Important Flat Lake Information.....Please take note of the following:  The Ladies are welcome and encouraged to attend the Flat Lake Event.  As a matter of fact the ladies tea with door prizes and treats, will take place at 11am and I hope the women will attend the wedding, dinner and ball also.  Modern camping will be in its usual place behind No Name Sutler's tent.  There will be electric and water hook-up for the first four trailers or motorhomes that show up in the barn area.  Yaletown Entertainment from Vancouver, Canada will be sending a crew to film the wedding and battles.  They may ask you for an interview so take a moment to talk with them.  The Waters from England will also be shooting still photos during the weekend for their magazines.  We may have a T.V. news crew out.  Please extend to all the photographers an extra amount of courtesy.  These crews will be working on and off the battlefield (refrain from shooting at or capturing them) and they will be at the wedding and ball.  Fritz Kirsh will be here with his wetplate camera to make period correct photos so this would be a great time to get your CDV or company portrait done.  Please call ahead and let me know if you plan to attend the event so I will know how many to plan for.  Contact: Bob Niepert at mayorbob@embarqmail.com or call (407) 448-4871 or (407) 877-0406.

Congratulations Kevin Clark.....Sgt. Kevin Clark (79th N. Y. Co. B.) has been in the Boy Scouts for 13 years, he has also been a reenactor for about five years.  Kevin just earned the rank of Eagle Scout.  As you know, this is the highest rank that can be achieved in the Boy Scouts.  The rank of Eagle Scout is sought by many and obtained by few.  Kevin wrote that he would like to "thank all of the re-enactors for keeping this hobby going.  This hobby has helped me obtain the rank of  Eagle. Once again thank-you goes out to my fellow re-enactors."  If you would like to contact Kevin, write him at: Sgt. Kevin Clark, 7496 17th St. North St. Petersburg, Fl. 33702 or email him at SGTKEV83@aol.com.

Help With The Kids....Ed Smith is looking for some help with young reenactors.  He wrote...."I need a hand.  I'm looking for adult reenactors that would like working with young (14-21 year old) reenactors.  My unit could use a few adults on the field.  It is at the point where I cannot make it to all the events, and if I do not go....The kids do not go.  I would rather they not have to depend on me all the time".  If you are interested in teaching new "next generation" reenactors about our hobby, Contact Ed Smith at (727) 526-2851 or email at edscout@aol.com.

Your Help Needed.....The Spring Garden Plantation Raid at Camp Winona.  This event will take place as scheduled.  The event is having difficulty meeting the budget this year.  Their insurance has risen dramatically and the cost of everything else is up.  They are looking for corporate sponsors or donations from the reenacting community.  A small reenactor fee at the gate is trying to be avoided but may at the last minute have to be collected to meet expenses.  Help if you can.  Contact Bob Smethurst (Pack Rat Bob) at (904) 749-1341 or Keith Kohl at cog4flainf@aol.com  (352) 687-8737.  Thank You.

Site Problem????...I have gotten several comments about the new issue of the News Magazine not showing up on some of your computers right away.  I don't know what is going on.  I have no trouble accessing the new issues and I always get emails from others talking about the new articles the same day it is posted.  If you are having trouble downloading the new issues, try hitting the refresh button on your computer when you are on the magazine site's home page and make sure you are clicking on the new issue button and not the back issues button.  Also keep in mind that your computer's server may not have the new issue on hand as soon as some of the other servers.  If this doesn't work, please let me know and I will check into it.  If you have further technical questions, please contact dixiemystdesigns@earthlink.net.

Tavares Living History.....I got an email from Kim House.  She is in charge of the living history held each year in Tavares.  Last year this event went very well and a lot of people showed up.  The event will be held again next year sometime in 2003.  I will let you know as the details become available to me.

A Reminder......Lou Crabtree asked me to inform everyone about some upcoming living history events.  Starting March 11th and running through the 17th.  They will set up a camp at the Chasco Fiesta. The public will be able to walk through the camps and see how a camp was done in the 1860s.  There will be no battle but demonstrators are needed.  Anyone who can help out with this living history would be greatly appreciated; also, any fresh fish are welcome.  First SGT. Mike Bryant will be there on the weekend and will be going over safety and drills.  In addition on April 5,6, and 7th, the crew has been invited to set up camp at the Odessa rodeo. They need volunteers for that also.  Drilling will be done and they need medical personnel to do demonstrations with their medical kids.  These events are to be small fund raisers for the Venture Crew so they can get equipment for new kids joining up and to help send the kids to Gettysburg next year for the 140th.  Your help will be greatly appreciated.  For information contact: Lou Crabtree 79th NY Color Guard Sgt. Venture Crew 978 New Port Richey.Fl. Phone: 727-846-7547 Rcrab16140@aol.com.

Confederate Rose Dinner.....Don't forget.  The dinner is for all.....Sunday at Tropical Acres April 21 (Broward)  Lunch is at 12:00 the dinner will be Ham or chicken  $30.00 A couple  or $17.00 per person.  Reservations will not be taken without money upfront.......Jolene Wiltsie rose@zim.com 954-423-4482 or 17 Seville Circle Davie, Fla. 33324

Suggested Reading.....THE SECRET WAR FOR THE UNION:  The Untold Story of Military Intelligence in the Civil War By Edwin C. Fishel; Published by Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston, New York; Copyright 1996 by Edwin C. Fishel; ISBN 0-395-74281-1; 559 pages with an additional 171 pages of appendices, comments on sources, chapter notes, bibliography, and index.

About the author from the cover jacket:  "Edwin C. Fishel, in an intelligence career that began during World War II and continued for more than thirty years, encountered many problems in intelligence analyses similar to those faced by the Civil War officers whose work he describes in this book.  His interest in intelligence history led to his becoming director of the National Security Agency's National Cryptologic School Press.  Well known in the Washington, D.C., ... he has written and lectured widely on... intelligence."

About the book from the cover jacket:  "Previous histories of the Civil War have explained victory or defeat in terms of the skill of the commanders, the fighting qualities of the troops, and resources in men and material.  Intelligence has been largely ignored, not because it wasn't critically important - Lincoln called it the most difficult problem faced by the Union - but because so little has been known about it.  At the end of the war most of the intelligence records disappeared, and they remained hidden for almost a century, until Edwin Fishel uncovered them during the forty years of research that has resulted in this monumental book.  The Secret War for the Union is unique among Civil War histories in its reliance on original, previously unknown sources.  It is the first book to examine in detail the impact of intelligence, and this intelligence explanation alters, sometimes radically, histories understanding of virtually every campaign.  Both enthralling and authoritative, The Secret War for the Union is one of the most important books ever published about the Civil War."

