Important Event Announcement - "Bummers"

[Eric Tipton]

Greetings Everyone:

The Armory Guards (http://www.armoryguards.org/) and Mess No. 1 (http://www.mess1.homestead.com/) have an important announcement to make regarding the 2009 event schedule. Our groups are working together on something that we think will be unique and exciting for the authentically-minded folks out there. The event is called "BUMMERS" and you can click on the logo to visit the front page of the new web site. We will be getting the secondary pages together as things develop.

http://www.bummers09.com/images/Bummers-Logo-Final.jpg (http://www.bummers09.com)

Our permanent web address once everything is set up will be bummers09.com (http://www.bummers09.com). (This is now active).

Our core planning will be done by Armory Guards - Kiev Thomason, Herb Coats, and Jordan Roberts. Mess No. 1 - Ken Cornett, Joe Liechty, Eric Tipton and Evan Zimmerman.

We will have more details to come as we bring things together. We want to top the numbers produced at Rich Mountain for an event of this type.

More to come soon. This is by invitation only and we will contact groups directly for participation.

[Matt Woodburn]

If there were only one event left that I could do in my life, this is it. Consider me your first Federal recruit!

[Coatsy]

We'll see you there Matt. :D

[Kiev Thomason]

I feel like I am gonna go to my first rock concert all over again!

[Ross L. Lamoreaux]

I've been waiting ten years for something like this. Kudos to you boys for starting to put this together.

[Half Rations]

Thanks to Kiev, Herb and Eric for pulling the recources that made it possible for us to get this land. Cant wait to see a long blue colume marching along the Flint and up the Hills.:wink_smil

Jordan Roberts
Armory Guards

[ley74]

Eric:

I am sure you will, once again, be full of surprises. Looking forward to it.

Charles, you know my next question... right?

[Suppelsa]

Lets get our game faces on.:)

[GWHall]

Hmm, from the background of the website, I assume that knapsacks will be collected saturday morning and burned?

I think I will be there. I usually can't tell you what I'm doing in 2 weeks from now, but I think I will be there in 2009.

[C.R. Henderson]

Hey, can I come and join your party?.....

[Ken Cornett]

Hmm..surprises Ley? Well, once we put our heads together, I'm sure we'll pull something out of the hat straight from the history books! :D

[Eric Tipton]

Here we go again... :D

[coastaltrash]

Not Zimmerman!

Can't wait for this one

[DougCooper]

Those of us in BGR withdrawal just perked up!! Thanks for announcing this Eric - the rumors were building!

[huntdaw]

I certainly hope I get an invite to this one.

[reb290]

The event sound's awesome. Like some of the other guy's I feel like I am just finding out about the Civil war!:D:D

[Eric Tipton]

The permanent web address is now active.

http://www.bummers09.com (http://www.bummers09.com)

[plankholder]

can I bring my lucifers?-Eli Geery

[TKlas]

Hi Eric,

Looks like a fine event in the making and one that I am sure will create a lot of excitement. I will definately plan on making the trip for 2009.


Nice job Eric,

Tom

[trippcor]

Herb, Kiev, Eric and Jordan have already put a lot of work into this event and I can not wait to see the pay off. I am sure the phrase "Just one more hill" will echo once again through the hills and valleys of Georgia. At least this time it will not be in June.

[john duffer]

I though one of the best things about Rich Mountain was that there WAS only one hill.

[blackhattertuck]

Gents,

Oh yeah.... Count me in.

[Sherry Key]

I just saw this thread and haven't shown it to him yet but I'm sure Cornbread will be very interested! Hope he's on the invite list! Can't wait to print it out and take it home to him.

Sherry Key.
aka Mrs. Cornbread.

[Johnny Lloyd]

:D I'm SOOO there! Consider this my reserved space! I called it. :p

Really... I'll GLADLY do this event! Sign me up!

-Johnny Lloyd

[Kevin O'Beirne]

Looks like another one with slick graphics. :)

Will participants be able to retain their knapsacks and blankies throughout this event? Better address that early and often!

[reb290]

I certainly hope I get an invite to this one.
I hope to get an invite to.:D:D

[Mtn.Guerilla]

Congrats to you fellas' for getting the early stages started. I can't wait. Appears the fires are already burnin'
Cheers,

[blackhattertuck]

Fellows,

Looking at the sattelite pics of the event site on google maps makes me salivate. The place has stellar potential for an authentic event. It also has tons of pine trees, and we all know, pine knots make excellent fire starters... :wink_smil

[Tarheel]

Eric,
Might there be room for a few Lazy Jacks and friends from across the Big Water? An invitation would be most welcome particularly as most of us are still coming down from the BGR high. Please consider us!!!!
Kind regards,
Patrick Reardon,
The Lazy Jack Mess, UK.

[Charles Heath]

I'm always impressed by the way some folks get it when it comes to advance notice. :)

ET, don't forget to add this one to the 2009 events thread in the focus group.

[pipthelimey]

Sweet, this is maybe an hour or so from my house. The reenacting gods smile on me at last.

AJ

[HighPrvt]

Outstanding!!!

Can't wait for this one.

[Kiev Thomason]

Makes me think of a song by the group Alabama.....Will keep the home fires BURNING!!!!!!!!:wink_smil
Gents thanks sooooo much for the early cheers!I hope that we can live up to your praise.I can speek for all of us when I say that we have been talking this over since the last WIG meeting in Nashville last December and it just keeps growing.
When we get the type of words you gents are putting forth it makes us want to do great things.

