While I am covering Clint Johnson and his great travel guides relating to Virginia, West Virginia, and Stonewall Jackson, I have to mention his "In the Footsteps of Robert E. Lee."
Johnson again writes a great book about a very interesting, and well known character. I think a lot of people know the basics about Lee, but this book offers a really good starting point for someone just developing an interest in the most well known Confederate.
I think this book could also be appreciated by someone who knows a lot about Lee, but wants to get a better understanding of his character.
And, ultimately, this is just a fun book to read to find out about places associated with Lee.... places that he actually worked, fought, and lived.
And, just like in his other books, Clint Johnson gives some fun, and obscure stories. I did not know about General Lee's dog.... or his chicken. The author also tells us about a Lee family home that inspired at least the name of the White House.
Concerning actual places associated with Lee..... some are in need of repairs or threatened by development. One home associated with Lee was for sale at the time the book came out (it looks like offices occupy this home now). At least it is still standing and maintained. One fort that Lee designed on an island still exists, but it is in desperate need of restoration. The author also notes that unmarked graves at one battle field are, "waiting for the developers' bulldozers to run them over."
Fortunately, there are many other places connected to Lee that are in good shape! I am glad that Clint Johnson put this book together so that we can visit them.
No comments:
Post a Comment