John Bissell was born ca 1590-91 in Somersetshire, England. John married twice but neither wife's name is known. The date of his coming to America is thought to be ca 1628. He died in Windsor, Connecticut on 3 October 1677. Variant spellings of the name Bissell are: Bessell, Buissel, Buscel, Bushell, Buscall, Bichell, Bushall, Bizzell, Bisley, Bixley, Beasley and Bussell.

This work reproduces fifteen War of 1812 manuscripts, including diaries, memoirs, and letters. The accounts provide a range of perspectives on the war's ground conflicts, from officers to enlisted men, volunteers and militia.

"The log of the clay worker": v. 100, p. 188-193.