Sometimes a picture comes to us with an oral history that raises more questions than it answers. Such is the case with this picture that has been passed down, and around, the Lewis family tree for several generations. The story goes that it is of five Lewis brothers from Tyler County, West Virginia, who served in the Civil War. The badges they display are the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) medals for veterans of the Union Army.
This project provided an in-depth review of life in Tyler County, WV, the enlistment of the five brothers, their service as part of the Union Army including detailed campaign explanation with first-hand accounts from fellow soldiers, and a brief synopsis of post-war life in a 60+ page hardbound book.
The life and legacy of these brothers were unrealized and I was excited to provide that context for Pat and Dianne as well as generations to come.
