Florida Reenactors Online News Magazine

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Event Close To Christmas

by John Vaughn

Twas an event close to Christmas and all through the camp

And just as always, it was cold and nasty and damp

The muskets were cleaned and all put away

And taps had been sounded thus ending the day

The troops were resting all snug in their tents

to dream and to plan of the next day's events

I in my "woolies" and Ma in her gown

upon our straw bed had just laid ourselves down

When out in the camp there arose such a din

I thought the "Boys on the street" were fired up again

I jumped from my bed and threw open the flap

To give them the very devil for disturbing my nap

The fires that were burning cast a strange and eerie light

That allowed me to witness a most unusual sight

There where the rainfall had gathered in pools

Stood a loaded down wagon and four swayback mules

The driver was a sight all haggard and lean

I couldn't tell which looked worse him or his team

He was tall, bearded and skinny with a chaw in his cheek

And with a drawl thick as molasses he began to speak

He said I'm up from Charleston to deliver this here load

to drop some off here and the rest up the road

I was hired by some red suited loon who thought that I might

Deliver all of these goods in just one single night

The Yanks had snatched him for running the blockade

Reckon he'll be spending his Christmas in a Yankee stockade

Anyone the Yanks hate must be a good Southern man

So I promised this fat fellow I'd do all that I can

I loaded up my wagon with what's left of his goods

And lit off up the road to deliver what I could

Bundle after bundle I dropped at each company's camp

And cussed these mules on through the fog and the damp

This bundle's for you boys and I hope everything's right

Then he jumped on his wagon and was soon out of sight

I thought to myself was this visitor merely a dream

Then I heard in the distance that driver still cussing his team

Get up there mules, get going there you sorry buzzard bait

Or I swear by my life you'll end up on some Rebel's plate

Good helps hard to find said a voice in the night

His manners are rough and I know he's a sight

But of the few who offered help he was my best bet

And this day and age I need all the help I can get

Who said that I said as I turned double quick

And there came face to face with old jolly Saint Nick

The Yankees couldn't hold me he said with a grin

So I guess come next Christmas they'll have to try it again

As he flew into the air his voice echoed through the night

When he said "Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night"

I guess not all of Lincoln's armies or all of his laws

Will ever put a stop to Old Santa Claus

Merry Christmas and may Good bless.

by John Vaughn

General Information

Brooksville Raid Battlefield......The old Brooksville battlefield is still DRY. The normal battlefield will be used this January. The only water found was in the upper northeast corner (it has always been wet up there). We will fight once again on the original field and have a new more interesting end to the battle this season. The camp areas may be changed somewhat and some adjustments may need to be made to the layout but it will be basically the same as in the past. Stay tuned for details. If you have not pre-registered, please do. The new Brooksville website is located at www.thebrooksvilleraid.com or www.raidplace.com

We Appreciate Your Business.........The Brigade Sutler ( www.brigadesutler.com ) is having a winter and spring sale. Free straight razor with order for a folding knife, fork and spoon. Free muslin shirt with order of any jacket. Free tin of caps with pistol order. Free box plate with cartridge box order. Free hat cord with slouch hat order. Free brass hat pin with any kepi or bummer. Free suspenders with order for pants. Free tin plate with tarred haversack. Free keeper with any belt. Free tompion with musket cleaning kit. Free socks with brogans. Free frog with Enfield bayonet. Free leather sword knot with any sword. Free canvas sling with any musket. Pat and John Greene say thanks for your business and we thank them for offering us this great sale.

Gun Sacks.........As many of You know; Ed Smith (of the 79th N.Y Company "B") started a few Years ago making Padded Gun Sacks. He had some limited success with it. Then recently he got an order from "Her Majesty's Royal Armory" in England. They are now using Ed's Gun Sacks to protect some of their "Original" vintage Weapons. They have sent him a very positive review of these Sacks, and plan to purchase more in the future. Ed is now also supplying a number of Sutlers across the Country. If you are not familiar with the Gun Sacks, check out his website at www.celticsonspecialties.com If you would like more information, contact Ed Smith at: celticson79th@aol.com

Need Info. And Photo..........Lyle Hegsted and a descendent of D.R. Williams (the inventor of the Williams Gun) are writing a history of the Williams family, the gun and its development. They need a photograph of D.R. Williams's headstone. Williams was buried at Paris, Kentucky and R.S. Williams is at Flagg Springs, Kentucky. If you have or can get photos of either headstone, please contact Lyle Hegsted at W7QCU@aol.com You can read more about the Williams gun and replica that Lyle built on this website at http://www.floridareenactorsonline.com/williamsconstruction.htm

Changes In The Crystal River Event Information ............. Please take note of the changes pertaining to Crystal River below ........

