Scope and Content Note
The journal of Gilbert Thompson (1839-1909), spans the years 1857-1901, including descriptions of Thompson's Civil War experiences in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., 1861-1864, while serving as a topographical engineer in the Engineer Battalion, United States Army of the Potomac. Also in the journal are later reminiscences; descriptions of bridges, armaments, and firearms; and sketches and photographs of army officers and battle sites. Laid into the volume is correspondence of Nathaniel Prentiss Banks.