This will ROCK!

[bAcK88]

Will the Federals be able to pillage, plunder, and burn?

I'm there!

Bill

[Eric Tipton]

I have added the secondary pages for the web site - placeholders mostly for now, but check it out:

www.bummers09.com (http://www.bummers09.com)

I'll echo what Kiev said. We are thrilled to death that we have received the type of support that has been extended so far. We thought that this scenario might be a fun one to do. In terms of specifics, we will say the same that we said for Rich Mountain. Read the history and expect anything to happen... if it did.

[Jim of The SRR]

I'm looking forward to this. I actually did the Marching Thru GA event several years ago and it was fun. Plus right in my backyard.

Jim Butler
Salt River Rifles

"Sherman: Atlanta's first torchbearer" (from a T-shirt during the 1996 Atlanta Olympics).

[Kiev Thomason]

Will the Federals be able to pillage, plunder, and burn?

I'm there!

Bill

You will just have to see for yourself!:sarcasticSee ya there Bill

[CARY MEADOWS]

I'm in Iraq right now and will be home in July 2008. I hope to be stationed on the East coast by then, so count me in. BGR put the hook in me. Sign me up.

Cary Meadows
MNST-I J/4
Umm Qasr Iraq

[CARY MEADOWS]

I'm in Iraq right now and will be home in July 2008. I hope to be stationed on the East coast after that. Count me in. BGR put the hook into me, so sign me up.
Cary Meadows
MNST-I J/4
Umm Qasr, Iraq

[Kevin O'Beirne]

Eric,

Just a thought: Wanton destruction is grossly underrepresented in the hobby. (Still looking to see some new experienced through reenacting.)

[redleggeddevil]

Boy, would I like to be part of this! I have even more motivation than most: Not only am I a reenactor, but I was a Boy Scout camp director for 6 years. Oh, to be sanctioned to do all the evil things I was never allowed to do...

[Mark Susnis]

Recommend you guys get a copy of Joseph T. Glatthaar's The March to the Sea and Beyond: Sherman's Troops in the Savannah and Carolina's Campaign published in 1985. Glatthaar's book can best be described as the Life of Billy Yank on Sherman's men. Chapter 7 is titled "Foraging"...

Regards,
Mark Susnis

[theknapsack]

I don't know what's happening in 2009 with me, but count me in for now.

[Coatsy]

Barfus and all.

As one of "those guys" I highly recommend reading some books dealing with Uncle Billy and the Gang's stroll from Atlanta to Savannah. "The Crew" is already doing so.

Jimbo, Haird, and AJ...Yeah an event in our backyard.... Who would have thought?

[Coatsy]

All, here is something to think on......From Sherman

"Headquarters Military Division of the Mississippi, In the Field, Kingston, Georgia, November 9, 1864

I. For the purpose of military operations, this army is divided into two wings viz.: The right wing, Major-General O. O. Howard commanding, composed of the Fifteenth and Seventeenth Corps; the left wing, Major-General H. W. Slocum commanding, composed of the Fourteenth and Twentieth Corps.

II. The habitual order of march will be, wherever practicable, by four roads, as nearly parallel as possible, and converging at points hereafter to be indicated in orders. The cavalry, Brigadier - General Kilpatrick commanding, will receive special orders from the commander-in-chief.

III. There will be no general train of supplies, but each corps will have its ammunition-train and provision-train, distributed habitually as follows: Behind each regiment should follow one wagon and one ambulance; behind each brigade should follow a due proportion of ammunition - wagons, provision-wagons, and ambulances. In case of danger, each corps commander should change this order of march, by having his advance and rear brigades unencumbered by wheels. The separate columns will start habitually at 7 a.m., and make about fifteen miles per day, unless otherwise fixed in orders.

IV. The army will forage liberally on the country during the march. To this end, each brigade commander will organize a good and sufficient foraging party, under the command of one or more discreet officers, who will gather, near the route traveled, corn or forage of any kind, meat of any kind, vegetables, corn-meal, or whatever is needed by the command, aiming at all times to keep in the wagons at least ten day's provisions for the command and three days' forage. Soldiers must not enter the dwellings of the inhabitants, or commit any trespass, but during a halt or a camp they may be permitted to gather turnips, potatoes, and other vegetables, and to drive in stock of their camp. To regular foraging parties must be instructed the gathering of provisions and forage at any distance from the road traveled.

V. To army corps commanders alone is intrusted the power to destroy mills, houses, cotton-gins, &c., and for them this general principle is laid down: In districts and neighborhoods where the army is unmolested no destruction of such property should be permitted; but should guerrillas or bushwhackers molest our march, or should the inhabitants burn bridges, obstruct roads, or otherwise manifest local hostility, then army commanders should order and enforce a devastation more or less relentless according to the measure of such hostility.

VI. As for horses, mules, wagons, &c., belonging to the inhabitants, the cavalry and artillery may appropriate freely and without limit, discriminating, however, between the rich, who are usually hostile, and the poor or industrious, usually neutral or friendly. Foraging parties may also take mules or horses to replace the jaded animals of their trains, or to serve as pack-mules for the regiments or bridges. In all foraging, of whatever kind, the parties engaged will refrain from abusive or threatening language, and may, where the officer in command thinks proper, give written certificates of the facts, but no receipts, and they will endeavor to leave with each family a reasonable portion for their maintenance.

