Withers, John. Diaries, 1856-1862. 3 vols. (on microfilm). Location: Mss. Mf.:W United States Army officer. Diaries reflect Withers' military service as a career officer. He discusses his military service, social and personal life, religion, travel by steamer to Portland and Vancouver, and occasional problems with the Yakama Indians. Additionally, he comments on the political crisis in South, Abraham Lincoln's inauguration, and his resignation from the U.S. Army in order to support the Confederate cause. He describes events at the beginning of the Civil War, and his health and the health of family members. For further information, see online catalog. Mss. 1566.