Books with author William B. Smith

First published in 1892, On Wheels: And How I Came There is Private William B. Smith's firsthand account of his enlistment in the 14th Illinois Volunteer Infantry at age 15, and his adventures-- first as a wide-eyed boy soldier and later, as a wizened veteran and prisoner in Andersonville and other notorious Southern prisons. The stories he tells of his life, friends, and adventures along the way give a revealing peek into that long-ago war. His writing is always upbeat, despite the terrible hardships and physical trauma he suffered, and his dry wit, humor, and unique perspective make this a story you won't want to put down. This isn't a scholarly writing, it is a heartfelt, human story told by someone who experienced one of the most exciting and horrific times in US history and lived to tell the tale. One hundred and ten years after the original publication, and up till now available only as a rare, antiquarian book, On Wheels can once again be read by Civil War enthusiasts and others wanting to expand their knowlege while also reading a fascinating story. Updated and indexed, with added pension records, maps, a timeline, and a glossary, this new printing goes a step further in satisfying the reader as to what became of the boy soldier from that long ago time.

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