Keep In Your Prayers.....Wesley Frank's wife, Ruth, from the medical section had a stroke Thursday afternoon about 5:00.  She is in the hospital and he is asking for prayers. Wesley and his wife are friends and fellow compatriots and I would much appreciate the prayers.

The Hunley Honor Guard.......Several of you (Special thanks to T. Maynard, C. Greathouse, G. Kemp) have emailed me the details of the Hunley honor guard.  I would like to share that information with all the readers.  Read the letter below.......

Dear Friends,

     Thank you for your recent inquiry concerning participating in the Hunley Honor Guard.
     The response has been overwhelming to say the least, and I have been doing my very best to respond to your inquiries in a timely manner.
     The Honor Guard has been in existence since the raising of the sub August 8, 1999, with the total focus being upon the "humanity" of the crew and not upon the  "iron".

      To participate:

1.  You must be a confederate re-enactor and male, all branches of service are welcome.
2.  You may register as an individual, or come as a group.  I ask that you limit the number to ten so that all are afforded an opportunity to fully enjoy the experience.
3.  This is a formal exchange of the guard and each "tour" lasts 15 minutes.  You will be at strict attention during this time.
4.  The uniform is comprised of full field gear, according to service, with infantry, marines with rifles and bayonets.  The drill is according to the 1862 Hardee's infantry manual.
5.   The guard begins at 9:45 AM Saturdays and ending at approx. 5:30 PM.  (We try to meet at an Irish Pub afterwards).
      11:45 AM-5:30 PM Sundays.
6.  If you are new to the drill, I ask that you be present no later than 8:30 AM on Saturday and 10:30 AM Sundays.
7.  I will furnish the white gloves.
8.  Please make all date requests at least three to four weeks in advance to ensure no "double bookings".
9.  For further information and/or questions, please contact me at Home: (843) 873-0387; Pager: (843) 219-2212.

Sincerely,

Steve Burt, Corporal of the Guard
10th Regiment S.C.V.I.

New S.C.V. Flag.......Pvt. Jimmy Shirley (7th Fla. Vol. Inf. Co. B)  wrote about the new flag they have gotten.  If you have any questions or would like to join the Sons OF Confederate Veterans you can email Pvt. Shirley an btzoumas@bellsouth.net

Gentlemen, after speaking with  Sgt. Major David Rose, who is the Man in Charge of these things at the Yesteryear Village, we have set a date of Sun., May 26, 2:00P.M. at the YYV on the South Florida fairgrounds, to have a ceremonial raising of the 5ft. by 8ft. First National Confederate Flag. We want as many people to attend this as we can. Folks, I appeal to your Southern Pride, your sense of honor, to do the right thing. We continually honor our Confederate ancestors in different ways. By being reenactors, by joining the SCV, by flying our ancestors colors, by learning of their sacrifice to bear a new nation, by learning the "The South Was Right" and that what we were taught in school were "Yankee" lies.  People, let us show West Palm Beach, Fla., that there are a large number of men and women in South Fla. who are PROUD TO BE SOUTHERN.   So, please, do your best to attend. Also, spread this message far and wide.  Confederately, Jimmy Shirley Pvt. 7th Fla. Vol. Inf. Co. B/ Lt. Commander SCV Camp 1599 James Patton Anderson

John E. Maseman, a conservator of historic structures, traveled to Olustee last Fall to inspect the Confederate monument to determine the level of deterioration caused by time and weather. Iron deposits in the granite, separation of concrete and surface flecking were examined carefully to assess the stability of the monument, originally built in 1912. The inspection was conducted under the auspices of the Florida Park Service and the Florida Bureau of Historic Preservation to develop appropriate conservation measures to protect the monument from further deterioration. - Martha Nelson. Information Specialist, Florida Park Service.
Thomas R. Fasulo extension entomologist University of Florida http://pests.ifas.ufl.edu/

Ame's Brigade......Lt. Randall Garvin (25th OVI / 8th Fl. Co. A.) sent this announcement......Ames' Brigade is getting ready for Gettysburg 2003. Ames' was officially reformed in Florida in Nov. of 2000 with the formation of the 25th Ohio. The respective units of Ames' Brigade are seeking units who wish to portray this historic brigade at Gettysburg as well as seeking new recruits for the respective units.  Any units or men wishing to work with us can contact the following individuals or units:
 

The Carbine.
The Civil War was the first modern war.  Its carnage was recorded by the newly improved techniques of photography, messages were sent across hundreds of miles in minutes with the telegraph, and men and material moved quickly on the railroad but perhaps the greatest development in armed warfare since the Minie' ball was the carbine.  The armies of both sides need the advantage of additional firepower on the battlefield.  This need lead to the development of the first successful repeating rifle and carbine designs.

At the start of the war, the Southern cavalry was as well armed as its Northern counterpart, if not better.  Carbines were in short supply in both camps, and so one of the South's favorite weapons was the sawed off shotgun loaded with buckshot, a formidable weapon throughout the war.  Some excellent breech loading carbines were produced in the South during the war, but in very limited numbers.  When the carbine came into common use during the war, it changed forever the way future conflicts would be fought.  Nowhere on Civil War battlefields did American ingenuity and industrial might evidence itself so strongly as in the development and production of rapid firing breech loading carbines.  Carbines, short barreled breech loading versions of rifles were conceived and designed with the cavalry in mind.  They were much easier to handle on horseback compared to the long arms issued at that time.  The carbine itself went through several changes during the war, the most notable the change from paper cartridges and percussion caps to moisture proof metallic cartridges.  The development of these brass and copper cartridges led to still other improvements.  Adding a flange at the base end of the cartridge made extraction of the spent cartridges easier.  Soon the faster firing weapon had magazines that continuously fed new rounds into the breech with just a movement of a lever.

Colt Repeating Rifle.
The Colt-Root Model 1855 percussion repeating rifle was just a large version of the Colt revolver.  Designed and promoted by Elisha Root the rifle, which had been around since the early 1850's, never caught on with the military like it did with the general public before the war.  The revolving percussion rifles came in calibers ranging from .40 to .64 caliber with cylinders that held either five or six shots.  The weapon weighed 9 pounds 15 ounces.  Berdan's Sharpshooters were issued 1,000 of the 1855 models while waiting to be rearmed with the Sharps carbine.  Some models of the revolving rifle could be fitted with a sword bayonet and were sold for $44.00.  Several states bought them for their militia units.  The U.S. War Department purchased 4,712 of these rifles during the Civil War but they were soon regulated to the storage shed due to their unfortunate tendency to fire all of its cylinders at one time, often removing the fingers of the firer's forward hand.  The rifle's discharge rate was so unpredictable that men often lowered the loading lever and held the weapon by it when they pulled the trigger.  The repeating rifle was also much slower to load than other breech loading carbines so it's military career was very short.  They were eventually sold off by Washington for a mere 42 cents each to get rid of them.

Maynard Carbine.
A favorite with the Confederate cavalry the "Perry" or "Maynard" rifle earned it's place in history.  The light weight breech loading carbine was patented by Dr. Edward Maynard in 1856.  In an unusual twist of fate, the Maynard factory in Chicopee, Mass., was shipping the weapon south as late as 1861, four months after the war started through border state agents.  The explanation was that the weapons were being shipped to Southern "sportsmen".  In a glowing testimonial of the Maynard, one Confederate cavalryman stated that the weapon was "warranted to shoot twelve times a minute, and carry a ball effectually to 1,600 yards.  Nothing to do with the Maynard rifle but load her up, turn North and pull the trigger.  If twenty of them don't clean out all Yankeedom, them I'm a liar, that's all."  Some of the Maynards featured a brass frame.  They were 40 inches long with a 21 and 1/2 inch barrel and issued in .52 caliber.

