Joshes and Chubs - Arkansas Toothpick
Transcription
Joshes and Chubs - Arkansas Toothpick
Joshes and Chubs The Newsletter of the 1 st Arkansas Infantry Company D, C.S.A. October 2008 www.arkansastoothpick.com “So, as you go into battle, remember your ancestors and remember your descendants” 1st Sergeant Lewis and Miss Ellie to Exchange Wedding Vows! After much soul-searching and refusing to listen to the advice of their friends, Mike Lewis and Ellen DiMaggio have decided to go ahead and get married anyway. Seriously, this is the wedding that all of us have been waiting for all year. Mike and Ellie met on a reenactment with the 1 st Arkansas at Arkansas Post a few years ago, and have been together ever since. It is therefore only fitting that they share the joining of their lives with the ones responsible for their meeting. (Just don’t hold it against us.) Their wedding will take place at 3:30 p.m. at Camp White Sulpher Springs Cemetery and should be attended by dignitaries throughout the reenacting community. (Should doesn’t mean will.) They have secured the 52 nd Regimental String Band to play at their reception, so everyone bring the proper clothing to attend the Grand Ball. Suit and tie will be perfectly acceptable if that is all you have. A complete schedule of events for their wedding is included in this newsletter along with a few facts about them personally. So read on, and start making your plans to come to this festive time. Oh yeah, all you reenactors out there, bring your canvas and stay the weekend. CWSSSAS Presents 1st Arkansas with Donation Mike and Ellie at Reed’s Bridge At Reed’s Bridge last month, the Camp White Sulphur Springs Soldier’s Aid Society presented the 1st Arkansas with a $300.00 check from donations received from an event in Little Rock earlier this year. The CWSSSAS is a newly re-named element of our own Civilian Corp that promises to support the soldiers of the 1st Arkansas at every chance. This was proven by the presenting of this check, and has been proven many times over in the past by The CWSSSAS Presenting Captain Kalkbrenner with a $300.00 Check their assistance. Joshes and Chubs October 2008 outfit at least 7-8 people. 1st Sgt Lewis had to clean 5 rifles on Saturday night! The Captain’s Tent Comments from Captain Kalkbrenner I have personally spoken to several more who were interested but we could not dress out. The following week at the Old State House we outfitted several, but I do not know exactly how many. I cleaned out all the extra gear that has been collecting at my house and turned it over to 1st Sgt Lewis. Since I have returned home, I have received two e-mails from people we met in Little Rock wanting to know how to get uniforms. Plus others in the unit have told me of people they have spoken to that want to join with us. White Sulphur Springs looks to be HUGE this year, even with that other thing going on. Ladies and Gentlemen of the 1st Arkansas, Greetings. We have had a very successful past few weeks. Although our numbers were smaller than I would have liked the first couple of events, this past weekend was much better, and we have had more new and potential recruits than I have ever We have a few weeks off before White Sulphur experienced in my 16 years in reenacting. Springs, which is on October 17-19. But then we First, the treasury of the 1st Arkansas has seen a could get busy again. The following week is Lake windfall in the past month. We took third place in DeGray and then Old Washington. We can discuss the White Hall Founders' Day Parade and received the later event if there are those interested. We close $75. Then the White Sulphur Springs Soldiers Aid the year at Prairie Grove on December 5-7, which Society presented us with $300.00 they received for also promises to be a huge event for the 1st Arkansas participating in the Old Mill Anniversary event. I with the number of new recruits that could be there, have been able to put some of this money to good plus Kayla has been busy talking it up in use. $100 was given to Steve Shore for his out-of- Fayetteville!!! pocket expenses in building the bridge for the Reed's Bridge event. And with the $75 from the Parade the Thanks for all that everyone has been doing. We are company bought some used equipment from one of growing and improving in ways like we have not our old members who is having some serious done in a while. Let's keep up the good work. medical problems (more on this later). In our past three events, I have had the opportunity to step back and let others have the chance to lead our group on the field. Lt. Hutcheson did a great job leading the 1st Arkansas at White Hall and Reed's Bridge. Lt. Mikah Wisner did a wonderful job leading the 5th Kansas at the Old State House. Although there were mistakes made, they both quickly recognized them and corrected them. I am well satisfied that if I should ever not be able to participate in the field with the company, you would be in capable hands. And with the way it looks like we may potentially grow in the very near future, we will need those people and even more in leadership positions. Capt K Flash! Flash! Flash! Flash! LATE BREAKING ANNOUNCMENT! Because the Battalion Muster has been changed, the 1st Arkansas will use the date set aside for that to host a School For The Soldier on Saturday, September 20 th beginning at 0900 hours. (That’s 9:00 a.m. for the Civilian Corp). You will need rifle and full Cooters. This is a prefect time for all you newbie's to come out and start learning drill. AND you old heads who have learned more than you are capable of remembering, need to come out and refresh yourself. Bring a sack On the subject of growing, I have never seen such lunch and a canteen and anything else you need to be interests as I have seen in the past 2 weeks. We used comfortable! every bit of extra gear we had at Reed's Bridge to 2 Joshes and Chubs October 2008 Lt. Hutcheson general. Perhaps even the parents will be interested in becoming an active part of this, their children’s new hobby. Executive Officer I would like for us to show up in Confederate Well, here we are again, another year almost