Rest In Peace: David "Duke" Culberson (1954-2007)

[Clsinclair]

I was just forwarded an E-mail from Gary Byrd of the 20th SC this message:

Gentlemen-

I have just been informed a few minutes ago by Lee Cannaday, that our friend and fellow 20th member, David Culbertson is dead. He apparently died suddenly yesterday. All details are not clear at this point. I will forward you details as they are confirmed by me.

Please say a prayer for David and his family. We will all miss him.

Gary Byrd
20th SCVI

[LibertyHallVols]

Are you talking about THIS David Culberson?
http://authentic-campaigner.com/forum/member.php?u=3699

http://authentic-campaigner.com/forum/customprofilepics/profilepic3699_1.gif

[Curt-Heinrich Schmidt]

Hallo!

Duke?

Curt
Shocked and Saddened

[1stMaine]

Comrades,

Yes, that David Culberson. It is a sad state of affairs indeed.

I had spoken to him just a couple weeks back. For several years, we have maintained a sort of "cultural exchange". I'd send him native foods and items from Maine, and he'd send me locally made mustard-based barbecue sauce, and other delectibles from his area.

This is really sad.

Respects,

[paulcalloway]

I spoke with Duke at length just a few months ago - we talked for a good hour. He talked a lot about shifting his focus from his hobby to his family and spending more quality time on the things that mattered most. We put a lot of old silliness behind us on that phonecall.

I was looking forward to seeing David sometime soon at an event and reconnecting with him again.

This is a heartbreaker. I'll pray for his family.

[LibertyHallVols]

My prayers go out to Duke's family! I am also saddened by this. I met him once in-person at the 2002 Gettysburg LH. It rained like hell and we all ended up at the Lincoln Diner. Had a great time.

What Paul alluded to, illustrates a fantastic point that we MUST all keep in mind on these and other fora:
If any of us who frequent this "place" were to meet any other of us outside of "here", and discovered our common interest in the ACW, would we not quickly become fast friends? Why then, do we allow this silly electronic medium to interfere in what would otherwise be great friendships with fellow enthusiasts? I speak not as a person who is above such things, but as one who has made this mistake myself.

Take the discussions here with a grain of salt, but take the people seriously. On days like today, we see what really matters.

God Bless You All!

[LWhite64]

This really saddens me, I had the pleasure of serving with and under Duke at a number of events in the late 90s, culminating in the Hodge Preservation March in 2000. I know David had his moments, I always said that the internet would make a monster out of him, but all I can say is that all of the events I attended with him were good times and on the Hodge march he looked after his company and did a great job as our Captain. Heres to you David, May you rest in peace.

Lee

[FlatLandFed]

For ceremonial events, my son wears a federal blouse modified by Duke and bought some years ago on this forum.
Didn't get a chance to meet him. Guess it underlines how important it is to appreciate each day and every comrade.
Regards,
Paul Hadley

[RJSamp]

Worked with Duke at Outpost 2000, really enjoyed it. He 'walked' up the hills to his company bivouac with long strides, his upper thighs pounding out the steps.....couldn't keep up with him.

Last couple of years he's called me on occassion to discuss reenacting and bugling...he was even thinking of taking up the bugle.....

RIP Duke, our prayers go out to you and your family.

[DougCooper]

Duke and I worked together at McDowell. One year I commanded the federals and he was a company commander (1999) and then the next time he commanded and I was his second (2003) so we got to know each rather well. It was a great experience for me both times. We talked off and on until about 2 years ago when it seemed he got out of the hobby and I lost track. He cared very deeply for the hobby and many of its people...and was one of those most affected by the schisms on the hobby internet.

I do know that in the field he looked you in the eye, knew his stuff and his integrity was absolute. And he was always willing to help others - saw it happen a lot. The last thing he told me was his druthers that his last gig be a long Sherman's March or Lee's Final Retreat type marching event that lasted a week...and then he would hang it up. Makes me sad he passed just before that happened.

That is who I will remember and he will be missed. Prayers for his family.

[SCTiger]

Last seen Duke in Cheraw, SC, looking spiffy as usual and carrying a flintlock, at times he had one of the best impressions out there and he didn't mind sharing information.

My heart felt sympathy to his family, he took a lot of grief from the hobby at times, but he never quit.

[GrumpyDave]

You never know when you'll get the call from the nameless one. Godspeed to you Mr. Culberson.

[Clsinclair]

Up until he passed away he was planning on doing the A.P. Hill March and September Storm.

Claude Sinclair

[J the Black Sheep]

I'm still stunned over the news and deeply saddned to learn of his untimely death.