To load the Maynard, the lever which doubled as a trigger guard was pulled down, which tipped the hinged barrel forward (photo at left) from the breech and tipped it down.  A single brass cartridge was inserted in the barrel, which was then locked back into place.  Some of the Maynards featured a "rising Block".  The most unusual thing about this weapon was the percussion cap.  It used Maynard's patented roll of percussion caps, which looked like rolls used in toy cap pistols today.  Pulling back on the hammer positioned the next cap over the nipple and when the trigger was pulled, the hammer smashed the fulminate cap and the resulting spark detonated the cartridge (photo at right).  Unfortunately, the Confederacy could not keep up with the reloading of the brass cartridges.  One Confederate cavalryman said "The Maynard rifle is the favorite with us, and proves a destructive weapon when one becomes accustomed to handling it, mounted, in a skirmish, it is light, simple in structure, and can be used with both caps; the only objection is you have to be careful in preserving the empty brass tubes, or you will not be able to make new cartridges."

Spencer Carbine.
On March 6, 1860 a patent for a new carbine was granted to Christopher M. Spencer.  The reliable rapid firing Spencer carbine with it's brass water resistant cartridges was probably the most advanced weapon of the time.  It was a remarkable gun and went far toward revolutionizing warfare as it was then waged.  At an overall length of 39 inches and a weight of 8 pounds 4 ounces, the carbine could fire seven copper rimfire cartridges from a tubular magazine in the end of the buttstock.  The majority of the Spencer carbines used by Federal troops were of .50 caliber and were chambered for the .56-.56 Spencer rimfire cartridge, having a big 350 grain bullet propelled by 43 to 45 grains of blackpowder making the complete round weight one ounce.  More than 58,000,000 cartridges were purchased for the Spencer, but many of them were used in the Ballard and Joslyn carbines of the same caliber.

At first the seven shot tube fed Spencer was slow to be accepted by the Union army.  To prove its sound design and superior construction, C. M. Spencer arranged to demonstrate the weapon to the Navy in June 1861.  Initial tests included burying a loaded weapon and immersing it in salt water before firing it.  Over a two day test fire, Spencer fired the carbine 250 times without stopping to clean the rifle.  During the rapid fire test, the carbine achieved a sustained rate of fire at twenty one rounds per minute.  Commander John A. Dahlgren was so impressed he ordered 700 Spencers to be used by the Navy.  Brigadier General James W. Ripley was not all that enthused and did not order any of the weapons.  However, General James H. Wilson did like Spencer.  In his report to the Union army's chief of ordnance, he wrote, "There is no doubt that the Spencer carbine is the best firearm yet put into the hands of the solider, both for economy of ammunition and maximum effect, physical and moral."  An excerpt from an official report reads, "We found them simple and compact in construction and think them less liable to get out of order than any other breech loading arm in use and are particularly pleased with the light carbine..."  According to procurement records (January 1, 1861 to June 30, 1866) the Union army did finally order 94,196 of the carbines but the initial delivery date of December 26, 1861 was delayed for more than a year due to a production problem with the gun's extractor.

After the improvements were made, the Spencer was reliable and very easy to use.  Lowering the operating lever dropped the breechblock and extracted the spent cartridge.  The same motion caused the magazine automatically to  feed another round into the chamber, closing the breech seated the cartridge.  Thus, all the solider had to do was cock, aim and pull the trigger.  With the production of the Blakeslee Cartridge Box late in the war, the Spencer carrying soldier had 10 to 13 extra loaded magazine tubes, equaling 70 to 91 rounds at his disposal making him an extremely formidable enemy.

The first Spencers used by Union soldiers, which had been bought privately or by individual units may have appeared on battlefields as early as late spring 1862.  The first government bought Spencers were delivered in October 1863 but were slow in getting to the field.  The Spencer was so popular among the troops that when units were denied issue of such arms, they occasionally took it upon themselves to personally purchase the guns.  When Col. John T. Wilder (of the Lightning Brigade) was refused the Spencer arms, he equipped the men of his brigade with 4,000 of the weapons.  His brigade felt such a need for the gun that each man voted to help with the purchase cost of the new carbine.  When the war ended, 105,804 of the 200,000 Spencers in use were purchased by private individuals.

The seven shot repeaters saw their first real action at the battle of Antietam.  The 7th Connecticut Infantry also used the carbines on November 19, 1863 at the battle of Olustee.  Captain Fort, of the 1st Georgia Regulars, in referring to the Spencers said that while he was skirmishing with the 14th Massahusetts regiment in the battle of Olustee "they were hard to move, as they seemed to load with marvelous speed and never had their fire drawn".  Capt. Ford was determined to see what sort of fire-arms were opposed to him so he ordered his men to concentrate their fire on a single skirmisher.  That skirmisher was killed and they were able to secure his Spencer.  They carried it around for a long time afterwards as a curiosity.  The repeating Spencer carbines started showing up everywhere and gave the inexperienced Federal troops the added firepower they needed to turn Lee's first attempt to invade the North.  The Confederacy did not have any of the Spencer carbines and those that were captured during the war were virtually useless to them as they had no means to manufacture the weapons cartridges.  Sergeant Sidney W. Cox with the 9th Michigan Cavalry was issued his Spencer and used it through two years of campaigning.  His unit was recorded as being the Federal unit to fire the last shot of the Civil War east of the Mississippi.  He was mustered out in July of 1865 and paid a $10.00 charge to take his rifle home with him.

Henry Repeating Rifle.
Described by one rebel as "that tarnation Yankee rifle they load on Sunday and shoot all week" the Henry repeating rifle was truly a weapon to be reckoned with.  Produced by The New Haven Arms Company in 1860, the fast shooting Henry was in great demand and although Federal orders were small some infantry and cavalry troops started receiving them in late 1863.  The 7th Illinois Infantry color guard (and their mascot dog) proudly display their new Henry repeaters in the photo at right.  The 7th's regimental history shows that the men obtained the Henry at their own expense and paid $50.00 a piece for them.  They put them to use when they fought brilliantly under Sherman and through the Atlanta campaign. The members of Birge's Sharpshooters of the 66th Illinois Infantry replaced their target rifles and also purchased their own Henrys.  It has been argued that the Henry was better built, more reliable and had more fire power than the most popular weapon of the war, the Spencer carbine.  The U.S. government bought 1,731 of the rifles and 4,610,400 cartridges, the last of which was received on November 7, 1865.

The weapon weighed 9.8 pounds and had a 24 inch barrel with a magazine holding 15 rounds (photo at left) located under and running the full length of the barrel.  The rifle was chambered for the .44 Henry Flat, a rimfire cartridge which was propelled by 26 to 28 grains of black powder with a 200 grain bullet.  It had a muzzle velocity of about 1,100 feet per second.  Although that is somewhat underpowered, the Henry still represented a milestone in rifle innovations that ultimately led to the Winchester .44-.40 still popular today.

The Henry was invented at the beginning of the war but the U.S. Army's Ordinance Department had dismissed the new inventions because they thought the rapid firing rifles would cause the soldiers to waste ammunition.  In tests, the rifle's 15 shot magazine could be emptied in less than 11 seconds.  A rate of fire of 120 shots were loaded and fired in 5 minutes and 45 seconds.  The advantage is very clear, keep in mind a well trained infantry solider could load and fire the muzzle loaders only three times a minute.  Fire power wasn't the only asset of the rifle, it could also be fired in a very safe prone position.  In the Battle of Chickamauga, the retreating Federal army was saved by just 535 men with Henry rifles.

The loading and firing of the rifle (refer to letters on drawing at right) was accomplished by: The breechblock "A" was locked by the toggle, by pulling the trigger guard leaver "C" down the toggle "B" was unlocked, which then pulled the breech block straight back.  The hammer was cocked by the block riding over it.  The carrier block "E" with a round from magazine was raised into line with the chamber.  Raising the lever "C" drove a round into the chamber, dropped the carrier block "E" and locked the toggle joint thus securing the breechblock.  Had this extremely accurate close range arm been developed and used earlier, historians of the war believe the conflict could have been shortened by as much as a year, possibly two.

