Edward Smedley diary
Scope and Contents
This collection is comprised of the single handwritten diary of Edward Smedley, written while at the conscript barracks in Philadelphia after being drafted for the American Civil War. Entries describe Smedley's experiences as a drafted soldier and non-combatant prisoner in Philadelphia, including religious reflection, visits from family members, and military preparations.
Dates
- Creation: 1863
Creator
- Smedley, Edward (Person)
Access Restrictions
The collection is open for research use.
Use Restrictions
Standard Federal Copyright Laws Apply (U.S. Title 17).
Biographical Note
Edward Garrett Smedley (1835-1908) was born April 10, 1835, in Middletown, Delaware, the son of William Smedley and Rebecca Webster. Smedley was educated at Westtown School before leaving due to ill health. In 1863, Edward and his cousin William were drafted by the military to fight in the American Civil War. After refusing to fight or pay a penalty, Smedley and his cousin were held for a time in army barracks in Philadelphia before being released. In 1865, he married to Elizabeth Sharpless, and the couple had two daughters, Edith Smedley (1870) and Susanna Smedley (1875). Smedley died on February 5, 1908.
Extent
0.04 linear ft. (1 volume)
Language of Materials
English
Abstract
Diary of Edward Smedley, written while at the conscript barracks in Philadelphia after being drafted for the American Civil War. Entries describe Smedley's experiences as a drafted soldier and non-combatant prisoner in Philadelphia, including religious reflection, visits from family members, and military preparations.
Acquisition
Unknown.
Processing Information
Processed by Kara Flynn; completed August, 2015.
- Title
- Edward Smedley diary, 1863
- Author
- Kara Flynn
- Date
- August, 2015
- Description rules
- Describing Archives: A Content Standard
- Language of description
- English
- Script of description
- Latin
- Language of description note
- English
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