<<Can some one tell me why some members of the Federal units refused to fight at the first Bull Run >> Ann Ann: Are you referring to those units who prior to the fight refused or during the battle? In the early part of the war, Lincoln could only ask for units to enlist for 90 days - that is all the authority he had without asking Congress to declare war. The 90 day enlistments ran out on the eve of the battle. One unit I know of, (and there were others), the 4th Pa, many left and they were not under any legal obligation to stay. Their Colonel (later General and Governor of Pa) John Hartranft stayed and convinced others to stay to fight. Regarding Woman Photographers - I give a class on Civilians during the war and have done extensive research. I have never come across a woman photographer. If you find any information to the contrary, I would love to know about it. Paula