"Were these things real? Did I see those brave and noble countrymen of mine laid low in death and sweltering in their blood? Did I see my country laid waste and in ruins? Did I see soldiers marching, the earth trembling and jarring beneath their measured tread? Did I see the ruins of shouldering cities and deserted homes? Did I see the flag of my country, that I had followed for so long, furled to be no more unfurled forever?
Surely they are but vagaries of mine own imagination.... but, hush! I now hear the approach of battle. That low rumbling sound in the west is the roar of cannon in the distance."
Sam Watkins - Co. H. 1st Tennessee Volunteer Infantry
"May the blood spilled by hundred thousands in the cause of independence and domestic happiness sustain us."