LeMat Revolving Rifle.
Perhaps the most unusual revolving percussion rifle ever made was designed by Jean LeMat.  This weapon was very rare and I found little information on it.  The revolving rifle looked just like the LeMat pistol and even included the 18 gauge shot gun barrel below the .42 caliber top barrel.  Both were fixed cylinder percussion revolvers.  LeMat manufactured a fine, reliable, high quality weapon although both the pistol and carbine were large and heavy.  Jean LeMat's profitable partnerships with Girard and Son and Beauregard dissolved with the Confederacy.  Surprisingly, this cumbersome carbine with its revolving cylinder was eventually used by the U.S. Army.  Postwar LeMats were equipped to take the new self-contained rimfire or centerfire metallic cartridges that had become standard toward the end of the Civil War.

Sharps Carbine.
It has been debated for almost 135 years now (with no hope of ending) which carbine was the best, the Sharps or the Spencer.  Both have their advantages and disadvantages and the argument seems to boil down to a personal preference.  Some prefer accuracy to firepower, some handling to reliability.

The Sharps Carbine was invented by Christian Sharps of New Jersey and was patented on September 12, 1848.  In 1852 the firm received its first government contract for 200 of the carbines priced at $30.00 each.  The breech loader was soon deemed a necessity for the mounted troops, so it was as a cavalry carbine that this fine weapon saw its most active service.  Over 80,000 were used in the war but government purchases of the rifles totaled less than 10,000.  However, many troops were armed with Sharps at their own expense or by their state governments.  During the Civil War, both the Union and the Confederacy used the Sharps.  In the South, the weapon was called the "Richmond Sharps."  Soon the weapon became the firearm of choice for special regiments known as "Sharpshooters".  The cavalry preferred the gun because of its ease of use and accuracy of up to 600 yards.

The .52 caliber carbine was 39 inches long and weighed 8 pounds.  The Sharps had a rate of fire of up to 10 rounds per minute.  A quick firing breech loading firearm, the Sharps introduced a highly intricate firing mechanism using a lever that doubled as a trigger guard.  When the lever was pushed forward, the breech block was lowered (drawing at right) and opened the gun's chamber so that a linen cartridge could be inserted.  When the chamber was closed, the sharp metallic edge on the breech block would cut open the linen cartridge (photo at lower left) and expose the powder for ignition by the hammer striking a percussion cap.  One major problem with the sharps was blackpowder build up in the fore stock.  When the front breechblock cut through the paper or linen cartridge, some powder spilled out and fell between the fore stock and the barrel.  This powder build up caused a secondary explosion when the percussion cap was detonated to fire a new round.  This additional burn accounted for some minor injuries to the soldier and many split fore stocks.  The problem of secondary ignition is still prevalent in the new reproduction Sharps.  That is why it is necessary to invert the carbine and blow out the extra powder in the breech block occasionally during use.

The carbine was issued with the customary ring and slide for a sling.  An interesting variation was the incorporation of a small coffee mill with a detachable handle in the butt.  The idea was to supply one to every company (coffee was frequently issued in the bean), but only a very few were ever so altered.  The carbine was also manufactured with and without the patch box (see photo at top) built into the rifle's buttstock.

The Cavalry Musketoon.
The musketoon has been around since the mid 1700's.  Do not confuse the Civil War era musketoon with its forerunner the flintlock musketoon or Blunderbuss of 1759.  This newer version of the weapon pictured here on the left was considered a "carbine" because of it's size but it was in reality just a short rifle.  These two muzzle loading Richmond Armory cavalry musketoons were made in late 1862.  They were little more than cut down infantry rifled muskets.  The musketoon was chosen as the Confederate cavalry's official longarm in 1863.  Although it is not well known this short rifle was also used by the artillery on some occasions.  This weapon still had to be loaded the same way as a regular issue musket and was no match for the fast loading, rapid firing carbines used by the Federal army.

References:
Echoes Of Glory
Lords Encyclopedia
Hard Tack And Coffee
Black Powder Gun Digest
North And South Magazine
American Civil War Armies
The National Rifle Association
Illinois State Historical Library
Fighting Men Of The Civil War
The Museum Of The Confederacy

  Now that the Florida re-enacting season is over with, it is time to turn our attention to storing our things properly for the summer.  Caring properly for you re-enacting items will ensure they last longer.
  Clothing, being one of the expensive items, is the biggest concern.  Dresses and uniforms must be cleaned at the end of the season for storage, as well as underpinnings.  Whether you can wash them at home or you have to send them to the cleaners, it is necessary.  Perspiration, oils and proteins from skin, and dirt can all deteriorate the fibers of fabric. Over time this causes the fibers to weaken and in some cases, rotting of the fabric.  After cleaning the clothing, there are two options for storing.  The time saving option is hanging clothing in a closet.  This option saves the time of extensive ironing at the beginning of the season.  However hanging clothing, especially the heavy clothing of re-enacting, causes material to weaken by the pulling of the fabric which can cause mis-shaping and improper fit.  Wide wooded hangers and wooden skirt hangers are recommended; for the weight is disbursed more than typical plastic or wire hangers.  It is also recommended that cedar is hung with the clothing.  Remember wool is a favorite among moths and ants and must be kept in a dry place free from such pests.  Cedar is a preferred pest control so that your clothes do not end up smelling of mothballs.  The other option is to place the clothes in a cedar chest or storage box free from any dampness.
  Boots, as with all leather items, should be cleaned with a leather cleaner and moisturizer.  This can be found at any leather store in the mall or at any saddle or tack shops.  The boots should have baking soda packets (envelopes sealed or fabric pouches) stored in the bottom of the boots.  This will absorb moisture and odor.  Then stuff the boots with clean tissue paper to keep the shape of the boot true.  If possible, store the boots in the box they came in or any other cardboard box.  Plastic boxes are NOT recommended for storing leather.  Leather needs to breath and plastic is too air tight.
  Jewelry should be cleaned in proper solutions after every re-enactment.  Dirt and particles can get in between the stone and the setting making it loose causing it to fall out.  If jewels are real, check with a jeweler on which is best for which gems.  Many times jewelers will have cleaners for sale in the store.  After cleaned and dried well, the jewelry should be placed in a moisture free box.  Pearls should always be stored in the box they came in.  You should have different compartments for each item so as not to cause entanglement or injury to the article of jewelry.  Small little gift boxes as for jewelry is perfect and you can fit several in a bigger box.
  Parasols should be spot cleaned only.  If cleaned entirely, it may shrink ruining the parasol.  After dried, it should be stored in a natural muslin cover.  Parasols should always be stored laying flat on a shelf to not cause any mis-shaping.
  Lace is extremely prone to dry rot and must be handled with care.  Lace will also be stretched out of shape easily by hanging.  All lace articles should be cleaned carefully by hand and laid flat to dry.  Store lace articles laying flat, free from moisture and direct sunlight.
  Gloves can be cleaned gently and hung, fingertips down, to dry.  Once dried completely they can either be stored flat or with cardboard inserts.  If you use the cardboard inserts;  be sure it does not stretch out the gloves.  This will ensure a proper fit the following season.
  Handkerchiefs should be cleaned by hand, laid flat to dry, and ironed.  Avoid using starch on handkerchiefs.  Iron while still slightly moist or mist with a spray bottle before ironing.  If the handkerchief has an embroidery design;  take a hand towel lay it flat on the ironing board.  Lay the handkerchief on the towel right side down.  Then press the wrong side of the handkerchief, lightly steaming.  This process will cause the embroidery design to stand out and be ready for storage.  Store them laying flat in a box or drawer free from moisture.
  Hats and bonnets should be gently brushed with a soft lint brush.  Stuff the hat/bonnet with acid free tissue paper to keep its shape.  Store hats and bonnets in proper hat boxes, to avoid accidental crushing.  Put a baking soda packet in the bottom of each box to absorb odor and moisture.  With a hat box, the rim of the hat/bonnet should always fit easily into the box.  The rim of the hat/bonnet should barely touch the walls of the box.  You can also use square storage (cardboard) boxes if hat boxes are not had or can not be found.
  Hand purses should be spot cleaned and laid flat to dry.  Storage of hand purses should be laid flat in a box or drawer.
  Baskets should be dusted with compressed air to remove any dirt.  Baskets should be stored in a place where they will not be crushed or mis-shaped.  Baskets can break easily so care is important.
  Fans can also be cleaned with compressed air. Store fans in the box they came in.  This will prevent the fan from breaking while being stored for the summer.
  If nothing else, always remember:  never store clothing in plastic.  Plastic traps moisture next to the fabric causing mildewing.  Plastic can also cause yellowing of some fabrics.  So please remove the plastic from the dry cleaned items.  Taking a little care today saves a lot of money later.

