“In Charlestonians in War: The Charleston Battalion, Chris Phelps has crafted an excellent study of this noteworthy Confederate military organization. Making extensive use of primary sources, he has deftly balanced operational details with social background and created a unit history that would be of interest to scholars and general readers.”
--W. Eric Emerson executive director, South Carolina Historical Society

At the outbreak of the Civil War, Charleston, as the site where the Ordinance of Secession was signed, faced the full wrath of Union forces. In response, the Charleston Battalion, comprised of volunteers from all strata of local society, formed a loyal, effective fighting unit. They served with distinction in several campaigns in Virginia and North Carolina and defended their hometown against Union invaders.

Local author W. Chris Phelps explores the formation and the many campaigns of this diverse group of Charleston citizens led by Peter Charles Gaillard. The battalion distinguished itself by defeating overwhelming Union assaults against Charleston at Secessionville in 1862 and Battery Wagner in 1863 and later performed gallantly in the defense of Petersburg in 1864 and Wilmington in 1865.

Through Charlestonians in War, these brave men finally receive their due. W. Chris Phelps describes the origins of the battalion and focuses on its capable commander, Peter Charles Gaillard, who later became mayor. In-depth studies of the battalion’s various battles, at home and away, are also included. This book features a foreword by Charleston’s mayor, Joseph P. Riley, Jr.

About the Author
W. Chris Phelps lives on Johns Island, South Carolina, and works in Charleston. Seeing vivid reminders of the city’s Civil War experience on a daily basis inspired him to write this book. He is also a member of the South Carolina Historical Society, the Charleston Civil War Round Table, and the Fort Sumter Camp of the Sons of Confederate Veterans. Mr. Phelps is also the author of The Bombardment of Charleston: 1863-1865 (pb), published by Pelican.

CHARLESTONIANS IN WAR
The Charleston Battalion
By W. Chris Phelps
Foreword by Joseph P. Riley, Jr.
256 pp. 5½ x 8½
17 b/w photos 3 b/w illus. 8 maps
appendixes notes biblio. Index
ISBN: 1-58980-166-0
EAN: 978-1-58980-166-0