William Galt notebook

Collection

Identifier: MS-0362

Staff Only

From the 1850's through the end of the Civil War, many VMI cadets kept notebooks which they filled with poetry concerning cadet life, songs, recipes, personal notes, autographs of classmates, and other mementos. This notebook, bulk dating from ca. 1862-1863, was compiled by Cadet William "Willie" Galt, VMI Class of 1864. The manuscript reflects the concerns and interests of a wartime cadet and thus contains many verses and songs inspired by the ongoing conflict. A few of the entries toward the end of the volume were made by an unknown family member, probably ca. 1865-1866.

Contains ca. 30 pages of entries, including some original cadet poetry as well as popular wartime verses (Bonnie Blue Flag; Oh Weep Not Mother). Two pieces concern the death of Stonewall Jackson.

Dates

1862 - 1863

Creator

Galt, William, 1841-1864 (Person)

Conditions Governing Use

Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.

Extent

1 items

Additional Description

Biographical / Historical

William Galt, b. ca. 1841, was the youngest son of William Galt of "Glenvaron," Fluvanna County, Virginia. He resigned his cadetship to join the Confederate Army, serving as Adjutant with the 52nd Virginia Infantry; died in the hospital at Winchester, Virginia, on October 6, 1864, from a wound received in battle.