The Photo Above........Ron Franklin (North Carolina) sent me the photo used to open this issue of the News Magazine.  I think you will agree that this is one great photo.  Look closely at it and all the detail will jump out.  It is part of an article he wrote.

Important Event Information.......CANCELLED.  Sneads event cancelled.  The battle scheduled for December 5, 6, 7, 2003 at Sneads Fl. has been CANCELLED.  If you have any questions contact Larry Bryant at shiloridge@yahoo.com

Crystal River.........Bob Mann, one of the hosts of the Crystal River Battle, wrote and asked me to inform everyone that during their last committee meeting they made a decision to charge a small entrance fee to reenactors.  The event hosts stated that  "Unfortunately due to the rising cost of powder, all soldier reenactors will be charged one dollar at the registration desk".

Horse Landing.......The "Battle At Horse Landing" held at the Rodeheaver Boys Ranch is drawing near.  The hosts are asking for the assistance of all to insure a premium event.  They need  you and your company members to participate in two work days to prepare for the event.  There will be much to do from fence mending, weeding and small construction, to flag pole erecting.  The dates of the work days will be Saturday, October 25th and Saturday, November 8th.  Lunch will be provided by the ranch both Saturdays.  Additionally before and during the event, a modern camp coordinator is needed to assist in the arranging and parking of the modern campers all weekend.  This camp coordinator will need to arrive at the event early.  If you can help with the work weekends, please email Pat Adkins at  padkins1@cfl.rr.com  Indicate which (or both) work days you can attend.  They need to have some numbers prior to each weekend so they know how much food to prepare.

Your Help Is Needed.......It's that time of year again.  Firewood cutting time.  I will once again head up the detail.  As you all know, the last Brooksville event was COLD.  Thanks to the serious work put forth by last year's wood crew, we all had plenty of wood for our campfires.  Well it's time to sign up for this season's firewood detail.  This has to be done and I need your help.  I know that this is a sorry job and involves serious work but someone has to do it.  That someone is you.  Volunteers will meet Saturday, Jan. 3rd at 8am.  Back-up weekend will be Saturday Jan. 10th.  This is a big job and takes all day.  Show up ready to work (8am) with your chainsaw, work gloves, safety glasses etc.  If you don't help, I don't want to hear one single complaint when you sit there in the dark, eating cold canned beans and freezing.  Please help.  Email me at mayorbob@sprynet.com if you can be there.

Promotion........Congratulations go out to Bob Gomillion of Milton Light Artillery (Gen. Goodrich's command).  Bob was promoted to Chief of Staff for Gen. Goodrich and will receive the rank of Major.

A Word Of Thanks........Wesley H. Frank, (Surgeon, C. S. A. 7th Florida Vol. Infantry Regiment) wanted to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers during his wife's sickness and his subsequent loss of her.  He wrote..... 
Ladies and Gentlemen, 
  My wife went home to be with our Lord and Savior, the 29th of Aug.  It has taken me a while to sit down and write this note to you all.  Some of you knew my wife, Miss Ruth, by her painting (Paintings by Ruth).  Those who did not see her work missed a good artist and a fine person.  Ruth was my High School sweetheart but 25 years ago we missed the connection.  Six years ago the good Lord brought her back into my life and we were married at Olustee.  Ruth was the most wonderful wife and I miss her so much.  You, my friends and reenacting family, were just as wonderful as you helped us through this hard time.  When Ruth had her stroke, the cards and letters came in and amazed the family and the Hospital staff.  One whole wall was from the reenacting community, we even got a card from England; that person was also a teacher like Ruth.  When Ruth passed, you once again expressed your feels of love and sympathy and I was overwhelmed with your care and kindness. I just wanted to thank all of you, not only my reenactor friends, but also the  readers of the newsletter for your love. I miss my wife but I will continue on till the trumpet blows and we all go home or till it is my turn to go home where Miss Ruth will be waiting for me. 

I know women will have the advantage in this contest (they can find anything) so the men will just have to work harder.  The winners will receive gift certificates redeemable at the No Name Sutlers tent in the value of $10.00 each.  The first five people to send me (mayorbob@sprynet.com) a photo or painting of at least five or more of the women below will be the winners.  Anyone who sends a photo or painting of all twelve women is automatically one of the winners.  Don't forget to send the woman's name as a caption to each photo.

