Computer.......My computer is falling apart even worse.  I will most likely not be able to get two issues out this month.  I almost didn't get this one out.  Some of you had sent me some items for the magazine but they were lost.  If you don't see your for sale ad, article or whatever you sent me, please resend it.  I am not far from a computer melt down but I am afraid to take it in for repairs due to the information I have on it.  I don't know how much of it I will be able to save.  I will do my best to hold it together.

Our Sympathy to the Burback family.......Brian Burback, (Capt.  Surgeon Hardy's Brigade Medical Department Battalion Surgeon, 2nd Batt.) wrote to inform everyone that his wife's father passed away Friday 2/21/03.  Cards can be sent to Brenda Burback, 7705 Tessa Drive, Zephyrhills, FL 33540.

Our Sympathy to the Hardy family.......General Hardy's mother passed away Friday the 21st.  The funeral will be this Tuesday the 25th at the Oaklevel Church in Ocoee.

Education Day.......Bob Mann (Chairman, Crystal River Event) is trying to set up stations for the Crystal River Education Day.  The school program will be held on Friday March 7th from 9am to 2pm.  The children will spend about 15 minutes at each station.  Anyone who participates will be served a BBQ meal starting at 4 PM.  If you can help, contact Bob at  bmann@gowebco.com

Crystal River Movie.........Several reenactors are talking about getting together one evening during the Crystal River event and driving into town to see Gods and Generals.  Anyone interested?

Brooksville Photos.......The Brooksville website has posted some photos of this years event at http://gallery.arisia.net/Brooksville

Be Safe......As you can see in this photo by Kathy Heitman, artillery can be quite dangerous.  Notice the blast coming from the cannon.  The photo below taken at night by Betty Tzoumas shows the burning flour and gun powder spraying out after ignition.  When an artillery crew is ready to shoot, stay out of the way.

Grandparents Day.........The fifth annual Grandparents Day at Ransom Everglades Middle School on Feb. 11 was a great success.   There were 186 grandparents that came through the camp as well as the middle school students.  The 7th Conn. was there and put on several infantry demonstrations with Bob Jones, Robert Burn, and Ed Clausen.  Col. Bill Kaiser had a slavery display, and Lois Kaiser and Maddie Clausen did an excellent job teaching etiquette and proper manners. 

The 10th Tennessee came to the event in force. Gerald Fortner, who deserves extra credit for driving down from Lakeland, did an excellent weapons demonstration.  Palmer Satchel did a fine job teaching the students about the Kansas Border War, and Calvin Greathouse Sr. talked to the students about the war of Northern Aggression.  Dale Hensley had fun teaching the students about the state militia.  Calvin Jr., Victor, and Earl Greathouse drilled with the students and added a fun new perspective to having an interactive learning experience.  Rene Marders was able to attend the final drill session with the students.
Thanks goes to the men who showed up for this event.

  The Townsend/Renningers event was as enjoyable as usual.  The weather was perfect.  For a mid-size event, they offer the reenactor a lot.  In addition to the usual two battles and sutlers, there is a big flea market that reenactors and their families can shop in during the weekend.
  Saturday's battle started off a little different to say the least.  Somehow Tom Fasulo set up his medical tent on the edge of the field.  We decided to use that to our advantage.  The Confederate cavalry was on "patrol" when they came across the Union tent.  The pickets opened fire but were soon overwhelmed and surrendered.  While the soldiers and medical staff were held at gunpoint, a trooper ransacked the tent looking for anything worth taking.  Before the search went too far, the Union cavalry came to the rescue and charged in from the north side of the field.  The Confederate cavalry made a hasty retreat back to the south side of the field and the infantry started shooting at the perusing Federals.  All the noise alerted the Union infantry and artillery; then before long, everyone got into the fight.  The battle raged back and forth a few times but no matter how hard the Confederates tried they could not get the best of the Federals.  After about 45 minutes of hard fighting, the Confederates surrendered.
  Sunday's battle opened with Union men on the west side and the Confederates in the southeast corner.  The battle started a little slow but as soon as everyone got organized it flowed along smoothly.  The infantry pushed each other to the limits of the field several times and the cavalry battled right in front of the crowd.  The Federals were so intent on protecting their artillery that they left a hole on their south flank.  It didn't take long for the Confederate cavalry to spot the hole and take off through it.  They rode down the spectator line right up to the Union commander.  After exchanging a few words, the Union cavalry saw what had happened and quickly chased them off.  The artillery of both sides never let their guns rest and kept up a steady fire.  When the Federals had no where to go, they surrendered.
  I heard a lot of reenactors talking about the event and everyone seemed pleased with the weekend.  As usual the event host was generous with the artillery and cavalry bounty.  Thanks to Clay Townsend and the Renninger family for hosting a great event.

