yet another attempt at reinterpreting oft-repeated information, author Charles Misulia explores in an engaging fashion a little-known story that has received surprisingly scant scholarly attention. The book is thoroughly researched, comprehensive in scope and content, and well written." -
Georgia Historical Quarterly"Misulia's excellent research and clear prose make for an enjoyable and instructive read. His narrative clearly follows the action from Alabama to Georgia and then focuses on Columbus. His passion for the subject helps the story, and his work, if viewed as local history, is outstanding. . . . Overall, Misulia provides a well-crafted story that allows those interested in the Civil War to delve into battlefield tactics, broader strategies, soldiers' experiences, and civilian concerns at a transitional period from wartime to postwar reconstruction." -
The Alabama Review"With his book,
Columbus Georgia 1865: The Last True Battle of the Civil War, Misulia has filled a void in Civil War literature too long overshadowed and overlooked. His book rightly deserves its place on the bookshelves of Civil War scholars and enthusiasts alike, alongside other histories of Civil War battles such as Shiloh, Antietam, Gettysburg and Chickamauga." -
Civil War Notebook"Charles Misulia's lasting contribution is that of a deeply researched and expertly written battle history that will likely stand the test of time.
Columbus, Georgia 1865 is highly recommended reading for students of western theater battles and those with a special interest in the waning moments of the conflict." -
Civil War Books and Authors"A lean, well-written, compelling narrative of the Battle of Columbus, Georgia. It begins with the larger context of James H. Wilson's massive cavalry campaign through Alabama and Georgia in the waning days of the war, and carries the story through the destruction of Columbus by Wilson's troops in the aftermath of the battle on April 16, 1865. It is so detailed, deeply researched, and meticulous that I feel completely confident in declaring that it will be the definitive account of this battle." - Lawrence F. Kohl, editor of
The Irish Brigade and Its Campaigns and
The Story of the 116th Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers in the War of the RebellionTable of Contents
- List of Illustrations
- Preface
- Acknowledgments
- 1. Wilson's Raid
- 2. The Road to Columbus
- 3. Gathering Darkness on the Chattahoochee
- 4. Conflict on the Horizon: Week One
- 5. The Enemy Approaches: Week Two
- 6. Time Runs Out
- 7. The Battle Begins: Crawford and Uchee Creek
- 8. The Fight for the City Bridge
- 9. The Lost Brigade
- 10. The Stage Is Set
- 11. The Night Attack: Assault on Fort 3
- 12. The Night Attack: 'A Speedy Journey to Hell'
- 13. The Night Attack: 'Then Commenced the Rough and Tumble Fight'
- 14. The Night Attack: The Battle Concludes
- 15. The Conflagration Begins
- 16. Laid in Ruins
- 17. Evacuation of Columbus
- 18. Aftermath
- Appendix 1: The Last Real Battle of the Civil War
- Appendix 2: Structure of Wilson's Cavalry Corps
- Appendix 3: Order of Battle, April 16, 1865
- Appendix 4: Casualties at the Battle for Columbus
- Appendix 5: Medal of Honor Recipients
- Appendix 6: Discovering the Battle for Columbus
- Notes
- Bibliographic Essay
- Index