gone. I Uniforms and maybe even have a tent or two set have to say that I am more than proud of the year we up. Bring weapons and full Cooters and a sack lunch, have had so far. There have been some really and all the extra uniforms and equipment you have! difficult events to attend, but the 1st Arkansas has Lt. Farmer will be there with Artillery Pieces and will shown forth the character that makes them special be giving demonstrations to the Cadets and putting and have attended to the best of their ability. I will his people through their paces. save the melancholy remarks for December’s newsletter, but I just wanted to say that much at Maybe the CWSSSAS can be there in dress and help with the registering? least. Also, in case you cant tell I went back to the old format for the newsletter. This was for two reasons, the first being that the new format I tried was a pain in the butt! The second was that I did not really receive any input about the last format either good or bad but from two people, so I have to assume that it does not really matter what format I use so I went with the easy one. I now want to share with you something really special. We will be hosting a School for the Soldier on Saturday, September 20th, 2008 at 0900 hours at the Camp White Sulphur Springs Confederate Cemetery in Pine Bluff. We are doing this for two reasons. First, because we need it! Second, we are registering, welcoming and meeting the participants and parents of the newly formed White Sulphur Springs Military Academy or also known as the 1st/15th Arkansas Consolidated Jefferson Guard! This is a group of approximately 25 teenagers from St. Joseph Catholic School that in conjunction with their priest/principal/overseer have agreed and in fact have begged to become a part of this organization. We now have an Infantry Company, Artillery Section, Civilian Corp, and now something for the younger ones! Major Kudos goes out to Ron Kelly for his work in this and bringing the history of our Country to his students as it should be! We have a lot going on this month so let’s all get the right mindset that will be needed to make these events a success. I just got an email from Col. Paul Ferguson (retired) telling me that the event north of Jonesboro has been cancelled. He also stated that Major General Mike Moore is stepping down from his command and will be leaving this beloved hobby of more that 35 years after the Battle of Chickamauga. This will take place in just a few days. That date will be September 20, 2008. As a result of MG Moore’s action his entire Staff is resigning on the same date. This will include my resignation as Chief of Artillery. Several factors were in the decision to cancel the Pea Ridge/ Elkhorn Tavern event mostly the lack of commitment of all concerned. If you are going to Chickamauga I am sure you will learn first hand the details. During this day, we will be having the participants Sorry, to be the bearer of bad news! fill out medical questionnaires, and having their Respectfully, parents/guardians fill out the release/liability forms Danny Honnell, President ACWHTF and then starting them on drill and ceremony. We will need as many people as possible there to answer the questions I am sure the parents will have and for them just to meet us in 3 Joshes and Chubs October 2008 Lt. Bill Farmer Artillery Section Captain Croy was in an antique store recently and spotted an item that interested him. He picked up a double candle holder. Upon looking at the back of it he knew exactly what he was looking at. He had in his hand an original drumstick holder that fastens to the musicians’ belt. He bought this at the bargain price of twenty dollars. Fellow Artillerist, I hope that each and every one of you are ready for the fall campaign. As most of you know, the premier event of the season will be the wedding of 1st Sergeant Mike Lewis and Ms. Ellen DiMaggio at Camp White Sulphur Springs on the 18th of October. Secondly, at pawn shops and antique stores the price marked is usually a starting price for dickering. On the 6th of September the 1st Arkansas Living Sometimes the price is double what the dealer will Historians attended the event at the Old State House. actually take for the item. Even if the marked price It was to commemorate the Little Rock Campaign. is reasonable ask for a better price. The money you There were about 1200 visitors. The artillery, save is money that you can spend on another item. I infantry, and civilian corps all received potential also use eBay as a pricing tool for items that I find in members. I met Captain Michael Croy of Little Rock. shops. It will give you a good idea what a particular He is the owner of a full scale rifled 10 pound Parrott piece is worth. Remember the trinket that has sat in and limber. He and his wife have both expressed that shop for years will probably be there after you interest in attending events with us. I hope to see authenticate it by research. them at the wedding. Shopping on eBay is a little trickier. You not only We have a new powder boy in training. His name is have to know what you are looking at but you also Collin Judson Green. He was born August 30, 2008 at have to be able to discern the real from the fake. I Saint Josephs in Hot Springs. He weighed in at 9 check the feed back comments for the seller. I also pound eight ounces and was twenty-one inches in look for a return policy or guarantee. Feed back is length. He is now home with his mother Diedra not fool proof. I bought a ten dollar confederate note consuming field rations. It will not be long before he as genuine that is a very good reproduction. The is on the field of battle with us. seller had perfect feedback, guarantee, and the seller At the School of the Soldier on September 20 th, I will accepted PayPal. I kept the note as a reminder and as bring my cannon and hold a school of the piece for a display piece for presentations. I also make sure the seller accepts PayPal. If you pay with PayPal, any that is interested. eBay will help you resolve transaction problems. If October 25, and 26 is the DeGray Lake event. This is they can not be resolve, eBay refunds your purchase such a fun event I hope that all can come. Friday the price. 