Walter Coffey's Blog

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Thanks to all who took the time to read my blog - articles will return again in November 2025!Continue reading

The Presidential Restoration Plan

Andrew Johnson issues two proclamations designed to continue Abraham Lincoln’s plan to restore the Confederates states to the U.S. This begins what would ultimately become one of the bitterest feuds between the executive and legislative branches of government.Continue reading

Surrender of the Trans-Mississippi

Federal commanders accept the surrender of the last major organized Confederate force still in the field.Continue reading

The U.S. Army Grand Review

The “Grand Armies of the Republic” stage a triumphant review through Washington to celebrate the Federal victory and end of the war.Continue reading

Jefferson Davis Buried Alive

The ocean vessel conveying former Confederate President Jefferson Davis and other captured members of his government arrives at Fortress Monroe, on the tip of Virginia’s York-James Peninsula.Continue reading

Jefferson Davis Under Federal Guard

Jefferson Davis and what was left of the Confederate government-in-exile is sent under Federal guard to Augusta, Georgia, from which they will be shipped by water to the coast.Continue reading

The Battle of Palmito Ranch

A skirmish that takes place in south Texas after the war ends ironically results in Confederate victory.Continue reading

The Booth Conspiracy Trial Begins

A military commission assembles to try eight individuals accused of conspiring to assassinate Abraham Lincoln. The trial raises complex issues regarding justice and conspiracy.Continue reading

A Little Battlefield Glory Before the War Ends

In distant Texas, a Federal expedition threatens to break an unofficial ceasefire before news arrives that the war east of the Mississippi is over.Continue reading

The Capture of Jefferson Davis

Federal cavalry seizes Confederate President Jefferson Davis and members of his party near Irwinville, Georgia.Continue reading