"Bushwhacking on a Grand Scale- The Battle of Chickamauga" by William Lee White

While we were at the wonderful Chickamauga Battlefield, we stopped by their museum/visitor center.  While making some purchases in the gift shop, I had a nice chat with the young lady running the place.  She loved the area, and let me know that she was even born at the hospital down the street, which is on battleground!  She recommended "Bushwhacking on a Grand Scale:  The Battle for Chickamauga, September 18-20, 1863" By William Lee White.

It is part of the Emerging Civil War Series, from Savas Beatie.  I have bought several books from this publisher, some direct, as they cover some more interesting topics...  and, when I have contacted them, they have even sold me some nice signed copies of their books!

"Bushwhacking on a Grand Scale", just like others in the Emerging Civil War Series, is technical and covers the details of the fighting, but it is not so technical that the average guy like you and me can't understand it.  This isn't a 600 page volume bogged down in details that only researchers might appreciate.  Its a good, thorough telling story of the battle that can be the perfect starting point for someone just getting interested in the topic.

I picked up White's book on this first trip, and I cant wait to get back to the Battlefield to use this one as a guide.  The book is broken up into 16 chapters, each about an event and area.  Directions are given to get to the next stop on a battlefield tour.

There are pictures of the key players, maps, and photos.  There are plenty of the odd details that I love about the Civil War that make the story more than just a CSA vs. USA event.  White talks about the events leading to John Bell Hood's leg amputation.  The Death of Lincoln brother in law (and faithful Confederate) Benjamin Hardin Helm is covered.  There are other stories about confusion caused by the color of some new Confederate Uniforms.  Another interesting tale involves President Davis giving a promotion based on dead horses.

The gift shop at Chickamauga has signed copies, but I asked the clerk if the author (a ranger at the park for many years) was around and he was!  I said hello to hmi and chatted briefly, but it is always a bonus when you get to meet the author of a great book.