Extra Credit Brain Teaser..........The News Magazine is on a budget (somewhat and sometimes) so the only bonus you get here is your personal satisfaction in being correct.
 

1. Find a photograph of General Jackson's first wife.
2. Find a photograph of Jackson's daughter when she was in her mid twenties.
3. Find a photograph of Gen. Lee's wife.  Not a painting - a photo.

The Battle of Andersonville 2003 was a success as usual.  Hardys Brigade was well represented by our guys from the 37th Alabama, the Brigade medical team, Milton Light Artillery, Butler Guard and others.  The photos at left and right (as well as the ones below) were taken by Julia Ashley.  Julia was also kind enough to write a little about the reenactment.  On the right is the parade that takes place Saturday before the battle.  Notice the Milton Light guys are pulling both their cannons followed by the Confederate infantry. 

Andersonville report -- My daughter, three other members of the Butler Guard, and I were at Andersonville.  It was chilly in the mornings and then turned pretty warm later in the day.  The weather was ideal -- walking in those woods made you feel as if you had stepped right back into the 1860s.  It was wonderful to see old friends and meet so many new ones.

From a lady's point of view -- the sutlers were terrific!!!  My daughter found a dress and pair of gloves, as well as earrings, and our 23 year old friend found TWO dresses.  Those gals had a blast!  When I asked them what they liked best about the weekend, both girls responded "shopping."  You'd think they had not even noticed the history element.  All I know is that Mary Lin kept running out of money and I kept resupplying her.  Amazing how easy it is to make a 15 year old happy -- give her cash and a sutler.  And Brian with Medical told them that shopping is even better at some event in FL so now the girls are lobbying to go then.  Mama is gonna have more gray hair and less money, I can just feel it in my bones!

The battle on Saturday was excellent.  Those cannons were LOUD!  I nearly jumped out of my skin each time they went off.  The sight of the troops was very impressive.  Our Butler Guard colleague Brad Clardy was able to join in with Co. B from the FL unit as a Confederate and we enjoyed watching him cross that creek (when we could see thru all the smoke).  We cheered when he advanced, gasped when he took a hit, and then cheered again when the Confederates finally overcame the Federals.  One thing that was really cute was this little boy, about 5 years old, in the audience -- he wore a Confederate cap and had a toy musket and did his best to shoot those Yanks from his side of the line.  I have the impression that he is going to end up being a reenactor one day!  The Federal troops were quite impressive as well, even with the smaller number.  They fought well, and took massive hits.  One boy had this blood stuff come out of his mouth and really grossed out the ladies and thrilled the boys, so I am sure he enjoyed
giving the impression of the dying soldier!

One thing that was a big treat for me was meeting an unknown cousin.  Col. Riker wore his Battle of Anderson shirt (shirt had logo of cannon and address of the event from 2003) when he was registering and Col. Murdock of the GA group asked where Troy Murdock road was in Belton, South Carolina.  David arranged for us to meet, and it turned out that we have a common ancestor, Hambleton Murdoch of Newberry County, South Carolina, a Revolutionary War patriot.  Both of our families ended up migrating to Georgia before the War Between the States.   So you never know who you are going to run into or learn at these events.

  This was one of the best small reenactments I've ever experienced.  The weather was great, no rain, very cool - good for sleeping and wearing wool uniforms.
  Andersonville is a unique town, it seems as if it's frozen in time.  Devoid of modern buildings, no Jiffy Stores, supermarkets, etc.  Twelve miles north of Americus, Ga., on State Rd. 49., nice rolling hills and open pastures with lots of cotton fields and pecan groves.
  A small town with old buildings and antique shops. country cafe with awesome country cooking.  They even have an old sugar cane mill and large cooking pot for making syrup.  The whole town welcomed us and made us feel appreciated.
We camped with the 37th Alabama and Hardy Medical Staff next to railroad tracks and yes! the train came through about 3:30 or 4:30 each morning.  It was a very pleasurable nuisance.  You are awakened with a very loud air horn as the train approached the crossing.  It seemed as if the train was coming right through your tent.  You could hear the noise of the metal wheels (clickety - clack) they made on the tracks.  It faded out as it went farther down the track.
  The old prison grounds and cemetery with it's POW Museum, a well manicured and well kept park was a nice side trip.
  On Saturday morning the town had a parade to commence the weekend activities.  A typical fire engine, Mayor and dignitaries also the U.S. Army Band form Ft. Benning, Ga.  Milton Light Artillery pulled our two cannons by hand in the parade and was well received; we got a standing ovation from the spectators.  It was the first time in 22 years they had cannons in the parade.  The Florida group was led by Gen. Goodrich, Lt. Col. Riker and Capt. Burback.  Everyone was marching very smartly and proud in step with the music of the U.S. Army Band.
  The battle went very well both days with no incidents or accidents.  The event drew a lot of spectators.