VII. Negroes who are able-bodied and can be of service to the several columns may be taken along, but each army commander will bear in mind that the question of supplies is a very important one and that his first duty is to see to them who bear arms.

– William T. Sherman, Military Division of the Mississippi Special Field Order 120, November 9, 1864"

Read number 4 and soak it in.... :)

[HighPrvt]

I'd like to suggest " Soldering" by Rice C. Bull, excellent account of the 100 days battle, sacking of the ATL, and the march.

[Kiev Thomason]

I certainly hope I get an invite to this one.

Oh ....I think ya will.We might have a job for you my big friend!:wink_smil

[NC5thCav]

Wow this looks fun. And everyone has plenty of time to read and research.

[Chad Teasley]

Wow...From all the conversation in this thread, this event sure sounds like one not to be missed.

Sure wish I could check out the website; the stupid MNF-W internet filter REALLY ticks me off!!! :angry_smi:mad:

[FlatLandFed]

Any rails to bend? Others have enacted making Sherman's neckties, something I'd like to someday try.

Had some family in blue that were part of the original campaign, so would be interesting on several levels to participate.

Guess I better begin getting in shape now.
Paul Hadley

[Coatsy]

Chad,

The webiste is in its infancy now. You are not missing anything there that is not already on here except for some Atlanta and March to the Sea orginal photos. Plenty of fuego though......:)

[Tom Craig]

Guys,
Will cavalry be welcome at this event? I know a guy who would make a great Kilpatrick!:tounge_sm
Take care,
Tom Craig

[Eric Tipton]

Tom:

We are having a meeting at the site on September 20th and will have some more specific information regarding impressions at some point after that meeting.

[milo1047]

If there is justice in the world, I will make it out to Georgia from California for this...I got two years to put together a topnotch impression and to fit this into my schedule. I hope to make it for this!

[Tom Craig]

Eric,
Thanks for the info. I am sure there are a number of us cavalry types who would like to burn and pillage the Georgia countryside.
...if only the infantry knew how easy it is to find pie and other goodies from horseback!
Take care,
Tom Craig

[Kiev Thomason]

If there is justice in the world, I will make it out to Georgia from California for this...I got two years to put together a topnotch impression and to fit this into my schedule. I hope to make it for this!
Wait a little while before ya go nuts buying new gear.We will have regs and a vendor page after the meeting on the 20th.....well after the event at Chickamauga and Eric makes it back to Ohio and unpacks and gets a shower and ......well you get the picture:wink_smil Thanks everyone for getting behind us on this one.

[Alamo Guard]

Hmmmmmmmm Id love to get an invite to this event. I can think of a few of the Texas Rifle Boys who would also run thru hell in coal oil soaked drawers to attend.

[milo1047]

Wait a little while before ya go nuts buying new gear.We will have regs and a vendor page after the meeting on the 20th.....well after the event at Chickamauga and Eric makes it back to Ohio and unpacks and gets a shower and ......well you get the picture:wink_smil Thanks everyone for getting behind us on this one.

Of course I'll wait for the uniform regs before buying anything. :wink_smil I needed an excuse to dump some of this mainstream stuff I'm using right now anyway :D

[Kiev Thomason]

Gents,
I have been looking for wetplates and such of GA troops for the event.I have found a good lot,however I know there are many folks who have books that I don't have or maybe an old photo of a grandpa or uncle on the fire place mantel.If so please post with the info and I will look at them and maybe use some of the good ones for the Bummers web page.

Thanks!

[Ian McWherter]

Man, this event sounds like fun! I've been looking for a good military event to go to for some time now, I think this one's worth hanging up my citizens attire and dusting off my uniform. Hope to get an invite, I've got plenty of pent up aggression to let out!:baring_te

[RelicRoomGuy]

Wow.

As a descendant of (William Washington Albritton, Georgia State Militia private and Seminole War vet, captured near Macon and died a prisoner on Hilton Head Island) and a veteran of (48th Brigade, Georgia Army National Guard) Georgia State Militia, I'd love to be in on this one. Though it will be great if you can get some of Wheeler's cav in on this, too...!

[Coatsy]

Joe,

Do you know the Georiga Militia Unit your ancestor fought with? We've (well Kiev) got a copy of "Joe Brown's Pets" and it has a fairly comperhensive list of the men who fought in the militia.

Reading that book and reading the State Line accounts helped Kiev, Jordan, and I to zero in on a Georgia Militia unit.

[RelicRoomGuy]

Just "Brooks County Militia" (of Quitman, Georgia) unless I have better info somewhere at home. Born 1815, had been a 1st Lt. in "Redding's Co. of Florida Mounted Volunteers" against the Seminoles, so he was no spring chicken.

[aetius123]

Dusty,
I'm sure a couple of us in San Antonio would love to attend. I could probably talk Phil into it. We are going to be part of Co A at Outpost,

John Winkler
Alamo Rifles

[jones56ga]

I cant wait for this one! This is one areia of the war that lots of us are interested it but have rarely gotten a chance to portray. If I can help in any way, let me know!