  Fredricka

Photo Contest Winners.......Last issue's photo was of Lt. Shawn ("Steps") Butler, Adj. of the 4th Brigade Vol. Inf Co. A.  The first correct answer to come in on my email (6:04 am 4-16-02) was from Lt. Rick Weinhard of the 3rd Maine Inf. Co. F.  The best photo caption I got was from Laura Temple of the 10th Tenn. Cavalry Co. D.  She wrote...... "Yankee bear and owner, free to a good home."  Another good one came from David Glenn, Jr.  His caption was "Where do you find such a tiny black tie for such a big head?".  Rick, David and Laura will get a $10.00 gift certificate to the No Name Sutler.  Dennis helps offset the cost of this contest each month, so please stop into the No Name Sutler tent and buy something from him at the next event.  Thanks to all who emailed me with correct answers.  You just gotta be faster next time.  Good luck to all in the future contests.

Confederate Contributions......Wesley H. Frank, Surgeon, C.S.A. (7th Florida Vol. Inf., Senior Surgeon 1st Battalion Hardy's Brigade) sent in the following post war Confederate achievements.  The list is quite extensive so I will have to print it in three parts.  Here is the first part.  He wrote.........

April 26th is a legal State holiday, under state statute 683.01 (j) Confederate Memorial Day, I would like to submit some info from a compatriot in Va. This list is being added to, anyone with more info, please contact me so we can update this list. I am especially interested in men from Florida which helped to build our wonderful state to what it is today.

Brig. Gen. E. Porter Alexander had a distinguished career after the war as professor of engineering, railroad president, rice planter, and author ("Memoirs").

Brig. Gen. James L. Alcorn became Governor of Mississippi, was elected to the United States Senate, and had Alcorn St. University (predominately black) named for him.

Brig. Gen Henry W. Allen became Governor of Louisiana.

Brig. Gen. Frank Armstrong served as U.S. Indian Inspector, then assistant U.S. Commissioner of Indian Affairs.

Pvt. Archer Avary Sr, Co. A, Cavalry, Cobb's Legion.  After the War, he attended the Southern Medical College and became a physician. He did post-graduate work at the Universities of Bavaria and Vienna. He was president of the American Cancer Society in 1908.

Brig. Gen. William Brimage Bate - Two terms as Gov. Of Tennessee ( 1883-1887), followed by 3 terms serving 19 years in the United States Senate, of which he was a member at the time of his death in 1905.

Col. R. L. T. Beale (9th Va. Cav) was elected to Congress in 1878.

Gen. P.G. T. Beauregard became president of two railroads, and for many years was adjutant general of Louisiana.

Judah P. Benjamin (Secretary of State - CSA) after the war became a Barrister in England, publishing a classic legal text on the sale of personal property.  He was the only Barrister not of English Birth.

Corporal Galba Branson became a Marshall and a Sheriff.  He was killed in vigilante fighting against the "Bald Knobbers" in Missouri.

John Mercer Brooke (designer of Confederate Ironclads and ordinance), after the war invented an underwater sounding device that became the modern sonar.

Brig. Gen. John C. Brown was twice elected Governor of Tennessee.

Sgt. Philemon N. Bryan 9th Florida Vol. Infantry arrived in what is now Fort Lauderdale, Florida in 1895. He built the first Inn, and the first Ice House.  He brought 400 Negro's into the city to work on Flagler's railroad, creating the city's first black community.

Admiral Franklin Buchanan - Former Commandant of the U.S. Naval Academy (before the war), & Commander of the CSS "Virginia", was post-bellum president of Maryland Agricultural College.

Maj. Gen. Matthew C. Butler (S.C.) was elected to the U.S. Senate after the war.

Lt. William Burdine ( 45th Miss. Inf.) moved to Miami & founded Burdine's Department Stores.

Lt. Gen. Simon Bolivar Buckner was Governor of Kentucky, and Democratic Party candidate for Vice-President of the United States in 1896.

John A. Campbell (former Supreme Court Justice - who represented the Southern States in an unsuccessful attempt to mediate the impending conflict with the Lincoln Administration) re-established his law practice and returned to the Supreme Court on several occasions to argue cases.

Dr. Henry Campbell - Became president of the American Medical Association in 1884.

Brig. Gen. Ellison Capers entered the Episcopal Ministry, and was appointed arch-bishop of South Carolina.  He was elected Chancellor of the University of the South (Sewanee).

Brig. Gen. Thomas L. Clingman - is for him that "Clingman's Dome" (highest point in the Smoky Mountains) is named.

Maj. Gen. Thomas J. Churchill was elected Governor of Arkansas.

Brig. Gen. Charles Clark was elected Governor of Mississippi.

Maj. Gen. Henry Clayton - retiring as a circuit court judge in 1886, became president of the University of Alabama.

Col. F. M. Cockrell was elected to the United States Senate.

Brig. Gen. Alfred Colquitt became Governor of Georgia, and was later elected to the United States Senate.

Brig. Gen. Douglas H. Cooper represented Choctaw and Chickasaw tribes in civil claims against the United States government after the war.

Adjutant/Inspector General Samuel Cooper - preserved C.S. records, and assisted in compiling the Official Records of the war.

Brig. Gen. William Ruffin Cox was elected to the United States Congress for three terms.

Lt. Col. Jabez Curry became president of predominantly black Howard University, president of Richmond College, and subsequently United States Minister to Spain.

Major Robert Lewis Dabney (Chaplain, & later Chief of Staff under Stonewall Jackson) authored many books, such as "A Defense of Virginia", and numerous theological writings.  Became President of Union Theological Seminary, and later chaired the Dept. of Mental & Moral Philosophy at Univ. of Texas.

Brig. Gen. Zachary Deas returned to the cotton business, but this time in NYC as a member of the New York Stock Exchange.

Pvt. H.H. Duncan and Major St. Clair Abrams, after the war, established the City of Tavares, Fl. and Lake County

Brig. Gen. Clement A. Evans entered the Methodist Episcopal ministry.  He authored the 12 volume "Confederate Military History".

Sir Moses Ezekeil (Fought in War as Sgt. Of Co.C - VMI Cadets) became one of the world's greatest sculptors!  Lee counseled Ezekiel, "I hope you will be an artist and do earn a reputation in whatever profession you undertake."  He sculpted (among MANY other things) the New South Monument honoring the Confederate Dead in Arlington National Cemetery.

The Medical Directors Report about the Narcoossee event.......

            It was late morning at Narcoosee Mills and the Medical Corps had been working hard to get water and supplies out on the field. It was extremely hot for this time of year and we were very concerned about possible heat injuries. We scattered water and ice behind trees so that as troops moved from place to place, water would be waiting for them.

