Product Description

Of all the units that fought in the Civil War, the Irish Brigade seems to be the most recognized. Comprised of troops from New York who were mostly Irish-Catholics, this unit proved itself in some of the most important battles of the war. A principal player in this unit was the chaplin, Father William Corby. Through his devotions and his willingness to be ever-present at the encampments, as well as at the front, the souls of the Irish Brigade were always cared for. A combination biography, history of the Irish Brigade, day-to-day look into the lives of Civil War soldiers, and reflection on the Catholic faith, this book is wonderfully written in Corby's own words. All the aspects of his life come together here. Recommended for public and academic libraries.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #1208082 in Books
• Published on: 1992-01-01
• Released on: 1992-01-01
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 412 pages

From Library Journal
Of all the units that fought in the Civil War, the Irish Brigade seems to be the most recognized. Comprised of troops from New York who were mostly Irish-Catholics, this unit proved itself in some of the most important battles of the war. A principal player in this unit was the chaplin, Father William Corby. Through his devotions and his willingness to be ever-present at the encampments, as well as at the front, the souls of the Irish Brigade were always cared for. A combination biography, history of the Irish Brigade, day-to-day look into the lives of Civil War soldiers, and reflection on the Catholic faith, this book is wonderfully written in Corby's own words. All the aspects of his life come together here. Recommended for public and academic libraries.
- Barbara Zaborowski, Cambria Cty. Lib., Johnstown, Pa.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

The Catholic Historical Review
"This is arguably one of the best of the numerous published diaries of Civil War participants."

Civil War History
"Kohl...has done a superb job in editing this present edition and placing it in historical context..."

Customer Reviews

An Interesting Narrative
I truly enjoyed the book Memoirs of Chaplain Life by William Corby. Father William Corby, a Catholic, served as a chaplain to the Irish Brigade in the Army of the Potomac. Corby relates the many trials and dangers that he suffers over his three years of service. He tells the stories of narrow escapes from the enemy fire. He ministers to the men, "hears their confession," and often dose duties not required by his being chaplain. The book gives an interesting look into the religious life, as well as everyday camp life in a Civil War Army. I will say that the book is hard to get through, but it is worth the time to read. Father Corby is an interesting character.

A valuable Civil War memoir
Father Corby's Irish Brigade memoir provides a very valuable and interesting record of the Civil War. His testimony gives the reader a first-hand account of life in the Church and in the Army.

In some sections, the memoir is not terribly exciting; it is for the history buff who wants to know more than which general won a given battle. The book tells of the great and small trials of army life. Its value comes from the author's testimony about the lives of the soldiers and their experiences.

The book will best suit those who possess a knowledge of the war, as Father Corby's passing mention of campaigns and generals' names will be lost on the uninitiated.

I strongly recommend this book to those interested in Civil War and Irish history.