  I think almost everyone looks forward to the Olustee event.  The Union soldiers looked good and were ready for action (photo above by Betty Tzoumas).  It is one of the largest reenactments in Florida and has the biggest selection of sutlers.  If you have never been to the Olustee event, you should go if nothing else but to shop.  You can find anything you need for your 1860's impression.  The sutlers offer everything from taylor made uniforms, women's clothes, cavalry items, toys, books and all the items you can think of.
  Olustee is my "goof off" event of the reenacting season.  I leave my horse at home and fall in with the artillery.  This year Capt. Williams was unable to attend so I picked up his 3" ordinance cannon.  Lorraine pulled the gun up while I towed the camper trailer.  We arrived early Friday, unloaded the cannon, set up the trailer and hit sutler row.  With no cavalry responsibilities, we had time to visit some friends and relax.
  Saturday morning dawned cool.  The sun was out but spent most of the day behind clouds as they floated across the sky.  Everyone assembled and headed to colors.  That's another thing I like about Olustee, colors.  The ceremony takes place on the parade grounds by the monument.  Both Union and Confederate soldiers form a "U" shape around the field and I think it looks mighty impressive.  Thanks to the CSA band we had music.

  After colors, a lot of the reenactors went to the annual parade in Lake City.  I was tied up with the artillery piece (safety inspection) so we did not attend.  I heard it went very well.

This year it was decided that the battle would be fought a little differently.  The Union and Confederate cavalry had left about noon and were fighting through the woods towards the park.  The CSA artillery was set up in the woods on the west side of the field with the Federal artillery in the northeast side.  The Confederate infantry started into the woods and soon found the Union army waiting for them.  The artillery at this time had nothing to do so I took out my field glasses and watched the battle.  I must say viewing the fighting between the trees was impressive.  As the battle picked up its tempo, the smoke slowly rose.  I could see the Strawhats pushing towards the Union soldiers and it soon became a well contested battle.  Federal men marched and fought their way towards the Confederate artillery and it looked like we would be captured without ever firing a shot.  At just the right moment, our cavalry rode in and pushed the Union infantry back.  The whole battle looked very real through the glasses which only allowed me to see small segments with no outside encumbrances.  Realistically men who sustained minor injuries started trickling back to the aid stations just as they would in a real battle.  The cavalry of both sides got into the fight and it seemed that every section of the woods had something going on.  Finally it was our turn.  The order was given for the artillery to open up and fire as quickly as was safe.  At this point, I didn't know how the battle was going I was so involved with our artillery piece that all my attention was focused there.  We loaded and fired, loaded and fired again and again.  The infantry of both sides started to move out of the woods and onto the field and soon they were too close to safely fire so the order was given for the artillery to stand down.  The Union pushed the Confederates off the field and the battle ended.  This battle was great for the reenactors but I think the spectators may have been a little short changed.

  By Sunday, the sun had left.  The clouds started moving in and we could feel the rain in the air.  During colors, a rain drop or two started to fall.  You could tell that the rain was just a few minutes away so everyone started packing up.  About 10:30am it began to rain hard and soon the entire park was either a lake or a mud pit.  Some of the sutler tents were in these small lakes.  The rain continued so some people started leaving as the mud got deeper.  The back road became unusable and the road through the sutler area was opened up.  The mud on the only road out got ankle deep in no time and the vehicles and people started slipping and sliding.  Most of our company decided to leave while they had a chance and before too long almost all of our men were headed home.  I have fought before in a light rain but I couldn't see how a battle could be held in this rain.  We asked around and the word was that the battle for the day had been cancelled.  At about 12:30 I went out to the field and loaded up the artillery piece.  Other artillerymen had already loaded their guns or were in the process of loading them up on their trailers.  To my surprise as I was driving off the field, I saw a few Confederates headed towards the battleground.  I didn't know who they intended to fight because when I passed the Federal camp most of them were gone or leaving but apparently there was going to be a battle.  I heard later that about 100 - 150 men and a total of about eight artillery pieces did participate in a battle.  I have no details of spectator attendance on Sunday but on the way out I saw only a few headed for the bleachers.  The rain was still coming down so we decided to try to get through the mud and on the road home.  I have never been mud bogging in a dual wheel pickup while pulling a trailer but I guess there is a first time for everything.  I almost got the truck and trailer stuck several times but I finally did get to the paved road.  Lorraine met me at the gate with her truck and the cannon so we started the long drive back.  It rained all the way home and the traffic was heavy.  We may have gotten rained out but I still enjoyed the weekend.

The Movie..........Did you see the movie yet?  A lot of you did and have emailed me your comments.  There are way too many to print so I will cut a part or two out of each letter and share them with you here......

