Our Collection

At the Institute’s core is the Gilder Lehrman Collection, one of the great archives in American history. More than 85,000 items cover five hundred years of American history, from Columbus’s 1493 letter describing the New World through the end of the twentieth century.

Brisbin, James S. (James Sanks) (1837-1892) Letters from Brisbin to his wife Jane detailing Civil War battles [Decimalized .01-.06]

High-resolution images are available to schools and libraries via subscription to American History, 1493-1943. Check to see if your school or library already has a subscription. Or click here for more information. You may also order a pdf of the image from us here.

Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01505 Author/Creator: Brisbin, James S. (James Sanks) (1837-1892) Place Written: various Type: Header Record Date: 1861-1864 Pagination: 6 items Order a Copy

James Sanks Brisbin was active as a teacher, lawyer and anti-slavery orator in Pennsylvania before the Civil War. He enlisted in the military as a private in 1861, advanced quickly in rank, and was brevetted numerous times for his bravery and meritorious service. He served in the campaign of the Army of the Potomac (1862), the Red River expedition (1864), as a recruiter in Lexington, Kentucky (1864), and as Chief of Staff to General Stephen Gano Burbridge (1864). Brisbin is noted for his leadership of the 6th United States Colored Troops Cavalry (1864) and for his recruitment of many African American soldiers. He received an appointment in 1865 as Major General, United States Volunteers. At the War's close, Brisbin was mustered out of the volunteers, but continued to serve in the regular army until his death. Brisbin died in 1892 as Colonel in the 8th Cavalry.

Brisbin, James S. (James Sanks),1837-1892
Brisbin, Jane, fl. 1861-1864

Citation Guidelines for Online Resources