Scope and Contents:
This collection consists of a letter dated November 1, 1862, containing a quarterly Chaplain's report by S. Blair in Jackson, Tennessee to Lieutenant Colonel McCown, commander of the 63rd Illinois Infantry. In his report, Blair discussed Sunday services and weekly prayer meetings, described his visit to and pastoral work in the local hospital, and requested a temporary "Bethel" be constructed for religious services in inclement weather. Blair expressed positivity and noted that he believed he was accomplishing much good for the regiment with his spiritual work.
Biographical/Historical Context:
S. Blair was a Union Chaplain during the Civil War. During the Civil War, both the United States Congress and the Confederate Congress authorized chaplains for service. Union chaplains were responsible for administering religious services and tending to the spiritual needs of soldiers within their assigned regiments. Chaplains were often assigned to military hospitals where they witnessed deaths, recorded final words, and conducted funerals.
Abstract 
Submit request (Aeon)
