Toasts and Forms of Public Address for Those Who Wish to Say the Right Thing in the Right Way

William Pittenger (1826-1904) was an American clergyman, soldier, and author, most renowned for his involvement in the Great Locomotive Chase during the American Civil War and his subsequent writings on the experience. After the war, Pittenger dedicated his life to ministry and literature. He authored 'Daring and Suffering: A History of the Great Railroad Adventure,' which chronicles the audacious mission of Union soldiers to sabotage Confederate railroads. Later, Pittenger focused on providing practical guidance for public speaking, showcasing his scholarly interest in rhetoric. This is exemplified in his work 'Toasts and Forms of Public Address for Those Who Wish to Say the Right Thing in the Right Way.' In this book, Pittenger compiles a comprehensive manual for conducting oneself eloquently in public arenas, reflecting the Victorian era's high esteem for formal oratory. His literary style combined factual historical reporting with an educational approach, aiming to serve both the layperson and the scholar. Pittenger's contribution to literature captures the essence of postbellum America's value in civility, public speaking, and the commemoration of national history.