The Story of the 116th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers in the War of the Rebellion by Lawrence Kohl – A Civil War Hist

Introduction

For students of military history, Civil War enthusiasts, and scholars of American heritage, The Story of the 116th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers in the War of the Rebellion offers a compelling and deeply researched account of one of the most remarkable units to serve in the Union Army. Written by Lawrence Kohl and published by Fordham University Press, this hardcover volume brings to life the courage, sacrifice, and brotherhood of a regiment that fought shoulder to shoulder with the legendary Irish Brigade. More than a mere chronicle of battles, it is a testament to human endurance and the bonds forged in the crucible of war.

Book Overview

This meticulously crafted work traces the journey of the 116th Pennsylvania Volunteers from their formation through their harrowing service in the Army of the Potomac. Though only partially Irish in composition, the regiment earned an honoured place within Thomas Meagher's celebrated Irish Brigade by its unwavering loyalty and valour in some of the bloodiest campaigns of the American Civil War. From the frozen fields of Fredericksburg to the muddy trenches of Petersburg, the 116th endured relentless combat, disease, and loss. The narrative is anchored by the extraordinary leadership of Colonel St. Clair Mulholland, a Medal of Honor recipient who was wounded four times yet repeatedly returned to command his men. This book is both a regimental history and a profound exploration of leadership, identity, and the cost of war.

Key Highlights

• Rare First-Person Accounts: Includes letters, diaries, and official reports that provide an intimate window into the soldiers' experiences.
• Detailed Battle Narratives: Covers major engagements including Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, the Wilderness, Spotsylvania, and Petersburg.
• Focus on Leadership: In-depth portrait of Colonel St. Clair Mulholland, whose courage and compassion defined the regiment.
• Irish Brigade Connection: Explores the unique relationship between the 116th and the predominantly Irish units it fought alongside.
• Scholarly Yet Accessible: Rigorous academic research presented in an engaging narrative style suitable for both experts and general readers.

Inside the Book

The volume is organized chronologically, beginning with the regiment's mustering in 1862 and following its path through training, combat, and eventual mustering out. Readers will find detailed descriptions of camp life, the challenges of supply and medical care, and the psychological toll of prolonged warfare. Special attention is given to the 116th's role in the Irish Brigade's famous charge at Fredericksburg and its stand at Gettysburg's Wheatfield. The book also includes appendices with rosters, casualty lists, and biographical sketches of key officers, making it a valuable reference for genealogists and Civil War researchers.

Key Topics

• Regimental History: The formation, organization, and operational record of the 116th Pennsylvania Volunteers.
• Civil War Campaigns: Detailed analysis of the Eastern Theatre's most significant battles from 1862 to 1865.
• Military Leadership: The principles and practices of effective command under extreme stress.
• Ethnic Identity in War: How Irish and non-Irish soldiers forged a shared identity in the crucible of combat.
• Medal of Honor: The story of St. Clair Mulholland's heroic actions at Chancellorsville.
• Medical History: The impact of wounds, disease, and inadequate medical care on the regiment.

Reader Benefits

• Authentic Historical Insight: Gain a deeper understanding of the American Civil War through the lens of a single, extraordinary regiment.
• Inspirational Leadership Lessons: Learn from Colonel Mulholland's example of resilience, empathy, and dedication.
• Enhanced Research Material: Perfect for students writing papers, historians, or anyone tracing family connections to the 116th.
• Engaging Storytelling: Combines academic rigour with a narrative flow that keeps the reader turning pages.
• Permanent Reference: A durable hardcover edition that will last for years on any library shelf.

Learning Outcomes

Readers will come away with a thorough knowledge of the 116th Regiment's contributions to Union victory. They will understand the day-to-day realities of a Civil War soldier's life, the strategic importance of the Eastern Theatre campaigns, and the role of ethnic units in the broader war effort. Additionally, the book offers lessons in leadership, courage under fire, and the human cost of preserving the Union. By the final chapter, readers will have gained not just facts, but a profound appreciation for the men who served and the bonds that sustained them.

Who Should Read

• Civil War Enthusiasts: Anyone fascinated by the American Civil War will find this regimental history indispensable.
• Military History Students: Undergraduate and postgraduate students studying 19th-century warfare, leadership, or ethnic history.
• Genealogists: Those tracing ancestors who served in the 116th Pennsylvania or the Irish Brigade.
• Leadership Scholars: Readers interested in historical examples of effective command and moral courage.
• Indian Readers: Students of global military history and those interested in comparative studies of colonial and post-colonial armies.

About the Author

Lawrence Kohl is a respected historian and author specializing in the American Civil War. His scholarship is marked by meticulous archival research and a gift for bringing historical figures to life. Kohl's work on the 116th Regiment reflects years of dedication to uncovering the stories of ordinary soldiers and their extraordinary leaders. He has contributed to several academic journals and is known for his balanced, human-centred approach to military history.

About the Publisher

Fordham University Press, based in New York, is a prestigious academic publisher with a strong focus on history, philosophy, and the humanities. Since its founding, it has been committed to publishing works of enduring scholarly value. This volume upholds that tradition, offering readers a rigorously edited and beautifully produced hardcover that meets the highest standards of historical accuracy and literary quality.

Conclusion

The Story of the 116th Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers in the War of the Rebellion is more than a history book; it is a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit. Lawrence Kohl's masterful narrative ensures that the sacrifices of these soldiers will never be forgotten. Whether you are a seasoned historian, a student, or a curious reader, this volume will enrich your understanding of the Civil War and the men who fought it. Add this essential hardcover to your collection today and honour the legacy of the 116th Pennsylvania Volunteers.