Shows
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 26: Western Theater LogisticsDerrick runs solo this episode and talks with Greg Biggs on Western Theater Logistics. Railroads, steamboats, and then several other topics. Just two dudes enjoying a chat about the Civil War!
If you would like to support us, visit our website and "Buy us a Coffee!" All proceeds go to the podcast subscription service and new microphones to bring you a better product. Visit www.westerntheatercivilwar.com for more information.
Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western Theater in the Civil War" where we encourage you to ask questions and help others in their research and learning. You...
2026-01-161h 28
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 25: The Western Theater in 2026Join Derrick and Darryl for the first episode of 2026! Several Western Theater events will be taking place this year and the guys break all of them down and how you can prepare for each if you attend. You can find all of the events at the website, at westerntheatercivilwar.com
If you would like to support us, visit our website and "Buy us a Coffee!" All proceeds go to the podcast subscription service and new microphones to bring you a better product. Visit www.westerntheatercivilwar.com for more information.
Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western Theater in...
2026-01-021h 03
The Department No. 2 PodcastWestern Theater Primary Voices: The 17th Kentucky (US) at Fort DonelsonThis installment of the WTCW's Western Theater Primary Voices brings you the diary entries of Sam Cox of the 17th Kentucky Infantry (US) at the Battle of Fort Donelson in February 1862. You can find other portions of Sam's diary at our website.
Be sure to like and subscribe here and wherever you get your podcasts, and search for "The Department No. 2 Podcast" on any platform.
If you would like to support us, visit our website and "Buy us a Coffee!" All proceeds go to the podcast subscription service and new microphones to bring you a better product. Visit www.westerntheatercivilwar...
2025-11-2808 min
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 24: Talking Braxton Bragg with Lee WhiteDerrick and Darryl are joined by Lee White to discuss the infamous Braxton Bragg, the general everyone loves to hate. What kind of commander was he, exactly? Lee helps busts some of the lingering myths and also discusses some things that might be true about the general.
If you would like to support us, visit our website and "Buy us a Coffee!" All proceeds go to the podcast subscription service and new microphones to bring you a better product. Visit www.westerntheatercivilwar.com for more information.
Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western Theater in the Civil War"...
2025-11-201h 00
The Department No. 2 PodcastThe Battle of AugustaDerrick and Darryl discuss one of Darryl's projects, the Battle of Augusta. Fought on September 27, 1862, Basil Duke led a force against the home guards of Augusta and tangled with some gunboats. The resulting fight resulted in several burned buildings in the town itself, but a possible crossing of the Ohio River was thwarted.
If you would like to support us, visit our website and "Buy us a Coffee!" All proceeds go to the podcast subscription service and new microphones to bring you a better product. Visit www.westerntheatercivilwar.com for more information.
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2025-09-071h 23
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 22: Talking Camp Nelson with Steve PhanDarryl and Derrick have a conversation with Ranger Steve Phan of Camp Nelson National Monument. Though not a battlefield, the site had enormous implications for the war. The site not only tells the story of the thousands of soldiers that passed through, but the thousands of civilians as well.
If you would like to support us, visit our website and "Buy us a Coffee!" All proceeds go to the podcast subscription service and new microphones to bring you a better product. Visit www.westerntheatercivilwar.com for more information.
Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western Theater in the...
2025-07-161h 18
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 21: Chatting with Dave PowellDerrick and Darryl are joined by author and historian Dave Powell to discuss
Chickamauga, Tullahoma, Atlanta, and so much more. Consider this an appetizer for some future deep dives!
If you would like to support us, visit our website and "Buy us a Coffee!" All proceeds go to the podcast subscription service and new microphones to bring you a better product. Visit www.westerntheatercivilwar.com for more information.
Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western Theater in the Civil War" where we encourage you to ask questions and help others in their research and learning.
Music from #uppbeat...
2025-07-031h 09
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 20: A Discussion with Stuart SandersDerrick and Darryl are joined by author and historian Stuart Sanders to discuss several topics. From Perryville to duels, Stuart brings the goods for another great talk.
If you would like to support us, visit our website and "Buy us a Coffee!" All proceeds go to the podcast subscription service and new microphones to bring you a better product. Visit www.westerntheatercivilwar.com for more information.
Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western Theater in the Civil War" where we encourage you to ask questions and help others in their research and learning.
Music from #uppbeat (free for...
2025-06-301h 22
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 20: A Discussion with Stuart SandersDerrick and Darryl are joined by author and historian Stuart Sanders to discuss several topics. From Perryville to duels, Stuart brings the goods for another great talk.
If you would like to support us, visit our website and "Buy us a Coffee!" All proceeds go to the podcast subscription service and new microphones to bring you a better product. Visit www.westerntheatercivilwar.com for more information.
Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western Theater in the Civil War" where we encourage you to ask questions and help others in their research and learning.
Music from #uppbeat (free for...
2025-06-231h 22
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 19: Morgan Blunders at Tebbs BendTaylor Bishop joins Derrick and Darryl to discuss the Battle of Tebbs Bend situated in central Kentucky. Why did John H. Morgan choose to attack there, and what consequences did this action have on the rest of the "not so great" raid?
If you would like to support us, visit our website and "Buy us a Coffee!" All proceeds go to the podcast subscription service and new microphones to bring you a better product. Visit www.westerntheatercivilwar.com for more information.
Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western Theater in the Civil War" where we encourage you to...
2025-06-181h 20
The Department No. 2 PodcastArmy of the Cumberland Books!Darryl and Derrick dive into the books you need to widen your knowledge on the Army of the Ohio and the Army of the Cumberland.
If you would like to support us, visit our website and "Buy us a Coffee!" All proceeds go to the podcast subscription service and new microphones to bring you a better product. Visit www.westerntheatercivilwar.com for more information.
Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western Theater in the Civil War" where we encourage you to ask questions and help others in their research and learning.
Music from #uppbeat (free for Creators!): https...
2025-06-061h 01
Home Brew HistoryWe Shall Conquer or Die, with Derrick LindowDerrick Lindow of the Western Theater of the Civil War Blog joined Bo and Joey to talk about his book We Shall Conquer or Die, which is available through Savas-Beatie.Want to support the show? Visit buymeacoffee.com/homebrewhistory and become a monthly subscriber to access bonus episodes and exclusive member's only livestreams!Remember, Home Brew History is brought to you by #civilwartrails! Learn more here: https://www.civilwartrails.org/Home Brew History is partnered with the Bearded Historian, Jeff Williams. Check out his designs here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheBeardedHistorian
2025-06-0258 min
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 17: The German Boys of the 9th OhioDerrick and Darryl are joined by Andrew Houghtaling to discuss the 9th Ohio and their unique place in the Western Theater. Andrew talks to us about the Turner Societies, the culture and cuisine of the men, and how this group of men stand out from the average Federal regiment in the west.
If you would like to support us, visit our website and "Buy us a Coffee!" All proceeds go to the podcast subscription service and new microphones to bring you a better product. Visit www.westerntheatercivilwar.com for more information.
Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western...
2025-03-151h 17
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 16: Western Theater Bull SessionDerrick and Darryl are joined by Dan Masters and Taylor Bishop for the first ever digital Bull Session. They carry on the tradition of an in-person Bull Session with the digital discussions about a variety of Western Theater topics including cavalry raids, comparing Western and Easter armies, Bragg and the Kentucky Campaign, and a few others. Let us know what you would like to hear on our next Bull Session!
Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western Theater in the Civil War" where we encourage you to ask questions and help others in their research and learning. On...
2025-02-131h 29
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 15: "My Civil War Obsession" with Richard McCormickDarryl and Derrick are joined by blogger, researcher, and book reviewer Richard McCormick to discuss some of the ins and outs of the trade. They also delve into some of the research Richard has been doing on individual Civil War soldiers.
Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western Theater in the Civil War" where we encourage you to ask questions and help others in their research and learning. On Twitter/X, search for @westerntheater, and on Instagram follow @kentuckycivilwar to stay up to date on the latest episodes. Music from #uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://upbeat.io/t...
2025-02-0650 min
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 14: Fort Donelson, Morgan, Guerrillas, Books, and Everything Else!Derrick and Darryl preview the Fort Donelson Symposium coming up in February. They also discuss some things about irregulars in Kentucky, Adam R. Johnson, Morgan, and *gasp* Burbridge. They also throw some things in there about books and the writing process. Join us for the discussion!
Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western Theater in the Civil War" where we encourage you to ask questions and help others in their research and learning. On Twitter/X, search for @westerntheater, and on Instagram follow @kentuckycivilwar to stay up to date on the latest episodes. Music from #uppbeat (free for...
2025-01-311h 14
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 13: General George D. Wagner at Franklin (Part Two)Joseph Ricci returns to discuss one of the more controversial aspects of the Civil War--George D. Wagner's position in front of the main works at the Battle of Franklin. Several charges against Wagner found their way into later tellings of the battle, but are they correct? Join us for Part Two of the fascinating discussion into the life of one of the Army of the Cumberland's fighting generals, and the sad conclusion of his life.
Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western Theater in the Civil War" where we encourage you to ask questions and help others in...
2025-01-201h 11
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 12: General George D. Wagner at Franklin (Part One)Joseph Ricci returns to discuss one of the more controversial aspects of the Civil War--George D. Wagner's position in front of the main works at the Battle of Franklin. Several charges against Wagner found their way into later tellings of the battle, but are they correct? Join us for Part One of a fascinating discussion into the life of one of the Army of the Cumberland's fighting generals.
Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western Theater in the Civil War" where we encourage you to ask questions and help others in their research and learning. On Twitter/X...
2025-01-1649 min
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 11: The Mill Springs Campaign (Part Two)Andrew Miller of Mill Springs Battlefield National Monument joins Derrick to continue the discussion on Mill Springs. In this episode, Andrew dissects the battle itself, along with the consequences the Union victory had on the war.
Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western Theater in the Civil War" where we encourage you to ask questions and help others in their research and learning. On Twitter/X, search for @westerntheater, and on Instagram follow @kentuckycivilwar to stay up to date on the latest episodes. Music from #uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://upbeat.io/t/ben-mcelroy/billy... License code: NBMDJ4...
2024-12-311h 33
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 10: Perryville PreviewA Darryl-less Derrick is joined by Dan Masters, Taylor Bishop, and Jamie Gillum to discuss the upcoming Symposium at Perryville on October 18-20. Details on each tour were discussed, so make sure you RSVP at westerntheatercivilwar.com! Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western Theater in the Civil War" where we encourage you to ask questions and help others in their research and learning. On Twitter/X, search for @westerntheater, and on Instagram follow @kentuckycivilwar to stay up to date on the latest episodes. Music from #uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://upbeat.io/t/ben-mcelroy/billy... License code...
2024-09-2644 min
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 9: The Mill Springs Campaign with Andrew Miller (Part One)Derrick and Darryl return to the mics to talk with NPS Ranger Andrew Miller on the Mill Springs Campaign. In this episode Andrew sets up the campaign and how the two armies eventually clashed at Mill Springs., which brought the Union its first major victory of the war. The eastern part of Tennessee and Kentucky was a complicated region, and one that both sides had to carefully navigate. Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western Theater in the Civil War" where we encourage you to ask questions and help others in their research and learning. On Twitter/X...
2024-06-291h 11
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 8: Cincinnati in the Civil War with David MoweryDarryl talks with Dave Mowery, author of Cincinnati in the Civil War: The Union's Queen City. Cincinnati was the largest producer of goods for the Union Army west of the Appalachian Mountains, and the third largest in the United States. The old saying of “amateurs talk about tactics, but professionals study logistics" holds true when studying the Western Theater, and Cincinnati was the key to the Union's logistical efforts. Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western Theater in the Civil War" where we encourage you to ask questions and help others in their research and learning. On Twitter/X...
2024-06-201h 18
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 7: The Battle of Franklin with Joseph RicciDerrick and Darryl have a long conversation (one that remains unfinished) with Joseph Ricci of the Battle of Franklin Trust. Myths are tackled along with some of the more difficult details of the battle. Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western Theater in the Civil War" where we encourage you to ask questions and help others in their research and learning. On Twitter/X, search for @westerntheater, and on Instagram follow @kentuckycivilwar to stay up to date on the latest episodes. Music from #uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://upbeat.io/t/ben-mcelroy/billy... License code: NBMDJ4UMTHN0AMDD
2024-06-081h 08
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 6: A "Mostly" Western Theater ConversationAfter a hiatus due to schedules and sickness, Derrick and Darryl return for another discussion on the Western Theater...well mostly. The guys talk about what actually constitutes the Western Theater, and more information on the Symposium on the Field at Perryville. Join our group on Facebook by searching for "Western Theater in the Civil War" where we encourage you to ask questions and help others in their research and learning. On Twitter/X, search for @westerntheater, and on Instagram follow @kentuckycivilwar to stay up to date on the latest episodes. Music from #uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://upbeat.io...
