History of the Second Massachusetts Regiment of Infantry: Beverly Ford.

"History of the Second Massachusetts Regiment of Infantry: Beverly Ford" by Daniel Oakey is a compelling late 19th-century record about the Second Massachusetts Regiment of Infantry during the Civil War, with a sharp focus on the Battle of Beverly Ford. The book recounts the difficulties the soldiers had to overcome, offering a window into the everyday lives of soldiers and the characteristics of cavalry combat during that critical time. The story starts with the regiment's involvement in the Chancellorsville campaign and moves on to preparations for the fight at Beverly Ford. Oakey uses personal stories and clear descriptions of key events, such as the initial march and the intense cavalry battle, to create a vibrant image of the war and the close relationships among the soldiers, but the impacts of battle are always bubbling just beneath the surface. The book illuminates the emotional impact of war, showing both the victories and the casualties experienced by the soldiers, highlighting in turn the significance of their actions.