As many of you know, our Lt. Col. David Riker is also an alternative education school teacher.  He's not afraid of taking on historical projects with his students that most people would run from.  Well, Dave found another challenge at the Oak Hill Cemetery which is located in Bartow, Fla.  The cemetery was founded in 1848 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Unfortunately, the cemetery had fallen into neglect.  Many head stones were knocked over and some broken, bushes, small trees, grass and weeds had grown across almost all of the 472 graves.  Of those graves, forty-eight are infants below the age of one, another seventy-two are less than seven years old.  There are fifty Confederate Veterans, four Federal Veterans, and one Spanish American Veteran.  Additionally there are at least a dozen other Veterans, many of whom were Seminole Indian War militia.  Some of the graves had been completely covered over by dirt and lost.  Some of the people buried there may never be identified.  The cemetery records aren't very good and some have been lost over time.  One of the lost grave sites was found by Dave's students as you can see in the photo at right.  Pictured is Lt. Col. Riker and a student replacing the coping on a Confederate soldier's grave.  In the photo (left) using teamwork, the boot camp students pass bricks down the line.  The bricks are then set in place to mark some of the graves.  The students worked long hard hours once a month for four months to landscape the grounds, scrub the headstones and restore the graves.  Azaleas and camellias are planted were weeds grew and the trees whose limbs drooped to the ground are trimmed back so their majestic beauty can be seen.  When their work had been completed, the difference was literally as night is to day.  From an overgrown forgotten lot, an historic cemetery returned to remind the local community of their founders and their roots.  You would think that after their work had been completed, the story would end there.  Not so.  Riker wanted to dedicate the cemetery to the public with a living history and service to honor the fallen Civil War soldiers buried there.  The Lt. Col. / school teacher had his students research each grave and discover the facts and history of the person's life.  That data was compiled and a story all its own grew from the information.  But this restoration story still doesn't end there.  Next came the dedication service.  Dave invited Hardy's Brigade reenactors to help with a living history.  Pictured (below right) are some of that team.  Their names are; starting with the seated women, left to right: Carole Hollamby (Hardy Brigade Medical), Chris Watson (Anne H. Darracott UDC Chapter #791 UDC), Judi Moots (President of the Annie H. Darracott #791 UDC), Sheila Tindle (Vice President / Information Officer for the Annie H. Darracott #791 UDC).  The men standing behind the ladies are (from left to right) Lt. Gary Weitzel (57th Virginia Co. C.), Major Bob Gomillion (Chief of Staff, Milton Light Artillery), Charlie Croft (57th Virginia Co. C.), Pvt. Bob Gross (Independent Federal and CSA), Chuck Padrick (57th Virginia Co. C.), Major Robert Niepert (10th Tenn. Co. D. Cavalry) and Lt. Jerry Fortner (10th Tenn. Co. A. Dismounted).  Others who helped but are not pictured here are Claudette Wadell, June Godfrey and of course Lt. Col. David Riker.
  The women of the United Daughters of the Confederacy set up their display tent and were happy to talk to the visitors and then lead them on tours of the cemetery.  The tours were not just a quick walk through but a thirty to forty minute, comprehensive historical account of the cemetery and its occupants.  The visitors were given photo copies of some of the headstones with details of their inscriptions.  Another handout listed some the people buried there and their status during their lives.  Later the ladies shucked corn and green beans for dinner (I love to see women work hard to prepare my meal - if they would have served mint juleps to the men as we relaxed it would have been perfect!  I will most likely get shot for that comment.) they also explained to interested women the types of dresses they were wearing and how they made them.
The infantry men present drilled, fired their muskets and showed off their uniforms.  The crowd was interested in knowing just about everything about the life of a 1860's soldier from his shoes to his hat.  I must say here that the infantrymen looked real good during their drill demonstrations.  They were always in step and never missed a command.  The infantry camp consisted of five "A" frame tents, a Sibley tent, a wall cook tent, and an officers wall tent (photo at right).
  I know that everyone has seen Lt. Col. Riker's huge medical display (photo at left).  He has everything from instruments to bottles and everything in between.  Well he had every bit of his stuff set up and spent hours telling everyone about the medical procedures and techniques during the Civil War.  As usual his tent and all the items around it were very period correct.  When Doc Riker was busy leading a cemetery tour, Tim and Carole Hollamby also on the medical team, stepped in to help by greeting the guests and talking about medicine and old cures.
  Major R. Niepert set up two different types of McClellan saddles, several carbines and examples of pistols at the cavalry station.  Here the people learned about the life of a cavalryman and his horse equipment.  Lt. J. Fortner thoroughly demonstrated each weapon telling visitors how it was loaded, how to fire it and where it was used.
  It would have been nice if more people had shown up to tour the cemetery but overall, those who did attend were treated to a well organized and informative living history.