[Coatsy]

John,

Definitely keep this event in mind for '09. Besides the obvious Federal forces walking through the roads and trails on their way to Savannah, the older men, youngsters, and the walking wounded of the Georgia Militia that tried to slow Sherman's big adventure will be portrayed as well.

Ricky,

I'll remember your eager hand being rasied for "help" when time comes for the obligatory work days in the future.

[James the Haggard Ranger]

Hey Herby baby,

John's not the only one with an ancestor in the Georgia Militia at that time.

Page 288 of Joe Brown's Pets Private John Wooten (my great great grandfather) Company I Telfair & Terrell Counties in the 7th Regiment, 3rd Brigade.

His son Private James Richard Wooten was in the 50th Georgia Regiment in Virginia.

James Wooten

[Coatsy]

Good deal James! So is that a toss into the Georgia Militia hat for you in '09? :D

[toptimlrd]

Kiev, Herb, et al,

Let me know well in advance of work days or anything such as that so I can try to get as much of it into my schedule as possible. I'll make the long drive as often as I can to help out.

[plankholder]

There are at least 3 of us here in Middle TN, that will be happy to get a carpool up and drive down south for some blisters. Just let us know when and where.-ELI GEERY

[James the Haggard Ranger]

Herb,

You have to ask? I have a few tid bits about him I learned from my great aunt who has passed on.

When she was a small girl see asked John Wooten about the war. He told he had served in the Militia and had been issued a rifle, cartridge box, waist belt, cap pouch, bayonet and scabbard. Before you ask, he said it was a .58 cal rifle. There are accounts of some militiamen being issued 3 banded enfield rifles, check Joe Brown's Pets. He brought his own haversack and home made knapsack along with a blanket from home. He also wore his Sunday best in case he got killed he would have been dressed for burial. Hey it's the 1860's.

He told her about fighting around Atlanta, near Milledgeville, Honey Hill, S.C., and Savannah, but he would not talk about the battle near Macon. He returned home after Savannah fell to Sherman.

The Georgia Militia it is.

Thanks,

James Wooten

[HighPrvt]

I'm packed and ready!!!

[Coatsy]

James,

That insite on your ancestor is very helpful! I'll let his Corn Kingess know. And everyone who is wanting to help thanks! But after we get things rolling you might reconsider. That Kiev sho is a haaard man!

[Kiev Thomason]

Thanks guys for wanting to give up a few weekends or more to help out.I am sure we will need it.The thing that will tough will be keeping our mouths closed and not talking to much afterwards and telling what ya have seen.

[toptimlrd]

Thanks guys for wanting to give up a few weekends or more to help out.I am sure we will need it.The thing that will tough will be keeping our mouths closed and not talking to much afterwards and telling what ya have seen.

Kiev,

Perhaps those who help should be regulate to teh Kabuki staff. If so I would still be interested in helping.

[BenjaminLDavis]

Hey all,

This one sounds great, and I will have to march with Poague at my side - if there was
ever a man with a bummer mentality, it is my pie-stealing comrade! And if there are
any food or valuables buried nearby, he will find them!

But how are you fellers going to top Broke-Ankle Road? No, wait, I would rather
be surprized . . .! See you then.

[Tom Craig]

Guys,
I am just curious if there has been any decision made on wether cavalry will get to participate in this event. There was supposed to be more info available after Sept 20th, but unless I missed it I haven't seen any info posted.

Thanks,
Tom Craig

[Eric Tipton]

Tom:

We had a really good site visit, but are still in the early stages of the scenario. As soon as we have a definitive word on impressions, etc, you will hear it here first. :D Still have a long way to go.

[RWSaye]

Herb, Kiev and all. If I can help you guys in anyway, dont hesitate to ask. Definately looking forward to this event.

[Pritchett Ball]

This sounds like the event of all events, to participate in. I would love an invite for this one.

I have been looking for an event that would encourage me to get my Federal impression where it should be…correct! This is one event I would enjoy portraying a Union Soldier. Now, if I could only get some weight shaved off of my Armi-Sport 61 Springfield.:rolleyes:

I will anxiously await the standards, have plenty of time to get the items I would need. Whatever work has been done to date, you boys sure have my thanks.

Kevin Dally

[Kiev Thomason]

The website has a small update on the sutlers page .Just thought some folks may wanna look.We will be posting some regs very soon..

[Randy]

Great choice for an event! Can't wait. We'll make Georgia howl!!:)

[Eric Tipton]

BUMMERS UPDATE - NOVEMBER 7, 2007

We are officially two years and one week away from the "Bummers" Event on November 13-15, 2009 and we have some official announcements to make:

1) All Net Proceeds from this event will go toward saving the George W. Wray Jr. Civil War Collection at the Atlanta History Center. For more details about the Wray Collection, please click on this link: www.bummers09.com/Preservation.html (http://www.bummers09.com/Preservation.html).

2) On the Federal side, We will be portraying infantry elements of the 15th Corps of Sherman's Army. On the Confederate side, we will portray the 11th Georgia Militia and Wheeler's Cavalry. There will be citizens at the event. Specific roles not determined for citizens. Please do not contact us regarding specific roles for the event at this point. We are in the process of getting in touch with individuals who will be involved in the event. Official invitations for the military side of things will go out within the next week or so. We will be inviting folks from both east and west. www.bummers09.com/Guidelines.html (http://www.bummers09.com/Guidelines.html).