24th is school day if you are planning to help with the school presentation please let me know. I would also When an item is listed correctly, it there for the like to have a gun count for the Saturday and Sunday whole world to find. I search for items that have event. There will be a small powder ration for this been mistakenly listed in the wrong category. The event. items are either spelled wrong or the owner just does I will be going to Old Washington this year. If you not know what they have. Take for instance; I type haven’t been to this event it is well worth your time. cannon ball into the search engine. I get a listing for items with cannon ball in the description. I then type I have been asked how I come up with some really “canon” ball (note spelling). A list of items come up cool civil war items that I own. It is simple, I search that is mostly camera related. However, occasionally hard for them. I do not keep my methods a secret. If some one misspells cannon. I bought an authentic you are interested read on. I look in junk stores, six pound solid shot for less than half what it should antique malls, pawn shops, and I place want ads in have sold for. The same is true for swords, news papers and local shopper guides. I also shop especially CW swords of German or French eBay. manufacture. The most important thing about shopping for relics and artifacts is to know what you are looking at. For Good luck shopping. example, Joshes and Chubs October 2008 and bayonet in its scabbard carried on a waist belt. The new recruit was also issued with a tin or wooden First Sgt Mike Lewis canteen, haversack, gum blanket, wool blanket, greatcoat, knapsack and a miscellany of other items. The experience of hard marches led many to discard This month’s installment is a refresher for most of heavier items, hoping to replace them later. us but mostly directed to our new members and Muskets readers. Here is some historical information about A variety of weapons were in use, but one of the most the soldiers we try to represent. common was the muzzle-loading 1853 pattern .577 caliber Enfield rifle musket of English manufacture. Soldier Life The Civil War was the first conflict in which a This had a maximum range of 1,000 yards and was large proportion of all ranks were literate. Many effective in battle at up to around 200 yards. It fired a letters and personal reminiscences have been kept solid lead conical bullet (known as a mini bullet, after which give a good insight into the life of the its inventor) with a hollow base which expanded into the common soldier. His pay was $11 per month. Most weapon's rifling, improving its accuracy. In theory, a early volunteers enlisted for just twelve months; good soldier could fire three rounds per minute. Prior to later this changed to three years, or the duration of battle a soldier would be issued with between 40 and 60 the war. Minimum age for enlistment was 18 (one rounds. could enlist if younger, but a guardian's consent Rations was required) and although there were examples of Official rations included fresh or salt pork or beef, young boys and men in their 70's, 80% of recruits bread, peas, rice, coffee, sugar, salt, etc. However, this fell within the 18-29 age group. The first was difficult to maintain whilst on campaign unless Conscription Act in American history was passed captured Union rations were made available, so the by the Confederate Congress in April 1862. All Confederate soldier often had to supplement his white males between 18 and 35 became liable for diminishing ration issue by foraging in nearby farmers' military service. The upper age limit was changed fields. Whilst in camp, food parcels were sometimes to 45 in September 1862. The lower and upper received from home containing extras such as pickles, limits were changed to 17 and 50 respectively in sauces, cakes, butter, preserves, etc, with which to February 1864, although the men from these brighten up the dull army fare. additional bands were only required to serve in the Tentage home guard. On active service the Confederate soldier often had no #Uniforms and Accoutrements tent at all, when his covering at night would be a single The uniform most commonly worn by Confederate blanket and sometimes not even that. soldiers consisted of a shell jacket (short-waisted and close fitting) and high-waisted trousers, made Dog or Shelter Tent of grey wool or jeans cloth (a wool and cotton The shelter tent was just large enough for two soldiers weave). Although well made and conforming to a and since it comprised two halves, they would carry one basic pattern, these jackets and trousers emanated half each whilst on the march. On halting for the night from several sources and were produced with the two halves were buttoned together and erected over subtle variations in shade and tailoring, with the a ridge-pole and uprights of saplings, or a guy rope tied result that, as the war progressed, the Confederate between two trees. Army took on a somewhat mottled appearance. 'A' or Wedge Tent Issue items were sometimes supplemented by The ends resembled the letter 'A', or a wedge. These civilian clothing and captured Union apparel. were meant to accommodate four men but often took up Headgear consisted of civilian style felt slouch hats to six and were usually situated in permanent camps as and, occasionally, kepis or forage caps. they were cumbersome to transport on campaign. Accoutrements were usually made of leather and Wall Tent consisted of a cartridge box with tin dividers This is the largest tent utilized and was almost carried on a cross belt and a percussion cap pouch exclusively used by commissioned officers. A smaller version was used by the sergeants of the company. Joshes and Chubs October 2008 The Chaplain’s Corner Andy Taylor A sick man turned to his doctor as he was preparing to leave the examination room and said, "Doctor, I am afraid to die. Tell me what lies on the other side." Very quietly, the doctor said, "I don't know." "You don't know? You, a Christian man, Do not know what is on the other side?