Bob Wayatt (17th CVI Co. B.) wrote.........."There are some superfluous scenes to the movie which give it its length but all in all it is well done.  A few "cheesy" scenes including Ted Turner singing to Bonnie Blue Flag."  Bob went on to say that  "Basically  the story/screenplay revolves around Stonewall Jackson in the true sense of the Christian soldier.  Stephen Lang (Pickett in Gettysburg) portrays Jackson and does a great job.  Robert E. Lee is but a side character in the movie but Robert Duval seems more convincing to me than Martin Sheen.   Jeff Daniels is Chamberlain again and has a few good moments, but some wordy ones as well.  The only real reference to slavery and the war's effect on such involves a  dialogue between Chamberlain and his brother.  Several other familiar faces from Gettysburg return for this movie.  Hancock and Jeb Stuart are more noticeable this time.  Many new faces too.  Billy Campbell plays Pickett in a very limited roll and probably should have spent more time in makeup.  You'll see what I mean."  Bob Wyatt liked the special effects.  His closing remarks went like this..."The  best part of the movie for me was the presentation of the Confederate characters.  To show them as human beings with a certain stress on their religious faith and trust in God. (Scripture is quoted quite often in the movie.)  Not crazed zealots possessed with the preservation of slavery, but fighting for their country's independence.    80% of the movie is depicted from the Southern perspective; not just in battle, but in camp and at home.  Stonewall Jackson is brought to life as never before and it is refreshing in a sense considering the politics of today to see such a portrayal.  Especially considering that the whole movie basically revolves around a confederate general; and not Robert E. Lee."

Chaplin Phil saw the movie too.  He wrote that it "follows well what I have read about the three featured battles and Jackson."  Phil continued writing that "Best scene...everyone will have their favorite. Worst scene...Ted Turner's cameo appearance at the "Bonnie Blue Flag" song. He sits behind Lee but seems the focus is sharply on him.

Terry McGowan wrote "I thought the authenticity levels of the movie were damn near outstanding.  Clearly Maxwell learned a lot since Gettysburg, and I liked Gettysburg.  He also had a few words for the critics of the movie.  He wrote "Well I got to see THE MOVIE today.. WOW  what the hell is wrong with those damn "criticize EVERY friggin thing that ANY body does guys on the Szabo Forum"?  I swear if God showed them the real war on a movie screen they'd pan it as inauthentic."

George Moor felt like "Robert Duval is excellent in his scenes.  Most of the other Confederate parts are excellent.  Jeff Daniels and those around him are excellent.  The Union officers were impressive.  Ambrose Burnside is a (slim) hoot.  Lang wore a Confederate uniform (some were almost accurate like his blue VMI coat with VA buttons, the blue forage cap (at Manassas) and 1850 Staff sword), had a long beard, blue eyes and rode a horse.  They did a great job shaving Lang's head so the curly dark wig would set back past his real hairline.  The interior scenes all looked like the real places."  Many people like George picked up on very small details that I would think most would not notice.  He saw these among others.  "They used 3:15 on the clock during Jackson's dying scene and hid his left arm." and "Most viewers could not tell Lang's horse was a mare."  "The distant town scenes are impressive (they left out the fire station (John Brown's HQ[?]) at Haprer's Ferry).  They used different trains for the various scenes. Not the same engine."

Bradley Schmehl's thoughts (Schmehl was part of Jackson's entourage in the film) went like this "to Lang's portrayal of Jackson.  A masterful acting job, in my humble opinion.  Kali Rocha as Anna was strong, charming and perfectly matched to her screen husband.  Impressive performance by a newcomer.  (I understand Mr. Maxwell discovered Ms Rocha.)  DuVall was not playing Lee - he was Lee, as far as I am concerned.  ("Martin who?")  Daniels is brilliant once again.  "I was duly impressed by the Confederate soldier "types" in the slow panning shot of the troops in the woods, ready to step off at Chancellorsville.  They looked lean and rugged indeed. (myself excepted - but at least I was 15 pounds lighter during filming than I am now.)  The Chancellorsville sequence was, in my opinion, brilliantly choreographed and edited."   Brad also made mention of a sad event that took place after the movie was released.  "One final note, a sad one.  The owner of Katie, the buckskin mare I rode in the film, informed me yesterday that Katie passed away recently.  She was FORTY years old, and as far as I am concerned, she was the best horse in the film, bar none.  She was always ready to work and she had an uncanny knack for locating  blue-coated targets of opportunity.  A little story illustrates this.  While riding across the location set to the site of the day's filming one morning in October, I noticed that Katie wanted to go left, and I kept reining her back to the right so she would continue ahead in a straight line towards the cameras and crew.  Then I looked left and finally saw what Katie had noticed long before I had:  a company of Yankees forming up to march over to the set.  I swear, she could smell blue wool. Katie will be sorely missed.  God rest her horsey soul.

