Share Civil War information with PCHA

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Civil War

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April of 2011 marked the 150th anniversary of the beginning of the War Between the States—or Civil War.

This particular war was fought over numerous political, economic and social issues, which included the rights of the states vs. a strong centralized national government. Many said slavery was only a minor issue—economics equaled it and the industrialized and heavily populated northern tier of states versus the old school agrarian south—of plantations which raised cotton, rice and indigo and utilized slave labor.

Whatever the cause, residents of Pierce County were quickly drawn into it in terms of military service. The county was less than 10-years-old as far as its governmental formation was concerned. Yet, a great many men from the county were drafted and also served. And a good percentage of those who did serve were recent emigrants from a number of European lands, particularly heavy numbers came from Norway.

Names can be found for all who served. But the Pierce County Historical Association (PCHA) would rather have the families/descendants of those who served share their information—in writing the stories about those ancestors who did serve.

Already part of the PCHA collection are a set of diaries kept by a veteran during his years of service and those of his son and grandson—covering three generations of history.

Letters, copies, of course, would be welcomed; photos—also copies—are of value; uniforms, medals, or whatever could be photographed, to document that era of America’s past—please consider donating.

It is a period of our history too often skipped over in the education of the school children today. What we do not know is often forgotten and could be all too easily repeated.

Civil wars are erupting and raging in a great many nations around the world.

The PCHA office is open 1-4 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays, and 1-5 p.m. on Fridays. Or an appointment can be made to open by calling Audrey Gilbertson at 1-714/792-5182.

The office is located on the lower level of the Ellsworth Village Hall. Always, if possible, call 715.273-6611 to be sure a volunteer is present.

Tags: pierce county, lifestyle, history, military