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Home Front Activities

 

 

Writing exercise or discussion: Everyone knew a man who served in the army (fathers, brothers, sons, uncles, cousins, and friends).  These men would be away from home for months, if not years at a time.  Many would die in battle or from diseases while some might come back home missing an arm or leg.  How would you feel if you knew someone serving in the Union Army?

 

Writing exercise or discussion: What do you think Elmira was like during the Civil War?  Would you want to live in Elmira?  Explain why or why not.

 

Discussion: What would you do to support the war effort?

  • Send care packages – Families and friends would send food, books, magazines, letters, newspapers, shoes, clothing, packs of cards, and tobacco to soldiers

  • Fundraise – Individuals and groups raised money to purchase flags and supplies, and support hospitals and soldiers homes.

  • Nurse the sick and wounded

  • Knit socks, scarves, and mittens

  • Sew shirts, towels, uniforms, flags, tents, and blankets

  • Write letters

  • Spy

 

1864 Presidential Election

As the National Union Party candidate, President Abraham Lincoln promised to continue the war until the Confederacy’s unconditional surrender while the Democratic Party candidate, George McClellan, called for a ceasefire and negotiated settlement with the Confederacy to end the war.

 

Who would you vote for?

  • Place a red ticket in the ballot box for Abraham Lincoln and the National Union Party.

  • Place a blue ticket in the ballot box for George McClellan and the Democratic Party.

 

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