The 2012 A. M. Pate, Jr. Award in Civil War History will be presented to John R. Lundberg at the January 8, 2013 Dinner Meeting of the Fort Worth Civil War Round Table for his book “Granbury’s Texas Brigade: Diehard Western Confederates.” The book combines extensive original research and thoughtful analysis to provide a deeper understanding of this important fighting force of Texans.
Early in the War Granbury’s Texas Brigade suffered defeat at Fort Donelson, Arkansas Post and Vicksburg. A combination of poor leadership and the fact that many of the men were forced to serve as “dismounted cavalry” had a negative effect on the unit. Many of the Brigade returned home while others were imprisoned in Northern camps. Lundberg is able to show that a large percentage of the returnees enlisted in units back in Texas. Under better leadership the balance of the Brigade fought well and earned their reputation as one of the best units in the Confederate Army. His book is an excellent study of the process that Texas went through in their support of the Confederate cause.
Richard McCaslin, the winner of last year’s Pate Award, had this to say about the book:
“This is the first detailed, analytical history of the brigade, and as such it more than pays homage to the memory of these diehard Texans. The author mixes extensive research with strong opinions to provide thoughtful insights for both laymen and scholars. He thus places the history of Granbury’s Brigade squarely within the historical debate over such issues as Confederate command in the West, desertion, and Confederate nationalism, to name but a few well-considered topics.”
And Andrew Wagenhofer of Civil War Books and Authors concluded his favorable review of the book with these comments:
“‘Granbury’s Texas Brigade’ is a well researched and thoughtful military and social history study. Author John Lundberg not only describes how the brigade conducted battles but why they fought so well and for so long. One of the finest combat formations in the western theater has finally been accorded the coverage and quality of scholarship it deserves.”
Please join me on January 8th for the presentation of the 2012 Pate Award to John Lundberg. He will also be presenting on the subject of his book. See you then!