“ The doctor was holding the handle of the door; On the other side came a sound of scratching and whining, And as he opened the door, a dog sprang into the room And leaped on him with an eager show of gladness. Turning to the patient, the Doctor said, "Did you notice my dog? He's never been in this room before. He didn't know what was inside. He knew nothing except that his master was here, and when the door opened, he sprang in without fear. I know little of what is on the other side of death, But I do know one thing... I know my Master is there and that is enough." From the Editor I have used this example many times to explain what I feel it must be like for a Child of God to die. When I was a child, my parents, like so many of you out there had a vehicle we called a “Station Wagon.” Some of you may even remember just an old horse drawn wagon. In any event, I remember lying on my back in the rear of that old station wagon with my head pointed to the open rear window and looking up at the stars at night while we were during home from somewhere late. Sooner or later, it was inevitable that I would fall asleep while looking at those stars, even though I wanted to stay awake for the rest of the trip. When we reached our destination, my father would scoop me up in his huge arms and carry me to bed. The next morning I would wake up in a new place from where I went to sleep and would have no knowledge of getting there, other than I knew I had been taken care of and had nothing to worry about. Because of my job, I have witnessed many people as they faced their last moments on this earth including a grandmother and my own mother, and I can say without the least equivocation that there is a definite difference between a true Child of God dying and someone who is not right with the Lord. I truly believe that when a Child of God dies, it is like going to sleep in the back of that old station wagon. You simply go to sleep here and are carried into Heaven by the Father, and you wake up in the presence of our Lord and Savior. The peace that I have observed from saved people as they drew their last breath is a source of strength to me, and should be for you. Philippians 1:20-21 reads, I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain" Be then persuaded my friends by this example of the uncertainty of human life, of the unsubstantial nature of it’s pursuits, and no longer postpone the all important concern of preparing for eternity. Thus shall our hopes be not frustrated, nor we be hurried unprepared into the presence of our all wise and powerful God, to whom the secrets' of all hearts are known. From a Masonic Funeral 6 Joshes and Chubs September 2008 The Soapbox, Dispatches From Cyberspace By Ron Kelly The final say came from a Black Catholic Priest in Pine Bluff and he is very excited about this project. Over the next few days, more info will be surfacing on a grander project that will surely benefit the historic community. I would like to extend a HUGE thank you to Mark, Mike & Ellie, Hutch, and Bill for their continuing support to the 1st Arkansas. I would also like to thank them for their support they have given me in a new project that has taken me by surprise. Again, I thank you all in advance for all the support that our new recruits will need and for the support you still show for each other. Less than one week ago, the 5th Kansas/1st Ark attended the living history at the Old State House. which I am told was the highest-attended event at that venue except for those coming to see the Clinton stuff. As some of you may recall, there were several of my High School students that stayed the majority of the day and attended a drill session with the 6th Ark. The next day they were all in the paper. The following Monday, these kids showed the other kids in class their picture in the paper. The next day I had 24 students wanting to join a Civil War reenacting group. What was amazing was that this was all brought about by students telling each other how good a time they had at an event. I have organized and have done some repair to the extra clothing and accouterments I have and have donated it to our newly formed "LOANER BOX". We have the following items available for "Fresh Fish": Your Obedient Servant, Ron Kelley After some talking and explaining to school officials, the school administrators have officially given a thumbs up for the mustering up of the Jefferson Guard, a group of High School students whose mission is the preservation of accurate history in the area. This will be the first schoolsanctioned Civil War cadet corps in the Nation. When the Jefferson Guard attaches to the 1st Ark, we will all be the 1/15th Consolidated, the Famous Regiment under the direction of Patrick R. Cleburne after the two units were consolidated after the Arkansas losses at Shiloh. I will appreciate any input and support from all of you by attending the School for the Soldier on September 20th at 9am at the Camp White Sulphur Springs in Pine Bluff. If you have any extra ANYTHING, and are willing to share, please bring it. We may have as many as 24 students mustering into service. This is truly a historic event for Civil War history AND the reenacting community, not to suggest they are separate by any means. 