Trusting God in the Midst of Flying Shells

RACHEL CORMANY was born in Canada and later moved to Chambersburg, Virginia, with her husband, Samuel. During the war, he served as a Union soldier. She wrote diaries both before and during the war, and they vividly describe her life as a woman on the home front.

June 15, 1863

Monday. This morning pretty early Gen Milroy's wagon train (so we were told) came. Contrabands on ahead coming as fast as they could on all & any kind of horses, their eyes fairly protruding with fear— teams coming at the same rate—some with the covers half off—some lost—men without hats or coats—some lost their coats as they were flying . . . There really was a real panic. All reported that the rebels were just on their heels . . . Soon followed 100– 200 cavalry men—the guard. Such a skedadling as there was among the women & children to get into the houses. All thought the Rebels had really come. The report now is that they will be here in an hour. If I could only hear of my Samuel's safety—Many have packed nearly all of their packable goods—I have packed nothing. I do not think that we will be disturbed even should they come. I will trust in God even in the midst of flying shells—but of course shall seek the safest place possible in that case— which I hope will not come to us. I have just put my baby to sleep & will now sit at the front door awhile yet—then retire, knowing all will be well.

Diaries give examples of devotion, courage, and patriotism during the Civil War. They were written by fighting men and faithful Christian women who remained at home. Rachel Cormany, a woman of great courage, learned to put her trust in God in spite of flying shells.