Tim Hollamby wrote a very good review.  "On Friday evening Feb 21st. my wife Carole and I saw the film " Gods and Generals". The second film ("Gettysburg" was the first) based on  Michael and Jeff Shaara's novel trilogy. In my humble opinion, the Ted Turner Pictures production was a benchmark of epic filmaking in general and Civil War  films in particular. Ronald Maxwell's writing and directorial efforts were superb. To be honest, I was originally skeptical of Robert Duvall's physical appearance in attempting the confederate hero,  Robert E Lee. I had no doubts of his acting ability but wondered if a physical resemblance could be created. The result was a portrayal that will doubtlessly be one of the finest of his distinguished acting career,  as fitting an historical interpretation as I have ever seen in a film. Stephen Lang captured the pious zealotry of my other confederate hero General Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson.
  The novel approach of showing him as a husband and father contrasted well with his "hell for leather" battlefield command scenes. The women's involvement in the war was a side that was not included in the trilogies first film "Gettysburg" that was corrected in this second installment. Of special interest to lady reenactors were fine performances by Mira Sorvino as Fanny Chamberlain and Donzaleigh Abernathy as Martha. The recreations of period interior decor and authentic costuming hit their marks as well. Kudos to the research for the film,My favorite on the union side,Joshua Chamberlain was again ably handled by Jeff Daniels. He was assisted by Kevin Conway(tough old Irishman, Sgt Buster Kilrain) and C Thomas Howell(younger brother Tom Chamberlain) expanding the characters they played in "Gettysburg" very well,  Chamberlain's reciting of classic literature before marching into the battle of Fredricksburg made him a believable college professor  The roman quote "Those who are about to die salute you" make his role memorable. The approach to filming the battle scenes was refreshing , mixing open field tactical combat with house to house fighting in Fredricksburg and the horror of the union men of the Chamberlains 20th Maine lying all night among their own dead. The wounding and death of Jackson were historically accurate, Lang's stoic acceptance of  his duty by executing the son of an old friend for desertion were very realistic.I would recommend this sweeping epic to anyone as a fine civil war film. My wife Carole and I give the movie two strong thumbs up and 4 and one half stars out of five.The four hour length did not seem that long because of its engrossing nature.The film is a winner and well worth a trip to your local theatre to see. Enjoy and be safe until we see you again. Sgt Tim and Carole Hollamby Hardy's Brigade Medical Section."

Several people said that they liked the sound track to the movie and were looking forward to purchasing it.  "The music fit extremely well. The opening song over the credits was perfect."  and "Can't wait to see it again and lookout world, that soundtrack is mine." and "the music was soul-stirring."

Little Red was born in FL in 1845.  At birth, his feet were attached to his knees for some odd reason.  His parents always hoped his knees would sprout lower legs, but unfortunately, it never happened.  Little Red didn't let anything or anyone stop him or get in the way of what he wanted to do.  Being loyal to his home state, when Florida seceded, Little Red vowed to repel the Yankees at all costs.  He immediately headed down to the recruiting station where he asked, begged, pleaded, talked, talked, talked, talked and talked, cajoled and hollered at the Officer behind the desk to
"puuuullllleeeeeezzzzzze" let him go to War.  Having listened to all he could endure, the Officer mercifully inducted Little Red into the Infantry, hoping he would shut up and go away.  During the course of his enlistment, Little Red became fast friends with another Pvt., "Big Alton".  Little Red looked up (no pun intended) to Big Alton in every way.  Big Alton took a genuine liking to Little Red, becoming fast friends with him.  Because Little Red was height challenged, he could duck into gopher and fox holes or hide behind big logs without being noticed.  Little Red tired quickly on the long, dreadful marches.  Big Alton would hoist Little Red onto his shoulders and carry him for miles.  This worked well, except when Little Red was bonked on the head several  times by low-hanging branches.  Little Red was a real survivor.  Unbeknownst to most people to this day, Red was a pioneer of temperance and he wasn't even aware of it.  Yessir!  You see, at night, he would sneak over to the Yankee camp and wait for them to start their hard drinking, run across the faint light of their campfire, howling and yip-yip-yipping.  Upon seeing such a strange sight, the Yankees were fearful that they were having a bit too much libation, vowing right then and there to stop forever.

One day, in the heat of battle, Big Alton was killed.  Red was devastated.  He picked up Big Alton's hat and carried it with him at all times.  He would even hide under it when the enemy came close.  They would run right by, thinking it was just another hat lost by a Confederate Infantryman during battle.   When the War finally ended, Red went home, married his childhood sweetheart, Goldie, who was 5 ft. 10 in.  They had 13 children, all girls.  Red went into the local Rest Home at age 65. Having to endure a wife, 13 girls and only one outhouse all those years was a bit much for him to handle.  He finally died at the ripe old age of 99.  Goldie outlived him by 3 years, living to 102.  All of their girls went on to get married.  They each had 13 children...all girls.  Go figure!

