In reading from Battle Cry, I was particularly impressed with Grant's willingness to work with Foote in the river war. It shows that he understood that winning wasn't about him, but about using resources wisely, even if that didn't give him exclusive credit. Sadly, most of the other Union commanders just didn't adhere to that philosophy.
I have always breezed over the Naval contributions to the war when I have taught in the past. I did this mostly because I just didn't know enough to tell my students. Maybe it's time to change that. Having been to the Naval museum at Columbus, GA I started to become interested in this lesser known aspect. Then I visited Vicksburg and actually saw the remains of the U.S.S. Cairo, one of "Pook's turtles". It's way more interesting to learn about something you have some previous knowledge about or experience with. Since I have photos from both trips, I will definitely have to scan them into my computer for some virtual field trips (complete with my family and me). :)
I wonder if anyone knows of some easy reference books or novels that could be used in the classroom, appropriate for fifth graders? I'm certain that some of my students would be interested in learning more and maybe even becoming class experts if I could show them resource material.
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