March 10, 11, 12, 2006. 9th Annual Battle at Crystal River. (west coast of Florida). This is a maximum effort Hardy's Brigade event. Sponsored by the Nature Coast Civil War Reenactment Committee, Inc. The reenactment will be held in the same place as last year at the Holcim, Inc. property site. Part of the proceeds from this event go to historical preservation in the Citrus County area, college scholarships and the veterans memorial in Citrus County. Powder ration for all pre-registered artillery pieces. School day is Friday, March 10th from 10am to 2pm. Contact Tim Stuart at tstuart58@yahoo.com if you would like to participate in the Education Day activities. All reenactors who help with school day will receive a free BBQ meal Friday night. A registration fee of $1 per reenactor nine years old and up to be paid at the time of sign-in at the registration desk. Wrist bands to be worn by all reenactors nine years old and up while on property. No four wheelers on battlefield outside of modern camp. Authentic Civil War Era Sutlers only. Sutlers, please contact Bill and Diane Micklon at trechuck@tampabay.rr.com for specifics. Live fire cannon demonstration will be held during the weekend; live fire musket competition and mortar contest will also be held. Civil War Battles take place at 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, with pyrotechnic blasts for effects. Ladies tea is Saturday morning at 11 a.m. Saturday night 1860's dance for reenactors and guests only. Sunday morning Church service at 10 a.m. in the steel barn. Authentic camps for CSA and USA. Hay, wood and water on site for authentic and modern camps. Modern camping (no hook-ups) on site. Directions: Seven miles northwest of Crystal River along US 19/98, site is on the left. Site entrance signs will be on the highway. From Dunnellon, take SR 488 West, turn North on US 19/98; or SR40 West to Inglis, turn South on US 19/98. From Orlando, take the Florida Turnpike North to I-75, exit at first exit at Wildwood (SR44), go West on SR44 to Crystal River, turn North on US 19/98 and follow the signs (about seven miles North). Or you can also travel from Orlando, go West on SR50 to US19, turn North to Crystal River and follow the signs. As you pass over the railroad tracks, get in the left lane, go about a mile and turn left into the small one lane road. GPS position: N28.56.596 W082.37.329 Pre-registration forms for reenactors, artillery, cavalry and sutlers are online at www.crystalriverreenactment.org Contact NCCW Reenactment Committee: Curtis Peters (President) at curtis.peters@holcim.com Marty Hoffman (Vice-President) at pvt-hoffman@earthlink.net Marcie Bruno (Secretary) at mandjbruno@webtv.net John Porter (Treasurer) at jlporter@digitalusa.net Snail mail correspondence to NCCWC, Inc., P.O. Box 640012 Beverly Hills Fl., 34464.

Sick Call

In our prayers........Adam Wescott passed away December 6th in Gainesville, Florida. He fought a long and gallant fight with his disease, and never complained about his condition. His wife Shirley is planning a service some time in Jan. 2006 after Brooksville.

Recovering Well..........Woody Bollinger suffered a heart attack on Fri., November 25th and by the 27th he was lined up for a triple by-pass. Everyone involved medically said the recovery was rapid, and many of those gave credit to the Lord. Woody said he gives 100% praise to God and to you all those friends who prayed for him. We should see him back on the field soon.

Recovering..........Glen Kemp (Florida 2nd) is recovering from double knee surgery. He is in therapy now but hopes to at least be well enough stop by Brooksville and say hi to everyone.

Tell Me What It Is Contest

If you can tell me what this replica of a period correct item is

and what it was used for, I will send you $10 to spend

at your favorite sutler during the Brooksville event.

Send your answer to mayorbob@embarqmail.com The

first correct answer that I receive wins.

Book Review

Kauffman's "American Brutus" a tour de force.

by Tim Hollamby

I recently finished reading Michael W. Kauffman's book "American Brutus" on John Wilkes Booth. The Lincoln assassination has always been an interest of mine and I have never read a better researched book. The notes and index in the book are over 100 pages long and are drawn from some 15,000 pages of research. Mr. Kauffman lived for over a year in the Booth family home while researching and has, among other things, testified as an expert witness in the 1995 Booth exhumation hearings. He has appeared on the History Channel, A&E and C-SPAN to just to name a few of his credits. Mr. Kauffman followed the path Booth took through southern Maryland after the murder; and the text is fascinating and very entertaining to read. Included is a transcription of Booth's handwritten diary that he wrote while on the run. One of the surprises in the book to me was how Kauffman wrote of the widow Mary Surratt. There has been a trend in other books that portray Mrs. Surratt as being completely innocent of the conspiracy. While I do not believe that Mary Surratt deserved to be hanged, she was not as blameless as I had once thought. This was just one of the interesting aspects of the book. I highly recommend the book to anyone interested in the assassination of President Lincoln. The book is published by Random House.

Sgt. Tim Hollamby, Hardy's Brigade Medical Section

Recent Events

Raid At Ft. Pierce Florida

December 2-4 2005

by Kathy Heitman

"The Picture Lady"

Ft. Pierce is an eastern Florida coastal city, halfway down the peninsula. As the world knows, unless one is a hermit in a cave in a remote and primitive section of this planet, Florida has a neon orange bull's-eye on it just for hurricanes. The past two years, hurricanes have had a near-perfect score. Frances and Jeanne of 2004 and Wilma this year took their toll on this city. The Savanna's County Park in Ft. Pierce, the site for this event, a beautiful nature preserve did not escape unscathed. To add insult to injury, the week before the event, the skies opened up over Ft. Pierce with 4-6 inches of heavy rain, leaving the area that was supposed to be the battlefield looking like Everglades National Park. It was good in that it was beautiful to look at. It was bad in that it rendered the area unusable. The reenacting companies responsible for this event, the 8th Fl. Co. C. Infantry, the 75th Ohio Volunteer Infantry, in conjunction with the Savanna's County Park and St. Lucie County Sheriff's Explorer Post #400 and the St. Lucie County Sheriff's Bomb Squad scrambled to find suitable ground on the premises to pitch company tents, a place for the sutlers and an area to fight on. With success, this Raid took the meaning of street fighting to a whole new level. The Pyrotechnics were incredible.

