Railroads and the Civil War Soldiers who used Them
During the American Civil War, the railroad network played an important role in the transportation of soldiers and supplies to the front lines. 1 But what is the impact that access to the rail network had on enabling those who wanted to volunteer in Ohio for the Union cause? Little is written about how access to these local trains assisted with military involvement in any meaningful way. There is much value to be found by delving into the impact of transportation networks and the movement of people. 2 The research explored here will do much to help understand rural communities in Ohio and the historic impact of the railways. 3 Compiling many of the personal stories of soldiers who served in the military during this period shows their perspective of rail travel. 4 Using those stories and comparing local volunteer records with railway maps will paint a picture of of rural involvement that increased with access to railroads. I...