After weighing a number of things I have decided to write about the history and memory of Robert Gould Shaw for my next book project. It is a project that will look closely at two very different individuals.
Additional questions? Feel free to fire away in the comments section below.
Hi Kevin – I thought I read sometime back that you were working on editing a collection of letters pertaining to the 55th (?) Massachusetts. Did you set that aside or has it morphed into something else?
It didn’t pan out for a number of reasons.
I am looking forward to your book having read the others on Shaw you mentioned.
Sounds quite interesting!
When can we reserve copies? BTW, will you be at the AHA in DC??
I enjoyed “Glory” although sometimes I still think of it as “Ferris Buehler Frees the Slaves.” I have used the Antietam amputation scene in classes.
When can we reserve copies?
Thanks for not doing Elmer Ellsworth! Huzzah!
I always thought Broderick did a great job in that film.
I agree completely. In fact, I agree even more having just finished reading his personal correspondence. Obviously, there are issues with the film, which will be explored in the section of the book on memory.
Good choice! When do you anticipate finishing the book?
LOL. Thanks for the enthusiastic response. While I have been thinking about Shaw for years I have only gotten down to doing serious research in the past week. Spent a day at the Boston Athenaeum reading letters to Shaw’s mother after his death at Wagner and I have read all of his published letters in Duncan’s Blue-Eyed Child of Fortune. In the next few months I am going to write up a book proposal and begin looking for a publisher. I am also planning on writing up an article for one of the Civil War magazines about Shaw’s relationship with Colonel James M. Montgomery, who is featured as a villain in Glory.
At this point it is too early to say when it will be finished, but I have to say that I am very excited about this project. Of course, I will keep everyone updated as to my progress. Thanks again.