Under the guns

An army nurse and sanitary agent recalls her Civil War service, describing visits to camps and hospitals, nursing the sick and dying, organizing supplies and evacuations, and enduring battlefield perils and severe weather. The memoir presents vivid anecdotes of tending wounded soldiers, coordinating with military and relief officials, and relying on women’s networks for support. Practical challenges such as transport, overcrowded hospitals, and communication difficulties are set beside personal reflections on compassion, sacrifice, and the daily work of medical relief during the conflict.