Robert W. James
Senior Chief Intelligence Specialist, Surface Warfare, U.S.N.F.R.
Member, Company of Military Historians
Battalion Commander, 1st Bn, 1st New York Volunteer Engineers

Ft. Desoto Photos......The Friends of Fort Desoto have posted the photos of their last engagement.  For photos of the Encampment and battle, check out: http://www.fortdesoto.com/200297th_we1.phtml. For photos of the school day, check out: http://www.fortdesoto.com/200297th_fri1.phtml.

Promotions.......While the 3rd  Florida Infantry, Company B "The St. Augustine Blues" were at the Battle of Olustee this past February,  Captain Ron Brown promoted Pvt. Ken Murphy to the rank of Corporal.  Congratulations Kenny.  Captain Brown also promoted Pvt. Bob Meeks to Quartermaster Sgt.  Robert Meeks, as the new Quartermaster, will be taking over the Company Newsletter, collecting the company dues, making the roster sheets, making up recruiting posters, applications, building a web page and any other duties that Captain Brown deems necessary.

In Hardy's Brigade, the promotions and appointments went like this:  Alan Turnbull - Lt./ Fred Jakobson-Captain Both of 37th Ala. Co H, Wesley Frank- Major -Medical Detachment, Lynn Stellmach - Colonel/ 1st Battalion, Captain Terry McGowan - Assistant Chief of Staff.  His job will be to help Col. Moore with training and battalion ceremonies.

Early Notice.....Quarter Master Sgt. Tim Futch (8th Fla. Co. C. Alabama Volunteers) wrote...... Just a note to let you and the rest of the community know that we have set a date for Fort Pierce.  We plan on holding the event on the 28th. and 29th. of September, with school day on the 27th.  We have not set down a sure location as of yet.  The St. Lucie Fair Association is in the process of preparing a new piece of property that they have purchased.  If the property is ready by then, we will hold our event there; if not, we will be at the old fair grounds which is the same location as the last two years.  The new property is going to be the third largest fair grounds in Florida.  We have been in negotiation with the fair association about giving us a piece of the property to do as we so desire.  As it stands right now, it looks as if they are going to give us a corner.  There will be plenty of room for Artillery and Cavalry.  The St. Lucie County Sheriff's Explorer Post is very excited about this year hoping that it will be bigger than the last year.

CSS Hunley Movie.....I got word that Roger Ragland (Major, Fl. 2nd Cavalry) is working on a new Civil War movie called "Beyond Heroism".  The movie will be shot on locations in Texas and South Carolina.  Roger has also been scouting other locations.  Filming will begin the first week of July in Texas and move to South Carolina later.  Maj. Ragland will be the production designer for the film.

If you have any comments about what is going on in the reenactment world drop me a note.  If I hear from enough people, we may be able to start a "letters to the editor" section.

Theresa and Matthew Conner write......My sincere greetings to you.  I cannot begin to tell you how much I have enjoyed your emails and the news letters this past year.  I moved to Oregon thinking that I was going to be able to continue my reenacting, a hobby that I was very fond of.  It turns out that God has other plans for me, at least for now.  My son and I tried to go to a couple of reenactments and after being welcomed at all the events that we attended our southern home, we were suddenly outcasts and strangers in a strange land where everything must be entirely authentic and every word that proceedeth out of your mouth has to come from a politically correct script.  I was forbidden to utter a word to the crowd, and those who knew me as I spoke to people while in your company know how I LOVED to get the crowds worked up.  All of the events (there are 5 annually) take place at least 5 hours from our home and you must be part of their exclusive club or organization or you cannot reenact.  I found only one group that was willing to accept us and due to the extreme distance to their meetings which are held on Tuesdays we are not able to attend.  I found reenacters here generally very unfriendly and incepting of strangers.  I was fortunate enough to meet a few who were kind to the newcomer but they were so few as to make our experience very unpleasant on the whole. I wish to thank you and those who allowed me to have so much fun in the hobby while I was in your midst.  I am actually making plans to return to my beloved south in a couple of years, the wait will be hard for me, for I yearn for the acceptance and friendship of those I have left behind.  My mind is often filled with visions of you and my heart is warmed by your kindness on the coldest of winter days (it's still snowing here).  Thank you again for your kindness and for continuing to send me the newsletter.  I do not wish to impugn all reenactors in this area, but on the whole our experience was not pleasant, I hope that others who have reenacted outside the south have had better experiences.

Kindest thoughts,
Theresa and Matthew Conner

[Editor's Note:  Let's take this letter as a wake up call and remember to always welcome newcomers.  Remember:  If we do not accept new reenactors, our hobby will not grow and will die a slow, disheartening death.]

Capt Sam West wrote........ "I attended the meeting between the officers of the Hardy's Brigade, Department of Gulf and Alabama Volunteers.   I wish more than ever to see the rivalry and animosity come to an end with these factions.  The goal of myself, as is most every reenactor, is to have an enjoyable and educational weekend.  If we were to sit down and write goals,  that would be my first suggestion.  My second suggestion, as an officer in the ALA VOLS,  (In case you were not aware, I have been "assigned" back to the Confederate ranks) would be for the Department of the Gulf and Hardy's Brigade to tell us, the Alabama Volunteers,  what each of you wants from us."

"We are, I know,  with our glorious commander, perceived as a very headstrong and independent unit;  However,  we are still, and always will be,  part of the C.S.A. and as such reenactors,  must endeavor to do our part to make a positive contribution to the reenactment as a whole.   I would encourage anyone in our group to do any part necessary to contribute to the overall success of the reenactment."

"I am currently serving a position of surgeon/medical officer for the Alabama Volunteers and enjoying every minute of it.   While we are a separate unit,  I still fall under the command of Col Riker and the CSA Medical brigade.  (I marched with them in the grand review Sunday.)  My duties on the field are to provide  safety and assist Hardy's officers as directed;  I position myself behind the Alabama Volunteers during the battle to watch for injuries;  However, my direction is always under the ranking officers under Hardy's medical staff and I will always respond to any individual on the field regardless."

"My hope is that all reenactment groups will be able to come closer together.  Certainly, there will be some degree of "rivalry",  but let it be a friendly rivalry and not animosity. Let each soldier, officer and support person do his or her part,  and as individuals, let us remind ourselves and each other that our goal is to have fun. Let us all endeavor to help one another to do this."

