Call Number:

MC.975.01.073

Repository:

Haverford College Quaker & Special Collections

Extent:

0.04 linear ft. (1 volume)

Language:

English

Preferred Citation:

Edward Smedley diary (HC.MC.975.01.073), Quaker & Special Collections, Haverford College, Haverford, PA.

Date:

1863

Creator:

Smedley, Edward

Form:

Diaries

Abstract:

Diary of Edward Smedley, written while at the conscript barracks in Philadelphia after being drafted for the American Civil War. Entries describe Smedley's experiences as a drafted soldier and non-combatant prisoner in Philadelphia, including religious reflection, visits from family members, and military preparations.

Edward Garrett Smedley (1835-1908) was born April 10, 1835, in Middletown, Delaware, the son of William Smedley and Rebecca Webster. Smedley was educated at Westtown School before leaving due to ill health. In 1863, Edward and his cousin William were drafted by the military to fight in the American Civil War. After refusing to fight or pay a penalty, Smedley and his cousin were held for a time in army barracks in Philadelphia before being released. In 1865, he married to Elizabeth Sharpless, and the couple had two daughters, Edith Smedley (1870) and Susanna Smedley (1875). Smedley died on February 5, 1908.

This collection is comprised of the single handwritten diary of Edward Smedley, written while at the conscript barracks in Philadelphia after being drafted for the American Civil War. Entries describe Smedley's experiences as a drafted soldier and non-combatant prisoner in Philadelphia, including religious reflection, visits from family members, and military preparations.