FAQs

Q.  What sources were used to create the sketches and sidebars?
A.  The original Civil War pension applications from veterans and their survivors (widows, children, siblings, and parents) include information about the soldier’s life before, during, and after his military service. The original pension application folders are at the National Archives, Washington, D.C.

Information for the sidebars (maps, illustrations, documents) came from all over the place and each one includes a source note.

Q.  How often will you post sketches and sidebars?
A.  I’ll probably post one sketch a week and one sidebar a week.

Q.  How can I get a copy of the original pension application?
A.  Use the order form on the National Archives website.  

Q.  My ancestor served in the 1st U.S. Colored Cavalry but I can’t find him in your blog.
A.  I’m working my way through the original pension applications as quickly as possible. Send me his name. If I have his application in the workflow, I’ll bump it up.

Q.  I have information about an ancestor who served in the 1st U.S. Colored Cavalry.
A.  That’s great!  Please share it in the “comments” or send an email to leslie1863@hotmail.com.

Q.  Where can I find a list of all the people who served in the 1st U.S. Colored Cavalry?
A.  The National Park Service Civil War Soldiers and Sailors Database has basic information about “the men who served in the Union and Confederate armies during the Civil War. Other information on the site includes histories of Union and Confederate regiments, links to descriptions of significant battles, and selected lists of prisoner-of-war records and cemetery records, which will be amended over time. ”

Q.  How can I learn more about their pre- and post-war experiences? 
A.  Subscribe to this blog — and take a look at the “Resources” tab for print and online resources.