I consider Duke to be one of my closest friends in the hobby. He was a true gentleman and had a magnificent person.

I never received anything but kindness and respect from him, and will miss his sense of humor - whether via Instant Message, the occasional phone call, or in person.

I first met him at South Mountain back in 1998 when I was invited to join an "ad hoc" CS group headed by Jefferson "Raspy" Weaver. Duke introduced himself and gave me one of his cards with his e-mail and contact information. That, unknowingly to the two of us, was the start of a great friendship as we traded e-mails and instant messages.

I had the pleasure of serving under his command for the first time at the Sayler's Creek event in 1999, and in a closer capacity in his company at Pickett's Mill in 2002. He had asked me to serve as a corporal in his company and where I doubted I could do the task, he reassured me of his confidence in me and put me at ease. One of the best moments at that event came on Sunday morning when Mr. Cross the Younger woke up and asked where breakfast was. Duke launched into one of the funniest routines I've had the pleasure of hearing. Those of you there remember it.

Sadly, the final time we met face to face was at the McDowell event in 2003, where I had the honor and pleasure to be asked to serve as an Aide de Camp. A fond memory of that event was the Saturday afternoon sitting inside the officer's tent, Duke on one cot and Doug Cooper on the other. In his joking way, he asked for a bedtime story. Within minutes, he later said, the soothing sound of my voice droning on put him to sleep. I think the story gave Doug nightmares...

We corresponded after that, sharing stories of new hobby endeavors and family news, and the occasional phone call. No matter how bad of a day I was having, he always got me to laugh and I'd feel better.

I didn't intend for this to be a eulogy of sorts, but I guess it has worked out like that and is carthartic for me as well.

I shall truely miss you, my friend. Rest in peace and I'll look forward to sharing a spot by the campfire down the road.


Jay

[Mike Ventura]

God bless you, Duke.

David had a way about him. He also had two personalities - one that needled, cajoled and just plain made you angry on these forums - most of that 4-5-6 years back. Then there was the "Duke" that you met in person - couldn't be a nicer guy with a wealth of information that he was always ready and willing to share.

Duke came over and walked Pickett's Mill with some of us before the first big Pickett's Mill event (o2? 03?). He humped those hills with the best of 'em.

We talked a lot a few years ago when he was considering doing a cav impression. He bought a bunch of great gear, changed his mind and sold lots of it to me.

I'll miss Duke...the hobby will miss him too.

[Hagooder02]

David sent me an email at 11:55 a.m. yesterday telling me how he could not make the upcoming march due to work constraints. I have to say that it was eerie and saddening to me to find out that he passed away just yesterday afternoon. You just never know. Here are the details about the arrangements for those who are interested.

His visitation will be at his home at 1563 Beach Creek
Road Lexington, SC 29072 from the hours of 6-8 p.m on Wednesday August 29th.
A memorial service will be held for him at St. Stephen's Lutheran Church at
119 N Church St Lexington, SC 29072 at 11 a.m. His body will be at Thompson
Funeral Home in Lexington, SC (803-996-1023).

Bruce Blackmon

[J the Black Sheep]

Thanks for the information, Bruce.

Sadly, I won't be able to pay my respects in person, but at least would like to send his family a card.

j

[Enfilade]

I am truly saddened to hear of Duke's passing. I have many fond memories with him re-enacting. I will miss his wit and wisdom.

1st Corinthians 15:51-58

Mark Berrier
North State Rifles
http://www.northstaterifles.com
combinations@northstate.net

[Silas]

Dang. He was a complex guy. I am one of the few who can say I never had a disagreement with him. I think it was lawyer to lawyer thing.

I served as his adjutant at the 2000 Saylor's Creek march. That was the one where we started with 150 or so guys on a beautiful Saturday morning before the weather turned that afternoon and evening. Only thirty or so of us answered the roll the next morning.

Last time I saw him was on Lookout Mountain in 2003. He did many logistics for us. Had his likeness taken on the famous ledge. Wore a nice civilian frock and top hat. He had the Chattanooga in the background. He was trying to portray a veteran returning to Lookout. That was different. He was having a problem with vertigo. I kept waiting to see him lose his balance and tumble down the mountain.

Was looking forward to crossing his path again.