I remain your humble servant
Capt Sam West
Surgeon,  Alabama Volunteer Battalion

Gene Ingram of the Olustee Citizens Support Organization (CSO)  reports that two more meetings were held with  Hughes/Bowman Design Group,  a professional museum design firm, on January 12th and February 2nd. plan.  A final draft is being written and will be distributed in booklet form at the final workshop.  A meeting also was held November 9, 2001, at the Olustee Ranger Station discussing the proposed museum.  Those attending were, Brian Polk, Florida Park Service, Bureau of Natural and Cultural Resources, Susan Kett, U. S. Forest Service, Valinda Subic, Florida Park Service, Park Manager and John Thrush, Olustee Battlefield CSO President.  They resolved that the State would own the building pending lease requirements.  The site is tentatively located on USFS property, west of the current Interpretive Center.  The Florida Park Service Bureau of Design and Recreation Services will serve as Project Manager For Planning and Construction.  The CSO will fund the project through grants, private fund-raising, PIP program, etc.  Estimated project cost is a minimum of one million dollars.  Staffing will be worked out between the Florida Park Service and the US Forest Service, however the facility should be designed to be self guiding.  An entry fee could be collected also a parking fee.

Thank you Anita and Dean Lauramore for becoming the first contributors to the proposed Olustee Florida Civil War Museum and for donating one thousand dollars.  Olustee Citizens Support Organization (CSO) Treasurer Paul Duran has set up a special account classification for donations.  We encourage others to help fund this project, which when completed will be a place of enjoyment and study for reenactors, living historians, students and the general public.  Donations may be mailed to: Olustee Battlefield CSO, P.O. Box 382, Glen St. Mary, Florida 32040.  Others may show their support by joining the Olustee Battlefield Historic Site CSO using the form available from the main menu at http://extlab7.entnem.ufl.edu/olustee/

Thomas R. Fasulo
extension entomologist
University of Florida
http://pests.ifas.ufl.edu/

Confederate Flag.....David Mullins sent me the editorial which appeared in the Tallahassee Democrat on Feb19, and his response to it.

Dear visitors: apologies for Confederate flag.

If you're driving south on Interstate I-75 heading into the Sunshine State from Georgia, one of the first major landmarks you're now bound to notice is a Confederate battle flag that's bigger than a living room and waves atop a 100-foot flagpole on private property.

To any and all for whom the display is offensive, we hope you don't assume that modern Florida is a racist state mired in delusions about its past.  The great majority of Floridians are comfortable acknowledging our history without having to air brush away its harsh realities.

We don't support the sentiment behind the display, but we do defend the right to raise a symbol that its supporters insist is about heritage, not hatred.  Rather than resurrect that debate, however, we will say only that such displays on private property, where public funds and access are not an issue, must always be protected by law.  That's part of what Americans on both sides of the Civil War thought they were fighting for.
http://www.tallahassee.com

David Mullins response to the Tallassee Democrat newspaper printed Feb. 22...
Though not scientific, the results of your poll should tell you that you needn't apologize on behalf of the people of Florida for the large Confederate battle flag displayed on I-75 just over the Georgia line.  Not only are we comfortable with out past, we're PROUD of it!!  Whatever that flag means to you, or the people you purport to represent, it is a part of this country's history.  To simply write it off as a racist symbol, or to stereotype those who display that banner as having racist sentiments is an example of the same bigotry you accuse flag supporters of harboring.  As our Lord said, "Before you complain about the speck in your neighbor's eye, remove the log from your own."
David Mullins

Big Flag Comment.....Brian R. Smith wrote to say......I would like to make my two cents heard.  I'm a ACW re-enactor also and agree to displaying respect and Honor to our ancestors.  However, this use of the Battle Flag is improper and our Confederate ancestors would never had done this.  The proper flag to be displayed in such a venue would be any of the National Flags.  The use of the battle flag is restricted to the battle field, or campaign and nowhere else.  The selection of the battle flag in this situation displays the ignorance of the perpetrators not honor to our ancestors.

Chuck Wagon Beans.....This recipe came from Tony and Shirley Deprisco of the 3rd Rhode Island Artillery Battery C and the 3rd. U.S artillery Battery E

Chuck Wagon Beans

4- 16 oz cans Bush Beans
2 1/2 lbs ground chuck
1 tsp salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp yellow mustard
1/2 cup catsup
2 beef bouillon cubes
1 cup hot water
3 or 4 tablespoons minced dried onion

Brown meat, onions, salt and pepper
Melt the bouillon cubes in the hot water
Add remaining ingredients
Simmer 30 minutes

The Early Rifle....In order to have a better understanding of the percussion rifle, it is necessary to know a little about it's processors and their working parts.  Although modified and improved, many of the major parts invented in the 15th century are still used today.  All firearms both old and new consist of three basic assemblies.  In the simplest of terms, the lock (today it is called the action) is the firing mechanism, the stock, can be considered the "handle" by which the gun is held and the barrel a tube through which the projectile travels.  Through the 1700's these major assemblies were very valuable and hard to replace.  As firearms were damaged or worn out, the still serviceable pieces could be bought and sold separately and assembled to make a usable weapon.  The first question usually asked by a prospective firearms buyer of long ago was, "Does this price include the lock, stock and barrel?"  This phrase "lock, stock and barrel" has today evolved to mean "all inclusive of it's parts" no matter what the item may be.

One of the earliest rifles was the Matchlock rifle.  It used a wick like piece of material  which remained lighted and smoldering before the gun was fired.  When the trigger was activated, the "match" was lowered into a priming pan containing loose gunpowder.  The "match" then ignited the gunpowder, which ignited a powder charge that forced a ball through the barrel of the weapon.  The disadvantages of this rifle are obvious.  Damp weather and even thick fog would render this firearm useless.  If you were fighting other men the glow and smoke of the smoldering "match" could be easily seen by the enemy especially at night.

The next rifle in the evolutionary line was the Wheel lock.  This rifle had a flint and spinning wheel to make a spark which in turn caused the powder to ignite.  This principle is common in today's cigarette lighters.  The shooter turned a key which wound a spring powered steel "wheel."  When the trigger was pulled the wheel spun in contact with a piece of flint.  The contact created sparks which ignited the priming powder in the pan that ignited the powder charge and propelled the bullet forward.

The Flintlock, a major step in rifle technology, was invented in the 1600's.  A piece of flint was secured between the jaws of the hammer.  When the trigger was pulled, the hammer holding the flint fell and struck a metal arm which was called the frizzen.  The impact of the flint upon the frizzen created a spark.  The powder in the pan ignited causing the powder charge behind the bullet to ignite in turn launching the bullet through the barrel.

The final progression in the history of the muzzleloader occurred in the 1800's.  Although the percussion system was invented in 1807 by Rev. Alexander Forsyth it was not perfected until 1814.  The percussion system made instantaneous detonation possible for the first time.  Early percussion rifles used loose detonating powder but someone devised the idea of putting the detonating powder inside the base of a small copper percussion cap.  During this era, fulminate of mercury began to replace gunpowder as a priming agent.  When the trigger was released, the hammer came forward hitting the cap.  The cap exploded making a spark which caused the charge inside the barrel to be immediately ignited.