And that's the SAGA OF "LITTLE" RED & "BIG" ALTON
 

FEBRUARY 19, 1864. 
INDEPENDENT BATTALION OF MASS. CAVALRY.
FORTIETH MASSACHUSETTS MOUNTED INFANTRY.
ELDER'S BATTERY, FIRST ARTILLERY.
A Million and a Half of Property Captured
Gallant Conduct of Chelsea Men at Gainesville. 
(From Special Correspondent N. Y. Tribune.) 
Baldwin, Fla., Feb. 19, 1864.
One of the bravest and most skillful achievements of the war is officially recorded in the following document: 
Headquarters District Florida,
Jacksonville, Fla., Feb. 17, 1864. 

General Orders No. 5. - The Brigadier General Commanding heartily congratulates his command of the brilliant success which has attended all their movements thus far into Florida. Three flags; eight guns, with caissons, battery wagons and forge; many wagons and horses and much substance stores and clothing, have fallen into our hands, besides large amounts of cotton, turpentine and resin. Property valued at over one and a half millions of dollars is the fruit of the success. 
  To Col. Guy V. Henry and his command, the battalion of Mass. cavalry under Major Stevens, the 40th Mass. Mounted Volunteers, and to Capt. Elder, 1st Artillery, and his Battery, this achievement is principally due; and the Brigadier General Commanding especially desires to praise Capt. George E. Marshall, Co. G. 40th Mass. Mounted Volunteers, and his small command of forty-nine men who captured and held Gainesville for fifty-six hours, receiving and repulsing an attack from more than double his force, and, after fulfilling his mission successfully, returning to the designated place of rendezvous. These deeds will be among those remembered by us with the greatest pleasure and honor, and the command may emulate but can hardly expect to surpass them. By order of 

Brig. Gen. S. SEYMOUR.

Official: R.M. Hall, 1st Lieut, 1st Artillery, U.S.A., Asst. Adjt. General. 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Gainesville, the place mentioned in the above "General Orders," is on the Cedar Keys and Fernadina Railroad, a place of some importance as a depot for Confederate Government stores, and as the residence of many wealthy rebels- Officers in the C. S. A. army, notorious blockade runners, &c., &c. Gainesville cast 500 votes in the last election of delegates to the Charleston Secession Convention. It is about 75 miles from Jacksonville. 

Capt. Marshall received orders to advance upon Gainesville with a picket force of 49 men from Companies G, H, and K of his regiment, the 40th Mass Mounted Infantry. He skirmished all night, and reached the place on Sunday morning, Feb. 14, at 2 a. m., dashing past 115 rebel infantry, and occupying the town. His first care was to place sentries and pickets to prevent the egress of the inhabitants. All newcomers were allowed to enter the place, and were closely questioned as to the existence and number of the enemy in the vicinity. From a Negro, it was elicited that their cavalry were close by. A picket of two men were surprised by the rebels and captured. 

By this means a rebel messenger escaped, and brought down upon Capt. Marshall's little force an attack from Dickison's and Chamber's cavalry. The Negro had given Capt. Marshall only forty minutes notice of the impending onset. Instantly calling to his aid and willing services of about 100 liberated Negro men, Capt. And his command removed from the "Confederate" warehouses 167 bales of cotton, and barricaded the crossroads going through the town, adding to his extemporized fortifications "sectors or wings," from point to point of his lines, to shield the garrison from rear or flanking fire. The rebel cavalry were soon heard thundering down the road. Captain Marshall enjoined on his men to hold their fire until they should be close to the breastworks. The foremost horsemen were near enough to leap the petty obstruction of two cotton bales, when a seven fold volley was poured into them from the new Spencer repeating rifles. Instantly wheeling, the rebels tried a flank movement, when a terrible enfilading fire reached them, every man of the National force firing seven shots at the astonished troopers. A total rout was the result. The frightened horses of the dismounted rebels came vaulting over the cotton bales. The groans of the wounded, left by their flying commands, mingles in harsh accord with the shouts and cheers of the Union soldiers. Had Capt. Marshall's men been cavalry, used to the saber, they could have followed and killed or captured the whole party. 

The loss of the rebels was over forty. Their force had not been much less, certainly, than 100. Not one of our men were hurt! Leaving Gainesville, at 2 A. M., on Tuesday, 15th Feb., Capt. Marshall's command reached Jacksonville, by a forced march by noon on Wednesday. Their total loss was one wounded in skirmishing, 2 captured on picket, and 1 straggler. Important information was obtained as to the strength and resources of the enemy. Dickison's Cavalry (the same that captured 21 men of the 10th Conn. At St. Augustine, a month since) were defeated on their own soil. By the admission of a wounded man, found on the field, one company of the rebels was so cut up so as to be "ruined." The Secessionists women in Gainesville generously applauded the prowess of the Yankees, admitting that they had "done well; whipped them handsomely;" and stigmatized their own cavalry as "cowards and poltroons." 

Thirty six Negroes were brought away from Gainesville. Of these 33 enlisted. 

