
Summer 2025
Vol. 15, No. 2
Fifty years after the epic battle at Gettysburg, thousands of veterans gathered in the small Pennsylvania town to reminisce, reconcile, and be celebrated by a reunified nation. In our Summer 2025 issue, we tell the story of that reunion in photos. We also learn about Rufus Dawes, a young and ambitious Wisconsin officer, as well as how a rare photograph offers a window into the remarkable Civil War experiences of an Iowa soldier who went from POW to the halls of Congress.
Features


Rufus Dawes’ Civil War
The Civil War story of Union officer Rufus Dawes of the 6th Wisconsin Infantry, one of the regiment of the famed Iron Brigade.
A Prisoner’s Story
The remarkable Civil War story of Union prisoner of war James Dungan of the 19th Iowa Infantry.Salvo

Voices
Rebs on Yanks
Read quotes by Confederate soldiers that reveal the diversity of their feelings toward their Union counterparts.
Faces of War
An Unlikely Reunion
A photo of Confederate officer James Francis “Frank” Crocker offers a window into his extraordinary experience at the Battle of Gettysburg.
Travels
Three Days in New Bern
New Bern is home to a rich history, incredible restaurants, and family-friendly events. We sketch out an itinerary for a 3-day visit.
Preservation
No Ordinary Birthday
A look at “Our Enduring Legacy: The Campaign to Preserve, Educate, and Inspire,” a new initiative by the American Battlefield Trust.
Cost of War
The Butler Medal
The Butler Medal was awarded by Major General Benjamin F. Butler to this United States Colored Troops. This one sold at auction for $45,000.
In Focus
A Famed Photographer at Petersburg
The story behind a photo of the Petersburg trenches that includes a view of Civil War photographer Timothy O’Sullivan.Columns

Fighting Words
“Juneteenth”
Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19, commemorates the end of slavery in America. Historian Tracy Barnett explores the origins of the term.
Observatory
The Re-creation of Thomas J. Jackson
A look at the historical accuracy of director Ron Maxwell's 2013 movie "Gods and Generals"—in particular the portrayal of Stonewall Jackson.Books & Authors

Books & Authors
The Five Best Books on Jefferson Davis
What are the best books about Confederate president Jefferson Davis? We asked two experts for their picks.
Books & Authors
Q&A with Cecily Zander
A Q&A with historian Cecily Zander touches on what she's reading, her favorite books, and what kind of reader she is.Odds & Ends

Editorial
Enemies No More
Reflections on the 1913 Battle of Gettysburg reunion that attracted over 50,000 Union and Confederate veterans.
Summer 2025 | Dispatches
Reader feedback published in the Summer 2025 issue of The Civil War Monitor.