Researching Civil War Ancestors
The following are some guidelines and suggestions on researching Civil
War ancestors. Usually, it is best to start with the soldiers full
name, his military unit (regiment, battery, ship, etc.) and the county
where you believe he enlisted. Then, each of the following steps may yield
more information. In many cases, information about Confederate soldiers
is limited.
1. The Civil War Soldiers and Sailors database, Internet accessible at
www.itd.nps.gov/cwss is a good place to start. The CWSS database contains
over 5 million soldier names from over 30 states and territories, and
the website has several other useful links to possibly obtain more detailed
information.
2. The National Archives has copies of official military and pension
records for Civil War soldiers. You may request a search of these records
by first obtaining NATF forms 85 (for pension files) and 86 (for military
record) from the National Archives, by either email at inquire@arch2.nara.gov
or by postal mail at:
Textual Reference Branch (NWDT1)
National Archives and Records Administration
7th and Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20408
Be sure to include the type of form(s) you are requesting (NATF 85, NATF
86,
or both), the quantity of forms you need, and your postal mailing address.
The
National Archives website, www.nara.gov, also has useful information.
3. In addition, check with the state archives in the home state of your
ancestors unit to see what records are available. County and local
historical societies are often another good source of more detailed information.
4. Studying your ancestors military unit may also be beneficial.
Frederick Dyers A Compendium of the War of the Rebellion has short
histories of Union regiments, while Joseph H. Crute, Jr.s Units
of the Confederate States Army includes Southern regiments. Specific histories
on your ancestors regiment may also be available in local libraries.
The Antietam National Battlefield library has some reference materials,
plus unit files on regiments that fought in the Battle of Antietam. You
may do research at the library by making an appointment with the park
historian at (301) 432-8674. Other NPS battlefield sites may also have
more information on particular units.
5. Many other resources for genealogical research, such as guidebooks
and websites, may help you further your search. Check your local bookstore,
or do a word search on the Internet and see what you can find. Good luck!
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