Days of Uncertainty and Dread: The Ordeal Endured by the Citizens at Gettysburg

by Gerald R. Bennett

Days of Uncertainty and The Ordeal Endured by the Citizens at Gettysburg

Genres: Civil War

130 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 1994

Reviews

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

As I am preparing for the licensed battlefield guide exam in December, I am reading as much as I can about the most famous battle of the Civil War. I am also trying to learn interesting human stories od the battle as well, not just tactics and strategy. I would also like to tell the stories of the civilians. A guide recommended this book to me, and I am glad he did. This book is great for a variety of reasons.

First, it is original. A lot of Gettysburg books will throw in a civilian story here and there, but it does not focus on their stories. I commend Gerald Bennett for writing about the civilian story. Second, the book is engaging with anecdotes throughout showing us the terror those civilians experienced during those three July days. There are stories of civilians almost getting killed or dying later because of indirect consequences. Read the story of Ephraim Wisler. One man tried to feed his chickens on the second day and Union troops started firing at him. Why? Because he was wearing a gray suit.

If you are looking for a different perspective on the Battle of Gettysburg, this is for you.

[Alicia Franklin · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredible read! I recommend this book to anyone, to everyone, interested in history. Fascinating to read about this iconic battle through the eyes of citizens. As Americans, we are lucky to have had no war on our souls since the Civil War. I read every last page, even through the end notes, wanting more. I’ll probably look for accounts of the battle through the soldiers’ eyes next.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gettysburg is an incredible place! After recently visiting the battlefield I wanted to learn more about the people who lived in the town and suffered the horrors surrounding the battle. This book was written by a member of the historical society. I found it to be very informative in capturing what those people were experiencing.

[Pat · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short book, but with plenty of information packed into it. Appears to all be based on original documents. Some fleshing out of details would be nice, and sometimes hard to keep the names straight. Does a good job of pointing out the havoc the battle created on the town (like the smell).