Friday was the School Day with area children visiting period camps, instructional stations and the "gotta visit before they go home" sutlers. They even stopped at the St. Lucie County Sheriff's Explorer Post #400 Food Tent. School group attendance numbers were very good. A stream of reenactos and their families began arriving for the weekend from the afternoon well into the late evening. The 75th O.V.I. entertained everyone with their singing. I could hear them from my spot in modern camping. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to them, especially their rendition of "Get Your Picture On The Cover of Rolling Stone". Great job! Confederate camps were on both sides of the dirt road west of the original battlefield .... wherever they could find a dry spot .... literally. Federal camps were on the east side of the road across the canal from the Confederates. The sutlers were set up on both sides of the road right at the entrance to the camps and spectator stands. Modern camping with water and electric hook-ups was available in the park's campground area for a small fee. Friday night was nice with clear starry skies, a slight breeze that caused the temperatures to seem brisk. It made for great sleeping weather.

Just after the golden light of dawn breached the horizon, reveille blew. Reenactors and their families began to stir. Smells of breakfast cooking over open fires wafted through the air making everyone hungry. Colors took place at 9:00 A.M. A nice, well attended Ladies Tea was held later that morning.

At 12:30 P.M. the soldiers formed up to march out to their assigned places to wait for the first artillery blast at 1:00 P.M. Barry King of the 75th Ohio Volunteer Infantry was going to try to narrate the battle for everyone from inside the lines with a microphone. It's a shame it didn't work. Barry would have done a great job. The artillery piece spoke. Let the "street fight" begin. Well, it was not entirely in the street. Today, it was the Confederates on the south side of the dirt road. It was their job to push the Federals back to prevent them from taking their ground away. Maneuvering back and forth, there were fights in the small field just west of the road. Ground charges, water charges, even blown up palm trees spewing fronds, bark and dirt did not stop either side from pushing each other back and forth hot and heavy.

Casualties were few and far between at first, as both sides were savvy enough to outwit the other. They hid behind earthen breastworks, trees, bushes, in the grass, even on the side of the canal that ran parallel to the street. Federal snipers diminished some Confederate troops. That made the remaining

Confederates rally and give the Federals everything they had. The Southern boys had the edge for a time until the Federals decided it was their turn to inflict damage. They made a push that caused the Confederates to back up just a bit. It did not look good for the Confederates. Back and forth, side to side they jockeyed. Now it was difficult to tell who had the advantage as the scene changed rapidly. Finally, the Federals came storming over the earthworks at the Confederates to take the day. The battle was over. The bugler played Taps resurrection came for the thought-to-be deceased. The spectators were amazed that so much action could take place in such a small area. The troops saluted the crowd with a final volley. Spectators visited the camps, talked to the reenactors, shopped at the sutlers or got something to eat at the St. Lucie County Explorer Post #400 food tent until everything closed to the public at 5: P.M. Spectator numbers were very good today.

Temperatures began to drop steadily. The low temperature was supposed to be in the mid-50's. Ahh, South Florida in December. Some reenactors decided to go into Ft. Pierce to see what they could get in the way of food, others choosing to stay in camp to partake of their company cook's specialties. A dress Ball was scheduled for 8:00 P.M. in the sutler area. I looked for it a half-hour after it was due to begin but was not able to find it. Perhaps I missed it; perhaps something came up to change the plan. I hope I'm wrong and it did happen. I hope everyone had a great time. The clock ticked, the dew became heavier, soldiers and their families sat around the campfires or visited in the company streets. Finally the magic hour came. Everyone headed off to their camp for a good night's sleep.

Something very nice happened Saturday that I must tell you about. The kids of Captain Country's group decorated a tree in his camp with empty soft drink cans to make it look like a Christmas tree. They were so proud of their efforts. Such Christmas spirit! Great job kids!

Sunday's dawn was a repeat of Saturday, with the exception of warmer temperatures. Breakfasts were served, soldiers attended Colors, then went to services, visited the sutlers, got something to eat at the Food Tent or sat around in their respective camps with their comrades. The battle began with artillery fire at 1:00 P.M. Today's crowd was larger than yesterday's. Surgeon Wesley Frank narrated the battle with a microphone across the canal in front of the crowd. The situation was reversed today with the Confederates on the north side trying to take the breastworks the Federals had set up. It took a while for the casualties to begin mounting but when they did, there were soldiers all over the field, lying in the street, alongside the street, in the canal, leaned up against trees, lying across the breastworks. You name it, they were there, from both sides of the fight. The Confederates didn't waver. They marched steadily south at the Federals, shouting "Get off my land!" or "Go back where you came from Yankee!" with firing rifles. The Federals returned the insults with "Oh yeah, take this Johnny Reb" or "We're gonna run you over!". Even though some Confederate numbers were reduced it did not stop their onslaught. At times, actually more than not, the fire was so hot the Federals could do nothing but duck down almost prone on the ground to avoid becoming battle statistics. The Federals tried running to the east side of the breastworks, going through haversacks, cap boxes and ammo boxes of their fallen fellow soldiers as they began to run out of ammunition. Tramp. tramp, tramp, onward they came. The closer the Southerners got, the more frantic the Federals became, trying everything they could think of to keep them away. A few of the Federals even risked running out in front of the breastworks to take left over ammunition from their dead comrades. Some made it back to the breastworks, some were shot down immediately. The artillery crew moved their piece forward in an attempt to stop the Confederates. It didn't work. The Confederates just stared hard into the eyes of the Federals as they steadily marched forward. The Federals felt trapped. They got very nervous. They did not have but a small area to run back to. Even that would not provide the protection they sorely needed. The Confederates stopped now and again to shoot but it was mostly tramp, tramp, tramp while firing. Federal snipers on the edge of the wooded area thought they could take out some Confederates as they

