The Distant Drums Podcast

As the Civil War tore the nation apart, Abraham and Mary Lincoln were experiencing a war of their own—the loss of their sons. This episode examines grief, marriage, and leadership as personal tragedy and a national crisis intersect.

In this episode, we touch on the opening events to kick off the Civil War at Fort Sumter. We then go back to January of 1861 and uncover a few events that saw Union and Confederate forces exchanging shots well before the first shots at Fort Sumter.

In this episode, we’re joined by Civil War historian and author Dan Masters for a deep dive into one of the war’s most hard-fought engagements: the Battle of Stones River. Fought at the close of 1862, Stones River proved pivotal for control of Middle Tennessee and for the morale of the Union Army of the Cumberland. Our conversation centers on Dan’s acclaimed book, Hell by the Acre, which brings the battle to life through the experiences of the soldiers who fought it. Rather than focusing solely on generals and strategy, Dan sheds light on the endurance, courage, and brutal realities faced by the men in the ranks—the ordinary soldiers whose actions ultimately decided the outcome.

🎬 Civil War on the Silver Screen 🎬

In this episode of The Distant Drums Podcast, we’re joined by historian, author, and Reel History co-creator Dr. Jared Frederick for a deep dive into how the American Civil War has been portrayed in film—from early 20th-century silent movies to modern productions through 2025.

Together, we explore how Civil War films reflect the eras in which they were made, the myths they perpetuate, the history they get right (and wrong), and how popular culture continues to shape public memory of the war. Drawing on his extensive background in public history and historical filmmaking analysis, Dr. Frederick offers insight into why these movies matter—and what they reveal about America’s ongoing relationship with its past.

Whether you’re a Civil War enthusiast, film buff, or public history fan, this conversation brings the past to life through the lens of cinema.

We are joined by by Emerging Civil War's Chris Mackowski as he takes us on an overview of the Battle of Fredericksburg. From the initial plan till the last shots, Chris breaks things down so you and I can better understand this Union defeat. Chris will even debunk a thing or two associated with the battle along the way!

Author Benjamin Cwayna is back on the podcast and we are diving into an overlooked portion of the Fredericksburg battlefield. Ben takes us on a deep dive of the fighting that took place on the Confederate Right flank. We also learn about some of the turmoil between General Stonewall Jackson and some of his lower ranking officers.

Join the Distant Drums crew as we welcome Ben Flowerday from the Liberty Rifles. Ben takes us on a deep dive into the Uniforms worn by The Army of Northern Virginia. From how they were distributed to what the soldiers actually wore Ben doesn't miss a detail in this episode!

On today's show we welcome guest Aaron Siever from Aaron Civil War Travels LLC. Aaron Siever grew up in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia and since he was a child he has been interested in the American Civil War. Aaron has extensive knowledge of Virginia's Shenandoah Valley and today we learn why this area was so important and we also learn about a handful of personal stories that witnessed the war first hand.

Join us as we get the privilege to chat with the esteemed Historian Gary Gallagher. Gary is known for his extensive work and publications specializing in the history of the American Civil War. In this episode we learn about what got Gary interested in the American Civil War, what myths drive him crazy and we also learn about what he thinks was the true turning point in the war.

James and Andrew dive into the lives of two young and promising Artillery officers that would both have their lives cut short due to the Gettysburg campaign. We explore their lives before Gettysburg and their actions during this awful battle.