[edwardwatson]

Here's Duke's obit from The State newspaper in Columbia, SC:

David A. Culberson
LEXINGTON — Services for David A. Culberson, 53, of Lexington, will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, August 30, 2007, at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church. Officiating will be Rev. Pat Riddle and Rev. Dr. Dennis Bolton. Private burial services will be conducted at a later time. The Family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday evening at the family home located at 1563 Beechcreek Road, Lexington, SC. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 5216, Glen Allen, VA 23058. Pallbearers will be Ronnie Saleeby, David Hare, Lee Canaday, Jerry Johnson, Boyce Jennings, Tim Driggers, and Rick Cunningham. His brother, James M. Culberson, will be an Honorary Pallbearer. Thompson Funeral Home of Lexington is handling arrangements.

[LibertyHallVols]

Does anyone know how he died? Was he in an accident? I don't mean to be morbid, but I am really taken aback by this.

[LWhite64]

I havent heard any details yet, other than he was in the midst of moving in to a new place and had really worn himself down.

Lee

[BumpusTN]

What Paul alluded to, illustrates a fantastic point that we MUST all keep in mind on these and other fora:
If any of us who frequent this "place" were to meet any other of us outside of "here", and discovered our common interest in the ACW, would we not quickly become fast friends? Why then, do we allow this silly electronic medium to interfere in what would otherwise be great friendships with fellow enthusiasts? I speak not as a person who is above such things, but as one who has made this mistake myself.

Take the discussions here with a grain of salt, but take the people seriously. On days like today, we see what really matters.

God Bless You All!

Amen. The most important lesson that can be learned is don't ever miss an opportunity to say "I love you" to a friend.

And friend, I mean it.

Scott Bumpus

[Kevin O'Beirne]

Truly one of the most extraordinary personalities in reenacting. The hobby will certainly have a different atmosphere without him.

[Marc]

Indeed a sad notice. I first met Duke many years ago at Cedar Creek when we did one of the first all night picketts. I was his first sgt and we all had a great time. That set the stage for many of us with more authentic style of events. I was also on his staff at McDowell one year and had many many great conversations with him in person and via e-mail.

I am truly sorry to hear of his death and send prayers for him and his family and friends. There is now another vacant chair.

[billwatson]

Duke had an idea I've tried to embrace: It's all about the experience, not anything else. That's why he was happy to be a leader if that's what was needed, and just as happy to be a civilian troublemaker or rear rank two the next time out. Every variation offered a new experience with its own set of challenges and rewards, and every time out of a new box he'd try to nail whatever it was he'd chosen for an impression. He set a standard for enthusiasm and performance most of us can only try to match.

[Mark Susnis]

I'll never forget the sight of the cookfire and the sound of Duke's voice as we stumbled our way in the darkness at Lookout Mountain in 2003. We about ran him over instead of advancing the countersign so we could get at the hot coffee...I had the opportunity to serve with him at Bentonville, Sailors Creek, Gettysburg, Harrison's Landing, and Lookout Mountain. I've got a group image from Harrison's Landing with musician Don Hubbard and Duke Culberson who are both now with God and had hearts of gold despite what was said or done on an internet forum.

Regards,
Mark Susnis

[Marc]

I've got a group image from Harrison's Landing with musician Don Hubbard and Duke Culberson who are both now with God and had hearts of gold despite what was said or done on an internet forum.

Regards,
Mark Susnis

Mark,

That picture of us together as the staff is one of my favorites (looks right out of a history book) and it is hard to believe that two have departed from that hot, but good event.

[KarinTimour]

"Authenticity is a gift we give each other."
-- Duke



Those of us who read his posts on line, or had opportuntieis to spend time with him in person have priceless memories.

Karin Timour
Period Knitting -- Socks, Sleeping Hats, Balaclavas
Email: Ktimour@aol.com

[Gunnersmate]

I just wanted to say David has been a good friend of mine since 1989. his passing will be greatly felt by all. I just got home from the visitation and i want everyone to know the family thanks you for the many kind and sincere condolences. the memorial service is in the morning at 11 am i hope everyone takes a minute to remember david at that time.

[DougCooper]

I'll never forget the sight of the cookfire and the sound of Duke's voice as we stumbled our way in the darkness at Lookout Mountain in 2003. We about ran him over instead of advancing the countersign so we could get at the hot coffee...I had the opportunity to serve with him at Bentonville, Sailors Creek, Gettysburg, Harrison's Landing, and Lookout Mountain. I've got a group image from Harrison's Landing with musician Don Hubbard and Duke Culberson who are both now with God and had hearts of gold despite what was said or done on an internet forum.

Regards,
Mark Susnis

Duke made the 2003 Lookout Mountain preservation event a most memorable time - and he did it through sheer will despite many obstacles placed in his way, human and otherwise. Like Mark said, I was never so happy to hear Duke's voice than that very dark night after climbing the mountain. I normally don't drink coffee at midnight unless going on guard - but this was good stuff. A kind soul or great integrity. Will post some photos as I find them.