marched by. They were outwitted. The Confederates mowed them down as the Federals ran out of the woods shouting and shooting at them. Again, there were sprays of water from artillery fire, trees blown apart, mounds of earth being blown all over the Confederates. It did not stop them. They came, bent on victory, no matter the cost. They managed to push the Federals back away from behind the breastworks, while the Confederates climbed over the breastworks at them between Federals that had been cut down by enemy fire. The dead lay behind the breastworks, over the breastworks, sometimes three-quarters of the way over the breastworks onto the road in front. They were lying on their backs, on their sides, curled up, every which way. Being that the Confederates had penetrated so far into Federal territory a temporary cease in the hostilities was called to see if the Federals would agree to the South's terms of surrender. Realizing their luck had gone A.W.O.L., fighting was no longer an option, they accepted and surrendered.

A speech was given, and the final volley was shot off. The crowd roared. The Raid at Ft. Pierce 2005 was over.

In years past, this event has taken place in late September and early October at the various locations throughout St. Lucie County, winding up here at the Savanna's County Park. It had to be cancelled last year as the area was not fit to hold an event due to hurricane destruction. In my opinion, along with the opinions of quite a few people I spoke with, this is a good time of year to hold the Raid. The weather is nice, the mosquito population behaves itself, and it's the Christmas season so everyone is in a festive mood. It's just a lot of fun. Next year, if you can make the trip, please consider coming down. Hopefully the old battlefield will be dry. If it isn't, enjoy the fighting in the streets.

A huge "thank you" goes to the St. Lucie County Sheriffs Department for providing the awesome pyrotechnics. These men and women are highly skilled at what they do. Next year, stop to tell them how much you appreciate their time and effort. Also stop to let the St. Lucie County Sheriff's Explorer Post #400 know how much you enjoyed the good food they had for sale all weekend to raise money for themselves. I saw a lot of the public eating there, along with quite a few reenactors. Well done. All proceeds from the Raid At Ft. Pierce 2005 go to Explorer Post #400.

On a closing note, the Savanna's County Park is a beautiful place to visit any time of the year. There is a campground for anything from tents to hook-ups for campers and motorhomes. Canals run all over the grounds with any type of wildlife you can imagine. This time of year is especially beautiful with the migrating birds coming down from the northern climates to winter in here. There are bridges over the canals that open into nature walks. There is an observation deck that provides an overview of the entire area. If you are a nature lover, this is one of the places you need to visit.

by Kathy Heitman

Fort Pierce Event

by Wesley H. Frank

Surgeon CSA

7th Fl. Vol. Inf. Reg.

Hardy's Brigade, Army of Tenn.

The Saint Lucie Sheriff's Office Explorer Post, along with the 75th OVI, and the 8th Fl. again held a wonderful FUN event. The event has moved from the fair grounds to the Savanna's Park off Midway Road and now takes place later in the year so as not to conflict with the Dade City event. All this movement yielded a wonderfully cool weekend of fun. Col. Dovel of the 75th OVI was there to make shooting Yankees a great sport as in Sunday's battle while losing to our victorious Confederate forces. I grabbed a musket and as he said "pour it into them". Friday was school day and over 800 students viewed artifacts and listened as uniformed members spoke of their displays. Some of the displays are pictured here left, right and below.

Doc Rick Eckert showed his display of Union medical equipment, I played off his display as we were all setup together, and introduced weapons and Confederate medical equipment. Following me was Sons of Confederate Veterans Commander Larry Powell with his display of weapons and other War Between the States artifacts. Finally was Pvt. Aric Bruggeworth who portrayed a Confederate Private and spoke of his weapons and life as a private.

The Confederate force was well represented at Fort Pierce. Members of the 3rd Fl., 7th Fl. Straws, 8th Fl. and Ala. Vol. fought against the Union forces of the 75th OVI, 7th Conn. and 115 N.Y., and members of the 3rd Rohde Island artillery battery. Saturday night had a dance which I think became more of a social and song fest but great fun. The crowds were good and the Sheriff's Office Bomb Squad blew up the river bed and trees while wowing the crowds which were seated in bleachers. The battlefield was wet so as we do at Brooksville, we modified our field to something smaller. When

it was all done, many reenactors remarked it was like taking the road at Narcoossee; it was very close to that but still a wonderful event. Sgt. Barbara Smith made sure all the school day reenactors were fed and thanked for helping out which makes it all the more reason to be back next year and see her beautiful smile.

Remember we are paying honor to those who have gone before but let us not ever forget our men in uniform today. Support our veterans then and now.

God Bless, Wesley H. Frank

Spanish-American War

History Channel Film

Brandon Barszcz (Fort Brooke Quartermaster sutler) and Wesley Frank (Field Surgeon) both took part in the recent Spanish American War movie shot for the History Channel from November 14 to 22. Below are their reports and some photos about their experiences on the movie set. Brandon's report is first - Wesley's follows.

