This collection contains one diary written by Marcus B. Warner in 1864, a transcript, and photocopies of his Muster Rolls and a card numbers list containing information from 1864-1865 during the American Civil War. These later items list basic information such as rank, physical characteristics, bounty paid, and dates of enlistment.

The diary is written in a green Allings & Cory pocket diary. In addition to describing his life as a soldier, Warner also chronicles his previous civilian life and the Union army recruitment process. Writing as a civilian, his common discussion topics include the weather, his daily schedule, fluctuating gold prices, local and national politics and elections, war news, and local community and church events. A notable entry on August 6th gives insight to his political sentiments:

The Copper Heads are getting to be quite bold they are spewing out their venomous treason against the Government at times when I hear them talk it almost makes my blood boil with rage I fairly hate the sight of them and there is many those who we would expect better things from.

I saw a gathering off at one side [....] they were holding a prayer or speaking meeting there was an opening in the center where those who wished steped fow- erd and confessed their and decla ired themselves on the side of the Lord it was very good meeting the spirit as God was there motivation was then given to those who wished religion to step forward, some twenty persons stepped forward praying was then offered and meeting adjourned until eve

Mr. teague a member of Co C. a merchant of Hannibal Oswego Coun who had been very sick [....] He suffered much all night nearly to the time he died He was sensiless when he died At 3 oclock P.M. funeral of Mr. Teague and Mr Hall was held. procession formed in front of the hospital (which is the brick mansion of this plantation) a solemn tune was then played by fife & drum and mourners marched down to the graves (which were down near the river shore) they were then lowered in their graves three volleys were then fired over their graves. previous to this a few verses were read from the bible and a few remarks made and a prayer offered by Elder Davis procession then returned to camp, all feeling rather soleme