In the early days of the war, the North quickly mobilized its army. However, the federal government was not prepared for war and early in the conflict lacked the basic necessities for maintaining a large army, including uniforms, weapons, food and medicine. The civilian population rallied to the cause, and a large number of women donated their time, skills and money to support the war effort. They also entered the workforce in record numbers, and more than 300,000 women were employed in jobs previously held by men who had enlisted.

 
Norval & Mary Lane Green. Photograph Collection.