In Their Own Words: The Civil War Soldier Experience

This one-day professional development seminar immerses educators in the lived experiences of Civil War soldiers, including some who served under Generals Ulysses S. Grant at Shiloh and William T. Sherman during the March to the Sea. Using primary sources—letters, diaries, historic photographs, and artifacts from the Union League of Philadelphia’s art and historic collection—participants will explore the diverse motivations that drove soldiers to fight and the profound toll the war took on them and their families. 

The seminar begins with an historical talk on the citizen soldiers of the Union Army and then an interactive session analyzing soldiers’ letters and diaries, revealing personal stories of duty, patriotism, economic necessity, and abolitionist ideals. Educators will examine why men enlisted, from ideological convictions to social pressures, and how these motivations shaped their experiences. A guided exploration of historic photographs and artifacts, including uniforms and personal items, will provide tangible connections to the soldiers’ daily lives, hardships, and resilience. 

A facilitated discussion will address the war’s emotional and physical impact, including trauma, loss, and family separation, as documented in personal writings. Participants will engage in hands-on activities to integrate these primary sources into their classrooms, fostering critical thinking, and historical empathy among students. 

A special focus on the letters of African-American soldiers and the historic efforts in recruitment into the United States Colored Troops through the auspices of Frederick Douglass and members of the Union League of Philadelphia will allow teachers to explore the contributions of former slaves and free black individuals to the Union cause in the Civil War.

Led by historians, archivists, and master teachers, this seminar equips educators with strategies to teach the Civil War’s human dimensions, emphasizing diverse perspectives and the enduring legacy of soldiers’ sacrifices.

Thanks to a generous donor, Founding Forward will provide a $50 stipend to every accepted teacher in this program to help offset expenses related to attending a Founding Forward professional development seminar. Upon completion of the program, teachers will receive a $50 check to help cover travel, childcare, or any other expenses they might incur. 

Accepted teachers receive a scholarship to attend the program, which covers the cost of the program, program materials, site visits (if applicable), most meals, and more.