2024-04-2640 min
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 5: Fort Donelson BooksDerrick and Darryl discuss the books you need for your Western Theater library when it comes to the Fort Henry and Fort Donelson Campaign. The guys talk the heavy hitters, but also some of the more obscure ones that you might not know about. Click the link for Darryl's blog post on the subject (https://www.westerntheatercivilwar.com/post/wtcw-essential-books-fort-donelson). Join our group on Facebook by searching for the Western Theater in the Civil War where we encourage you to ask questions and help others in their research and learning. On Twitter/X, search for @westerntheater, and on Instagram follow...
2024-03-1858 min
The Department No. 2 PodcastThe Battle of Stones River with Dan Masters (Part Three)Derrick and Darryl discuss the Stones River Campaign with author and historian Dan Masters. Dan is the author of the forthcoming book on Stones River entitled, Hell by the Acre: A Narrative History of the Stones River Campaign, November 1862-January 1863, published by Savas Beatie. Check out Dan's blog at https://dan-masters-civil-war.blogspot.com/ for amazing Civil War Content. In Part Three we discuss Dan's writing journey and the things he's learned along he way, as well as more of the fighting at the Round Forest, Carter Stevenson's division, and the real story behind the Battle of the Bands. Join our...
2024-03-121h 26
The Department No. 2 PodcastThe Battle of Stones River with Dan Masters (Part Two)Derrick and Darryl discuss the Stones River Campaign with author and historian Dan Masters. Dan is the author of the forthcoming book on Stones River entitled, Hell by the Acre: A Narrative History of the Stones River Campaign, November 1862-January 1863, published by Savas Beatie. Check out Dan's blog at https://dan-masters-civil-war.blogspot.com/ for amazing Civil War content. In Part Two, we discussed the cavalry of both armies, the bloody actions on the 31st, the ill fated attack of the Orphan Brigade, and much more! Join our group on Facebook by searching for the Western Theater in the Civil War...
2024-03-051h 25
The Department No. 2 PodcastThe Battle of Stones River with Dan Masters (Part One)Derrick and Darryl discuss the Stones River Campaign with author and historian Dan Masters. Dan is the author of the forthcoming book on Stones River entitled, Hell by the Acre: A Narrative History of the Stones River Campaign, November 1862-January 1863, published by Savas Beatie. Check out Dan's blog at https://dan-masters-civil-war.blogspot.com/ for amazing Civil War content. In Part One, we discussed the two armies, their leaders, and what shape they were in prior to the Battle of Stones River, and why the battle was fought just outside of Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Join our group on Facebook by searching for...
2024-02-271h 15
The Department No. 2 PodcastEpisode 1: Introduction to the Department No. 2 PodcastHello and welcome to WTCW's The Department No. 2 Podcast! Join us in this introductory episode to get to know the hosts and all about the show. Derrick and Darryl discuss the beginnings of WTCW, events, future episodes, and where our love for Civil War history began. Be sure to subscribe, leave a rating, and follow along as we bring the Western Theater in the Civil War to your ears!
2024-02-1849 min
Untold Civil WarBeyond the Blue and Gray: Civil War Commandos, The 10th Kentucky Partisan RangersSend us a textIn the sub series, Beyond the Blue and Gray, we examine the specific histories of some of the most unique units of the Civil War. In this episode we take a look at the partisan rangers of Kentucky. Derrick Lindow provides great insight into the bloody battles of a little known front of the Civil War.Get more from Derrick Lindow here:https://instagram.com/kentuckycivilwar?igshid=lvjzushxb0gfhttps://www.kentuckycivilwarauthor.com/https://www.westerntheatercivilwar.com/ Support the show:(The...
2020-11-0145 min