  The annual Civil War antique show and sale took place in Lake Wales on Oct. 18-19.  After returning home from the Oak Hill living history (Saturday), we decided to drive over and check it out (Sunday).  Reenactors in uniform get in free so Lorraine and I put on our reenacting clothes.  The event committee also keeps track of who wears what and at the end of the weekend show, they award plaques to the best dressed reenactors to attend.  We met Dave Riker and Karen at the door.  Right off, we all noticed that the show this year was much smaller than in the past.  There were probably half as many dealers and no reenactor displays.  There must have been some kind of a conflict with another show or sale somewhere.  Anyway, we walked around looking and talking about the items for about 2 1/2 hours.  Lorraine found several women's items; fans, an early make up type thing (I think that is what it was.  I'm a guy, I really don't know what that stuff is) and other items.  I found a lot of really interesting things like rifles, pistols, sabers etc. (some priced reasonably - some not) but I didn't see anything that I couldn't live without.
  Just as we were leaving, the event hosts started announcing the best dressed reenactors (period correct).  Well to our delight, my wife Lorraine took first place "Best Lady In Period Dress - All Wars".  Congratulations babe, I always said you were a winner.
  I wonder if we as reenactors should get together and rent a bunch of tables and have an "extra equipment" sale there next year.  There was plenty of room and it is just about centrally located in the state.  What do you think?  If there is a good enough response, I will check into it.

Cape Canaveral Convention........The ladies of the United Daughters of the Confederacy had a convention a few weeks ago in Cape Canaveral, Fla.  It was sponsored by Laura and Ginger of the District IV chapter.  The ladies enjoyed beautiful decorations as they ate lunch and dinner.  Additionally, there were lots of activities to keep the women busy all weekend.  You may see several of them sporting new hats from the Randolph Hat Shop.  The boutique had many items such as cook books, note cards, magnets, car tags, puzzles, pictures, raffles and more for sale.  Music was supplied by 1860 Sunset Pond Band.  However, it wasn't all play; they did find time to change a couple of by-laws.  President General Mrs. Lawrence Limpus, her husband Larry and their adopted sister, Sharon Blesboe (from Michigan) were among the VIP's present.  Also attending were seven past Division Presidents and three Division Honorary Presidents.  Madame President Meta Parkinson kept things running smoothly.  The photo above left, was taken by Claudette Wadell.