3) We have selected the official vendors for the event. They will be set up under cover at registration. We will announce "Bully Buys" at a later date. You can view the official vendors on the Bummers web page by clicking on the link: www.bummers09.com/Vendors.html (http://www.bummers09.com/Vendors.html).

4) We have published the contact list for the event on the web site. This page shows who is coordinating each aspect of the event. You can view the contacts page by clicking the link: www.bummers09.com/Contacts.html (http://www.bummers09.com/Contacts.html).

There are more updates on the web site, including some historical information, original photos of Bummers and Georgia Milita Troops, and our rules and regulations for the event. Uniform Guidelines will be posted this month. Click on the logo to visit the main page of the bummers web site. Thanks for your interest.

http://www.bummers09.com/images/Bummers-Logo-Final.jpg (http://www.bummers09.com/)

[flattop32355]

On the Federal side,We will be portraying infantry elements of the 15th Corps of Sherman's Army.

Sooooo, there's a chance we might even be portraying.....the 30th OVI! :tounge_sm

[Eric Tipton]

Bernie:

Yes, the 30th is in the 15th Corps:

MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM TECUMSEH SHERMAN

Right Wing
MAJOR GENERAL OLIVER OTIS HOWARD

XV CORPS
MAJOR GENERAL PETER JOSEPH OSTERHAUS

1st Division - Brigadier General Charles Robert Woods

1st Brigade - Colonel William B. Woods
12th Indiana Infantry Regiment--- Colonel Reuben Williams
26th Iowa Infantry Regiment--- Major John Lubbers
27th Missouri Infantry Regiment--- Colonel Thomas Curly
6 Companies, 31st & 32nd Missouri--- Lieutenant Colonel Abraham J. Seay
76th Ohio Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Edward Briggs

2nd Brigade - Colonel Robert F. Catterson
26th Illinois Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Ira J. Bloomfield
40th Illinois Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Hiram W. Hall
103rd Illinois Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel George W. Wright
97th Indiana Infantry Regiment--- Captain George Elliott
100th Indiana Infantry Regiment--- Major Reul M. Johnson
6th Iowa Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel William H. Clune
46th Ohio Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Edward N. Upton

3rd Brigade - Colonel George A. Stone
4th Iowa Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Samuel D. Nichols
9th Iowa Infantry Regiment--- Major Alonzo Abernathy
25th Iowa Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel David J. Palmer
30th Iowa Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Aurelius Roberts
31st Iowa Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Jeremiah W. Jenkins

2nd Division - Major General William Babcock Hazen

1st Brigade - Colonel Theodore Jones
55th Illinois Infantry Regiment--- Captain Charles A. Andress
116th Illinois Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel John E. Maddux
127th Illinois Infantry Regiment--- Captain Charles Schryver
6th Missouri Infantry Regiment--- * Lieutenant Colonel Delos Van Deusen
30th Ohio Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Emerson P. Brooks
57th Ohio Infantry Regiment--- Captain John A. Smith
* Companies "A" & "B", 8th Missouri Infantry Attached

2nd Brigade - Colonel Willis S. Jones
111th Illinois Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Joseph F. Black
83rd Indiana Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Louis von Blessigh
47th Ohio Infantry Regiment--- Colonel Augustus C. Parry
53rd Ohio Infantry Regiment--- Captain Robert Curren
54th Ohio Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Israel T. Moore

3rd Brigade - Brigadier General John Morrison Oliver
48th Illinois Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Thomas L. B. Weems
90th Illinois Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Owen Stuart
99th Indiana Infantry Regiment--- Captain Josiah Farrar
15th Michigan Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Frederick S. Hutchinson
70th Ohio Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Henry L. Philips

3rd Division - Brigadier General John Eugene Smith

1st Brigade - Brigadier General William Thomas Clark
63rd Illinois Infantry Regiment--- Colonel Joseph B. McCown
93rd Illinois Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Nicholas C. Buswell
48th Indiana Infantry Regiment--- Captain Newton Bringham
59th Indiana Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Jefferson K. Scott
4th Minnesota Infantry Regiment--- Colonel John E. Tourtellotte
18th Wisconsin Infantry Regiment--- Major James P. Millard

2nd Brigade - Colonel Clark R. Wever
56th Illinois Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel John P. Hall
10th Iowa Infantry Regiment--- Captain William H. Silsby
1 Company, 17th Iowa Infantry--- Lieutenant Theron M. Rice
80th Ohio Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Pren Metham

4th Division - Brigadier General John Murry Corse

1st Brigade - Brigadier General Elliott Warren Rice
52nd Illinois Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Jerome D. Davis
66th Indiana Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Roger Martin
2nd Iowa Infantry Regiment--- Colonel Noel B. Howard
7th Iowa Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel James C. Parrott

2nd Brigade - Colonel Robert N. Adams
12th Illinois Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Henry Van Sellar
66th Illinois Infantry Regiment--- Captain William S. Boyd
81st Ohio Infantry Regiment--- Major William C. Henry

3rd Brigade - Colonel Frederick J. Hurlbut
7th Illinois Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel Hector Perrin
50th Illinois Infantry Regiment--- Lieutenant Colonel William Hanna
57th Illinois Infantry Regiment--- Major Frederick A. Battery
39th Iowa Infantry Regiment--- Captain Isaac D. Marsh

[sepoy1857]

Wow this sounds like an awesome event! My great great great grandfather Horace T. Hickock was in Co C. 55th Ill - Theodore Jones Brigade. It would be great to experience some of the sights that he did during the war.