When I saw the announcement in the listing of the Florida Reenactors Online website, sent by Mike Lewis, regarding the local filming, by NFL Films, of the Spanish-American war, for the History Channel, I was soon sending and receiving e-mails from not only Mike Lewis, but Phil Tuckett, the director; Alan Brown, the producer; Chuck Conner of NFL films and Steve Erdberg the art and prop director. Since I had been collecting everything of interest I could locate on this period, they wanted me involved.

I had done my undergraduate thesis at USF on the Press Coverage of the Cuban Revolt and the Spanish-American war, earning a BA in History and American Studies in 1972. I had an extensive research library of books written soon after the war as well as many books about the period. Also I had items of interest to Mr. Erdberg for possible use in the camps and other sets planned for filming. So I loaded all my gear into my motorhome and Monday morning, Nov. 14th headed to Fort DeSoto Park. My brakes began to smell and smoke so I pulled off into a parking lot and called AAA. Also called Phil Tuckett who told me they had a man on the set with mechanical knowledge. So I had AAA tow me to Fort DeSoto.

You can imagine the looks I got from the reenactors in the park as I was towed in. "come hell or high water or a broken down RV, I am here!"

Like any typical operation, we had to wait until someone from the film crew arrived to tell us where to set up camp. By 11:00AM those who had tents began setting them up. Others had to wait for the tents to be brought in that had been ordered by the film crew. Soon brand new tents were unboxed, from Tentsmiths, complete with ropes, poles and metal stakes. I was shown where they wanted the Rough Rider camp as well as my tent, which was to be a backdrop for a medical scene. As I had my RV, I loaned my tent to the surgeon to use for the week we were to be at the park.

Camp life was filmed a little on Monday and Tuesday. Tuesday the 10th, cavalry "Buffalo Soldier" arrived and set up camp next to my tent and a couple of Rough Riders began to lay out their camp.

All day Wednesday was spent out on Egmont Key filming troops marching through Cuban "jungle" as well as attacks on ElCaney.

More on the Span-Am film from Wesley Frank...............

Monday, Nov 14, 2005, The History Channel and NFL Films began filming the story of the battle of San Juan Hill, set 1898. The story has many of our fine American young men, hearing stories of their fathers exploits in the great War between the States, driving them to enlist for the war against Spain in Cuba. This will be the first time Americans have fought outside the continental borders of North America.

Photo at left, Orlando's John Russell (Buffalo Soldier) arrives on site.

Men from the 6th US Army, out of Fort Clinch, Florida, 71 Michigan, 9th US Colored Troops from Detroit, Michigan; Atlanta, GA; and our own Buffalo soldiers from Orlando. Our own John Russell was the head of the Buffalo soldiers and the wrangler. Both John and his men worked well together after some training. John also helped the men from Prescott, AZ who came to represent the 1st US Volunteers, under Col. Teddy Roosevelt. Photo of "Teddy" at right.

The film crew shot footage of both the Buffalo soldiers and the Rough Riders mounted. Now how much will be used is a good question. John lead his troopers in a Charge which would raise the hair on the back of your neck. As a side note, the men from Prescott have just finished helping restore and dedicating the Bucky O Neil monument, where his grand-daughter unveiled the statue while his two sons watched from their wheelchairs.

Day two was more setup as was day one but by 12 noon Camp was complete and the film crew was ready. Reveille was at 5:30 blown by Rough Rider Trooper Dan Tucker. We had breakfast at 6 and were loading into a boat at 7 for our trip to Eggmont Key, an old military installation in St. Pete's harbor. The day was hot and lots of water was available to the crew but we were too busy to get at it so Doc, as I became known by day two, went to passing out cold bottled water. We had a small accident which I am sure will become part of the film, but I am pleased to say no one was injured badly. One cut which was closed by 4 stitches, and one

dehydration which with Gator aid and rest, was taken care of.

By the way: If you ever wondered what Doc Frank looked like without a beard, this is the only photo you'll ever see. What is it? You don't take the mask off the olde Lone Ranger and I sure don't look good without my beard.

Day 3 was in and around Camp, finishing with a bon fire on the beach (Following our landing in "Cuba" - Fort Clinch Ranger Frank, Trooper of the 6th US carrying colors, photo at right) and a sing fest. Was lots of fun at that point.

Friday we tore down camp at Fort Desoto and moved to the new location at San Juan Tampa.

Lt. Col Roosevelt and Col. Leonard Wood (photo at left). Gen. Joe Wheeler, Past Confederate General and Congressman (photo at right)

Buffalo Solder carrying colors following the battle of Kettle Hill (photo at left)

In the trenches with Col. Roosevelt and Gen. Wheeler at Sun Juan Hill (photo at right)

A minor note I learned was that only one reporter ever called him Teddy. He was always Colonel or Mr. President. The men I fought and lived with that week were as wonderful a bunch of men as ya'll and I was privileged to have been among them as well as you. God Bless.

Your Humble Servant,
Wesley H. Frank, Surgeon

1st U.S. Vols.