Truthfully, only a few new designs come about during the Civil War as most of the changes made in the mid 1860's were just improvements over existing patterns or modifications to old muskets.  Old smoothbore muskets of the 1850's were incredibly inaccurate and seldom hit a target more than 50 yards away.  At 150 yards the smoothbore musket could hit a target three feet wide and 11 and 1/2 feet tall only 75% of the time.  At 250 yards the target size was increased to six feet wide and not one out of ten shots hit it.  It is safe to say that a man at 200 yards stood little risk of being hit except by a stray bullet.  As the older smoothbore muskets were rebuilt and modified with rifled barrels they became much more accurate.  However the everyday soldiers shooting them were not well trained.  It was calculated that during the Civil War on average a soldier on either side burned 240 pounds of powder and hurled 900 pounds of lead bullets for every single man actually hit.   In 1855 the government purchased the new rifled musket and the accuracy rate jumped.  The Enfields, Springfields, and Whitworths were all very accurate to more than 500 yards with the Whitworths being the most accurate to 800 yards.

The Union states were as usual much more well supplied and ready to manufacture weapons for war than the Confederacy.  It was not until late 1862 that the Confederacy was able to replace obsolete flintlocks with the percussion muskets.  Oddly enough the main supplier of infantry weapons for the Confederacy was the Union army.  More than 45,000 Union issued small arms were captured by the Confederates in 1864 alone.  After the battle of Chancellorsville in May of 1863, the Confederates recovered 26,000 Union rifled muskets from the battlefield.

The Three Band Enfield......English Enfield pattern muskets were both the most widely issued and well liked of all the imported arms and used by both the Union and Confederacy.  The U.S. Government purchased 428,292 Enfields and the Confederacy received around 400,000 of the muzzle-loading muskets.  The Enfield had a bore diameter of .577 and weighed eight pounds 14 and 1/2 ounces and was 54 inches in overall length with the barrel being 39 inches long.  The better examples were made by the London Armory Company but the design was copied by almost every manufacturer.  Although the London Armory Company advertised the Enfield rifled musket to be accurate to 1,000 yards it was found that past 700 yards even the best riflemen using the Enfields seldom hit their intended target.

As much as the South wanted to get weapons from Enfield Lock, the English equivalent of Springfield Armory, this was not to be.  In order for the British government to supply arms, they would have to give up their neutrality and recognize the Confederate government, which was not about to happen.  Still many London Armory Enfields were smuggled out on fast blockade runners.  Most Enfield type rifles were made by private contractors in London and Birmingham.  Because none of the other manufacturers could produce these rifles with the accuracy of the machinery owned by the Royal Small Arms Factory the parts of the "off brands" were not interchangeable.  Of the tens of thousands of muskets imported, not too many London Armory Enfields have survived.  Being first quality, most could easily be sold back to Europe.  After the fall of the South, over 100,000 Enfields were repaired and refinished at the Springfield Armory, and then sold off to help pay the crushing war debt of the federal government.

The 1855 Rifle Musket.....This percussion rifled musket was the basic infantry weapon issued in 1855.  It was manufactured by the U.S. Government before the war and was made at the Harpers Ferry arsenal for the U.S. Army.  When the arsenal was captured by the Confederacy in 1861 the manufacturing equipment was shipped to Richmond and Fayetteville where production was continued for the Southern states.  The 1855 rifle musket was 74 inches long and weighed almost 10 pounds.  The barrel was 40 inches long (a full seven inches longer than the Harpers Ferry rifle) and bored to 0.58 caliber.  It used the Maynard tape primer (rolled paper studded pellets of detonating compound) instead of the standard percussion cap.  This rifle musket was the predecessor to the Springfield which copied 1855 style almost exactly.

Harpers Ferry (Yager) Rifle.....Officially known as the U.S. Model 1841 this rifle was the first issued percussion cap rifled barrel musket.  This rifle was issued in the Mexican War and after a recall and retrofitting (in 1855) with a shorter barrel and sword bayonet their manufacture continued.  The Union did stop using the Harpers Ferry Rifle in 1861 but the Confederacy manufactured and used it throughout the war.  Some of the early models used the fulminate percussion type caps for detonation of the charge however other models were also made to use the Maynard tape primers.  The U.S. Model 1855 was the first musket to have a rifled barrel and from that point on all muskets incorporated the rifled barrel which was much more accurate than a smoothbore.  There were 101,096 in service at the beginning of the Civil War.  The rifle was designated the Model 1855.  It weighed nine and 3/4 pounds and had a 33 inch barrel that was bored out to .54 caliber.

Springfield Rifle.......The 1861 Springfield served the soldiers of the Civil War well throughout the conflict.  This shoulder arm was manufactured by the Springfield Armory in Springfield Mass., and copied by 32 other various manufacturers in several states.  It was issued by the Union army in huge quantities, but was not uncommon in the Confederate army as well.  More than 800,000 Springfields were made by the Federal Government and more than 670,000 were purchased from other manufacturers, thus making it the "standard infantry arm".  This weapon was rugged and simple in construction.  Its lock mechanism was much like the other muskets and was considered typical for this class rifle.  The muzzle loading Springfield percussion rifle cost $14.93 each and had a .58 caliber barrel, was rifled and 40 inches long.  The rifle was 58.5 inches overall in length and weighed 9 and 1/4 pounds.  It had a effective range of 500-600 yards but its "battle range" was 200-300 yards.  With 60 grains of black powder and a 599 grain minie' ball the muzzle velocity would be about 950 feet per second.  One of the musket's main strengths was that all of its 53 parts were interchangeable and of high quality.  Each rifle was fitted for a sling although all were not issued with slings.  The average issued sling (before 1864) was made of cotton cloth, with an adjustment hook.  After 1864, leather slings were issued.

References:
Civil War News
Time Life Books
Echoes Of Glory
Various internet sources
Atlas Of Official Records
Black Powder Gun Digest
American Civil War Armies
North And South Magazine
The Fighting Men Of The Civil War

Horse Article From 1863....Vicki Betts of the Texas Rifles and LSFS found this interesting horse article.  I really enjoyed reading it and hope you will too.

