Most of us are fairly knowledgeable about military aspects of the war, and can answer questions about it with some degree of certainty. It is often a different matter entirely when we are asked non-military questions. If we are accurately to portray soldiers of the War Between the States, then we need to know more than just dates and battles.

For example, it is 1864: Do you know who is governor of your home state? Do you know who is mayor of your home town? What is the name of the minister of your church? Does your family all share your views about the war? What are your views about the war? Why did you enlist? Do you have other relatives serving?

If you read primary sources you will find over and over again that ordinary soldiers spent much of their conversation talking about things back home. This should hardly be surprising since for many it was their first time away from home for such a period of time, and they missed their families and friends.

This "non-military" information falls into two broad groups. The first group is personal information and can be invented to suit your tastes. The main thing is to be detailed and consistent. It might be helpful to fill out an inventory listing personal information, preferences, etc., in order to make sure it is complete. What sort of things should be here? Besides those already mentioned, consider family members, your occupation, your parents' occupation, your education, your religious beliefs and so on.

The second type of information is factual and would have to be researched. Once you have chosen a hometown, you can learn various things about it. For example, what are the major crops in the area? How do most people make a living there? What is the climate like? Who are some of the prominent citizens? Is there something unique about the area?

It is possible to get microfilm copies of old newspapers from many areas. These are an excellent source of information and will often have stories directly relating to the war as well. Once you start researching, you may be surprised at just how much fun you are having!