In The News

Gods And Generals........... Bruce Borders horse Ace (the white horse) was ridden by Robert Duvall who played Gen. Lee. Ace was one of eleven different mounts offered for use and Robert Duvall chose which horse he wanted to ride in each scene. Ace is on the back cover of the book published for the making of Gods and Generals. Bruce and Pam took part as extras in some of the different scenes in different portions of the shooting. Be sure to ask them about it the next time you see them at an event. Thanks go out to Bruce for sending these photos over. Bruce also attended the recent event at J.E.B. Stuart's birthplace this Fall and kindly furnished the additional pictures.

Letters To The

News Magazine

More Roosevelt Info.............Ruth Ann Wood (Greater Orlando Civil War Roundtable) wrote to tell us about an interesting Roosevelt fact .......

"As always, the Florida Reenactors Online News Magazine looks great. After seeing the photo of Theodore, I remember reading in Burke Davis' book The Civil War Strange & Fascinating Facts this: "Abraham Lincoln's funeral procession, rolling down New York's Broadway on April 25, 1865, was watched by two small boys from a second-floor window at Fourteenth Street. They were Theodore Roosevelt, age six and a half, and his younger brother Elliott, the future father of Eleanor Roosevelt. The boys were nephews of the Confederate chief of secret service in Europe, James D. Bulloch." I thought other readers might find this interesting.

Ruth Ann Wood

Recipes

In the past I have posted recipes for all types of food from breakfast to dinner for humans. Here's a treat for the cavalry horses. It was sent in by Julia Barnes.

Crunch and Winnee Horse Treats

by Mike, Julia and Mary Lin Barnes

1 cup bran
1 cup corn meal
1 1/2 cup cracked or whole corn
1 1/2 cup molasses
Water to texture

Make small cookie balls about 1-2 T sizes

Bake at 350 until firm
Cool & serve to horses

Store in refrigerator or freezer.

Beware - they will get moldy! So store in vacuum packed bags or only prepare what you will use at each treat session.

Items For Sale

And Wanted

For Sale. Reduced. 4' x 4' trailer, like new. It has sides that can be removed, the sides are 3' high. Also, comes with a spare tire. If interested, email Mike at: mecoh48thnc@wmconnect.com asking $100.00

For Sale. All items listed below can be purchased for $500. or separately at the prices listed. Other items and prices are available. Contact mrmom4uto@aol.com for more information

Reproduction 1853 Enfield. Less than 100 rounds shot through barrel. Excellent condition.
A great coat size 48. Excellent condition.
Richmond Depot jacket
Black slouch hat
"A" frame tent - extra long''
Three shirts
Two trousers (38x)
Two wood hand lanterns
Haversack
Housemaid sewing kit
Wood canteen

For Sale. Snare drum 16 x 18. Two years old. In excellent condition. $250.00. Contact Rob Baker at rbaker23@tampabay.rr.com

For Sale. Two books. "The More Complete Cannoneer". This is a must have book for all serious artillery reenactors. The book details things you never knew about cannons and how to shoot and maintain them. $24.50 each. Contact Fred Ashby at avolinfla2@aol.com

Upcoming Events

January 13, 14, 15, 2006. DeLeon Springs General Birney's Raid (DeLeon Springs State Park). This is a Hardcore event. No women and No children. Camping will be she-bang, dog tent or bedroll only. The battle is a running tactical skirmish. Please see the following web site for more information: http://web.rollins.edu/~rpfluger/index.htm any questions, please contact Rob Pfluger at rpfluger@rollins.edu

January 20, 21, 22, 2006. The 26th Annual Brooksville Raid, Brooksville, Florida. Hosted by the Hernando Historical Museum Assoc. and North Pinellas Scout Sertoma Club. This is a maximum effort Hardy's Brigade event. The Brooksville Raid is known as the biggest and the best Civil War Reenactment in Florida. Last year 3,850 reenactors and their families participated in the event along with 24 cannons and 61 mounted cavalrymen. Help is needed for the school day on Friday the 20th contact Judy Everett at everett_j@popmail.firn.edu if you can help. This event has lots of sutlers and lots of reenactors. Two battles (2:30pm); one Sat. one Sun. Ladies tea will be held at 11:00am Saturday (the women put a lot into this tea and I have been told it is one of the best anywhere), Blue/Gray Ball Sat night at 8:00pm, church Sun. morning. A $2.00 donation to the event will be required for all reenactors and adult family members participating in the Brooksville Raid. All reenactors will receive a raffle ticket upon registering for a $100.00 gift certificate (five to be given away) to be used at any of the sutlers in Sutlers Row during the event. The winners will be posted throughout the camps and at the ball Saturday evening. Any and all proceeds from this event are split evenly between North Pinellas Sertoma and the Heritage Museum. Meals and hot showers will be available from the North Pinellas Co. Scout Sertoma Club, Friday evening through Sunday, for a nominal fee. Due to the incredible amount of artillery attending the Raid, the powder ration will be a little different this year. A powder ration will be given to the first twenty pre-registered cannons only. The Raid is held at the Sand Hill Boy Scout Camp on US Hwy 50. The battle is 10 miles West of Brooksville. The entrance is on Hwy 50. Take Hwy. 50 West. Go through Brooksville, keep going West about 10 miles, and look for the signs. GPS position: N28.31.773 W082.31.975 Make plans to attend! You don't want to miss this. For information call 352-799-0129 or visit their website at www.raidplace.com or email address raidplace@earthlink.net