7 6 Jackets (5 confederate, 1 small federal) 6 Trowsers (5 sky blue, 1 confederate) 2 Vests 5 Shirts 2pr Braces 1pr Brogans (maybe size 10) 3 Canteens 4 Haversacks (3 cloth, 1 black tarred) 5 sets Accouterments (consisting of belt, cap pouch & cartridge box) 1 Belt with buckle Hats; 6 slouch, 22 Kepis (2 Infantry, 3 Cavalry, 4 Artillery, 12 w/no designation, & 1 Federal) We have the following items that I would like to offer for sale with the proceeds going to purchase items to fill out items we have in small quantities (example more braces): 2 Sword Style Bayonets w/scabbards & frogs 1 Enfield Bayonet w/scabbard & frog 1 canvas sling 1 handmade leather scabbard (needs work) I will be happy to add and inventory any items that any of you have just laying around collecting dust. -1st.Sgt. Mike Lewis 1st. Ark. Infantry Co D, CSA 5th Kansas Dismounted Cav, USA Joshes and Chubs October 2008 In the meantime, Mr. Lewis was going through a similar situation. His divorce was official in December 2006, ending his dead marriage. Even though the two Comments From The Civilian Corp had only met in October, they became friendly faces around the campfire. With the news of Miss Ellie’s The Saga of Miss Ellie and Mr. Lewis. separation and Mr. Lewis’s divorce, rumors flew and friends encouraged, no, pushed the two friends closer It all began about the year 2000 when Miss Ellie together. Phone calls and emails began to fly between became very disenchanted with married life. Her Little Rock and Springdale. husband of 25 years took early retirement and became very moody and “cranky”. Miss Ellie’s The first week of April brought sudden and unexpected only real joy in life, besides her five children, was news…Mr. DiMaggio had filed for a divorce and after getting out to the world of reenacting. Being a 30 days, it was official. The freedom to openly date single woman in the hobby, it was difficult to find was now granted to Miss Ellie and Mr. Lewis. Within a suitable niche, so she developed educational a short time they both knew they were meant to be programs that would not only benefit her audience, together for a lifetime. but gave Miss Ellie a purpose. With the addition of Marriage was discussed but Miss Ellie refused to face her travel trailer, “Tara”, Miss Ellie could now go the “M” word so soon after her bad experience. It took further and for longer time periods away from many weeks for Mr. Lewis to convince her that not all home and her miserable married life. As time went men are beasts and his “charms” would not disappear on, Miss Ellie relied more and more on demon rum once they tied the knot. So, with a common interest in to offset her misery. Even her children recognized history, the two lovers chose to make it official and get the drudgery of her life and encouraged her to do married in the only way they could picture…an whatever it took to find happiness. historical ceremony with all their friends to share in Stirring the Pot Then one day in September 2006, Miss Ellie realized she could no longer stay in Lake Village and stay happy. All of her children were grown and out of the house, her purpose as a Mother was completed. So she and her husband tried all ways of finding some peace, including moving back to New Jersey. Miss Ellie just couldn’t stand the idea of leaving her friends in Arkansas and refused to relocate. All their plans to begin a new chapter of their lives fell through. She finally got up the courage and in November told her husband she could no longer stay with him. They both agreed to make it an official separation on December 1st, and would wait until the children could be together to break the news to them. They also agreed to have a “no-fault” divorce and wait the required 18 months. With a new challenge, Miss Ellie went about job hunting and was fortunate to be hired at the Old State House Museum in March 2007. Then she had to find an apartment and courageously, began her new life. their joy. Wedding Schedule at a glance; 9:00 a.m. Bachelorette Party? 3:30 p.m. Wedding 4:30 p.m. Chow-line dinner 7:00 – 10:00 p.m. Period Ball Dear friends, This small, understated wedding that was originally planned has become overwhelming. I have been receiving phone calls from all my friends and family asking for me to dress out the women. Even though we don't require anyone to dress out, people just seem excited to be part of this history. I haven't a clue how I can put our guests in period clothing. As it is, I am borrowing one hoop skirt for my attendants. For those of you who are planning something on Saturday morning, would you consider having a "dress up" time to help the ladies find clothing they can wear? Can you bring extra skirts, blouses, dresses, hoops and hats? I'll bring all I have. Any help with this dilemma would be appreciated. 8 Thanks, Ellen Joshes and Chubs October 2008 From Across The Pond Company G United Kingdom 1st Sgt Tim Chance Hello fellow Arkies. We had a fantastic turnout for the big one – the Military Odyssey at Dettling, last weekend. We fielded 12 men on Saturday, 17 on Sunday & 15 on Monday, making us the largest single company there. We also welcomed Kevin Payne, formerly of the disbanded 15th Ark, into our ranks. We hope that his stay will be both long and pleasant. We have had a lot of interest from people looking at either joining the hobby for the first time or from former members wishing to rejoin. We are hoping to see some of them at Cliveden next weekend; others are looking at coming to Bath at the end of September, so recruiting is looking up. All of us at Dettling had a great time although it was quite tiring. We had ½ hour long drill displays on Saturday & Monday, plus a 25 minute battle on each of the 3 days. Our feet were real sore after all that marching on the tarred roads. I’ve come to the conclusion that brogans are good for walking on turf or mud but terrible on metalled roads! The battles themselves were lots of fun with plenty of firing & movement. We won the day on Saturday & Monday, having to concede on Sunday (otherwise our opponents won’t want to play). The only real concern was on the Sunday, when we had to conduct a fighting withdrawal through the town. We had to retire over an awful lot of pyrotechnics and their associated wires, plus we were ordered to cross the front of the Tennessee boys. It could have been a bit warm if Dragon hadn’t ceased firing. The battle on Monday was the highlight of the weekend as we spent the whole time with fixed bayonets! After wave after wave of fruitless bayonet charges, the artillery caught up & pummeled the “blue-bellies” into breaking before we finished them off. The weather was overcast for much of the time, although it only actually rained once and that was only a quick shower on the Sunday. I think the threat of rain & the downturn in the economy kept a lot of members of the public away. There seemed a lot fewer people present compared to previous years. That might have also accounted for the lack