The storehouses of the Rebel Commissaries where thrown open to the people, and they were allowed to take away at will green coffee, sugar, rice, corn meal and potatoes. Much Union feeling was developed among the inhabitants of the town. They were surprised at the kindness shown them, declaring that the Yankee treated them better than the Secesh." One woman, finding a soldier in her yard, readjusting a screw in his rifle, adjured him to make haste and join in the fight. Although a rebel, with her husband in the traitor army, she took the warmest interest in the fighting, evidently for its own sake. There was at least $1,500,000 worth of property in the place. Nothing but some sets of rebel harness for artillery horses were destroyed. The famishing people, assured of Federal protection, were bidden to seize and enjoy the property of the pretended government of the Confederacy. Within the two square miles were at least 2,000 bales of cotton, mostly such as had been seized by the Jeff. Davis's usurpation. The programme of the present invasion is not to destroy property, but to pacify and reassure the inhabitants, and make them cheerful acquiescent in the inevitable restoration of Florida to the Union, which brought, reclaimed from savages, and protected the State and its people from foreign foes and internal enemies. 

But with this generous treatment, Capt. Marshall did not neglect to secure the safety of his command by calling seriatim at every house in Gainesville, instructing the inhabitants that they must abide by martial law during his stay; must not leave the place, must keep within doors after dark, and must refrain from offering insults to his men. In return, he assured all women and helpless people that they should not be disturbed in person or property. A Negro insurrection in the neighborhood being apprehended, the proper means were taken to secure all Negroes coming into town. These were told that they were free, but their responsibilities and duties as freemen were strongly insisted on, while their rights were explained and conceded. No evil from emancipation resulted in the neighborhood or town of Gainesville. 

Instances of individual daring occurred among the enlisted men, deserving of praise and mention. Private Charles T. Ring, Co. G, of Chelsea, son of W. A. Ring, attacked on post by three enemies, mortally wounded one and put the others to flight. 

Among the Negroes liberated, were several who could write fairly. One of these "excattle" had been his master's bookkeeper, cashier, clerk, and managing man. His owner, utterly ignorant of the merest rudiments of education, had actually brought the Negro at a high price, on purpose to use his superior intelligents! Another, who had been a house servant, brought in an Enfield rifle, which his master has set up against a fence, while superintending the work of the field hands. Bringing the weapon into the town, he insisted on being allowed by Capt. Marshall to strike a blow for liberation of his race. The Negroes who were in the town procured clubs, and begged for permission to fight on the side of the Yankees. So much for the theory of the pro-slavery men, that all Negroes are and must be ignorant, debased, unenterprising, cowardly, and supine! 
G. B. 

Printed in the Chelsea Telegraph and Pioneer; March 5, 1864; pg. 1, col. 6.
See Boston Herald article

It is made available here through the courtesy of Thomas Hayes, tom_hayes@letterscivilwar.com. 

For Sale....Gun Socks.  These socks were made by reenactors for reenactors.  They are made of duck canvas, padded and are water resistant with a fleece lining with rawhide ties.  They will fit any rifle.  A portion of the proceeds will go to advancing Living History Scouting.  $25 each.  Contact Ed Smith (79th N.Y. Co. B.) at (727) 526-2851 email at edscout@aol.com 

For Sale.  Company Stickers / Signs.  Custom made vehicle stickers, signs, artwork, magnets and more.  Have your reenactment company or anything else you want printed in any color or script.  Contact Robyn Banks email at southerncanoneer@aol.com

Wanted.  New to reenacting.  Need clothing for my young son.  Civilian or Federal.  If you have any of these items contact Michelle at momconnolly3@aol.com

March 1, 2, 2003.  NEW EVENT  Raid at Gopher Ridge.  Immokalee (south Fla.) Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch.   Sponsored by the 3rd and 9th Fla. Infantry and the 114th Pennsylvania Zouaves.  This event is a reenactment of a small skirmish between elements of F.A. Hendry's Confederate cow cavalry and the U.S. 2nd Fla. 2nd cavalry and the 2nd Colored Infantry.  This skirmish took place in south west Florida in February 1865.  Powder and food rations provided for preregistered participants.  No sutler fee. Limited modern camping.  Horse corral and hay provided.  Negative Coggins required.  Take US27 south to Palmdale.  Go through Palmdale and take a right at the red light onto SR29.  Take 29 through LaBelle and Immokalee is 25 miles south.  Hwy 29 runs right through Immokalee. Contact David Southall or Jennifer Perry at the Collier County Museum, 3301 E. Tamiami Trail, Naples Fl. 34112.  (239) 774-8476 or email davidsouthall@colliergov.net

March 1, 2, 2003.  Key West.  This is a living history, fort garrison and heritage festival at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park.  Real Civil War fort.  Lots of things to do in your "off" time.  Sponsored by The Friends of Fort Taylor and the Florida Park Service.  For information call (305) 292-6850.