[trippcor]

Can we pick a unit that had spencers or henrys. I really want to use mine.

[Ken Cornett]

Tripp, you really want to shoot that gun don't you! :D

[trippcor]

You better believe it. I almost brought it to Outpost.

[Eric Tipton]

Can we pick a unit that had spencers or henrys. I really want to use mine.
Funny you should ask, Tripp. The Infantry Uniform Guidelines for Both Sides are now posted on the "Bummers" Web Site:

www.bummers09.com/Guidelines.html (http://www.bummers09.com/Guidelines.html)

[Kiev Thomason]

Funny you should ask, Tripp. The Infantry Guidelines for Both Sides are now posted on the "Bummers" Web Site:

www.bummers09.com/Guidelines.html (http://www.bummers09.com/Guidelines.html)
Tripp,
The AG will be CS ....that is not on the regs:baring_teYou won't need it.However I am sure ya could rent it for the weekend$$$$$:D

[Eric Tipton]

Just wanted to make sure everyone finds our new folder here on the AC. Thanks to the "powers that be" for getting us set up here. We will begin posting updates in this folder since this thread has gotten rather large.

Invitations to individual groups will go out this month so that everyone can get this event on their schedule and we can get our critical mass together. Our goal is to register 500 living historians. Invitations will go to groups West and East.

More details to come!

[Kiev Thomason]

Folks ,
Jordan and I were looking at what we will be walking up ,down,around and through for the event and all I can say is start walking or jogging now.It will pay off later.This land is great!It looks as if pickett's Mill and Rich Mt. had a baby.

There will be more CS pics added as soon as we get them sorted out.

[GWilson]

How is the marching for this event compared to the legendary BGR?

[51stNCVCo.K]

This event sounds awsome!

[Coatsy]

"How is the marching for this event compared to the legendary BGR? "

Well that question might be tough to answer since Bummers has not occured yet. The terrain is varied, but Eric and KT put it best.

"It looks like Pickett's Mill and Rich Moutain had a baby."

I would have to agree with Kiev Thomason that you will definitely find it to your benifit to be in decent shape if you plan on attending Bummers. It is hilly out there.

I hope this helps.

[hpotter]

WOW, this looks good. This is right down the road from my hometown. I liked the sound of this from the minute y'all mentioned it at Chickamauga.

[PvtShot]

Damnation, only two years notice?! Hopefully as fun as The Fighting Withdrawal /Advance!!! And maybe we get to play some shenanigans???:D

[PvtShot]

Damnation, only two years notice?! Hopefully as fun as The Fighting Withdrawal /Advance!!! And maybe we get to play some shenanigans???:D

Kindest Regards,
Eliot Toscano

The Buckras
Western Feds

[Johnny Lloyd]

Darn... I'm so there at this event. (If I'm not deployed, of course...)

I'd register now, if I could. If I couldn't go for some reason at the last minute, then donate my money for preservation. Is this an idea...? ;)

My prediction: You'll have to turn-away Federals from this event.

Wow, events are just getting better and better ... Johnny Lloyd

[Kiev Thomason]

How is the marching for this event compared to the legendary BGR?

It will not be as long but at times there will be thick brush ,Hills,creeks.Hills,and logs to climb over ,Hills and more Hills then it gets flat.and the marching may speed up?I don't want to say too much.It would spoil it:wink_smil

[Capt51stALA]

All I can say is Awsome! I plan on going and help defeat those yankees

Michael Mumaugh

[PvtShot]

"The March to the Sea and Beyond: Sherman's Troops in the Savannah and Carolinas Campaigns"
Joseph T. Glatthaar

A must read for this event! Started last night an nearly read the whole damn thing:)!

[Charles Heath]

In the immortal words of Randy Houck, "Fellows, I think we just burned the wrong barn."

I hope this dredges up some fond yet wet and cold memories for a number of you.

[Ken Cornett]

Folks, I'm already getting requests by "children" wanting to attend this event. By "children", I mean under 16 to be a soldier. Please pay careful attention to the rules and guidelines.

Thanks!

[Eric Tipton]

Like Ken said... and the rules and regs are listed here:

http://www.bummers09.com/Registration.html (http://www.bummers09.com/Registration.html)

We will have some news very soon on overall commanders and some other announcements as well.

[BenjaminLDavis]

Hey fellers - Tripp asked if he could bring his Henry, and got his wish . . .
If some of us could portray men of the 18th Wisconsin . . .?
I do a HELL of a Wisconsin accent!!!

[PvtShot]

Fellow Ruffians,

"10) NO loud, rowdy or inappropriate behavior, especially between taps and reveille. Maintain military discipline."

Awww come on! Aren't we supposed to be portraying some of the most bold and audacious men of the army!!! :D;)

Can't wait... Henrys huh?

[DougCooper]

Fellow Ruffians,

"10) NO loud, rowdy or inappropriate behavior, especially between taps and reveille. Maintain military discipline."

Awww come on! Aren't we supposed to be portraying some of the most bold and audacious men of the army!!! :D;)

Can't wait... Henrys huh?

