Around this time period there is a war going on. But it is the country vs them self's they are killing and hurting themselves. For the citizens they dont know what side to pick or be on it is completely out of control. Especially for this family from Southerner Illinois. It is summer time and it will be distractful for most to keep there mide off the war going on in there own back yard. Right around this time the battle of Bull Run is under way. " And everyone realizes this will be a longer, harder battle than they thought."

There have benn news of the nort looseing a battle in Missouri. A Union commander and many soldiers from Illinois died there. Not only does this mother have a lot of kids and a farm to look out for there are many of here friends dieing. many people from the state dieing. This was not a good time for the North.