Title: Company "A" Corps of Engineers, U.S.A., 1846-1848, in the Mexican War /
Authors: Smith, Gustavus Woodson, 1822-1896.; Hudson, Leonne M.
Publisher: Kent State University Press,
Year: 2001
Subjects: Smith, Gustavus Woodson,; United States. History; Mexican War, 1846-1848 Engineering and construction.; Mexican War, 1846-1848 Regimental histories United States; Military engineering United States History; Mexican War, 1846-1848 Personal narratives, American; Military engineers United States Biography
Abstract: "This important memoir illuminates life within the U.S. Regular Army of the antebellum years. The U.S. Company of Sappers, Miners, and Pontooniers, which Congress authorized on May 13, 1846, quickly became one of the army's elite units. During the Mexico City campaign, Company "A" played a significant role in scouting, building fortifications, and settling artillery batteries. Gustavus Woodson Smith, the unit commander and author of the text, describes the training and discipline of the enlisted soldiers. His commentary also provides interesting insights into the early careers of future Civil War generals - Lee, Beauregard, Pemberton, and McClellan. The narrative is a striking testament to the impact of West Point-trained officers on the course of the war and to the effectiveness of Winfield Scott's army."--Jacket.