Editor's Note:
George C. Smith: Each Wisconsin regiment was assigned a civilian advocate who was supposed to look after the non-military needs of its soldiers. These were called agents, and were generally political appointments filled by loyal Republicans. Smith was one of these agents, and may have been a friend of the Quiner family.
Memphis: This Tennessee city had been taken by the Union army, giving the North control of four key rail lines and opening the Mississippi river as far as Vicksburg. It became a major hub of Union activity in the West.
Pa: This was Emily's father, Edwin B. Quiner (1816-1868). He had been a newspaper publisher, but at this time held a minor government appointment while researching and his writing is massive Military History of Wisconsin (1866), which told the history and organization of each Wisconsin regiment during the Civil War. For major decisions, Emily depended on her father's advice and consent. While their relationship seems to have been good – she describes him as "full of fun and frolic" – he repeatedly vetoed her independent plans in order to retain her help in his office.
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