The 55th North Carolina in the Civil War—A History and Roster

With the advent of the Civil War in 1861, young men from both Confederate and Union states rushed to volunteer for military duty in a war that many believed would be quickly resolved. The spring of 1862, however, brought the realization that not only was the conflict going to last longer than expected, but additional troops would be needed on both sides. It was at this time that the 55th Regiment North Carolina Troops entered the war. Composed primarily of farmers and tradesmen, the regiment also presented a microcosm of the Tar Heel State with a regionally diverse membership from more than 20 counties. Along with these members came an equal variety of political ideologies, social institutions and range of economic stability--all differences that faded in the face of a common enemy. Finding motivation for their fight in a simple defense of their homes and families, the men of the 55th North Carolina made significant contributions to the Confederate cause, fighting--and often dying--in some of the war's bloodiest conflicts.

Jeffrey M. Girvan is the current Supervisor of History and Social Science for Prince William County Schools in Virginia. He has been an adjunct instructor at George Mason University.