 . . The rest at Culpeper, as was remarked in my last letter, was of great service to the troops and animals of the army.  The men not only had time to rest their weary limbs and sore feet, but to wash and repair their tattered garments, and to receive partial supplies of new shoes and clothing.  More time is necessary to restore thirty or forty thousand horses employed in the service of the army to the condition in which they were when they started from Fredericksburg.  From the 1st of July until our return to Culpeper, their work was very heavy and the supply of forage scant.  The cavalry horses were on duty all the time,
and those in the artillery service, whose work is hardest of all, suffered no little.  There is but little opportunity to water or feed
the latter during a battle, whether it last for one day or for three days, as at Gettysburg.  When the army is in line of battle and in the immediate presence of the enemy they sometimes stand for a week, day and night, in the dew, the rain and the sunshine, with their heavy harness on, and with but little water or feed.  And on a march, the only time when the horses can be watered is early in the morning or when they stop at night, unless there be what is known as a noonday halt, which is long or short according to the exigencies of the service.  It is customary to march an hour, and then rest ten minutes, but it is impossible to find shade sufficient on the road for an entire corps or division, and hence the horses, and sometimes the men, have to stand and swelter in the hot sun during those brief intervals of rest.  If the drivers were to stop to let their horses drink when they cross a stream on a march, it would delay the rear of a single corps nearly a half of a day.  The simple stepping over a log laying across the road, will throw the rear of a column of infantry or cavalry farther behind than one who has never marched with an army would suppose.

    Horses suffer as much from want of shoes as men, especially on the turn pikes and rough, rocky roads in Virginia and north of the Potomac.  It is almost impossible for them to travel on such roads without shoes, and when they are forced to do so, as they frequently are, they suffer severely.  It is not easy to replace shoes on a march, though the army is provided with a number of farriers and portable forges and a supply of ready made shoes and nails.  I have found it necessary myself to rise at day break and tug away at the bellows of a village blacksmith shop for three weary hours, in order to have a shoe replaced which my horse lost the day before.

    Jomini lays down the following maxim:  "The two great problems of warfare are, perhaps, how to find a harness that will not hurt a horse's back, and shoes that can be used by the men without causing sore feet."  He adds the following advice:  "Horseman, give all thy care to the putting on of the bridle and saddle; always keep on hand four spare horse shoes, with as many nails as are necessary to fix them on and have more besides.  Foot soldiers, look for shoes that will fit you easy."

    Having in a previous letter spoken of shoes for the men, I need only add now that they should be made of the best leather to be had, and they should be roomy, have wide substantial bottoms, and fit snugly around the ankles.  Their clothing should also be roomy.  Close-fitting garments not only chafe the wearer on a march, but they soon wear out.  In regard to horses in the army, there is nothing from which they suffer more than harness and saddles that do not fit them.  They are frequently wounded in battle, and seldom have sufficient forage; the service required of them is the hardest to which they can be put, and the drivers are often unfeeling wretches who take but little thought of their condition.  But when to all these ills which horse-flesh is heir to, is added saddles and harness improperly constructed, and bare feet on flinty turnpikes, it will be perceived that the animals in the army have a hard time of it.  There are probably 20,000 horses here to-day which have sore backs and shoulders such as a man at home never saw.  In a majority of cases, neither the collars, nor the hames and saddletrees fit well.  The wood of the latter is not properly seasoned and will spread and let the whole weight of the rider down on the fleshless backbone of the horse, while the collars and harness are for the most part manufactured out of leather not properly cured, and soon cease to fit the animal that has to carry them.

    The horse is the noblest animal subjected to the domination of man.  He has rendered most valuable services in this war, and has to a considerable extent supplied the want of water and railway transportation.  I raise my voice then in behalf of these willing, noble creatures, and bespeak for them better treatment in the future.  The service in which they are employed is necessarily severe, and they have their camp diseases like the men; but their condition might be greatly improved by the exercise of a little forethought in regard to forage and shoes, in the manufacture of the harness, and in the preparation of the wood used in the hames and saddle trees.  It is not an unusual thing to see these hard workers standing on the roadside, too lame to proceed, or with backs and shoulders which render them unfit for further duty.  They gaze at you wistfully as you pass along, and seem to beg for assistance.  But they cannot travel, and are left behind to perish.  The charger whose glories are reflected from many a battle field, and the artillery horse which has stood faithfully to his place amidst bursting shells and hustling cannon balls, are wounded or worn down in the service, and left to share the same inglorious end.  What would you not give to have one of these disabled creatures at your home where you might nurse him and care for him, and restore him to health!  The parting between the rider and his charger is often painful and touching, and I have known the latter to remain behind with his faithful animal for many days, though environed with dangers, and all to save the friend who had borne him so often through the battle unscathed.  "Take my horse home to my wife, my mother, or my aged father," is the last request of the dying warrior.  P.W.A.

On Saturday, 03/09/02, Crystal River hosted its annual Civil War event. As true to past times, they did an excellent job of organization, comfort, safety and fun for the reenactors.  There was an ample supply of water, ice for the troops, fire wood and sundries.   A nice size group of Suttlers and a Fun Ball that evening.  Of excellent exception was the Ladies Tea.  This year's speakers were Dave Riker CSA Surgeon, and Tom Aloisio, Surgeon for the Federal side.  Their presentation was on the history and roll of Nurses and other woman in the medical service.  Informative, Entertaining and very Interesting  would best describe their talk. And  they were kind enough to bring several Beautiful Ladies dressed to show the nurse clothing of the period.  You will find a photo of this presentation on the left.  We were also informed that this Medical Group is head of establishing a Nation Wide standard for Reenactors in the Medical Field.  Both sides working together to establish REAL MEDICAL standards and training for Medical reenactors.

  The thunder and smoke of Battling troops filled the air.  This day, the Confederates, one battalion, and a Cavalry Unit, encircled the Federal troops and sent civilians as well as soldiers scurrying thru the crowd forcing the Union Artillery, too, to turn three cannons and fire at the direction of their own camp site.  The Audience were molded into feeling part of the battle and seemed to be really enjoying it.  By the end of the attack, Federal troops were lying dead and wounded throughout the field, as well as draped across canon barrels and propped against the cannon wheels.  There was a minor injury when an Artillery soldier fell backward and received a 1 inch laceration on the back of his head.  As with all head injuries, the bleeding was somewhat upsetting to the soldier.  He was taken to the field Medical Station and promptly treated by Nurse Lois (reenactor) who in real world is a Surgical Nurse.  She, along with other trained Medical Team Reenactors, cleaned, closed and dressed the wound and returned him safely to his company.  This is just one example and the reason Tom and Dave have worked so adamantly and vigorously to set up a Quality and Professional Medical Reenactor Group.
A hats off to them all for a job well done.

Col. Lynn Stellmach, 1st Battalion/Hardy's Brigade (Nature Coast Civil War Reenactment Committee) wrote.... "Please pass this statement along to all the reenactor participants to the Crystal River Event:  I apologize for any inconvenience suffered by any of the reenactors in attendance at Crystal River, particularly the parking situation.  Although I am the Reenactor Coordinator, I was not informed there would be no parking in the reenactor parking lot after 10:00 am.  The change was made for spectator safety concerns.......walking spectators and moving vehicles don't mix very well.  I was told that the situation will be resolved next year and this should not be a problem.  We thank you for attending our event and hope you all had a great weekend.  Also, in order to have an even better event next year, we are planning for some pyrotechnics to enhance the battlefield impression."

