David Holmes Papers

Collection

Identifier: MSS-4212

Content Description

The collection consists of two diaries, two sketchbooks, six letters, and a leather pocketbook with several loose family documents, most of which were created by Sergeant David Holmes of the 20th Michigan Infantry in the Union Army from the years 1858 through 1864. The materials provide insight into the rigors of daily life for a Civil War soldier, and Holmes creates a portrait of his wartime experiences through his sketches of soldiers and camp life. In addition to his Civil War-related materials, the collection also includes one diary from 1858, which details his civilian life as a newspaper printer.

Dates

1858-1864

Creator

Holmes, David (Person)

Condition Description

Bound items in varying conditions, mostly disbound or with covers detached; light damp and dust soiling; one sketchbook with potential blood stains; letters previously folded (two with small separations and areas of loss not affecting text; some scattered foxing)

Conditions Governing Access

Collection is open for research. Manuscript collections and archival records may contain materials with sensitive or confidential information that is protected under federal or state right to privacy laws and regulations. Due to the nature of certain archival formats, including digital and audio-visual materials, access to certain materials may require additional advance notice.

Conditions Governing Use

Researchers are responsible for using the materials in conformance with United States copyright law as well as any donor restrictions accompanying the materials. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright claimants in collection materials. For more information about copyright policy, please visit: https://www.ua.edu/copyright/. Any materials used for academic research or otherwise should be fully credited with the source. Researchers are advised that the disclosure of certain information pertaining to identifiable living individuals without the consent of those individuals may have legal implications, for which The University of Alabama assumes no responsibility. Copyright for official University records is held by The University of Alabama; all other copyright is retained by the authors of items in these papers, or their descendants, as stipulated by United States copyright law.

Biographical / Historical

David Clinton Holmes (1841-1864) was a sergeant in the 20th Michigan Infantry of the Union Army during the American Civil War. Prior to his time in the military, Holmes was a printer at his local newspaper, often doing small job work for extra money. He enlisted in the army on July 23, 1862, at the age of twenty-one, and mustered into H Company of the 20th Michigan Infantry on August 19, 1862. Holmes would see action throughout his enlistment at the Battles of Fredericksburg; Horse Bend, Kentucky; Vicksburg, Mississippi; Blue Springs, Tennessee; Wilderness; Spotsylvania; and finally at Cold Harbor where he lost his life on June 7, 1864.

Extent

1 Linear Feet

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Overview

Collection of two diaries, two sketchbooks, six letters, and other items created by Sergeant David Holmes (1841-1864) of the 20th Michigan Infantry. The materials provide insight into the rigors of daily life for an Civil War soldier