of a final parade & awarding of prizes that has been the norm for many years. One sour note was that Keith had one of his tires let down, & Sue had one tire partially deflated. I heard there were apparently several acts of vandalism in the car-park during the event – tires let down & trailer covers slashed. The security guards zealously prevented anyone not carrying a membership card from entering the actual showground unless they paid, but didn’t appear to police the rest of the area. I hope that next year the event organizers put some of this talent into protecting our vehicles from vandalism. After-all, without the re-enactors, they won’t have much of a show! Next year we’re being given a larger field close to the battle-field. While we won’t be squished in by the cattle-sheds like before, we will be a lot further from the toilet and shower blocks for those who like their comforts. Elaine once again did a grand job of catering keeping us all well fed for the whole week-end. We have voted to spend some of our company funds on purchasing new pots & pans. With the company expanding the way it is we will need them! On one of the book stalls, some of us found a Civil War cook book that was made for Elaine – and what was really weird was that even the author’s name was only 2 letters different from Elaine’s! The next event, this weekend, is the Event plan multiperiod event at Cliveden. Although there is still an event to come after that, this is technically the last event of the 2008 season so lets put in maximum effort. The deadline for nominations has now passed, and notice is hereby given of the company meeting, with elections & treasurer’s report, due to be held at Bath on Saturday 27th September after powder return. The standard of drill for the displays was mostly I will be sending out voting slips in the next newsletter pretty good – a bit ragged on the Monday – but I (after Cliveden) which can either be brought to Bath or think that was due to tiredness, & too much chatter posted to our treasurer, Chris Goddard for counting. in the ranks! Remember if you are jawin’ you can’t hear the orders! 9 Joshes and Chubs October 2008 Notes From California CALIFORNIA NOTES PART TWO The following is perhaps the most important of the dispatches of the engagement and results of the detached unit of four members of our Company E who happened to end up in the Pennsylvania engagement which has become known in history as Gettysburg. As the four of us from the 3rd’s Company E, fell into a company formation, on Friday July 4th, we were with Sgt. Major, Hutcheson, Capt. Mark Kalkbrenner, 1st Sgt. Mike Lewis, privates Mardy Clardy, Hayes Swayze, Bill Farmer, Richard Norris, Rex Norris, Edgar Colvin, Ron Cate, Texans Kirt Burnett and Lonnie Palmer, and “Tweeter” and others from 5th Louisiana, which all combined we were a company of thirty-six. We were told we were the 2nd company of the left wing of the battalion. Capt. Billy Johnson of 5th Louisiana commanded the company on this day. “Be ready at three PM,” the 1st Sgt. said. Five minutes later, “Fall in guys, we got to be on the road.” I have no timepiece, so that when I had to tell time, I had to make due by estimating. My, my, my, that was fast. Wait all day, then five minutes to accouter up. “Form company.” “TMVI” The other companies came out of the woods. We lined up on the road with our backs to the woods. Our line was over a quarter of a mile long and stretched to our right, over a slight rise. I couldn’t see the right end. Another four companies lined up in a perpendicular road in front of us. They were Army of Northern Virginia companies between the tent ANV areas. It was hot as we listened to Capt. Johnson say, “Don’t worry. I like to get red-faced and curse so don’t take it personal when I get red-faced and curse at you. I reckin the rebs did that.” And, he went further with, “If I was in the line, I’d expect the officers to do that to me.” We were in a light drizzle then and we had inspection and capped off. We then right faced and marched down the gravel road. One third of the way to the battlefield, we were halted. We stood in line there another half hour, where we had a view of the 10 battlefield a mile away, but our officers were upset. They had learned that the entire Confederate army was being held up for a photo shoot with the generals and staff. Finally we got to move forward, and then turned left through a shaded gully and between a barn and house, and down a fenced lane, all about a half mile to the battlefield. The overcast light was still holding as it was now nearing 5:30 or 6 PM. We could see the black line of Federals and an artillery battery on the rise a mile away. We were near the rear of the lines, and we were marched to the right of the field, we could see that we had broken out into three or four separate battalions, which were now like other double ranks on our right. We were marching in front of them and then halted again and fronted. After ceremony and other movements, we were ordered out and right faced, continued down a slope, across a fence and stream and up a rise. There we were fronted and began firing directly to the front of those artillery pieces. We were moved forward then and kept up the firing. We were moved forward two more times closing on the artillery. The artillery was supported and those muskets fired on us as well as the artillery pieces. Our officer had us loading every eleven seconds and he was counting the seconds out loud, above the rising crescendo of firing all around now. We were firing four rounds a minute. Capt. ordered us to close again forward on the artillery, whose men fled and went down. Their support fire kept up and did not go down. As no one was going down, and we were directly in front of the bleachers, at some point I took a hit and went down. The firing was building. I lay there with rain hitting my facing, trying not to breathe hard. We hadn’t exerted much, but I was laying there panting, and trying to appear dead. Soon I heard a voice. “Tim, you gotta see this.” I didn’t respond. “Tim, you’ve gotta see this man.” It was Richard. I was trying to be