Dave Riker Lt. Col., Hardys Brigade Surgeon wrote about Crystal River....Crystal River, though warm, resulted in few injuries. To Bob Mann, Lynn and Gary Stellmach, and all the hosts, a job well done is extended to them. Even though we were busy all weekend, it was indeed another enjoyable weekend at a wonderful site. The early morning tactical was interesting with the smoke hugging the ground from cannon and musket fire to make almost a surreal vision. To all of the officers who were present at the Saturday evening meeting, my hat is off to them for being gentlemen and officers. The need for all of us to work together for the common goal of reenacting is very important. As General Hardy has said before, "We are reenacting history but we are also making the history of reenacting."

To all of the medical staff that work so hard, continue to be safe and thank you again.  To Major Wesley Frank, congratulations on your long deserved promotion. To Dr. Warren Feldman, sorry about your knee, hopefully it is better now.

Bob Lovell (Pete) Adjutant, Hardy's Brigade wrote......."I also want to thank every soldier and unit who fought at Crystal River for their kindness and cooperative spirit!  Colors went better than ever thanks to Col. Moore's leadership and cooperation of the troops.  All units shined at this event and the Grand Parade was superlative!  Just Capital!  Let's continue to build and work together."

A.K.A. "The Battle of Soggy Bottom".....Chris Ellrich (Sgt. 2nd Fl. Co. D. Leon Rifles) wrote this report about the wettest event of the season.....

Can you believe that we pulled it off?  Honestly, I have never been so drenched in my entire life.  The Leon Rifles (Event Hosts) showed what they were made of at the "Flooding of Natural Bridge."   We received eight inches of rain. Folks registered and de-registered in record numbers.  Some reenactors played music all day and this entertained everyone in the area of the big tent.  The dance was still held and a lull in the rain let us have our regular Saturday night party.

On Sunday morning, it looked pretty bleak.  After two days of steady rain and a Saturday night/Early Sunday morning Thunder and lightning fest that rivaled the blitzkrieg, we were all tired.  That morning at breakfast, it looked like about six Yanks against six CS were ready for battle.  I  suggested that we cancel the battle and just put on a skit...The History of the Civil War - Reduced.  We could all be generals.  It was vetoed.

Slowly the weather got better and reenactors started to dribble back in.  By midday Sunday, we had a respectable amount of reenactors for the battle with a large crowd of spectators.  We definitely pulled this one out of our keister.  By the way, the rain must have brought out the really serious spectators:  The Leon Rifles received inquiries from 11 men who are interested in joining the group.

Special thanks to those who hung in and stayed the weekend.  I can tell you truthfully that I had one of the best times of my life.  If you want more info on the Leon Rifles out of Tallahassee or the Battle of Natural Bridge, then you can write me at cellrich@hotmail.com

Sgt Chris "Ghostman" Ellrich 2nd Fl Co D. Leon Rifles.

More Event Comments.....Martin Hickey writes about Natural Bridge......The next event I went to was Natural bridge near Tallahassee.  I got there Friday night with sprinkles of rain starting.  I also found out I was the only Yankee on site at the time.  This remained so until late Saturday, when another Yankee showed up wearing Sgt. stripes.  It rained Saturday and that turned the day into a string concert at the dance tent.  We continued to enjoy music as the ball was not canceled.  However after the ball ended the rain really kicked up.  The weather report in the morning stated that there had been at least nine inches of rain from Friday night to Sunday morning.  Needless to say I was flooded out of my tent as several others were flooded out of the event completely.

Sunday started wet cold and overcast.  We fell in for colors, which made me feel a little better as the galvanizers fell in as Yankees at colors.  We got a few more as the day went on. This was the time I had realized the Union was well represented in artillery considering they camped near their guns on the other side of the park.  Well the battle happened and went well, we did our three charges and run away bit and I went home to dry out.  The following week was Crystal River and that is a different article as that one was a dry and beautiful event.

Martin Hickey writes about Ft. Desoto......Two missions down and I am just starting to dry out.  Fort Desoto went down well.  Friday was the school day and we had about 400 students show up even though it was raining the whole day.  Saturday was still raining and no battle.  We still had a few hundred spectators come out.  In the late afternoon we did something different for an event.  We had a movie night.  We figured instead of trying to put on a ball again I brought in my big screen TV and other home theater equipment and watched a group of videos and DVDs ranging from Monty Pythons Holy Grail to Glory and finally Blazing Saddles.  This was easy due to the fort having power down in one of the shot rooms which was warm and dry.  Emphasis on dry.

The next day was very nice as during the evening it was windy which dried out the tents, and the sun came out that Sunday morning.  We had most of the activities for the day and reenacted the Battle of Ballast Point which took place in Tampa.

Col. Riker was at Ft. Desoto also.  He wrote......Recently, I had the honor of attending the living history event at Fort DeSoto. Even though we had a miserable Friday night and Saturday with rain and wind, the Lord provided us with good weather on Sunday. Saturday night's film festival in the bastions was especially enjoyable when we emerged and found the clouds breaking to show star light. Special thanks to the 97th Pennsylvania and Company K of the 7th Florida for all of their help. For a small event, the turnout of spectators was impressive Sunday. Adam Westcott from the Federal Medical Staff and Brian Burback from the Hardy's Brigade Medical staff set up their tentage side by side and were busy informing people up to battle time. The battle resulted in no injuries so we were all thankful.

Welcome friends to our medical column. I have just returned from the Battle at Narcoosee Mill event where the 85+ degree heat made for some challenges for our medical reenactors. Each army in turn made long marches which kept us busy hydrating the troops. On Saturday we had a half dozen heat related problems and a couple of horse related injuries. Sunday a slight breeze helped a bit and 3 minor heat problems occurred. None of the injuries required transport to the hospital.  As the temperatures climbed, the troops were very cooperative following General Hardy's orders regarding canteens and we really appreciate that. One thing to remember is to try to start hydrating yourself 1 to 2 hours before battle.  Water is the best thing to drink along with half and half Gatorade and water mixture if desired. The best indicator of proper hydration is...(Not glamorous but true) colorless urine. Another good rule of thumb is if you are thirsty, dehydration has already happened. Whenever you can, drink before you are thirsty. I also observed officers taking the time to remind their troops to drink some water whenever they had a chance on the field, that is really an excellent thing to do. Remember on the field try to take a swig from your canteen any time you have a few spare seconds.  Caffeine from coffee and soda and alcohol need to be limited as well to give your body the hydration it needs.  Our medical folks on both sides thank you for your increasing awareness on this matter.  Thanks once again to all our surgeons nurses and "ice angels" who turned in their usual diligent hard work on the field.  Take care and we hope to see all of you at an event soon.
Sgt Tim Hollamby Hardys Brigade Medical Section.

