Recollections of the War with Mexico

Major Henshaw, a dutiful regimental officer in the American invasion of Mexico, was one of only a handful of eyewitnesses to describe the two major theaters of that war. His recollections include a rare and highly descriptive account of the siege of Fort Texas, plus rich new details of the storming of the Bishop’s Palace at Monterrey, the bombardment of Veracruz, the assault on Cerro Gordo, and the savage fighting outside the capital. Bitingly critical of those in command, of American volunteers, and of the war’s glory hounds, Henshaw admired the valor of ordinary soldiers on both sides of the fighting. He also describes Mexico’s cities and scenery in rhapsodic prose and expresses considerable empathy for its people. Vivid passages from letters to his wife supply additional details of the campaign.