This collection has been made with the view of preserving in permanent
form the opinions and sentiments of the Southern people, as embodied in
their Songs and Ballads of 1861-1865; which, better than any other medium,
exhibit the temper of the times and popular feeling. The historical value
of the productions is admitted. Age will not impair it.
The editor has endeavored to give the best of the inspirations. A desire
to announce the authorship of the pieces has been gratified in most
instances. Where requests have been made not to give names and places and
circumstances, by whom, and where they have been written, they have been
regarded, the spirit, meaning and intent not being affected, nor in the
least abated by such a course. To those who have assisted in collecting,
the editor returns his thanks. After this volume reaches those who are
interested, should any of them desire to correct mistakes that may have
crept into it, he will be glad to make the changes required.
Should any one, into whose hands the volume may fall, know of copies of
songs or ballads, or of letters and incidents upon which such are
founded--songs and ballads, letters or incidents not already collected in
book form--the editor will be glad to be advised, that means may be taken
for their permanent preservation, which he is using every endeavor to
secure. A postal card, giving name and residence, addressed to him, in the
care of his publishers, D. Appleton and Company, New York City, will
receive immediate attention.
The essence of history exists in its songs. Those that are carried in the
memory are earliest forgotten. It is a praiseworthy plan that saves all.
Will those who "know them by heart," and have "sung them in camp and in
battle," help to rescue them from oblivion?