American Civil War people

There are many interesting and exciting stories to be told about various individuals throughout the Civil War. There are stories of daring heroism and there are stories of vile treachery. Also, there are stories that are just fun to tell.

For example, there is the story of Wilmer McLean (right)...

In 1861 the first skirmish of what would become the First Battle of Bull Run was fought on McLean's farm, and a Union cannon ball even came down the chimney of his kitchen fireplace.

Thinking that he should move his family to a safer location, he bought a house in the community of Appomattox Court House, Virginia...

It is said that McLean was fond of saying that, "The war began in my front yard and ended in my front parlor."

Is Wilmer McLean one of the heroes of the American Civil War? Well, maybe not really a hero...

But he definitely had a story worth remembering, and there are many more people just like him that played a small part in the story that is the American Civil War. Some just had accidental parts - like McLean - while others performed true acts of forgotten heroism.

Here I will try to bring together as many of their stories as I can...

There are many different kinds of American Civil War heroes. There are famous generals and politicians, there are also largely unknown heroes and heroines. Hopefully, we will - over time- be able to bring their stories together here for the enjoyment of all...

We have special pages dealing with the adventures of Civil War spies and Civil War women. If you want to read some stories about those particular heroes, please check out those pages.