We hear a lot about the battles and what like was like for the common infantry soldier of the Civil War. This talk will focus on one of the most neglected areas of Civil War studies, the day-to-day life of the Union Civil War sailor. Aspects such as training, pay, living conditions, and combat experiences will be covered, as well as the enduring legacy of the 19th century sailor, which is still found in the culture and language of today.

Paul Gillette is a Civil War researcher and author who has been active in the Civil War community of Southern California for the last ten years. Mr. Gillette was a founding member of the Civil War Round Table of Orange County, and has served on the Board of that organization as Treasurer, as Graves Registration Officer, and is the current Preservation Officer. He is the co-author of the book “The Civil War Legacy in Santa Ana,” published by the Santa Ana Historical Preservation Society. The book recently won the Freedom Foundation’s Medal of Honor for Best Local History in 2002.

Mr. Gillette is employed by the U. S. Postal Service as well as serving as a Petty Officer in the U. S. Naval Reserve.

Come hear what a Navy Reserve officer of the 21st century has to say about his 19th century counterpart.

Janet Whaley
Program Chair

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