still. Finally I thought I could portray being wounded. I arose on my left elbow and looked downhill and toward the artillery line. Richard was right. It was unreal. Smoke had filled the little valley. It was darker now overhead. I couldn’t even see all the guys in the line, away and in the smoke. Their muzzle flashes, Continued on next page Joshes and Chubs October 2008 exploded in yellow and pink as if in a night battle. The crescendo of firing and yelling was still building and going on. Smoke would clear somewhat, and I could see our guys. Then the smoke thickened again, obscuring the scene. I grabbed my musket, and being wounded, got up bent over and limped back toward the rear. My file leader, Red bearded Tweeter reached up in pain for me to help him. We straggled to the rear together this way for a while and then the surgeon came and worked on us. The surgeon, Larry Duncan from Los Angeles, pulled a Mine’ ball from Richard’s gut but couldn’t do much more and left us. I went dead again and our lines fought in retreat back over us. The Federals fought forward over us and then retreated back over us, and our lines moved forward over us again. Somehow Richard got to my area. The surgeon worked on us again, and killed me a second time, pulling a Mine’ ball from my chest. The battle went on. Richard and I and Tweeter lay there in the foottall wet grass, in the rain, smoke and dusky light. We were soaked through from sweat on the inside and leathers and wool soaked from the wet grass and drizzle. The battle went on with booms, pops, ragged volleys, and officers and men yelling. At some point it was over, and we had no idea where our company had gone. Todd and Sandy must have stayed with the company. Up to that point in our six year career, this was the largest, longest, loudest, hottest, wettest, fiercest and most confusing battle we had ever been in, bigger than Shiloh. Even being wounded and crawling around on the ground, we got up feeling beat up. We truly were stragglers, again, and went to the closest civilization – the Sutlers. Even though that night was the 4th of July it was quiet. It was a warm and humid evening between intermittent showers from the East end of the thunderstorms that had moved to us from the Ohio area. To keep dry I had dragged my bedroll into Richard’s tent. The camp noise had settled down after the first day’s battles, and while trying to doze off, my eyes popped open at the sound of the birds in the woods next us. My journal only says, "Gray overcast, birds in woods call. 2ND DAY – SATURDAY BATTLE – Gallant Rally at the Klingle Farm. 11 This day we are commanded by Capt. Mark Kalkbrenner. The mornings now were pure leisure. We knew we were only in the 2nd battle this day. I hung some things near a fire to dry out some, and then draped a blanket and poncho over a tent to dry in the morning breeze. We went suttlering and on a hay wagon met up with artillery friends Becky Redwine and Tom Buckman from California also. At the Sutlers we did more looking than buying. Had kettle corn then went back to hay wagons and up hill to camp. We had lunch around a fire with Hayes, Flo, Edgar, Mardy, Rex, Bill, Sue, and Capt. Mark. Nice visit with all these folks. I needed to finish my salami, cheese and Mandarin oranges. It looked like rain coming again and I folded dry thing s and put in the tent. Sandy must have been at the settlers, Todd was with his family, and Richard was already asleep on his cot. I settled down on my bedroll, which was cross-ways across Richard’s tent, at the foot of his cot. I had control of the tent flaps this way also, as it drizzled off and on. I read and slept off and on this way for two hours. Sandy had come back now, and so had Todd. So, toward the middle of the afternoon, I kept close and was ready for the company to form. Sure enough we had a short notice. I told Sandy near me, “Come on.” She was scrambling then, as she had her musket broken down in separate stock and barrel. More others than she were caught being tardy to the line. Captain Kalkbrenner didn’t yell too much. But, he was all business. I never saw him more serious. He knew his business too. I knew then I was in the proud company “D” of the 1st Arkansas. It was a good feeling. As I looked down the firing line to the right, there were long lines of companies and battalions as far as I could see, probably a mile and a half, and in three rows, all that long. Some were still doubled up in fours marching onto the field at that right end. We were marched forward halted and ordered to keep firing. Tweeter, my file leader in the front rank, taunted a Union soldier away off yonder. It was funny stuff, but I couldn’t have said what this Continued on next page Joshes and Chubs October 2008 young man said to that Yankee. The Yankee got so excited he took down his own trousers and turned and bent over, showing all us his bare assed business. This made Tweeter call out more abuse at the Yankee. This was a highlight of the battle as later our Sgt. Major said it was the most boring battle he had ever been in. He meant that there had been no maneuvers to make it interesting. We did march forward, and to a low spot near the creek in the middle of the field, hardly anyone took hits on either side, and we just fired away hundreds and thousands of rounds and then it was over. More ice was brought around to us as we waited to form battalions to march back to camp. We were all soaked good then and we had to march back to camp – and all up hill. This day we were commanded by Brevet Lieutenant Mike Lewis. It was all anticipation all morning and during the buildup of the battalion. Sgt. Major Hutcheson looked even more resplendent than the day before. We marched down the gravel road the same as previous days. It seemed we were lined up more centered on the field, but we were still on the left. Every Confederate unit was in this. Finally we had the order to march forward. As we were marched forward, our line was constantly marched to the oblique to the right, then forward. Every time the line obliqued, the intervals became compressed and when we were forwarded again we had to give