            As reenactors all know, scenarios never work according to plans. The Yankees advanced too quickly, overrunning our Confederate units ( we were supposed to lose today) and leaving our water far behind. Before we knew it, we could not reach our water caches and were beginning to run dry. By the end of the battle, we were all upset. We were getting angry at our apparent failure. Despite this, we had no major problems and we kept our few cases of heat injuries mild.

            We were later sitting in camp somewhat angry and castigating ourselves. I suddenly began to feel like the Medical Corps of old. They were often derided for their failures and high disease rate and seldom complimented for their success.

            All of us who study the Civil War know of the horrors of Civil War surgery. We have all read about the high death rates, all the amputations and the horrendous diseases. They were called “ Doc Saw Bones”, butchers, and beasts. Seldom has anyone tried to applaud their accomplishments.

            Despite the horrendous casualties, there were some great advances in medicine, particularly in the South. President Davis complimented the Medical Corps for their “ humanity” and their “professional skills”. Surgeon Hunter McGuire, Stonewall Jackson’s personal doctor, stated it best. He believed that “some of the best military surgeons in the world could be found in the Confederate Army. Given the lack of knowledge of modern antisepsis and the lack of materials, they pressed on and did their duty to the best of their knowledge.

            They worked long hard hours under harsh conditions, in the heat and cold, in the rain, and often under fire. Often they stayed behind when the army left, risking capture and prison to care for the sick and wounded. Because of the shortages caused by the blockade, they had to make do with what they found. Through scientific methods, they studied what was happening to their patients and published the first medical journals in this country. This allowed them to communicate with each other. Today we call it continuing medical education. Unfortunately, because this was not a combat arm, recognition and advancement was rare.

            Our Confederate and Yankee doctors had no knowledge of the germ theory. It wasn’t until 1870 that Lister’s theory of antisepsis was accepted and years later that Pasteur proved the germ theory. Our medical men and women quickly found that good sanitation and cleanliness could stop camp diseases like cholera, typhoid, and dysentery. They also found that diet including fresh vegetables and fruits along with fresh air could speed healing and decrease disease.

            There were other great accomplishments. The Confederacy started with nothing, but by 1862 had a rapidly developing and effective hospital system. The Robertson Hospital in Richmond had the lowest death rate of any hospital north or south. The Confederates were the first to move wounded by train. Surgeon General Moore developed a design for military hospitals based on wards that was used until WW II. Medical Director Samuel Stout developed a field hospital design that became the model for WW II mobile hospitals. The Confederate Medical Dept was the first to recognize the need for good dental hygiene. In doing so, they made dentistry the honored profession it is today. Surgeon General Moore in order to promote improved quality, developed the first real medical societies and academic journals in our history. As the blockade tightened and supplies ran low, they opened labs to use scientific principles to find new medications and equipment. An example is one of the first truly successful anesthetic machines developed by Surgeon John Chisolm.

            After the war, they went on to continue to contribute as true physicians and patriots to the United States. Doctor Tobias G. Richardson of General Bragg’s Staff, became the dean of the University of Louisiana’s School of Medicine. Doctor Paul F. Eve became the founder of the American Gynecological Society. Doctor Hunter McGuire and Doctor David Yandell both served as president of the American Medical Association. Doctor Stout became Commissioner of Education under President Cleveland.

            These are but a few of the accomplishments of our small Southern Nation. Their people and deeds go far beyond the realm of this paper to discuss. I, for one, would like to say Hurrah for the Medical Corps, they earned it.  For those who would like to learn more, I would like to suggest several books.

1)      Confederate Hospital Center  in Lynchburg, Virginia by Peter W. Houck

2)      Doctors In Gray by H. H. Cunningham

3)      Civil War Medicine by C. Keith Wilbur, M.D.

Lt. Col. Riker's report about the Fort Clinch weekend......

Friday found Fort Clinch converted from a Union Garrison to the hands of the Confederates about noon. The chief interpretive ranger, George, had escorted several school groups through the fort earlier. Unfortunately, we found out that the regular Saturday night "ghost tour" had not been scheduled through the park service.

The weather on Saturday held to be beautiful, yet hot. Units present included Co. B of the 7th Florida, Company G and B of the 8th Florida, 37th Alabama, Milton Light Artillery and C.S.S. Bell. Several other units were also represented as the last registered count was around 118. A refuge camp popped up outside the fort while barracks were filled inside. Highlights of the day included  colors, drill, guard mount, a death with funeral, complete with coffin from the hospital and one especially memorable event. The fort found itself passed by a replica blockade runner. As the slope main to windward past the fort, Milton Light fired a rapid volley which caught the ships crew off guard. On a return trip though, she opened fire on the fort which was met by a volley of musket and cannon fire. Immediately thereafter, the modern United States Navy and Coast Guard put on a grand show as one of our proud submarines made to sea from the sub base in Georgia. Quite a site to see and realize we are truly still at war sending fine men into harm's way. A very appropriate salute was rendered. To add to the moment, the crew of the Belle delivered mail for mail call after having to fight their way into the fort. Hurrah for the navy, then and now. After the rounders game was played on the parade ground, a fine steak dinner was served to the rousing sounds of screaming from the hospital as the medical crew hacked away at William H. Smith, from south west Virginia (a major from PAX/ANV in disguise) for the film crew from the Florida Park Service. They had been at Fort Marion during the morning to shoot footage for a film on Living Historians on Florida Parks.

Sunday found a beautiful sunrise followed by colors. After church services care of Major Elwood Lodge with special thoughts and prayers to Laura and Roger Niedrich, pay call was had after the Belle's crew was able to land again with a sea chest full of money. Unfortunately, the fort had to be departed as troops were required elsewhere.

If you have never done a garrison, it is distinctly different than a field reenactment. For those who want a true feeling of what people lived like in forts, this is one of the few forts that still allows us the freedom to use it to the fullest.

Thanks especially to the cooks, cleanup crew, and medical staff for all the extra efforts.  It was a great weekend.

D. Riker
Lt. Col. / Brigade Surgeon
Senior Medical Officer
Hardy's Brigade
Army of Tennessee
Confederate States of America

South Caralonia Event......Pam Borders attended a interesting event recently.  I don't think she will mind if I post her letter about it.  She wrote.......

We just got back from a very interesting event in Laurens, S. C. where Capt. William Downs Farley (a relative of my maternal great-grandmother's) was reburied after having had his leg blown off in Virginia during the Civil War.  He rode with General JEB Stuart.  They had the cavalry there, the artillery with six white Clydesdales pulling a caisson and the infantry showed too.  They had widows in mourning from the Order of Confederate Rose and the folks from the Smithsonian and the Hunley Volunteers were there too.  The UDC and SCV were present and a choir sung.  JEB Stuart IV gave a moving speech about the Captain which made it more personal. There were several hundred people there, some reenactors and some weren't.   We started at the courthouse and processed to an old cemetery and had a graveside ceremony there.  He was placed near his mother, father and brothers as he had desired over a hundred years ago.  I wish I could tell you how moving it was.  I have been to a number of ceremonies but have never witnessed such a dignified and truly wonderful ceremony.  We also went to a Living History at an old church nearby and they did a scenario where the ladies gathered for a planning committee to see what we could do to help the boys when the war started.  It was great!!  All of it was pretty much adlibbed but it really showed what we were thinking.  The public really enjoyed it.
 

The Battle Of Bishops Farm......Capt. Sam West (Surgeon, ALA Volunteer Battalion) wrote a very good "letter home"........

