This Upshur County teenager's diary offers a deeply personal and vivid account of the Civil War from the perspective of a young woman in rural West Virginia. Her writings provide unique insights into the emotional and daily struggles faced by civilians during the war, particularly women, and how they coped with the constant upheaval caused by the conflict.

The diary also paints a picture of a region that, while not the site of major battles, still felt the war's impact. The repeated occupations of Buckhannon by both Union and Confederate forces, nearby raids, and the constant threat of violence created a backdrop of uncertainty for families like hers. Her observations on military and political developments, such as the Battle of Gettysburg, reveal her growing political awareness and emotional connection to the Union cause.

The war's personal toll on her family—especially the loss of two brothers—adds a heartbreaking dimension to her diary. Her emotional response to these losses, alongside her concerns for her surviving brother, highlights the profound personal sacrifices families endured. Her desire to fight for the Union if allowed the chance shows her commitment to the cause and reflects the broader sentiment of many civilians who felt powerless.

Many years later, Bunten looked back at her diary and recalled those turbulent years with a mix of gratitude and sorrow, acknowledging the dangers and challenges but also expressing pride in having lived through such an extraordinary time. Her final entry, marking the passage of time from youth to older age, underscores the war's indelible mark on her life. Her diary offers future generations a window into the personal and emotional side of the Civil War, beyond the battles and political maneuvering that dominate historical accounts.