(1-19-22) Mike Klinger has written a book on the history of the 118th Ohio in the Civil War. This regiment was raised on the southern reaches of the great black swamp and in the counties on the western border of Ohio stretching down to Shelby County. The history is written using the framework of 500 letters 6 diaries and the surgeons daybook. It is well illustrated with maps and photos.

When possible, Klinger let the men tell their story in their words. They were a good solid unit. While in east Tenn. they suffered terrible privations living on 1/4 to 1/2 rations for six months. One officer wrote his wife that for 48 hours he had nothing but a cup of coffee and a chunk of lard. I hope he got the coffee after the lard!

The letters have been checked against the official records. As well as a good read I wanted this to be a new research source. I have found new observations about the Atlanta campaign, Spring Hill and Franklin.

The book is available on Amazon and at Barnes and Noble. Klinger is available for presentations, his number is 1-260-414-0489.

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