April 29, 1863
My Dearest Wife

    I am happy to report that I am alive and well and consider myself fortunate to be so after the recent skirmish here.  I am continuing to make due with the best that Richmond and Selma can send to me, which is, at best, just short of adequate.
     Throughout my stay here in this state, I have been witness to several small battles and skirmishes, all prompted by Federal attempts to capture and destroy interior supply lines or routes, or by Confederate attempts to retake the port cities. Most of my day is pent in the monotony of administrative paperwork, recruitment for our medical corps and the continued attempts to treat the diseases and conditions of our army with little to no supply.  All this to be tempered by the egos of the commanding officers, who sometimes seem to seek their own glory in face of the ravages and desolation of this war.
   All but gone is the initial spirit which so abounded two years ago.  I am having little to no luck with the recruitment of qualified medical personnel, as none are readily available.  The one element saving this army is the charity of the churches and communities who donate supplies and medicines which are so desperately needed by our men.
   Friday, I performed emergency surgery on two of our brave young men.  Although the details involving the first one are unclear, (he might have been shot by a local farmer), the second was shot near my tent by a federal scout.  Our Colonel was nearby, returning fire with his pistol that killed the Yankee intruder.  However, this was only the beginning as we found ourselves under attack the next day by a detachment of Brooklyn and Pennsylvania troops, obvious in their intent to destroy our camp and outpost.
   My dear, I cannot describe the carnage that I witnessed that day.  All that I saw was the inside of our hospital tent, crowded and surrounded with the dead and dying.  As soon as we could get a man off of the operating table, another was waiting to take his place.  We even performed surgery on the ground, out in the open, due to lack of room.  Our hospital became the refuge for Rebels and Yankees alike.  Ironic that we take such strides to destroy life on the field then ask our surgeons to save it.
    The fighting continued the next day, but the federal, cutoff from their supply lines as is often the case here in Florida, were unable to stand the repeated charges of our brave men.  They retreated in defeat to St. Augustine, there to regroup and resupply so that this bloody war can drag on further.
    As an officer, I can only hope for Lee to make a great invasion of the North, for that is about all that will bring about an end to this war. If President Lincoln can see our men in gray at his front door, then certainly he will yield to our demands for freedom and recognition. Meanstwhile, the heat, the monotony and the general melancholy of the troops stationed here make for a most home-sickening spirit.
   I do look forward to my return home to visit you and our son.  Give him a hug from me and remind him that the illusion of a glorious war is only that; for after three years of bloody fighting I have failed to see the glory so far, yet I have seen the illusion of it, that dream be it so prevalent in our time that lead men to forsake home and family at the risk of death. There is no glory here; only disease and death. I thank the Lord daily that I am not amongst those so afflicted. Please remember us in your prayers.

Your loving husband,
Sam

More About Bishop's Farm......Col. Corky (Commander of The Alabama Volunteer Battalion) wrote......

Greetings from the Alabama Volunteer Battalion

There was heat , good Lord there was heat....96 degrees to be exact each day. This 96 degrees did not effect the turn out of 261 Federal and CSA troops who battled for possession of Lake Helen at Bishops Farm. Inspite of the heat, only one person went down from the heat and that was one of the 2000 school kids who attended the Friday tours.  The parade was a little too long to suit me and probably will not be done next year

The School kids came from Volusia,Orange, Seminole and Putnam Counties. It seems like every yellow bus in central Fla was there......(well maybe a few were not there, but it sure would have fooled us)

The battles took place on the rolling hills of Lake Helen and the City supported us 100 % and asked us to return again next year...the Boy Scouts (Troops 544) gave us massive support and had a small fair set up outside the Civil War area; supplied us with more than enough fire wood and water.

Dr (Capt) Sam West tended to the wounded and it seems he cut off several hands, arms and patched more bullet holes than he had equipment for...he was one busy Doctor.  The Troops fought with Bayonets on both days and sliced each other up as usual.

Saturday night was spectacular, Bruce Bowden and the Cross Creek Travelers played Blue Grass music for the troops from 7:30 to 11 PM....and I even danced with my wife.( if you'd call that dancing)

The spectator count was a bit slim but after all was said and done, the Scouts cleared over $3000 in profit.  Needless to say, they were happy.

I can't remember exactly which FED Units and CSA Units attended, so I can't say thanks to each Unit, so to all involved..THANKS for a great turn out.  We missed some of our old friends, who we hope to see next year.

We are looking for a cooler time of the year to hold the next Bishops Farm...we shall see what happens and hope for the best.

Remember that next year will be bigger and we guarantee you'll like the field we have, those rolling hills add a lot to the overall picture and fighting.

Until next time..

Col. Corky/Alabama Volunteer Battalion/Commanding

My dearest Rebecca,

  I am writing this journal so that you may have an account and know what has transpired during my service in the Southern army.  This by no means takes the place of being with you, but  helps make the time I am not with you better for me.  I think of you often, and look forward to when this is over with and I am home with you. Your affectionate husband,

           Keith

May 3

   I am camped tonight near a small community near Spring Garden, north of Deland.  I received word that a force of Union troops from the garrison at St. Augustine was marching toward the plantations located around Spring Garden.  My orders are to muster as many local troops as possible to oppose the enemy raiding party.  I have mustered some of my own command of the 4th Florida, and am expecting more troops to join us here.  This has been chosen as the assembling place because it is close to the road the Union troops have been reported to be using to march inland toward Spring Garden.  A small wooden building is situated near the road that has been a storage building for supplies from the local plantations to be sent to the Confederate armies.  We are camped in a most pleasant location with abundant woods and close to a lake, and we are enjoying the generosity of the local townspeople.  I am working to organize my forces in anticipation of the Union troops.  I miss you and will be thinking of you.

   May 4

   Around mid-morning the battalion was mustered in camp.  Our forces number some 50 infantry supported by one artillery piece.  I  set the troops to building breastworks in the woods near the road a short march from the camp.  In the early afternoon, our pickets reported the approach of the Union raiding party,  consisting of some 50 infantry and three cannon, and I sent a company of infantry to the breastworks.  Around 2:00 o'clock Union skirmishers  were seen advancing through the woods toward the works.  Our troops in the works commenced firing, pushing back the skirmishers as I brought up the main force of our troops.  The enemy soon advanced in force with his infantry and artillery.  I had my forces take up positions in the  breastworks as the Federals formed a line atop a slight rise.  Our efforts to push the Federals off the rise brought no success, and Union infantry began moving around our left flank.  I gave the order to withdraw to the encampment, and we fought our way off the field.  The Federals are encamped tonight in the works.

   We returned to camp in relatively good spirits despite the events of the day.  We have at least halted the Union advance, and I am expecting more troops to re-inforce us.  The day has been unseasonably warm, and many of the command have availed themselves of swimming in the cool waters of Lake Winona.  Some of these men enjoyed the company of their families who picnicked on the shore near the lake.  It was good to see the men together with loved ones, but also reminded me of how much I miss you and our son.  A local band has provided music for us, and a camp dance was held in a building near the lake.  As more troops reach the camp, I am intending to march on the enemy tomorrow and renew the contest.  Hopefully the victory will be secured by good fortune, Southern valor, and divine providence.

May 5

   As today is Sunday, the troops and some of their families enjoyed divine services by a local chaplain in a building near the camp this morning. Confederate pickets observing the Union camp reported the Federals also had their church gathering as well.  In some ways it is sad that we will soon be in battle again.

   More Confederates did re-inforce our ranks, and in the afternoon we marched toward the Union encampment with three companies of infantry and one cannon.  Our pickets reported that the Federals were in the works, with pickets posted some distance in front of the works.  One company drove in the enemy pickets, but the Federals advanced from the works and I sent in the infantry companies and the artillery.  The enemy withdrew to the works and opened with his artillery.  Two companies of infantry charged the works but were repulsed while the third company attacked the Union left.  The two companies on our left charged the Federal line again, and for a moment fighting swirled around the small wooden building on the field.  The Union right flank was soon turned by these troops.  With a cheer our infantry took the works and captured some of the enemy cannon.  The Federals retreated through the woods and our pursuit stopped.  Cavalry scouts have reported that the enemy has withdrawn to St. Augustine.