left. This happened three times and in the heat and noise it was maddening. We were halted three times to fire. The fence that was supposed to represent the Emmetsburg Pike fence was down so when we went over the boards we kept our lines. We approached the stream and were ordered across. There was no command of “forward into line” or “by companies into line” as we were already in the line. There was a man down on his back with others working on him on our right. Half way back, I never felt more beat up from the march and the heat. My haversack and cartridge leathers seemed to cut into my shoulders; my feet felt every piece of gravel through the soles of my brogans. Then the sun came out. “I love the sun,” Hayes said next to me as we marched. “Always have.” I didn’t answer. “I always love working in But as the company hit the stream they broke into a the sun,” Hayes continued. rough two ranks as they forded across. Then the most I’m soaked though, my feet burn, and I’m huffing confusing thing happened as there was yelling and and puffing. “Yeah, I know what you mean,” I firing the whole time, nobody reformed on the east side managed to say. Hayes and Edgar both compared of the creek. But all people headed toward the Union how they shot 50 and 60 rounds each during the wall and the angle. Many took hits as this going uphill battle. Further up the line, the road turned right now, and everyone wasn’t supposed to get to the wall. and uphill again, and near there a trail through a The Yankees weren’t firing much though. And we line of woods to the eatin’ tent, I fell out of line. I kept going. I reached the wall and no Yankee fired, know I’m out of shape for the remainder of that just helped me over where I laid down a captive behind march another half mile uphill. That’s all right. I the Union line. I looked back and there were still shot 40 rounds. Saved some ammunition for waves of Confederates approaching from the field. tomorrow. I’m a straggler again. I watched Mark, Hutch, Bill, Hayes, Sandy, Edgar, Ron, Rex, Sunday night music was done by a trio of Whiskey Richard Norris, Mardy and the others keep Mountain Hog Callers. It was a nice show around the camp and at midnight some poor fellow had been marching uphill. My god, they’re good men. dispatched to the 1st Arkansas camp to ask the music As I cleaned my rifle in camp A group of English to cease as some folks in Army of North Virginia were reenactors visited the camp. They consisted of six trying to get to sleep. or seven English folks who portray 1st Arkansas in England. They presented the 1st Ark. Flag they The Arkansas folks are the nicest reenactors we ever had made in England. We then had Photo ops with met, and were gracious to take us in for this event and the English folks which Richard got in on. It was a for Shiloh 2007. quiet Saturday night with no music. Tim Desmond, Pvt. Co E 3RD DAY – PICKET’S CHARGE 12 3rd Confederate Inf. Rgt Go to arkansastoothpick.com for the entire article Joshes and Chubs October 2008 Attacking the Federals at Reed’s Bridge Hot enough to get the vapors! Follow me boys, follow me! My bayonet got wet and now I can’t do a thing with it. I was not dee-zurtin’ I was a lookin’ fer a Coney meal. NO…but, NO…but, Okay, Okay, wear the feather! 13 Joshes and Chubs October 2008 The 1st Arkansas Infantry, Co. D, “Clan McGregor” is dedicated to the faithful and historically accurate portrayal of units who fought in the War Between The States from 1861 to 1865. Joshes and Chubs was so named to reflect the attitude of soldiers from Arkansas and Texas towards each other as stated in “The Camp, The Bivouac and the Battlefield” by W.L. Gammage and is published on a once a month basis. Subscription to Joshes and Chubs by nonmembers is free in e-mail format only, and subscription requests, inquiries and article submissions should be sent to the editor at [email protected] Captain Executive Officer Mark Kalkbrenner Robert Hutcheson 2421 Meadowpond Trail 13100 Dollarway White Hall AR 71602 White Hall AR. 71602 (870) 247-2394 (870) 247-2459 (870) 692-4421 (cell) (870) 413-1178 (cell) The 1st Arkansas Living Historians are always looking for “a few good men and women” to fill their ranks of civilian and military positions. If you are interested in Civil War Reenacting please call the Captain or Executive Officer as listed above. Calendar of Events For 2008 *October 18th 19 th *October 24th - 26th *December 6th – 7th White Sulphur Lake DeGray Prairie Grove * Maximum Effort Unappreciated 19th Century Faux Pas Statements I need this job like I need a hole in the back of my head! Disclaimer! With the exception of spelling, grammatical and changes necessary for room, all articles submitted for insertion into Joshes and Chubs are unedited to ensure that the spirit of the authors intentions are kept and their exercise to free speech is not infringed upon. The editor however does reserve the right to exclude or edit any article that he deems as slanderous, malicious or damaging to the readers. To unsubscribe from this publication either send an e-mail to the editor at [email protected] or write him at the return address given Race for the Cure! On Oct. 11, I will be participating in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, raising money for breast cancer research. It is only a 5K walk….NO running for this old woman! If anyone wants to walk with me, PLEASE let me know. It only takes a minute to register, or I can register for you. Thanks, Miss Ellie 501-476-0981 Thank You! I wanted to thank everyone who participated in our Commemoration of the Little Rock Campaign for helping to put on a great event. We had an excellent turn-out, with around 1200 people visiting the Museum on Saturday. The staff at the Old State House appreciates all of your efforts to bring Arkansas History alive for the people of our State! Thank you again. Ian Beard Adult Education, Living History, & Volunteer Coordinator Old State House Museum 300 West Markham St. Little Rock, AR 72201 (501) 324-8642 Joshes and Chubs C/O 13100 Dollarway Road White Hall, AR. 71602 14
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