This image is the cover for the book Under The Guns, A Woman's Reminiscenes Of The Civil War, Classics To Go

Under The Guns, A Woman's Reminiscenes Of The Civil War, Classics To Go

"Under the Guns: A Woman's Reminiscences of the Civil War" by Annie Wittenmyer is a vivid and deeply personal account of life on the front lines—not as a soldier, but as a compassionate and determined woman who witnessed the brutal realities of war while tirelessly serving the wounded and the dying. Through her firsthand experiences as a nurse and humanitarian during the American Civil War, Wittenmyer offers powerful insights into the courage, sacrifice, and resilience that marked both battlefield and hospital. Her narrative captures the raw emotional toll of war, the strength of the women who stepped beyond traditional roles to meet extraordinary needs, and the enduring humanity found even amidst chaos and destruction. Themes of service, empathy, and moral resolve run through every chapter, offering modern readers a reminder of the often-overlooked contributions of women in times of national crisis. In an era when questions of service, equality, and social responsibility still ring loud, Wittenmyer’s story remains deeply relevant. This memoir will move readers who appreciate history through a personal lens and those inspired by stories of quiet heroism, compassion under pressure, and the vital roles women have always played in shaping the course of events from behind the scenes.

Annie Wittenmyer

Annie Wittenmyer was an American humanitarian, reformer, and writer whose life and work offer a powerful testament to the courage and resilience of women in times of national crisis. During the Civil War, she emerged as a tireless advocate for wounded soldiers and a pioneering voice in battlefield relief efforts, bringing compassion and organization to spaces often defined by chaos and suffering. Her writing draws directly from her firsthand experiences, blending vivid observation with a deep emotional intelligence that captures both the horrors of war and the quiet acts of dignity and care that sustained those caught in its grip. In documenting her journey, Wittenmyer not only preserved a vital chapter of American history but also challenged the boundaries of women’s roles in public life, making her voice as relevant now as it was then. Her work resonates with readers today who seek stories of moral courage, the strength of compassion in action, and the often-overlooked impact of women who shaped history from the margins. Those drawn to narratives of service, endurance, and the human cost of conflict will find her perspective both poignant and enduring.