Eliot - its all relative you know...one man's rowdy might be another man's best behavior ;)

...or maybe this is a strong hint from Eric and Co that our days at this event will use up all the rowdy and audacious we can muster, leaving Morpheus our best friend at night...

[Coatsy]

"Fellow Ruffians,

"10) NO loud, rowdy or inappropriate behavior, especially between taps and reveille. Maintain military discipline."

Awww come on! Aren't we supposed to be portraying some of the most bold and audacious men of the army!!!"

Please make all the loud noise you want in between taps and reveille. It will make our job easier. I'm just say'n..... ;)

[Eric Tipton]

Greetings Everyone:

The question has come up several times regarding invitations for Bummers. The answer to this question is that we have sent out unit invitations to established progressive/authentic groups, but individuals are welcome as long as they can meet the uniform guidelines. You can view the guidelines here:

http://www.bummers09.com/Guidelines.html (http://www.bummers09.com/Guidelines.html)

We recognize that not all authentic reenactors are members of established groups. We also recognize that there are many individuals out there who might be members of mainstream organizations, but have an authentic kit and a desire to attend a more authentic experience. We encourage all individuals who have the desire, the attitude and the kit to attend Bummers. If you have general questions, please feel free to contact me directly at etinohio@msn.com and I will attempt to point you to the right person in our organization. The contacts for our event can be found here:

http://www.bummers09.com/Contacts.html (http://www.bummers09.com/Contacts.html)

Thanks for your continued interest in the event. We will try our best to provide an experience worth the trip to Georgia. :)

[Mississippian]

This looks like a great event. I'm really going to try and make this one. Now if only someone would do a Meridian Expedition event......

Will MacDonald

[Mike Willey]

Great event idea...I might come out of hibernation for this one.

It's important to remember that there is a distinction between brigade foraging parties and "bummers". Brigade foraging parties were organized groups...."bummers" were individuals or small groups that went on their own accord. The two are often melted together to many people.

My GGG-Grandfather's records from the National Archives say that he was a Sergeant in charge of a brigade foraging party.....so it wasn't always an officer in charge of the group. His name was Wm. Dawson, Co. H, 63rd Ohio....he was an old fart....upper 30's when he went enlisted.

[Coatsy]

"It's important to remember that there is a distinction between brigade foraging parties and "bummers". Brigade foraging parties were organized groups...."bummers" were individuals or small groups that went on their own accord. The two are often melted together to many people."

Don't worry. I think those rascally Blue Team organizers know that factoid. Perhaps there will be some "Bummers" at the event. Perhaps not. All I know is that folks who are interested in attending should definitely mark their calender for this one.

[Eric Tipton]

Mike:

Your Quote - It's important to remember that there is a distinction between brigade foraging parties and "bummers". Brigade foraging parties were organized groups...."bummers" were individuals or small groups that went on their own accord. The two are often melted together to many people.

To answer your question about the distinction between the terms "Bummers" and Brigade Foraging Parties. The distinction is not as set, or defined, I think, as you describe. This was a fluid situation, in which the term was used either commonly, or at times specifically to describe the foragers of Sherman's Army - before and after the March to the Sea. The first thing you are correct about - the brigade structure did not last long on the March to the Sea. One of the books on our reading list is Joseph Glatthaar's "March to the Sea and Beyond" Here is a passage describing what you mention:

Initially, Sherman hoped to organize foragers for each brigade, but that soon proved unsatisfactory, since too many division commanders sent out only fifty men per brigade, not enough to provide for all the troops. As the brigade organization began to break down, many commanders decentralized the system even more and had each regimental commander assign foraging duties to one or two companies. The forage they gathered no longer went to the brigade commissary; it went directly to the men in each regiment.

Here is a more direct, general description of a "bummer" from Glatthaar:

The term "bummer" mostly applied to the regular or everyday foragers. Members of the twentieth corps, particularly easterners, tended to use the term to refer to self-appointed or unauthorized foragers, but most troops in Sherman's army considered a bummer anyone who foraged on a regular basis, with or without authority. The word "bummer", as used before the March to the Sea, referred to a soldier who took it easy and shunned what he considered unneccessary demands and discipline, yet executed to the best of his ability in times of crisis. This, then, was the forager in Sherman's Army - a man who, when properly motivated, performed superbly but had scant interest in disciplined routine.

Another Definition (From Our Web Site) - Bummers Definition - The origin of this term, applied to Maj. Gen. William T. Sherman's foragers during the March To The Sea and the Carolinas Campaign, is obscure but was common army parlance by 1864. Possibly deriving from the German "Bummler", meaning "idler" or "wastrel," the name was embraced by many soldiers, who believed it struck terror in the hearts of Southern people. (Source: The Historical Times Encyclopedia of the Civil War)

Based on our research so far, the term "bummers" or "foragers" from the southern citizen persective was also used interchangably between general and specific. Citizens, riled by the newspaper accounts saw a distinction - between the main body of Sherman's army and the "bummers" or "foragers" who were stealing food, ransacking, pillaging, burning homes, and buildings, etc. Militia was sent out specifically to apprehend or kill "bummers" or foragers who threatened the food, livestock and lives of local citizenry.

