Reading List
Here are some books that we have used to help give historical context to our genealogical research. A number of them examine broader themes in American history, while others are focused more at the regional or local level. A few, particularly on the Irish and Scots-Irish, provide interesting background and details of emigration and migration trends. Please let us know if there are others you would suggest!
Tennessee history
Middle Tennessee Society Transformed, 1860-1870, by Stephen Ash (****)
This is a great book on the many changes, both social and economic, caused by the Civil War in the middle Tennessee region.
Tennesseans and Their History, by Paul H. Bergeron, Stephen V. Ash, and Jeannette Keith
Good basic overview of Tennessee history through the 20th century.
Civil War history
Portals to Hell: The Military Prisons of the Civil War, by Lonnie R. Speer.
Good, if depressing, history of POW camps in both the South and the North
Genealogy (techniques and methods)
Professional Genealogy, by Elizabeth Shown Mills
Excellent book for experienced genealogists wishing to improve their research skills and results.