[chris piering]

Duke turned me to the progressive side of the hobby in 1999 when I had had it with the BS in the mainstream.
He was a good man who cared about his friends and was always willing to help someone improve.
I wish him Godspeed and am reminded to "enjoy every sandwhich".
Best wishes to his family...............Chris

[Gunnersmate]

just to let everyone know it was a very nice service for David. he looked very good and his family is very heart felt with your out pouring for david. he has his cowboy hat and boots with him and a kepi to use when he needs it. the 20th has 2 of his buttons and they will be buried at the sharpsburg event and you all are invited to attend to remember him as a friend and pard.

[Stumpy]

Please visit the guest book at http://www.legacy.com/GB/GuestbookView.aspx?PersonId=93475020.

It was a good service. Si (my 'youngest' Carleton) and I drove down tis morning for it. Saint Stephen's Lutheran was full (which is a testimony in and of itself).

I'll miss the hell out of him.

[westernprivate]

I will miss him as the man who levied a shot gun at my blinded eye upon Look Out Mountain in Middle 2003. Other than that, I had legal conversations that would abound the common man with the belated fellow not too long ago,
Beau Blackwell.

[hireddutchcutthroat]

I met Duke on top of Lookout Mt back in 2003. He was an all around good man. He will be missed.

[LindaTrent]

Dang. He was a complex guy. I am one of the few who can
say I never had a disagreement with him. I think it was lawyer to lawyer
thing.

I first remember meeting Duke at War on the James (though he believed we'd met before that), and I worked with him as civilian coordinator for Goldsboro. Personally, I found him to be easy to work with, open, have a bunch of really cool ideas, quick to respond to emails and phone calls, and happy to work with civilians. He was always upbeat, and seemed really nice, but I can say that about a number of people that have hobby clouds over their heads. :rolleyes: I've seen how he treated some others on the forums and lists, and I know others have had bad experiences with him, but when interacting with me online, or in person he always seemed to be a gentleman.

Linda.

[Curt-Heinrich Schmidt]

Hallo!

For one often bashed, and still being bashed on some boards, thanks to everyone for the sentiments here expressed.

I would throw another stick of peat onto the fireplace, raise my glass of Guinness stout, and softly sing:

Of all the comrades e'er I had, I'm sorry for their goin' away,
And all the friends e'er I had , I'd wish them here one more day to stay,
But since it falls unto my lot that I should rise and he should not,
I'll gently rise and softly call, goodnight and memories be with you all.

Curt

[justthemiller]

First Off,

That fellow was not a friend of mine by any stretch of the imagination. However, with that being said I can find no joy in his passing. Also, I can only hope & pray that his comrades & family will be OK in the end & I am sorry for their loss.

[nrandolph]

I knew Mr. Culbertson from the McDowell in 2003 as our Federal commander and also his work against us Feds when he was the Confederate commander at War On The James. Even though the rebels were probably outnumbered two to one that weekend, I've never seen such an aggressive use of a small force. Just about the time you thought you could relax, here they came at you...particularly that early,early dawn attack on Sunday! If his use of troops under his command has anything to say about the person, he was a fine man we all will miss.

Neil Randolph
1st WV

[PerfesserCoffee]

Memories of David Culberson (http://home.earthlink.net/~beaubrummel/)

I've posted some fairly large pictures for those who might want to grab a few for their photo albums. I'll be posting some more later on.

David devoted a lot of time and effort to the hobby. He felt a great deal of responsibility towards educating the public and, when he was put in charge, organizing fun, meaningful events for re-enactors.

While he never gave up the educational aspect of it, I and maybe a few others finally talked him into relaxing and giving up the leadership roles and falling back into the ranks where there was much more fun to be had. We had some really great times together and he never regretted this decision. We never failed to cut up and have a fun time at reenactments and on other occasions.

While some folks may have some times disagreed with David or he with them as happens from time to time on internet forums, he never failed to respect folks who respected themselves and other people and didn't hold hard feelings against them.

David may be gone but he's not forgotten. I have lost my best friend and pard. I'll never get over his passing away--I'll only eventually get used to the fact.

--Lee Canaday

[Marc]

Lee,

Very Nice Pictures...I Am Sure You Think Of Duke Often...