St. Cloud-At the Narcoosee Mills event.  Members of the 14th Brooklyn Company G honor one of their own with a wreath laying ceremony at the Mount Peace Cemetery in St. Cloud Florida.  Lieutenant Alfred Cranston of the 14th Brooklyn Company I, is laid to rest here.  After his service with the Fighting 14th during the Civil War, he continued his service as a fireman, retiring at the rank of Captain.  He moved to the St. Cloud area and was active in the establishment of the first GAR garrison in the state of Florida.  He also held the post of Secretary for over 20 years with the 14th Brooklyn War Veterans association.  His service record is as follows:
Enrolled for three years enlistment at age 21.....June 30, 1861
Mustered in as Private with Company I.............August 1, 1861
Promoted to Sergeant.........................................September 1, 1862
Commissioned 2 Lieutenant...............................October 24, 1862
Mustered out of service......................................June 13, 1864

Photo Contest.....The first person who can name these two reenactors and the company they belong to will win this month's photo contest.  The prize is a $10.00 gift certificate to The No Name Sutler.  The certificate may be used in the sutlery at a reenactment or on the No Name Sutlers online catalogue.  Good Luck.  Send your answer to me at mayorbob@embarqmail.com.

Wanted......Bugle.  Our 10th Tenn. Co. D cavalry has a bugler and no bugle.  Does anyone have one for sale at a reasonable price?  Contact mayorbob@embarqmail.com.

Wanted.......Artillery frock coat (dress) size 48-50.  Also looking for used great coat size 52.  If you have these items for sale contact Don Mann email OldReb53@aol.com.

For Sale.....Horse trailer.  1999 Four-Star goose neck all aluminum.  Two horse slant load with open living area.  Queen size bed in front.  Open area can be finished to your preference.  Lots of extras and in good condition.  Used only ten times.  $10,500.  Contact Rick Edwards at extrailrider@aol.com or (407) 877-2140 or (407) 832-8417.

For Sale......Two banded Zouave rifle in excellent condition.  Stock and brass are perfect.  Leather sling, bluing good.  Just replaced the lock mechanism at $40.00 at Olustee.  I would like to trade it for a used three banded rifle for my youngest grandson.  I will throw in a fiberglass case and will give boot for the right Enfield or Springfield or any other type three banded musket. Contact Bob Lovell at adjutant37@comcast.net.

For Sale....1.) Coleman battery powered lantern.  Two fluorescent bulbs.  Has a multi-position switch that can turn on one or both bulbs.  Throws a lot of light.  $20.00.  2.) Igloo water jug (barrel shaped).  Holds 5 gallons, push pull spigot at bottom and comes with carrying strap and bowl or tray inside.  $25.00  3.) Heavy duty folding Army cot.  Real strong and comfortable.  $50.00.  4.) Heavy duty sleeping bag, soft and insulated (never used)  $30.00.  5.) Wood antique replica candle lantern.  One pane is a mirror.  Includes beeswax candles.  $25.00.  6.) Enfield Musketoon, .58cal, in top condition.  Used mainly as a cavalry weapon (sometimes artillery) during the Civil War.  Asking $300.00.  With canvas sling.  It's an Italian import, made by ArmiSport.  Contact Charles Romano charles.romano@cpmx.saic.com.

For Sale......Enfield Musketoon (Cavalry) for sale for $300 and two Cavalry Sabers for $50 each.  Heather "James" Heal 3rd Rhode Island Artillery, Co. C / 37th Alabama Infantry HJHCSA@aol.com.

The 7th Fla. Sutler......Military Antiques, Reenactment supplies, Riker display boxes and C.S.A. Currency.  Located at the Oldsmar Flea market, 110 Racetrack Rd. Oldsmar, Fl.  Hours--Friday by appointment only, Sat--Sun. 9 am to 3 pm. Ph. (727) 244-4737  Wanted: Used, unwanted or outgrown reproduction items.  Mention seeing  this Newsletter and get a 10% discount.

For Sale...Gun Socks.....Ed Smith (79th N.Y. Co. B) has some gun socks (padded) for sale.  (I have seen photos of them and they look good.)  These socks were made by reenactors for reenactors.  Made of Duck Canvas (water resistant with a fleece lining with rawhide ties) they will fit any rifle.  These items have been made by the ladies of a local unit.  All proceeds will go to advancing Living History Scouting.  $25.00 each.  Contact Ed Smith at (727) 526-2851 or email at edscout@aol.com.

Found......A shell jacket was turned in to Hardy Brigade HQ.  It was left at the dance on Sat. evening.  It has the name “Bob” written on the label and is size 46. Contact Bob Lovell at adjutant37@comcast.net.

March (Friday) 22, 2002.  There will be a living history at the North Ft. Myers Academy on Friday starting at 9am.  This all day event needs civilians, soldiers, medical, and all other Civil War impressions. Remember this is for the future generations!  If you would like to attend please contact Robert Gates at scvrg@yahoo.com or 941-226-0881

March 22, 23, 24, 2002.  Bridgeport, Alabama.  The directions are, take I 75 to Chattanooga, Tenn. Then northwest on I-24 to the So. Pittsburgh, Tenn. exit. Exit on to US72  and go west, follow the road sign to Scottsboro which will take you into Bridgeport. Go through Bridgeport on 72 and when you clear town on the west side, you will see the battle sign on the side of the road. It's about 2 miles down the road.

March 23, 24, 2002. 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 Al Perkins (904) 409-7313 e-mail junkman5@prodigy.net.

March 28, 2002. The Greater Civil War Round Table will present a program by Jim Pullen.  The program will be about Chickamauga.  The meeting takes place at the Marks St. Senior Center (on Marks St. between Orange Ave. and Magnolia St.) in downtown Orlando.  For information contact Ruth Wood at flrb@bitstorm.net.

April 6, 7, 2002. Fort Clinch Federal (Union Army) Garrison and Living History. Admission to Park: $3.25 per car. Admission to Fort: $2. Also check at gate for possible candlelight tour on Saturday night. Candlelight tour admission is $3. Special Note: This weekend will feature a large Civil War Ladies' Gathering with classes and seminars on all aspects of The Civil War Lady. All ladies' activities are open to the public with paid admission to the fort. Male reenactors should note that the ladies will use the enlisted barracks for lodging and their activities. The jail and guard shack will be used to house male soldiers for this monthly "first weekend" Union garrison. Authentic camping outside the fort is available as usual. Fort Clinch State Park, Fernandina Beach, FL. Contact the park at (904) 277-7274.