That is why, for a variety of reasons, this singular word - "Bummers" creates much the same reaction it did 140 years ago and the reason we used it to title our event. When we tried to come up with a singular term that would rile the passions of the southerners and the pride of the yankees at the same time, there was no other term that achieved this. Of course, an equivalent would be to simply post Sherman's picture, so we did that too. ;)

Glatthaar's book is a really good source as are the Memoirs of Henry Hitchcock - "Marching With Sherman". Both can be found on our reading list for the event here - http://www.bummers09.com/History.html (http://www.bummers09.com/History.html).

You are also correct with your observation ".....so it wasn't always an officer in charge of the group." :D There is more information about that on our web site - click here (http://www.bummers09.com/History.html).

Good to have someone with an actual relative in the ranks at the event. Any others out there who had relatives participate in the "March to the Sea" - from either side?

[JustRob]

Would anyone like to tell the rest of us why the A/C "cannot support this"?

[Kiev Thomason]

Would anyone like to tell the rest of us why the A/C "cannot support this"?

Support what?maybe I am late here.What are you talking about?

[Eric Tipton]

Would anyone like to tell the rest of us why the A/C "cannot support this"?

Rob:

That was in reference to ************, who was indirectly a vendor for the event. He is no longer a vendor for "Bummers", and asked not to be mentioned on the AC. That was part of the reason for his removal and the reason that his name now appears as asterisks here.

The AC has provided us this folder and already made Bummers a Tier 1 event for 2009. Sorry for the confusion.

[Strawfoot]

ET,

Just to let you know... I won't be giving up my woobie for this one. :baring_te

Hope to see you there.


Mike Phineas
Arlington, TX

[Coatsy]

Mike you are more than welcome to keep your woobie, knapsack, groundcloth, knapsack, haversack, etc.

I highly suggest leaving room in said haversack and knapsack. You Blue Bellies need to be following "Uncle Billy's" specified instructions for foraging. :D

[JustRob]

Rob:

That was in reference to ************, who was indirectly a vendor for the event. He is no longer a vendor for "Bummers", and asked not to be mentioned on the AC. That was part of the reason for his removal and the reason that his name now appears as asterisks here.

The AC has provided us this folder and already made Bummers a Tier 1 event for 2009. Sorry for the confusion.

Thanks for the clarification. It was appreciated.

[Strawfoot]

Mike you are more than welcome to keep your woobie, knapsack, groundcloth, knapsack, haversack, etc.

I highly suggest leaving room in said haversack and knapsack. You Blue Bellies need to be following "Uncle Billy's" specified instructions for foraging. :D


You know Herb, I laugh about it now... But I would've gladly paid $100 to just have my groundcloth with me that night. I didn't care about the knapsack, I just wanted the groundcloth.

Looking back I sure wish OUR 1st Sgt had given us more of a heads up like some of the other companies had gotten. Some of us more challenged individuals didn't get the "bring your meds" hint that the adjutant briefed at Parade. :cool:

All in all, it was a fresh experience. Sleeping on the bare ground with nothing but your sack coat as a groundcloth. A lot of guys volunteered for Guard duty that night. It could've been worse though, it could've rained...


Mike Phineas
Arlington, TX

[Coatsy]

Mike, I was in the same situation as you were. Atop Rich Mtn. we were "guarding" the Confederates so Kiev, Andrew, CJ, and I slept on the gravel road rather than the grass so we wouldn't soak up the dew. It would have been nice to have my gum blanket as well.

But for Bummers, it looks like the blue bellies can keep their blankets and gum blankets. You luck out this go round!

[DougCooper]

Mike, I was in the same situation as you were. Atop Rich Mtn. we were "guarding" the Confederates so Kiev, Andrew, CJ, and I slept on the gravel road rather than the grass so we wouldn't soak up the dew. It would have been nice to have my gum blanket as well.

But for Bummers, it looks like the blue bellies can keep their blankets and gum blankets. You luck out this go round!

We felt sorry for you guys huddled in the dirt around the fire when we woke up Sunday morning. Some of us were just about to put our blankets over your sleeping forms when you began to stir. At this prisoner camp the bottom rail was on top :-)

[Coatsy]

Doug, yup you "Paroled Johnnies" had it pretty good that night. The Co A guys who paroled you all had a good plan worked out until those nosey high muckety muck battalion staff officers and OTHER company commanders decided to micro manage the distribution of you poor poor Johnnies..... Oh how you boys suffered! :D

Nosey staff officers!

[SCTiger]

Eric:


Sent you a email and I will put your event on our schedule. You have our support and hopefully some of you can make it out to Fort Moultrie in 2010/2011 as Federals.

Greg Deese

[Coatsy]

El Deese,

It'll be good to have you gents out to Bummers next year. ET and his Blue Crew have some great stuff in store for the Yanks! Trust me on this.

AND.... for folks not wanting to be the "bad guys" :tounge_sm Remember there will be a need for portraying the Georgia Militia aka Joe Brown's Pets at Bummers next year as well.

Kiev, Jordan, and myself have some great stuff in store for the folks who sign up to defend Jeeeeorgia from Uncle Billy's hordes.

[Mudslinger]

Excellent!!! I won't be able to sleep at night till then! It's like waking up to Christmas morning! I'll be there!!!

http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k80/valleyfirerescue/myavatar.jpg
Nick Miller
33rd O.V.I.
Mudslinger Mess

"Do you want to know who you are? Don't ask. Act! Action will delineate and define you."-Thomas Jefferson