To Command the Field: Instruments of the Civil War

Generals commanded troops in battle, but what happens when the battle is raging and you can’t hear the commands? You listen for the one instrument you can hear, the bugle. During the battle, regiments would hear the sound of the bugle and knew it meant to charge or retreat.

Bands were instrumental during the Civil War. It was a way of passing time in camp. Many regiments had bands and they played songs of the time, including Yankee Doodle, and others. These bands were also vital when making a charge. They would play the troops into battle. 

Join local Civil War Historian Cindy Beaston and special guest, Melissa Horn as they present To Command the Field: Instruments of the Civil War.