In 1862 Confederate invasion of New Mexico is a little-known episode of Civil War history. In the Journal of A. B. Peticolas, however, the experiences of the Sibley Brigade come to life. It begins on 21 February 1862, the morning of the Battle of Valverde, the first and largest Civil War battle in New Mexico, and and it's with the company marching back to Texas on 15 June 1862. Despite the fact that he often wrote at night by candlelight after long days of marching through rough country, Peticolas was a good observer and an effective writer. He was also an artist of considerable skill. His charming drawings and Journal sketches are included here. He presents not only visited descriptions of the battles but also interesting impressions of New Mexico and of the people he met. The author's introduction provides background to Peticolas's upbringing and education and also sets the scene with a history of the campaign leading up to the Battle of Valverde. His epilogue traces Peticolas's prominent postwar career as a lawyer and judge in Texas. The author has consulted every known journal, diary, and memoir by both Confederate and Federal participants, so the Journal is extensively annotated. Peticolas's observations offer a fascinating an unparalleled view of soldier life during the Civil War. -- Publisher.