Avery Harris Civil War Journal

The Avery Harris Civil War Journal chronicles the memoirs of Avery Harris of Benton Twp., Pennsylvania and his experiences during the Civil War. Mr. Harris was 22 years of age when he enlisted in August 1862 to join the new recruits of the Pa. 143'rd regiment at Camp Luzerne in the Wyoming Valley of N.E. Pennsylvania. His recollections include the folksy accounts of the many hardships of camp life, the battles of Gettysburg, Wilderness, Spotsylvania, Weldon Railroad, and Hatchers Run among other more minor skirmishes. His story also tells about his mustering out of service in June 1865 and his reception upon returning home. The book is an interesting account of the Civil War as seen from the experiences of one who suffered through it. At times the story is amusing as it is sad and filled with many personal anecdotes that take the reader back in time to this important era that had a major influence on the shaping of our great country.