   I am marching toward Ocala tonight, and will  be encamped near our home soon.  I miss you and I know it hard that we are not together so soon following our wedding

Spring Garden (Camp Winona)........It was hot to say the least.  The daily 94 degree temperatures felt like 100.  We just about overheated by the time we got to colors at 9am.  Jack and Kathy Heitman renewed their wedding vows at 10am in a service held by the flag pole.  Congratulations to the Heitmans on their wedding anniversary.  The ladies tea was held inside the camp's recreation room with the air conditioner cranked wide open.  Several of us volunteered to stay inside and guard the ladies but were assigned other outside tasks.

The battle started at 2pm as planned.  For those of you who are not familiar with this field, it is heavily wooded with some undergrowth.  I would imagine that this area may look like the Wilderness battlefield.  There were plenty of trees to hide behind (which also provided much needed shade) and some small breastworks to fight from.  The battle raged on without either side gaining an advantage for a while.  The Union artillery was very active and got off a lot of shots while the Confederate infantry tried to out flank them.  After the Federals got around the east side of our lines they pretty much had us.  We pushed them back once but they got back in and it was all over.  Although the weather was hot there were only a couple of minor heat related problems during Saturday's battle.

After cooling off I went around and talked with a few people.  Everyone had something to say about the heat but all agreed that they did enjoy the fight.  I enjoyed leaving my horse at home and going Infantry.  I fell in with Major Keith Kohl's 4th Florida Infantry, Co. G and enjoyed shooting about 30 rounds at our foe.   I took a hit late in the battle when the barrel of my gun was so hot I couldn't even touch it.  The lake filled up with reenactors as most enjoyed a cool dip.  I had to work Sunday so Lorraine and I left Saturday after we attended a birthday dinner for Keith Kohl.  Happy birthday, Keith.

As always, Spring Garden was a fun little event.  Despite other Civil War events taking place at the same time and cultural events in Barberville, there was still a good turnout of reenactors and spectators alike.  This year also boasted a wonderful addition in the form of a very knowledgeable woman portraying Harriet Tubman!

The ladies tea was a nice change of pace this year.  Instead of a lecture Joanne Kurtwright organized several displays intended to help us discover period activities for our own ladies groups.  In addition she had some period correct ladies games out and had a few period sewing activities.  I also noticed some ladies quilting and two playing cribbage.  I overheard one remark that cribbage originated in the 1600’s!

Sutler’s Row was an eclectic mix this year.  As always the No Name Sutler was there with his boxes of patterns and half price “Citizen’s Companion”.  Stitches, Wood and More also set up with her large array of nick-knacks, women’s and children’s clothing.  For those who enjoy period music, the Fort Brooke Quartermaster offered a vast array of not only period music but also soothing Celtic music.  And of course, Colonial Smith and Forge was available offering useful camp items ranging from cooking utensils to lantern holders.  I also enjoyed strolling through Sutler Such where it seems every media available was offered to those wishing to express their pride in their Southern Heritage.  From bumper stickers to T-shirts, I found Southern Pride emblazoned on everything in sight!

As I walked Sutler’s Row in the unseasonably sweltering heat of the weekend my spirit was buoyed by a rather talented couple singing period songs.  I also visited “Harriet Tubman” and was impressed by her knowledge of such an important historical figure.

As always, I will leave the battle report to those far more qualified than myself to comment on such things.  I will however say that the battles were well planned and well executed.  The ground charges were a real crowed pleaser and the spectators especially the “ground” charge in the tree.  It certainly lent an air of authenticity to the battle and I doubt that one will soon be forgotten!

I’d like to say a special thank you to Camp Winona’s director for once again allowing this event on camp property.  I would also like to give three cheers to the 4th Florida Infantry Company G for their hard work in bringing this reenactment to fruition.  I look forward to next year’s event!

HEADQUARTERS, 4TH FLORIDA INFANTRY COMPANY G

To my fellow re-enactors,

   I would like to take a  moment to say thank you to all the re-enactors who attended the Spring Garden Plantation Raid at Camp Winona near Deland on May 3-5, 2002.  There were some 125 soldier re-enactors along with three Union and one Confederate cannon, some 60 civilian re-enactors, and about ten sutlers.  The battle re-enactment scenarios were followed well, and the weekend also featured a ladies tea, period musical entertainment, and a camp dance near the lake.  The YMCA camp staff provided lifeguards, and many re-enactors took advantage of swimming in Lake Winona.  This year's event included a raffle to help with the expenses, and the prizes were all donated by re-enactors.  Thank you to all who participated in the raffle.  The winners of the raffle were:

   Pvt. Steven Gainey, 4th Florida Infantry, Co. G--- Zouave rifle kit
   Lt. Bill Pangrass, 14th Brooklyn Infantry, Co. G--- wooden camp chair
   Marsha Walls, gift certificate to Pack Rat Bob's Sutlery
   G. Schweiger--- butter churn
   Marion Lange--- butter churn

The followoing  units particpated in the re-enactment, my apologies to any not mentioned here.
 

UNION 14th Brooklyn Infantry, Company G 3rd Maine Infantry 3rd Rhode Island Artillery 3rd US Artillery

CONFEDERATE 4th Florida Infantry, Company G 3rd Florida Infantry, Company A 3rd Florida Infantry, Company B 5th Florida Infantry, Company B 7th Florida Infantry, Company E 7th Florida Infantry, Company B 9th Florida Infantry, Company B 15th Alabama Infantry 37th Alabama Infantry, Company H Florida Independent Artillery 10th Tennesse Cavalry, Company D

   Special thanks to Jerry Stewart for the pyrotechnic ground charges and to the staff of Camp Winona YMCA camp for letting us have the re-enactment at the camp.   Also thank you to all of my unit and all who helped put the event on, you helped make the re-enactment possible.  The event is being planned for 2003, and the organizers are considering having the event on another weekend to hopefully enjoy some cooler weather.   Thank you to all for helping with the re-enactment.

                                                             Major Keith Kohl, commanding
                                                             4th Florida Infantry, Company G

CONFEDERATE MEMORIAL DAY SERVICE AT PINE LEVEL CEMETERY, OXFORD, FLORIDA

   Just about a block off Highway 301 in the Sumter County town of Oxford sits Pine Level Cemetery. The cemetery includes a number of Confederate soldiers within its borders.  On April 27, these soldiers were remembered in a Confederate Memorial Day service.  Three of the Southern troops here were highlighted during the ceremony, as new markers had been placed on their graves.  Some 12 Confederate re-enactors were present, along with six re-enactor ladies, about 30 spectators, and some of the local media.  The procession marched through the cemetery for a short presentation at each of the graves.  The honor guard of re-enactor troops had flags of the Confederacy, and the service included speeches by the United Daughters of the Confederacy and the Sons of Confederate Veterans, music, and an address by a descendant of one of the soldiers.  An artillery salute and the playing of Taps concluded the service. The service was a fitting reminder of the service of all soldiers, North and South.

