A:
It was typical for wives to send their husbands who were serving in the military useful gifts during the Civil War, such as food, clothing, and toiletries. These presents were given to soldiers as a kind of consolation and support as they frequently had to deal with hazardous situations. Wives may have also sent sentimental gifts, such as love notes, pictures, or other mementos, to serve as a reminder of their husbands' homes and loved ones.