Historical Sketch And Roster Of The Illinois 61st Infantry Regiment

The Illinois 61st Infantry Regiment did not follow the typical path through the war. They did, however, see severe service in a number of battles starting with Shiloh.
They had direct conflicts with Gen. Forrest in December of 1862, and again in December, 1864. Many of the other encounters across Tennessee, upper Mississippi, and northern Alabama may have also engaged his forces.
The 61st ended the war in Nashville, Tennessee, arriving after the big battle in December, 1864 and serving garrison duty until being mustered out in September, 1865.
A firsthand account of the 61st entitled "The Story of a Common Soldier of Army Life in the Civil War" by Leander Stillwell is available. This book ranks as one of the best Civil War histories.