                                                         Major Keith Kohl, commanding
                                                         4th Florida Infantry, Company G

Letter To WFTV......Pat Adkins is taking a stand.  Read on.....
Sir,
Thanks.....for opening my eyes as to what's important.  I have been a big fan of WFTV for it's professional reporting for many years....... until this evening.
Tonight, your lead story about an anonymous letter to the Orange County Fire Chief reporting 3 fireman's helmets having 1"x1" Confederate Battle Flag stickers was sadly lacking any real relevance.  What I cannot understand is that led stories on a night where a man had been killed in Marion County and police were asking for help in locating the suspect, and another man had abused and murdered his 18 month old son.  Now that's sensationalism at it's best!  I might expect that out of channel 6.
By the way, if I may so bold as to educate you, you made a statement that only the "American Flag" is authorized for being on a firefighters uniform.  The Confederate Flag is an American Flag.   As far as that flag being considered offensive, only to the uneducated it is.  It is controversial, yes, and it has no place on the firefighters uniform.  It is however, part of our American history. If you want controversy, broach the subject as to why the flag of the United States is not reviled as is the Confederate flag.  After all, if the Confederate flag is all about slavery, then why aren't we upset that slavery was allowed and legally protected for nearly 80 years under our United States colors? Hummmm, makes you think doesn't it?  Well, maybe not in a sensationalistic sense that led your newscast.  Keep that pot stirred Channel 9!  In the meantime, I'm moving to Channel 2.
Patrick N. Adkins
wftv.programming@wftv.com; badavis@cimedia.com

Olustee Ghosts......I am still getting mail about the Olustee "orbs".  Read on for another encounter......

I grew up going to the Olustee Festival and Re-enactments.  As a young girl I enjoyed the flowing hoop dresses, the gallantry, and the historical spirit of it all.  I longed to be a part of it and of the old South that I read about in books and saw in romantic movies.  I also wondered as a God fearing Christian if there were love and home sick spirits wondering around that particular battle field.  Were there men, old and young, who longed for their mother's touch, lover's embrace, and to hear the laughter of their children once more?  I can not imagine what these men felt at the time of their deaths knowing that they would never see their loved ones again.  Yet these men were willing to go out, risk their lives, and die for the things that they loved most in the world.  Those things were their family, honor, way of life, and their heritage known to us present day Southerners as "The Lost Cause".  This is something that we can only read about in books, learn about from family stories, and see in a flag.  I am "southern" by birth and by heritage. My family has been in the south since the American Revolution.  I have been asked what it means to be classified as "southern".  I responded that I am a Southern Belle. This term defined as a female presenting the traits of the old ways such as honor, heritage, charm, kindness, strength, humanity, fear of God, and a love of a life no longer known.  One can not realize what this felt like unless he or she was apart of it or has been touched by its valiant essence. My story is how one night I felt the heritage, the honor, the sadness of the Old South, and the men who fell for what they loved. The encounter of what I call the Olustee Spirit. I have been re-enacting for about six years.  I have been to many Olustee events and balls.  Some of the events being held at night on the battlefield make them spooky, and ghostly presences are apparent. This past Olustee I attend the ball as usual. I was dressed in my blue satin, white lace, and ready to dance the night away. From the moment I arrived, I felt as though I were being watched closely. When I would turn to see who it was, no one was there. My senses and perceptions were on high alert.  At certain parts during the night, it was like someone was standing one step behind me. Again, when I turned no one was there.  After the ball, my escort and I took a walk along one of the paths. I got the notion of someone walking beside me to the left. It became bitterly cold with no wind, no clouds, and no noise.  When I looked to my left, I saw no one.  As my escort and I stood still talking, I got he sensation of a cold brushing feeling, like a finger, move across my check and dangle my pearl earring. The other earring did not move.  The hair on my arm and neck stood tall and the coldness was unbearable.  The feeling of being touched was overwhelming and it was chilling to me. The sudden feeling I got was like a burst of sadness, desperation, and loneliness.  Being a normal person, I panicked and my escort and I turned to vacate the area quickly.  As we were walking away, my escort was pushed back as if someone had run into his side in a way to knock him down. That scared us even more and we hauled buggy to get to a more lit and comfortable place. As we got toward the camps, the temperature was normal again. I decided to go home, but the presence remained to torture my escort throughout the night.  He encountered some rather odd paranormal activities such as stacking, light flickering, and other ghostly tricks. The next morning I told my family about my ghostly experience. They were stunned and gave me their renditions of what they would have done in similar circumstances.  My brother knew some ghost hunters and ran my story by them. They confirmed my experience as real and not my imagination especially with my escort witnessing these accounts.  I was informed by the hunters that if I keep attending the reenactment and if the spirit senses me at the battlefield, that it would eventually reveal itself to me.   The feeling that I sensed from the presence was longing, sadness, and lost love.  I know that the spirit wants to go home but is trapped. Only when the festival comes around and the reenactors are near, do the spirits of Olustee get to play and search for lost affections.  I feel honored to have been chosen by the spirit as someone to relate to.  I look forward to the spirit revealing itself to me. I know that it would be done as a connection of past heritage. I pray that God will help these restless spirits to find peace until the day they are reunited with their lost loves.

Huntsader Water.......Last year at the Battle of Hunsader farms it came to my attention that the water we provided was not the most palatable.  The water we get is stored in a fire dept. brush truck and the tank is not made to store drinking water it is made to store water to fight fires.  The water came from the same source as the water that is in your homes only because of being stored in a fire truck's water tank it has to be by law sanitized for the prevention of bacterial growth.  There is an actual formula that the health dept has developed for use in the aftermath of hurricanes & other natural disasters for the treatment of drinking water.  This is what we get at the event site.  There is no water on the site other than well water across the street.   So in order to prevent a repeat of last year's water problems we will only have water on site to cook with & clean up with.  Please plan ahead and bring any water you will need to drink. I am sorry for this but our choices are very limited. Now for the 2nd change.  With the cost of fire wood and with no other way to raise money to help defer the cost, a 1.00 charge for adult reenactors will be charged to help offset the cost of the wood.  I hope this will not deter anyone from coming to what is a great event.  Our goal is to make Huntsader a reenactor's event. If anyone has any new ideas about the battles or anything else they would like to try or see please feel free to contact me.  My email is msmaj@tampabay.rr.com.  I look forward to seeing all of you at this year's Battle of Hunsader Farms.

Your Humble Servant
Lt. Col. Tom Aloisio
Brigade Surgeon
4th Brigade Medical Dept.
Event Coordinator

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.

For Sale.......All types of blacksmith items.  Everything from tent stakes to campfire grills and everything in between.  Contact Mike Luck at colsmith@bellsouth.net or phone (954) 434-0798.

For Sale......Eddie Tittlebaum has a CD for sale.  It is The Civil War (Nashville Sessions).  It is unopened, never played and has 15 songs on it.  He is asking $15.00 for it.  Contact him at email sperrazza87@cfl.rr.com or by phone M-F 4:30pm-8:00pm (386) 788-7789

Wanted......Bob "Pete" Lovell (adjutant, Hardy's Bgd.) is still looking for a three band Enfield for his grandson.  It can be any make or model.  He can fix it up if necessary and will consider a rifle in any condition.  He has a two band Mississippi style that he will trade or sell.  Email Bob at adjutant37@comcast.net

May 25, 26, 2002.  Andersonville battle in Andersonville, Georgia.  There will be two battles and lots of sutlers with many antique and craft shopping opportunities at the businesses along main street.  The Andersonville civil war museum and the POW Museum are also very close.  Andersonville is 9 miles North of Americus, GA.  The site is in Andersonville itself; not at the park.  To get there, take I-75 North.  Exit at Americus.  Turn West towards  Columbus and travel approximately 5 miles and turn right at Andersonville Historical Monument.  Turn right and travel 12 miles to the battle.  This is a nice little battle for spectators and reenactor alike.  Contact Ricky Burnham (912)  439-4529  www.sgtreb4th.home.pipeline.com/4thga.html

July 20, 2002.  (Saturday only) Small raid limited to about 100-120 reenactors on the field.  Lots of spectators.  Sponsored by the U.S.S. Ottawa reenactors.  Food available.  Buildings and museum open for tour.  Heritage Village (A Pinellas County Park) Largo, Florida.  Information and location map: http://www.co.pinellas.fl.us/bcc/heritag.htm