February 3, 4, 5, 2006. Renningers/Townsend Battle (Mt. Dora) Two battles. This is a maximum effort Hardy's Brigade event. 100 acres to camp and fight on. Living history exhibits, folk music, weaponry demonstrations, authentic camps, ladies tea, Sunday church service, and sutlers. Usual amenities. Cash prize for largest unit and best drills. Dress ball with 97th Regimental String Band. Full scale artillery, cavalry, and soldiers in period dress and weaponry. Cavalry wanted. Bounty paid for artillery and cavalry. This event is North of Orlando on Hwy 441 just a couple of miles from Mt. Dora. As you start down the big hill, look for the Renningers flea market and battle sign on East side of road. If you are coming down the Fla. turnpike, get off at the new North Apopka exit #267A on the new 429 toll road then turn north on Hwy. 441 and follow the directions above. GPS position: N28.48.243 W081.37.504 Contact Wayne Vaughn at ggvghn@cs.com. Sutlers contact Fred Jakobson at csarooster@adelphia.net

February 11, 2006. Lee-Jackson Ball. Madison, Fl. Sponsored by the Sons of Confederate Veterans A. Livingston Camp, Perry Camp and the Monticello Camp. There will be a pot luck dinner (bring a dish to share) and dancing. Music by "The Down Home Boys" from Lake Park, GA. Admission is $10.00 per person. All are welcome. The event starts at 6pm with a short SCV meeting with the ball following at 7pm. For more information contact Jim Bard at bjbard@joimail.com

February 10, 11, 12, 2006. The 20th annual Civil War Heritage Days. Key West Florida. Fort Taylor was a Union held fortress (one of three in Florida). It served as headquarters for the Union Navy's East Gulf Coast Blockade Squadron. The event features a parade down the world famous Duval Street to Fort Taylor, artillery and infantry demonstrations, period crafts, a land/sea battle, and a period ball. New on this year's schedule; a court trial of a captured blockade runner and a skirmish on the beach. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is the site of the best beach on Key West. Portrayal of life in the Keys in the mid 1800's. No registration fee but sutlers need to call in advance. Ft. Taylor has one of the largest collections of coast artillery in the country. Primitive tent and dry RV camping is available. Directions, Take US 1 south to mile marker 0 and turn left on Southard Street. Turn Left and follow the signs to Ft. Taylor State Historical site. GPS position: N24.32.770 W081.48.562 Sutlers and reenactors contact Maj. Brass at nbforrest10@juno.com or Information and on-line registration is available at http://www.forttaylor.org/hfest.html or by telephoning Park Service Specialist Harry Smid at 305-292-6850.

February 17, 18, 19, 2006. The Battle of Olustee and Living History. Olustee Battlefield State Historic Site, Olustee, Florida. Friday is School day The reenactment takes place on the actual site where the Battle of Olustee (Ocean Pond) was fought. Visit with thousands of Civil War reenactors, tour the camps, see demonstrations of all types. Best gathering of Civil War sutlers at any Civil War event with 80+ sutlers in attendance. Friday is School Day. Battles Saturday and Sunday. Full scale artillery only. No pets, due to concerns for public safety, no fur bearing animals such as cats and dogs will be allowed during the reenactment activities. This does not apply to horses. Get there early. The crowd gets big fast, sign-in and parking can be a hassle. First time visitors and reenactors to the event should read The Authentic Spectator and listing of activities. The battlefield is located just fifteen miles east of Lake City on Hwy. 90 from I-75 and 50 miles west of Jacksonville. Take I-75 to Hwy. 90 exit. Go east on Hwy. 90. Drive slow, the signs at the entrance for reenactors have been small and hard to see in the past. GPS position: N30.12.637 W082.25.508 Contact the Olustee Battlefield Historic Site at (386) 758-0400. olusteecso@yahoo.com

Additional Event. February 17, 2006. Lake Desoto in Lake City. If you are attending the Olustee battle and would like to participate in this skirmish, a bus will be at the Olustee battlefield gate to take participants to skirmish in town. They need two (2) small artillery pieces and will pay a bounty of $150 for each piece - limited to two pieces only. Driving directions: I-75 to Lake City, then East to downtown. From 90, go N. on Marion St. 2 blocks to E. Madison St. turn right 2 blocks to lake. Skirmish at S/W corner of lake, behind courthouse. email Lt. David Eversole at dvjdyeversole@wmconnect.co

