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The Richard Coulter journal is a lengthy, detailed account of the experiences of a private soldier participating in the American invasion of Mexico, 1846-1848.

The Richard Coulter journal is a lengthy, detailed account of the experiences of a private soldier participating in the American invasion of Mexico, 1846-1848. Educated, observant and possessing a biting wit, Coulter has left an unusually insightful document, which he attempted to make as comprehensive as possible. He took great pains to describe all aspects of a soldier's life during the war, from mustering in to life in the camps, interactions with Mexican civilians, descriptions of the cities and countryside, the battles and their aftermath, strategy, morale, and attitudes. His particular disdain for Generals John W. Geary and Thomas Childs reaches a level of vitriol seldom seen, and often borders on the comic.

The original of the Coulter journal is now lost. It appears likely that this typescript was prepared in the 1930s or 40s for Richard Coulter, Jr.