Browse our Civil War Collection finding aid
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The Special Collections Research Center has numerous collections in both its Manuscript and University Archives areas that relate to the Civil War. The Civil War holdings of Swem Library are comprehensive. Scholars interested in social issues and civilian affairs may find this guide especially helpful as enlisted men, non-combatants, and women are documented in the manuscripts collections. Both sides of the conflict are well represented, although there are more Confederate manuscript sources because of the large number of Virginia family papers held by the library. Please keep in mind that the general collections of Swem Library also support research in this subject area, including newspapers, magazines, government documents, published memoirs, etc.
Our Civil War transcription project is a massive effort by volunteers to transcribe thousands of manuscripts such as diaries and letters from Special Collections and make them available online. The transcriptions are an important part of making the documents accessible to the public.
Special Collections Research Center Search Tool List: There are a variety of tools available to guide you in finding materials in the Special Collections Research Center (SCRC). Don't forget that you also may come into the SCRC in person and consult with the staff member on duty for guidance.
Swem Library has created other guides that will be of interest to researchers including a Research Paper Writing and Citation Guide, Primary Sources Guide, and Copyright Guide.
If you get stuck along the way, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help. Just click the HELP tab in the left sidebar of any page in this guide to get contact information for Special Collections Research Center staff