   Brigadier General Alexander Asboth was an active Union commander in Florida as well an experienced soldier.  In July of 1861 he was General John Fremont’s Chief of Staff.  He was promoted to Brigadier General on September 7, 1861, though Congressional approval did not occur until March of 1862 when Asboth distinguished himself at the Battle of Pea Ridge or Elkhorn Tavern, Arkansas.  Though wounded in the engagement, he was able to take the field the following day.  After serving in Kentucky, he was placed in command of the Union garrisons at the forts in Pensacola, Florida.
   In September of 1864, General Asboth prepared for a large raid across the Florida panhandle.  His force, numbering some 700 mounted soldiers, consisted of Lieutenant Colonel Spurling and three battalions of the 2nd Maine Cavalry, two companies of the 1st Florida Cavalry US commanded by Major Ruttkay, and Colonel L. L. Zulavsky with one mounted company of each of the 82nd and 86th United States Colored Troops.  With only scant Confederate forces in western Florida, little opposition was expected.  The Federal troops departed from Pensacola on September 18.  Along the way, they paused to obtain supplies from the steam ship Lizzie Davis, then resumed their march.
   The Union soldiers made their way east clashing occasionally with small Confederate forces.  At dawn on September 23, the Federal column reached Euchee Anna Courthouse.  There was a brief skirmish with a handful of Confederates, but the town was soon in Union hands.  Nine military prisoners were taken, among them 1st Lieutenant Francis Gordon of the 15th Confederate Cavalry and Militia Colonel W. H. Terrence.  Six additional prisoners were also captured, including Southern leader William Cawthon and beef contractor Allen Hart. The Federals also captured 28 stands of arms, 46 horses, eight mules, and a large amount of bar lead marked “Merchant Shot Works, Baltimore”.
   Word had already reached the Southern forces in the region about the Union column.  Colonel A. B. Montgomery, C.S.A., was attempting to consolidate the scattered Confederates to oppose the Federals.  The shortage of Southern troops was further complicated by the question of where to concentrate the soldiers, as the destination of the Northerners was uncertain. 
   General Asboth left Euchee Anna Courthouse and continued east toward Marianna.  The two companies of the 1st Florida Cavalry US had been dispatched to see to the prisoners and captured supplies.  This, along with the small losses from the occasional skirmishing, left Asboth with some 500 troops.  The Federals advanced by way of Campbellton, forcing the Campbellton Home Guard into Marianna. 
   With the arrival of the Campbellton Home Guard, it became clear the Federals were likely heading for Marianna.  Colonel Montgomery began to assemble his troops at that town.  Among his force were two companies of the 5th Florida Cavalry Battalion, and the Marianna Home Guards, Campbellton Home Guards, and Greenwood Home Guards militia companies.  The Southerners were also joined by some wounded Confederates home for recovery, and a group of elderly men and young boys who referred to themselves as the “Cradle and Grave Company”.  All together Montgomery had around 150 to 170 soldiers.
   On September 27, the Federal column approached Marianna.  Colonel Montgomery had organized his forces and deployed them on the western edge of the town.  Some of the Southerners built a barricade across the road, while others took up positions in the neighboring church and surrounding cover.  As the Federals drew near, they found the Confederates awaiting them.  The 2nd Maine Cavalry charged up the road, but was driven back in a hail of bullets from the barricade and buildings.  The Federals made another attack, but this time Asboth sent a flanking force around the town.  Soon the Confederates found the enemy in front and on their flank, but fought on as best they could.  Asboth himself was wounded in the engagement, with bullets breaking his jaw and left  arm. 
   During the fighting, orders were issued to set fire to the church to drive out the Southerners.  Flames soon engulfed the church and two other buildings. Of the numerous stories, some confirmed and some not, that have built up around the Battle of Marianna, at least one is generally regarded to be correct.  Major Nathan Cutler of the 2nd Maine Cavalry dismounted and, braving the fire, entered the church.  Finding the lectern, Cutler retrieved the church Bible to save the book from the flames, and ran from the church.
   Well outnumbered and seeing the desperate situation, Colonel Montgomery took his troops and tried to withdraw from Marianna.  Many of the local militia remained in an effort to still defend the town.  Several of the defenders were trapped inside when the church collapsed.  Others were struck down as they fled the building.  At this point some of the Southern troops surrendered to the Northerners.  Pictured at right is the Battle of Marianna monument.  Photo courtesy Florida State Archives.
   While some of the Confederates were fighting their way from the town, Colonel Montgomery was captured by Union troops.  About 40 Confederates put a fighting retreat from the town toward the Chipola River.  They successfully gained the bridge, where Surgeon Robinson, one of the officers who made it to the span, gave orders for the bridge planks to be torn up to block the enemy’s advance.  Some musketry was exchanged here, but the battle was largely over.
   The battle reportedly lasted an hour or so.  The Federals had lost 13 killed and 26 wounded.  Confederate casualties numbered 10 dead and 16 wounded, as well as some 50 or so captured.  However, accounts vary slightly as to the losses. Union soldiers also captured 95 stands of arms, 400 cattle, 200 horses and mules, and 17 wagons.  Among the Union wounded was Major Cutler, who was  left  behind  in  Marianna.   He  is  believed  to  have  later  returned  to  his command. Later that day the Federal column left Marianna, and on October 4 the Union troops returned to Pensacola.