March 1, 2, 2003.  Fort Clinch Union Army Garrison and Living History.  State Park Fernandina Beach.  Federal (Union Army) Garrison and Living History. Living historians free.  Admission to Park: $3.25 per car. Admission to Fort: $2 each.  Also check at gate for possible candlelight tour on Saturday night. Candlelight tour admission is $3 for spectators. Fort Clinch State Park Contact the park at (904) 277-7274. 

March 1, 2, 2003.  Gainesville Raid (north Alabama) Hosted by the 4th Alabama cavalry (dismounted).  Sutlers and spectators welcome.  Gainesville is very picturesque and hasn't changed much since Forrest surrendered there in April '65 but is somewhat isolated so come prepared.  Camp stew on arrival $5.00 registration fee.  Regimental band.  Very cavalry friendly, one bale hay per horse.  Modern area with electricity and running water.  On site cooked whole hog B-B-Q Sat. night before ball.  Ball with music by the 5th Ala. Contact Capt. Mike Graham mgraham@uwa.edu or 1st. Sgt. Brian Walters at walters9@mindspring.com

March 1, 2, 2003.  Battle of Natural Bridge (North Florida) This battle is held on the original battlefield located 12 miles south of Tallahassee.  Sponsored by the Florida Park Service and Leon Rifles.  Union troops are desperately needed.  No modern campsite is provided.  The Natural Bridge Event is held at the Natural Bridge State Historic Site which is located six miles east of Woodville.  The best way to find the site is to take I-10 to Tallahassee, exit onto US 27 (North Monroe Street-Exit 29) where you will travel south of US 27 (Monroe Street) until you reach the Florida Capitol.  At this junction, US 27 will turn to the left.  Do not continue on US 27, simply continue to travel south on Monroe Street.  A few miles south of town, Monroe Street becomes Woodville Highway.  Continue to travel on Woodville Highway until you reach the town of Woodville.  Turn left on Natural Bridge Road, go six miles to the site.  The park is located at the point where the paved road ends.  Registration open at 1pm Friday.  No early arrivals.  Due to the size of the site, we cannot allow any mounted troops or artillery.  Contact Bruce Linton (850) 539-1863

March 8, 9, 2003.  Fort Marion (St. Augustine).  THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELED Federal Garrison (Union Army retakes Northeastern Florida) and Living History. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, St. Augustine, FL. There are N.P.S. signs all along I-95, US-1, and, A1A you can't miss it.  Take I-95 North to route 16 follow THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELED 16 to US-1 for 2 miles to Castillo Drive. Turn left on Castillo Dr. go to the traffic light and turn right. The Castillo and parking are ahead on left.  From A1A : The Castillo is located on A1A in downtown St. Augustine.  No modern camping allowed.  Living history event to teach the public about the life of a common soldier and accurate period impressions are stressed. Contact Jeff Grzelak hq17thconninf@cfl.rr.com  or call the park at (904) 829-6506. THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELED

March 7, 8, 9, 2003.  Battle of Crystal River (Yulee Sugar Mill)  The 5th annual Nature Coast Reenactment.  This is a Hardy's Brigade maximum effort event.  There is a 160 acre battlefield and camping area.  Part of the proceeds go to historical preservation in the Citrus County area.  Extra powder ration for full size artillery pieces.  Powder ration to all infantry, cavalry and artillery who are preregistered.  School day is Friday the 7th, 10am to 2pm.  All reenactors that help with school day will receive a free BBQ meal Friday night.  Authentic sutlers only.  Sutlers limited to the first 30 who are registered by Feb. 1 including a fee of $20.00.  Live fire cannon and mortar demonstration during the weekend.  Scripted and unscripted battles Saturday and Sunday at 2pm.  Unscripted battles Friday night and Saturday morning.  Ladies tea Sat. morning at 11am.  Living history demonstrations throughout the weekend.  Sat. night 1860's dance for reenactors in period dress only.  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:  7 mi. northwest of Crystal River along US 19/98.  It is accessible from Dunnellon via SR 488 or take I-75 to Wildwood exit (SR 44) go west on SR 44 when you reach Crystal River, follow the signs.  Go about 7 mi. and the site will be on the left.  As you pass over the railroad tracks, quickly get in the left lane and get ready to turn left.  The entrance is just south of the Cross Florida Barge Canal.  This event takes place on land owned by HCR Limestone.  You can pre-register on line at www.digitalusa.net/civwar   or snail mail to PO Box 640012 Beverly Hills, Florida 34465.  Contact Bob Mann (352) 746-9776  email bmann@gowebco.com Ray Smutko phone (352) 746-2243 or email at ray1861@digitalusa.net  or Rob Bader (352) 795-9344 email rbaker23@tampabay.rr.com   Sutlers contact Diane Micklon at treechuck@earthlink.net