April 5, 6, 7, 2002.  Battle of Flat Lake (Winter Garden, near Disney World).  This is a weekend long skirmish / tactical with two main battle objectives (one Sat. and one Sun.). Night battles O.K. until 10pm.  Lots of impromptu fun. sponsored by Robert (Mayor Bob) and Lorraine Niepert.  This is a non-event.  You are expected to provide your own insurance and participate at your own risk.  There will be no registration fee this year but you still must sign in.  All uniformed reenactors including women and children in period dress are welcome. No spectators please.  We have no accommodations for the general public.  There is a large 120 acre battlefield and some wooded areas to hide and fight in as well.  You may fight when you want but there will be two battles (early before it gets too hot) with objectives to capture that will be officiated over by field judges.  A ladies tea with door prizes will be held on Saturday at 11am.   We are proud to  announce that my wife Lorraine and I will give our daughter Rebecca to be married to Maj. Keith Kohl during the event.  The ceremony will be held at 5pm in the large tent with dinner following at 6pm.  A ball and reception will be held at 7pm with music provided by the 97th Regimental String Band.  This event has never nor will it ever be cancelled due to weather.  We will fight in a hurricane or a forest fire if necessary.  No Name Sutler will be on site.  Free dinner for all Sat. night. Camp modern, campaign style or anything in between whatever you prefer.  Fire wood provided along with hay for the horses.  Please call ahead so we know how many to plan for.   Take Hwy 50 approximately 3 miles West of Winter Garden. Turn South on Hwy 545 (Avalon Road by the Circle K store).  Take 545 aprox. 5 miles to Phil C. Peters Road.  Turn onto Phil C. Peters Road (can only turn one way which is right) and go 2.2 miles to the end of the paved part of the road.  Follow the dirt driveway 1/4 mile around the lake.  To get to the event from the Fla. turnpike, get off at exit 272 and go East towards Winter Garden to 545 then follow above directions.  Contact Bob Niepert home (407)  877-0406 cell-(407) 257-1498   mayorbob@embarqmail.com

April 12, 13, 2002.  Southern Cultural Festival.  This festival will include a reenactment of Robles' Bluff.  This skirmish occurred on Rocky Point in Tampa during the Civil War when Union sailors came ashore to destroy the salt works.  Joseph Robles, a spy (60 years old), single handedly captured the soldiers and marched them back to the garrison near Fort Brooke.  Go to http://www.amazingusa.com/festival

April 19, 21, 2002. 3rd Annual Fort Clinch Confederate Garrison. Come and join other members of Hardy's brigade for their annual Fort Clinch garrison. Live the life of a Florida soldier in early 1862. Soldiers sleep in period barracks. Correct refugee camp for civilians outside fort. Registration is $10 per person, which includes period meals prepared in fort kitchen. Portion of registration fees go toward historic preservation at Fort Clinch. Soldiers need to be able to walk in and out with equipment and stay in first person impression while guests are present. Scenarios include drill, beach patrol, sick call, and mail call. Candlelight tour on Saturday night. For registration information, please contact Lt. Edward Foeller at genewool@hotmail.com

April 20, 21, 2002.  (new date) Fort Marion (St. Augustine).  Federal Garrison (Union Army retakes Northeastern Florida) and Living History.  Castillo de San Marcos National Monument  You may arrive Friday afternoon.  If you can get in early in order to help with the set up.  Candlelight tour Saturday evening.  Camp as usual on the north fort green.  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 16 to US-1.  Turn right and go 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 hq17thconnlnf@cfl.rr.com  or call the park at (904) 829-6506.

April 20, 2002.  The United Daughters of the Confederacy, Annie H. Darracott #791, Lakeland Chapter is hosting a Memorial Day Celebration at Munn Park at 10:00 a.m.  This ceremony will be dedicated to all veterans of all wars and Prisoners of Wars.  Following the program a procession will go to Roselawn Cemetery to pay respects to the veterans of 1860s soldiers.  Come out to show support for our veterans! Any one that has any questions can contact President Judi Moots at 401-9870 or jhmoots@aol.com.

Florida In The Civil War..(part 2).....Orange County Regional History Center's newly expanded version of our Civil War in Florida Series.  Discover Florida's Civil War history from its roots in the Seminole Wars through Confederate cabinet members' "Flight into Oblivion."  As a bonus, Session Three will include a segment called "Backroads of Florida History" and will be accompanied by a map of Florida Seminole War, Civil War, and Spanish-American War historic sites within three hours of Orlando.  The program is taught by local Civil War enthusiast and reenactor Jeff Grzelak.

WHEN:          Tuesday,  March 12, Session Two - Events of 1862 and 1863 and Life of the Common Soldier.
                        Time 7 pm- 9 pm

                     Tuesday April 9, Session Three - Events of 1864/Year of Decision, Flight into Oblivion, Backroads of
                        Florida History (participants will be given a map of historic sites from the Seminole Wars, Civil War, and
                        Spanish-American War).
                        Time 7 pm- 9 pm

COST:            $10 per session or $25 for all three sessions

WHERE:       Orange County Regional History Center, 65 E Central Blvd., Downtown Orlando see
                     www.thehistorycenter.org for a map and directions.

DIRECTIONS:

• From I-4, Exit 38/Anderson St.
• Turn Left on Magnolia Ave.
• Turn Right on Central Blvd. and proceed to the Parking Garage across from the Library (2 hour validation with admission).
• Enter through Heritage Square, the park

For registration information please call (407) 836-8545 or email historymaking@ocfl.net

April 27, 2002. Confederate Memorial Day Motorcade Miami to West Palm Beach or Vero Beach to West Palm Beach Motorcade. The Sons of Confederate Veterans Camps of George Perry of Miami, William Henry Harris of Fort Lauderdale, William M. Burdines of Coconut Creek, James Patton Anderson of WPB, will travel from Miami to WPB. The Pvt. George W. Thomas Camp of Fort Pierce and the Cow Cavalry Camp of Vero Beach will travel from Vero Beach to WPB stopping at every Confederate Cemetery to honor the Confederate dead. The day will begin about 8 AM and we will travel all day until 5 PM. Dinner (lunch) will be along the route.  About a 15 minute ceremony will be held at each Cemetery. Both motorcades will meet at Cracker Barrel for supper about 5 PM Period attire recommended but not required.  Miami to WPB Motorcade - Contact Larry Powell at CSAPartisanSC@aol.com or 561-795 9494 Vero Beach to West Palm Beach Motorcade - Contact Wesley Frank at RebDoctor@aol.com or 321-729-6137.