Thanks for visiting our site. My name is Richard Billies and I live in the state that had more Civil War battles than any other state: the Commonwealth of Virginia. I have always been a lover of history, all kinds. American Civil War history is  particularly important in the life of the United States. Living in Virginia enables me to visit many of the battlefields and other sites that many can only read about. 

I’m a graduate of Manhattan College where I majored in Government and History. My wife, Sandy, and I live with our three cats in a house in a vineyard in southern Albemarle County. We are within a short dive from the homes of three American Presidents: Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe and James Madison. We’ve had the pleasure of living in Virginia for nine years.

Sandy is a kindergarten teacher at the local public school. I write from morning to night on my nine different blogs. 

Two of my great great grandfathers were in the Union Army so I have an emotional attachment to the Civil War. One is profiled in the Soldiers Stories category. His name was Michael Patrick Murphy. He served in the 61st New York Volunteer Infantry from August 1981 until October 1862. During that time his unit was involved in the Seven Days Battles and the Battle of Antietam. My other ancestor, Asa H. Dyckman, was a member of the 46th New York State Militia. His unit was stationed in Washington three months at a time guarding the capital.

Whether you’re like me with an ancestor who served or your family are recent arrivals (last 140 years) to America, the Civil War is an important part of the history of the United States. Men on both sides fought and sometimes died for things that they believed passionately about. 

I hope that you enjoy your visit and subscribe to our site.