Ardry, Robert G. Diary, 1864-65

Sgt. Robert G. Ardry, Co. B, 11th Ill. Vol. Inf., recorded in this 29-page diary his experiences in Maj. Gen. William T. Sherman's army from Nov. 15, 1864, to Mar. 1, 1865. Ardry describes the army's attacks on Fort McAllister, Ga., Savannah, Ga., and Columbia S.C., as well as its work in burning cities such as Atlanta, and destroying railroads. He also notes the towns and rivers that he passed, his foraging for food and goods, and his glimpse of Sherman with Adm. John Dahlgren.

Ardry's diary was bought from Charles Apfelbaum by the Rare Book and Special Collections Library in 1997, and transferred to the Illinois Historical Survey in 2004.