Lawrence Collins

The Journey a Civil War Odyssey Lawrence Collins

As Confederate troops retreat from the great battle of Gettysburg July 1-3 1863, they sweep up great amounts of personal property from the surrounding area. Foodstuffs, animals, clothing, wagons, anything that might be of use to the Army of Northern Virginia is appropriated. Happening upon the Ballard farm the Confederates confiscate his animals, and and leave him with a bag of Confederate notes as compensation, and an invitation to come down south and spend them. The Journey is the story of Martin Ballard and his son Jason as they accept the invitation to head south during the war. Their battles with their own War Department to food riots in Richmond, and encounters with deserters. Thrown from a train and severely injured the two find themselves in the care of recently widowed woman and her Granddaughter. While gone Martins Wife Mary and his daughter Julia must deal with home life and the religious pressure of the day, and the development of true friendship as they wait for his return. The Journey is a story adventure, personal growth, and love that only grows stronger while separated, and new love that springs forth in the midst of our most bloody and destructive war.