Book excerpt: From inception to the final roll call, this regimental history traces the 11th Regiment of Alabama Volunteers from its 1861 creation to the Confederate surrender at Appomattox. The work follows the 11th Alabama through various battles including Manassas, Fredericksburg, Salem Church and Gettysburg. Drawing on personal correspondence such as letters and diaries, it presents the soldiers as individuals and contributes to the dialogue on why the typical Southern soldier fought in the war. The geographical movement of the regiment throughout the war, its key leaders and the organization of its companies are also discussed in detail. There are 81 period photographs that add to the story of this remarkable unit.