Snowball Battles in Union Camps

To relieve the stresses of soldiering, Civil War officers and men turned to various amusements. Poker and other card games. Dice. Dominoes. Chess, Checkers. Horseshoes. Tag. Races and other feats of strength. Oh, and snowball fights. Or, perhaps, more accurately, snowball battles. Here are three accounts from the Union side.
"Life on the Civil War Research Trail" is hosted by Ronald S. Coddington, Editor and Publisher of Military Images magazine. Learn more about our mission to showcase, interpret and preserve Civil War portrait photography at militaryimagesmagazine.com and shopmilitaryimages.com.
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Image: Library of Congress
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[@davide9658]

The old adage 'boys will be boys' obviously applied equally then as it does today. Thanks for these lighthearted stories Ron. It's good to hear these soldiers were able to have a little fun in the midst of the seriousness of war.

[@susanschaffner4422]

Unexpected frivolity which was sorely needed in the midst of a snowy battlefield. Good one.

[@donhooper6439]

they were in Winter quarters, passing time until Spring fighting season began again.. What a time.. Great story Ron. Love your daily videos.. They bring that sorry Civil War to life..

[@delstanley1349]

From minie balls to snow balls had to be a cool welcomed relief!😁

[@jonnie106]

And a shocking, horrifying snap back to reality on the back end. Circular.

[@tttyuhbbb9823]

😂😂😂😅😂😂😂

[@jerroldbates355]

No Confederate snow ball?

[@commontater8630]

Ron said that'll be in another video.