For Sale........Original Maps (some cloth backed), photos, paintings, etc.  Dates range from 1850 to 1976.  Most maps are from areas in Florida, some very old some newer all original.  Photos include Ft. Clinch, Ft. Marion and Ft. Jefferson.  Paintings and pen and ink drawings of Florida forts.  Aprox. 100 items for sale.  Contact Jim Gray at cracker3@optushome.com.au for list.

For Sale........CARGO TRAILER FOR SALE. 16'long box by 8 1/2' wide and 7' inside height. Already set up for a sutler but inside shelves and sub floor can be easily removed should you want to haul a cannon or two. Trailer is built on a heavy duty frame with 10 thousand pound axles, has almost new tires and a mounted spare, has electric brakes. Some slight amount of the usual dings but nothing seriously wrong with the unit. Original cost was about 6000.00. will sell for $3300.00.  Delivery may be possible. Email John Boger at yoursutler@earthlink.net 

For Sale........American Civil War Armies: Union Troops (Paperback 1986) by Philip Katcher - List $14.95. (very good condition - due to  small crease on cover - not very noticeable)  $6.00 - includes shipping.  And American Civil War Armies 4: State Troops (Paperback 1987) by Philip Katcher - List $14.95 (like new condition) $7.00 - includes shipping Or both for $12.00.  Contact Tom Fasulo at fasulo@ufl.edu

October 23, 2003. Thursday.  The Greater Orlando Civil War Roundtable meets every 4th Thursday at 730pm.  The meetings are held at the Marks Street Senior Center at 99 E. Marks St. between Orange Ave. and Magnolia St. in downtown Orlando.  Meeting topic: Fannie Kemble, A Northern Actress in the South.  For information contact Ruth Ann Wood at flrb_99@yahoo.com

October 24, 25, 26, 2003.  NEW DATE   Battle of Hunsader Farms (Bradenton, Florida) hosted by the 97th Pennsylvania.  Hardy's Brigade maximum effort event.  Please note the change of date for this event.  The Hunsader Pumpkin festival is a two week event with The Battle of Hunsader Farms on the 2nd weekend, and it will be the main attraction for that weekend.  The event will not be in competition with a famous country singer as in years past.  Registration will be open for Sutlers and Reennactors Thursday, Oct. 23rd.  The school day will on Friday, Oct. 24th and volunteers are needed to help with the approx. 1000 school kids that are expected to attend.  A $1.00 registration fee for all reennactors will be charged to help pay for the large expense of the firewood, hay, water, and more.  Portalets will be provided.  Due to insurance problems, mounted cavalrymen are not allowed at this event.  Take I-75 South.  Exit at Exit #42 (SR 64).  Travel 10.5 miles East on SR 64 to CR 675.  At CR 675 go South for 2.5 miles.  Sutlers can contact Dave Krieger Radm1@aol.com Union reenactors contact Adam Wescott adamcvwar3@comcast.net confederate reenactors contact Tom Aloisio msmaj.cwdoc@verizon.net 

October 31, November 1, 2, 2003.  The 140th Commemorative Chickamauga event sponsored by The Atlanta Campaign, Inc.  There will be battles held on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.  A school program will also be held on Friday for about 4000 local students.  Early registration fee is $8.00 per person until July 1st 2003.  For information please call 770-614-8616 or visit their web site at www.atlantacampaign.com

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

November 7, 8, 9, 2003.  All are invited to attend the 19th annual reenactment of the March 1865 Union raid and ensuing skirmish with local troops in Marion County.  The reenactment will be held at a NEW SITE this year, the Marion County 4-H farm site at the intersection of Highway 464 and Highway 35 just southeast of Ocala.  All branches of service are welcome; there is plenty of room.  Hay firewood, water, portalets, and modern and authentic camping are provided.  Stores, lodging, and restaurants are located nearby.  Powder rations provided to the first eight cannons pre-registered by October 25th.  The weekend will include two battle reenactments, a ladies' tea and civilian activities, and a ball Saturday night.  Driving directions to the site from the NORTH: From I-75 take exit 352 to Hwy. 40.  Go east on Hwy. 40 through Ocala to the town of Silver Springs.  Turn right at traffic light at the intersection of Hwy 40 and Hwy. 35 (near the Silver Springs theme park).  Go five miles south on Hwy. 35 to Hwy. 464.  Go across Hwy. 464; the site entrance is about 100 yards on your left.  Directions from the SOUTH:  From I-75 take exit 341 to Hwy. 484.  Go eight miles east on Hwy. 484 to the intersection of Hwy. 484 Hwy 27/301/441.  Go across 27/301/441 to the intersection of Hwy 484 and 35.  Turn left onto Hwy. 35 and go five miles north; the site is on your right.  The site entrance is on Hwy. 35.  For more information contact Major Keith Kohl at cog4flainf@aol.com 

November, 2003.  There will not be a Ft. Meade reenactment this year.  The Battle of Bowlegs Creek in Ft. Meade, Florida has been canceled.  I will let you know if things change.

