Guide to the James H. McCleary Diary, Letter, and Photograph MSS.1610
McCleary, James
- Publication:
W.S. Hoole Special Collections Library, The University of Alabama
Mary Harmon Bryant Hall
May 2012
500 Hackberry Lane
Box 870266
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, 35487-0266
205.348.0500
archives@ua.edu
- Creation:
This finding aid was produced using the Archivists' Toolkit 2012-05-21T14:28-0500
- Language Usage:
English
- Description Rules:
Describing Archives: A Content Standard
James H. McCleary Diary, Letter, and Photograph
- Unit ID:
MSS.1610
- Repository:
W.S. Hoole Special Collections Library, The University of Alabama
- Quantity:
0.1 Linear feet 1 diary, 1 photo, 1 letter, 1 typescript copy of diary and letter (photocopy)
- Dates:
1862-1864
- Abstract:
Collection includes a photograph, letter, and diary of a Civil War soldier from Pennsylvania, who died during the battle of Gettysburg.
Scope and Contents note
This Civil War diary by a Pennsylvania soldier begins on January 1, 1863, and includes daily entries until McCleary's death during the battle of Gettysburg. Entries remark upon day to day activities and duties, weather and housing conditions, movement orders, leadership changes, and rumors concerning the war. McCleary's unit was stationed at Belle Plain, Virginia, until late April, when it began moving to the Chancellorsville area on the Rappahannock River. In June, McCleary discussed the march that would lead him to Gettysburg. The last entry is on July 1, 1863, the day before he was killed at Gettysburg. The collection also contains a photo of McCleary and a letter dated 25 February 1864, notifying John McCleary that his brother's tombstone will be placed once the ground thaws.
- Preferred Citation:
Preferred Citation
James H. McCleary Diary, Letter and Photograph, W.S. Hoole Special Collections Library, The University of Alabama.
- Acquisition Information:
Provenance
Gift of William M. Evans, 2003; additional gift (transcription) from Charles Richards, 2009
Biographical/Historical note
James McCleary entered the Pennsylvania Light Artillery Regiment, 1st Battery B (also known as Cooper's Battery), as a private on October 6, 1861. During his time in Battery "B", he participated in engagements on the James-York River peninsula (Mechanicsville, Beaver Dam Creek), Second Bull Run, South Mountain, Antietam, and Fredericksburg. He was killed at the battle of Gettysburg.
Source(s)
War and Military (local)
diary Box 1548 Folder 2
letter and photograph Box 1548 Folder 2
transcription Box 1548 Folder 3