March 15th ( Saturday ) at 8:00 P.M.  Tampa parade.  The ROUGH RIDERS in Tampa have invited us to participate in their annual St. Patrick's Day parade.  It would be great if we could get as many reenactors,UDC/SCV members as possible to take part.  After all, Florida is and was a Southern/Confederate state.  They have waived all fees for our organizations and have encouraged Confederate flags of all types.  Registration forms need to be submitted soon so if you would like to participate contact Pam at pamba1@aol.com

March 14, 15, 16, 2003.  Battle at Narcoossee Mill This event (in its 10th year) is southeast of Orlando near St. Cloud and takes place on the shore of East Lake Tohopekaliga.  The reenactor entrance will change this year.  More info. on that to follow.  The battlefield is on 150 acres of open and wooded land.  The event is sponsored by the Jacob Summerlin Camp #1516 Sons of Confederate Veterans.  The event host will be checking coggins papers for horses at the registration desk.  All copies of coggins and reenactor registrations are to be given to Jacob Summerlin Camp officials at the event registration tent. This was a great event last year; over 500 troops were present.  Friday the 14th is School Day which begins at 9:00am.  Reenactors are needed to provide demonstrations; contact Mike Kilcoyne email trimshop@kua.net for school day info.  Saturday the park opens at 10am and the battle will be at 2pm-3pm.  Night cannonfire at 7pm.  The military ball will be at 7:30pm.  Sunday, the park opens at 10am.  Sunday battle will be at 230pm-4pm.  Take Hwy 192 (Irlo Bronson Hwy) to Hwy 15.  Go 2mi north on Hwy 15, look for the park sign.  Another way to get there (from the North) is to take I-4 to the Toll Road 528 (Beeline Exp) go east and get off on Hwy 15 exit (Narcoossee Rd) go south on Hwy 15.  Another way if you are coming from the Florida Turnpike get off at exit #244 and go East on Hwy 192 through St. Cloud, then turn North on Hwy 15 (Narcoossee Road).  Contact Mike Kilcoyne email trimshop@kua.net or Jacob Summerlin Camp Hotline (407) 931-7003  Web http://www.fl-scv.camp1516

March 22, 23, 2003.  Fort Clinch State Park Fernandina Beach.   Confederate Army Garrison and Living History. Sponsored by 7th Fla. Co F.  This is another opportunity to live at Ft. Clinch for the weekend and fellowship with other civil war reenactors.  Take I-4 east to I-95 North.  Go to Ft. Clinch State Park and exit on US1/Fernandina Beach.  Go east thru Fernandina and follow the State Park signs.  Contact Fort Clinch State Park (904) 277-7274

March 28, 29, 30, 2003.  Bishops Farm (Lake Helen) Rolling hills, shaded camp sites and battlefield.  All amenities provided, no reenactor fee.  School Days tour on Friday the 28th.  Artillery involved in school days demo. will receive additional bounty.  No formal ball but Blue Grass music is planned.  Food and drinks for sale on site.  Bounty for first three CSA and first three Union artillery pieces.  Preregistration is requested.  From Orlando take I-4 East (towards Daytona Beach) and get off at the Lake Helen exit 116.  Travel east to the 3 way stop sign and turn right.  Follow this to the dead end.  The Handiway store is on the right and the Police Dept on the left)  turn left for aprox. 2 miles and you are there.  Sutlers contact Dennis Grenier at nonamesutler@cs.com (limit of 10 sutlers) Unit registration contact gumby1048@aol.com or corky15ala@aol.com

March 28, 29, 30, 2003.  The Chasco in New Port Richey.  Living history.  Set up your Civil War camp for the public to walk through.  Both Union and Confederate soldiers are needed.  Be ready to talk to the spectators, provide demonstrations and drill.  Artillery welcome.  Please let Lou know if you can attend.  Contact Lou at Rcrab16140@aol.com

April 4, 5, 6, 2003.  Odessa Rodeo.  Living history and there maybe an impromptu battle if enough renactors show up.  Union and Confederate soldiers needed.  Artillery welcome.  Please let Lou know if you can attend.  Contact Lou at Rcrab16140@aol.com

April 5, 6, 7, 2003.  Battle of Flat Lake.  There will be no battle of Flat Lake this year.

April 11, 12, 13, 2003.  Confederate Garrison at the Fort Clinch State Park in Fernandina Beach (North of Jacksonville, Florida).  This is the once a year Hardys Brigade garrison.  School of Soldier, Living History, no reenactor fees, no horses and no battle but lots of real history fun.  From Central Florida, take I-4 East to I-95 North.  Go to the Ft. Clinch State Park Exit (US 2 Fernandina Beach).  Go East into and through the town of Fernandina.  Turn right at the State Park sign and follow the signs to the park.  Contact the park at (904) 277-7274.  Fort Clinch State Park