November 16, 2003.  2pm to 4pm.  Ladies tea and seminar.  Hosted by the Golden Teacup Society.  The topic will be "Civil War Quilts and Fabrics".  The seminar will be held at The Olde Green Cupboard, 10950-26 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, Fl. located just south of I-95 on State Road 13 in the Fresh Market shopping center.  For information contact GoldTeacup@aol.com

November 14, 15, 16, 2003.  Lakeland.  Sun'n Fun Fly-in.  Gulf Ridge Council.  This is a very big Scout event.  It is only held every 3 or 4 years.  Scouts come from an 8 county area from Brooksville to Sebring.  It will include Cubs, Boy Scouts, Venturers and their parents.  The Cubs and their parents will be limited to 750 camping for the weekend.  The others are not limited and we expect about 3,000 camping for the weekend.  In addition, we will have many day visitors on Saturday.  The scouts will arrive Friday evening and set up camp.  Saturday is the event, Sunday they get up, have breakfast and go home.  There will be no program on Sunday.  For those of us in the reenactors and display area, we can come Friday to set up and be ready for the scouts the first thing Saturday morning.  Or, you can come and set up early Saturday morning.  Then, you can leave late Saturday or Sunday morning.  Just a reminder, this is an outdoor event and there is no indoor space available.  Directions: I-4 to exit 25 (old 15) County Line Road.  Go south 3.5 miles to 4175 Medulla Road.  There is a cemetery on the SE corner.  Turn left (go east) on Medulla Road and go 1.5 miles to the entrance to Sun ‘n Fun.  At that point, the road will go to the right.  But, just go straight to enter Sun ‘n Fun.  Contact Gary Kemp, Camporee Chair (352) 567-7304 or Stuart Williams, Council Program Director, (813) 872-2691 or (941) 533-2775.  Reenactors and Displays contact: Jim Farley (813) 968-5994 968-59jfarley2@tampabay.rr.com

November 21, 22, 23, 2003.  8th annual Battle at Horse Landing, Palatka, (North) Florida at the Rodeheaver Boy's Ranch.  Hosted by the 3rd Florida Co. A. and Rodeheavers Boys Ranch.  Hardy's Brigade maximum effort event. This is the first big battle of the new season and it has always been a good event.  Help is needed for school day on Friday with demonstrations, talks and kid control.  The Friday living history school days always brings thousands of kids in.  Ladies tea on Sat., ball Sat. night.  Authentic earthwork battles take place on very large field both Saturday and Sunday.  Good pyrotechnics display.  Hay and firewood provided.  Hot showers available.  Food and carriage rides for additional fee.  There is a $5 reenactor fee, programs $2.   All proceeds go to the Boys Ranch for operating expenses and for preservation and maintenance of historic site of Confederate Captain J.J. Dickinson's finest triumph.  The Boys Ranch is 9.7 miles South of Palatka on Hwy 19.  The entrance is hard to see so be careful.  Sutlers contact (904) 328-1281.  For general info. email the ranch at rodeheaverboys@aol.com snail mail Horse Landing, 380 Boys Ranch Rd. Palatka, Fl. 32177.

November 28, Thursday.  The Greater Orlando Civil War Roundtable meets every 4th Thursday at 730pm.  Annual Banquet.  The meetings are held at the Marks Street Senior Center at 99 E. Marks St. between Orange Ave. and Magnolia St. in downtown Orlando.  Each month a different topic is discussed and program presented.  For information contact Ruth Ann Wood at flrb_99@yahoo.com

November 28, 29, 30, 2003.  (Thanksgiving weekend) Ft Clinch Union Thanksgiving and Christmas at the fort event.  Contact Brian Fugate at (904) 277-7274 or email Mary at map1864@aol.com