[DougCooper]

I have an 11 x 14 taken by Julio Z. at the 2003 McDowell of Duke (federal CO) on horseback in the middle of the Obaugh property dirt road alongside the spring fed creek and Virginia worm fence. The staff is around him and the troops are drawn up behind him in the road. It is one of the prettiest, most period spots on earth...and I like to think Duke was perfectly in his element that day.

The photo is now at the frame shop and will be up front and center in the office. Anybody want to buy a couple of Troiani's? No room for them now.

[FloridaConscript]

I haven't been on the AC in months. Work wife and life have severly cut into the hobby that I still love, but have limited my involvement.
When lee white emailed me last week about Duke I was floored.
I remember being a 20 year old kid and him asking me to be a corporal in Co.K 35th NC vols for the Hodge march back in 00. Never took the stripes off that jacket.
Duke was a pard who's friendship I valued and will miss him.

Bryant Roberts

[Gunnersmate]

Hey Guys

Just got back from the Sharpsburg event. I just wanted everyone to know that Davids buttons where carried on the March from Harpers Ferry across the pattomac river when we forded the river and in a very moving momement burried at the sunken road at the Sharpsburg Battlefield. May Dave now rest in peace with his pards buttons resting beside his in this most quiet and approprate place.

Dave as we said your pards hope you are free from your pain and have found peace and love forever.

In Loving memory of David Culberson we will miss you

[Secesh]

Strange, but I never met, nor had the privilege of knowing this gentleman....I have been reading the posts of his many friends and Pards on this site, giving their testimony to who was obviously a very good, honest, and noble spirit...One post in particular caught my eye - the one stating his last name....It then occurred to me that I am in possession of a CD jacket he once owned, his name being india-inked inside of it . Though I never knew the man I feel honored to be wearing a tunic that once belonged to this gentleman. Best regards and truly rest in peace, Tom

[PerfesserCoffee]

David's wife Nancy and his children, Ainslee and Olivia and Olivia's husband, Jason, would like me to pass on to everyone here that that they greatly appreciate your numerous kind and respectful comments that they have been reading here and elsewhere on the internet.

It is a great reassurance to them to find that David was so well loved and respected among his fellow historians, amateur and professional, within the living history and reenactment communities.

--Lee Canaday

[paulcalloway]

Hey Guys

Just got back from the Sharpsburg event. I just wanted everyone to know that Davids buttons where carried on the March from Harpers Ferry across the pattomac river when we forded the river and in a very moving momement burried at the sunken road at the Sharpsburg Battlefield. May Dave now rest in peace with his pards buttons resting beside his in this most quiet and approprate place.

Dave as we said your pards hope you are free from your pain and have found peace and love forever.

In Loving memory of David Culberson we will miss you

I wouldn't believe this for those of you concerned about burying modern-day repop buttons at Antietam. The guy making this claim is none other than Mark Watts aka Doug Nyguen. He's a con artist - if he did get his hands on David's buttons, I'm sure they stayed safe and sound in his own pockets.

[Bill Cross]

In order to honor our recently-deceased member and dear friend, David “Duke” Culberson, The Rowdy Pards announce their contribution of $1,700 to the South Carolina Relic Room & Museum. David will be remembered by his friends and those who knew him for his deep love for his home state, and enjoyed his times at the Relic Room as he exercized his passion to learn all he could about The War Between the States.

The gift has been earmarked to help the museum purchase the recently discovered papers of General Colin J. McRae, the Confederacy’s chief financial agent in Europe during the first half of the Civil War, one of the greatest collections of primary source Confederate materials discovered in the last 100 years. Documentation of imported foreign arms and munitions by the C.S.A. and it ability to equip the Confederate soldier in the field has been almost completely lacking, and is understandable considering that foreign companies who violated the proclaimed neutrality of their respective governments had to conceal their involvement in illegal arms sales.

Most incriminating records were destroyed at the war’s end. General McRae’s papers (contained in over 800 documents) focus on English imports to the Confederate war effort. With an appraised value of $304,085, the collection represents one of the largest troves of Confederate documents discovered intact in the last century. The South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum can acquire the collection for $250,000, and intends to combine the information in it with artifacts of imported Confederate arms, uniforms, and equipment, to create a scholarly, educational exhibition linking South Carolina’s involvement in Confederate banking, purchasing, and supply to the entire Southern war effort, as well as the individual soldier. This exhibit would open at the museum during the national Civil War Sesquicentennial in 2011 and then travel to other museums throughout the nation.

The Rowdy Pards invite our fellow living historians, collectively and individually, to help the Museum reach its goal by sending contributions to:

Mr. Alan Roberson
The South Carolina Relic Room & Museum
301 Gervais Street
Columbia, SC 29201