February 24, 25, 26, 2006. Fort DeSoto Park, Pinellas County, Florida. Sixth Annual "The Battle of Ballast Point". The 97th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Re-enactment Regiment, in cooperation with the Pinellas County Parks Department and Fort DeSoto Park, will host an American Civil War Weekend Encampment and Historical Battle Reenactment at the Fort DeSoto Park located in Tierra Verde on the Southern-most tip of Pinellas County, Florida. The civil war era camps will be open free to the public from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm. each day. Participants will be depicting both Union and Confederate infantry, artillery, cavalry (limited), and civilian impressions. On Friday, February 25, the camps will be open for tours by elementary school children from surrounding cities and counties. On Saturday and Sunday, camps will be open to the public with ongoing events all day, climaxing with an historical battle re-enactment each afternoon at 1:00 pm. Other civil war activities will include period sutlers and vendors, a mock military trial and execution, artillery demonstrations, infantry drills, ladies afternoon tea, drum and fife music performances and civil war medical demonstrations. A limited number of modern camping spaces will be available on a first contact, first served basis. Contact event host for your reservation now because modern campers showing up on the day of the event without a reservation will not be allowed to camp. The 97th PA will provide firewood, hay, and ice. Reenactors are encouraged to arrive on Friday the 25th and participate in our 'school day' program for almost 800 school children in Pinellas County. Participating units and artillery contact event host in advance of the event. There will be a $50 cash bounty for the first four artillery units with a cannon (two Union, two Confederate) that participate at the event. There is no fee for sutlers, but there will be a limit of those who can set up their shops. Make your reservation today. Take I-4 into Tampa. Get onto I-275 going south (Towards St. Petersburg). Cross the Bay. Keep going south on I-275, all the way past the Tropicana Field (The Tampa Devil Rays Baseball Stadium). Keep going south. Watch for the brown, Ft. DeSoto Park signs. Exit at 54th Ave. South, and you want to be going westbound on the flyover at the 54th Ave. S. exit. Keep going west thru the first toll booth. Make a left turn onto Pinellas Bayway South. It's at the 2nd light, and look for the brown, Ft. DeSoto Park signs again. Keep going south thru the next toll booth until you get to the Giant American Flag. At the Flag, turn right, and go about 1 mile to the fort which will be on your left. GPS position: N27.31.327 W082.38.672 For more information and to pre-register for the event, contact David Glenn, Event Coordinator at email: coa_97thpa@hotmail.com or write to: 97th Pennsylvania Vol. Inf., Fort DeSoto Committee, 14172 Sharon Drive, Largo, Florida, 33774. www.angelfire.com/pa5/97pavolinf/2006fortdesoto.html

February 24, 25, 26, 2006. Ft. Clinch in Fernandina Beach, Florida. Early War Confederate Impression, garrison and living history. Musket drills and demonstrations, mail call, sick call, pay day and more. Please pre-register prior to the event. $10 per person covers entire weekend at the fort including your food on Saturday and Sunday. Attendance for women is limited and the limit has been met already this year so ladies please check with Fred if you would like to attend. GPS position: N30.41.834 W081.26.113 Contact Fred Jackobson at CSArooster@adelphia.net

Monthly Meetings

Historical Sewing Society Meetings.......On the first Saturday of each month this group meets at the Columbia Co. Historical Museum in Lake City. They endeavor to recreate historically accurate clothing, accessories, and parlor crafts for ladies and children of the 1800's. This is done through shared research, guest speakers, workshops and seminars. Each monthly meeting includes a period project or participation in a living history event and always lots of fun! If you would like to be added to their email list for monthly meeting information or need help with a period sewing project, contact Glenda Reed historicsewing@aol.com

The Golden Teacup Society......The society has monthly meetings (second Sunday of each month) at Walter Jones Historical Park in Mandarin (South Jacksonville). They meet from 2 to 4pm, and do a period activity (handcraft, sewing, impression improvements) and just fellowship. For more information, directions or to get on their e-mail list, contact Shorty Robbins at GoldTeacup@aol.com

The Greater Orlando Civil War Roundtable.......The Orlando Roundtable meets every 4th Thursday at 730pm. The meetings are held at the Marks Street Senior Center at 99 E. Marks St. between Orange Ave. and Magnolia St. in downtown Orlando. GPS position: N28.33.399 W081.22.612 For information, contact Ruth Ann Wood at lady1861@netzero.net

Fort Clinch Federal and Confederate Garrisons..........Living historians recreate life at Fort Clinch during the War Between the States. Activities may include black powder artillery demonstrations, marching drills, as well as soldiers and civilians taking up duty in the laundry, infirmary and kitchen. Please pre-register prior to the event. $10 per person covers entire weekend at the fort including your food on Saturday and Sunday. GPS position: N30.41.834 W081.26.113 Contact Fred Jackobson at CSArooster@adelphia.net

Living History Group. "Circa Of Friends". Meetings will be held every third (3rd) Sunday of the month, unless otherwise noted, at the Maitland Historical Society's "Garden Clubhouse" from 1:00 until 3:00pm. If you are a 19th Century enthusiast who enjoys learning and expressing the culture, customs and crafts of the 1800's, come and join other kindred sprits. Some things the group will participate in are: Education through programs and workshops, the sharing of research, study of diaries, letters, textiles, garments, photographs and original artifacts of the period. Hands on sewing and craft projects of the period. Exploration of historical museums and sites here in Florida and elsewhere according to group interest. Support of historical preservation and educational projects in the community through volunteer activities. Period social events held throughout the year (lawn party, dances and socials) for fun and a chance to interact outside the military venue. If you have never been through the Waterhouse Residence and Carpentry Shop located on the property, come early and take the tour. (House is open from 12-4 on Sunday. Admission is $2.00 per person, $1.00 for students, children four (4) and under are free). Driving directions: Take I-4 East to Maitland Blvd. - EXIT 90A. Merge Right onto Maitland Blvd. Turn Right onto Maitland Avenue. Follow Maitland Avenue for about 1-2 miles. Turn Right on Lake Lily Drive. Drive around the Lake to the grass parking area. Follow the sidewalks from the parking lot. The Garden Clubhouse will be to your left. Mapquest address: 840 Lake Lily Drive, Maitland, Florida 32794-1001. GPS position: N28.37.284 W081.21.969 Contact Carol Everhart cleverhart@wmconnect.com or Nancy LaFleur nlafleur@prohealthmed.com if you have any questions.