Perryville 2006 AAR

[Rmhisteach]

My plans have changed and i was just wondering if there was anyone in the Layfayette, In or Indy area was looking for a carpooler? I should be through coming through that area between 1:30 and 2:30 on Friday.

Rod Miller

[LibertyHallVols]

I will be leaving Lafayette between 4 and 5pm... a little later than you. I will be meeting up with folks in Indy and driving down.

e-mail me at jwickett@prodigy.net and I can send along my contact info.

Cheers,

[Chris Suppelsa]

I had fun, how about you?

[Ross L. Lamoreaux]

I had a great time as the orderly sergeant for Co A, 42nd Indiana with the AoP. My hats off to the big reb on the left of the Confederate battalion during the hand-to-hand scenario Sunday who knocked me on my can (pretty embarrasing!). The show in the village was a fantastic experience, as well as the interaction with the civilians in the village. Also, I must add kudos to the two ladies who set out on the preservation march, braving not only the distance and hills while pulling a cart of belongings, but the cavalry almost killing them multiple times. Once again the commissary of the AoP came through with good and plenty victuals, and the AoP sutler was a hit with the boys (bread in can - what will they think of next!).

[CJDaley]

I had a great time as the orderly sergeant for Co A, 42nd Indiana with the AoP. My hats off to the big reb on the left of the Confederate battalion during the hand-to-hand scenario Sunday who knocked me on my can (pretty embarrasing!). The show in the village was a fantastic experience, as well as the interaction with the civilians in the village. Also, I must add kudos to the two ladies who set out on the preservation march, braving not only the distance and hills while pulling a cart of belongings, but the cavalry almost killing them multiple times. Once again the commissary of the AoP came through with good and plenty victuals, and the AoP sutler was a hit with the boys (bread in can - what will they think of next!).

Ross,
Glad you made it home with less drama than your trip to Perryville!

It was great to see you and hope you were able to get all that mud off your brogans!

[Chris Suppelsa]

The Good

- my battalion slaughtering the preservation march

- the sunday battle

-meeting a few of the boys off this forum

-no spectators in the camps

The Bad

-The horses that were killed on sunday

-not being able to find conley's group


The Ugly

-My messmates wanting to eat the horses killed on sunday

- Driving down 68

[KyCavMajor]

I had fun, how about you?

Can't stop smiling....

[Chris Suppelsa]

Can't stop smiling....

yeah, I thought I'd get my smartass comment out of the way :)

are there any federals here who were engaged on the preservation march?

[Amtmann]

I still didn't get to watch a Minstrel Show.

[csa blacksmith]

I didn't hear about the horses being killed, what happened? Other than that, I had a great time.

[Capt51stALA]

well I know one horse was killed near the C.S. camp after breaking its leg after its artillery carriage flipped.

Other than that I was a great event. Sadly I didn't get to participate in the hand to hand and had to watch from the fence line were my battalion stalled :( .

Michael Mumaugh
51st Alabama INF.

[KarinTimour]

Clyde, a wheel horse for Lilly's Battery (Kent Oestenstad's unit, based in Alabama), had a heart attack while in harness waiting to go on the field for Sunday's battle. He just dropped in the traces while standing still, his death, at least, wasn't involved in any artillery carriage flipping.

He was a mellow, quiet horse who loved to pull and was all heart. He will be missed.

Sincerely,
Karin Timour
Period Knitting -- Socks. Sleeping Hats, Balaclavas
Atlantic Guard Soldiers' Aid Society
Email: Ktimour@aol.com

[Alamo Guard]

Had a fun time leading my company. We were the battalion which went in mano a mano. Got captured, dragged to the rear by a private trying to make some stripes on his arms I think? Got into a great first person discussion on states rights. Then was dragged behind some bushes by a rascal from the AOP robbed of my wallet and pocket watch. The scoundrel later returned my wallet but kept the watch i guess as a reminder of the event? I wonder if Dom next year can include on his registration form "are you a thief"? Hehehehe. The worse part is cannot complain about where the man came from as he was really from a southern state to begin with.
Despite the rules still saw kids in camps, dogs in camp, but was nice to finally see a truck towed, and someone to put their foot down against the yahoos.
Great job to General's Moore and Rambo and their staff for a fun, fun time.

[NC5thCav]

I fell in with the 37th TN for the weekend. We were the AoT provost guard. Had a great time. The 37th is a great bunch of guys. The only bad spot was about 15 guys on a canteen run for General Rambo getting extremely irate with me for not letting them back through camp Saturday morning. They didn't have passes, and orders are orders.

[Silas]

Bully for you by not allowing them to return. Y'all in the provost did a fantastic job. Gen. Moore was extremely pleased with how well y'all performed.

Hope you're not one of the two guys on duty who handed me their muskets. I don't think I'll be able to get away with that again. Don't blame me. I was requested by the provost marshal himself to see if I could walk away with any man's musket from his hands. I only got two before the word was quickly spread about that guy with two stars on his collar was hunting for muskets.

Wished you'd introduced yourself at the event as NC5thCav. There was a Tackett in that unit from Gettysburg through the Wilderness who died in a POW camp just before the war ended. I've noticed your login from the beginning.

[NC5thCav]

You didn't get my musket, but I did see you take the first guys. The 5th NC in my screen name is the 5th bttn, a Department of East Tennessee and AoT unit. They later became the 6th NC cavalry regiment. The fifer and drummer with the 37th are the rest of my mess.

[billmatt04]

Had a great time with the CG. On Saturday we got to watch the Rebs come up the hill after us and then on Sunday got to see the horse-drawn artillery in action. Watching the Rebs come at us in column of battalions was a great sight too. The living history villiage and minstrel show were tremendous and I hope that more events include such activities in the future. Thanks to everyone who made the event worthwhile.

Sincerely,

[Norsk]

Had a great time with the CG. On Saturday we got to watch the Rebs come up the hill after us and then on Sunday got to see the horse-drawn artillery in action. Watching the Rebs come at us in column of battalions was a great sight too. The living history villiage and minstrel show were tremendous and I hope that more events include such activities in the future. Thanks to everyone who made the event worthwhile.

Sincerely, Matt,

I wish I would have been able to see you there. The Minnesota Companies (1st and 2nd) were the Color company for the 2nd battalion of the WB and I had a great time as the Color Sgt. It really gave me an idea of how vulnerable a target they were as the color guard. This event was an improvement from our experiences with the Western Brigade at Franklyn and Corinth. A bit less canvas and we were able to camp away from the tent city on Sat. night. Were you at the 11:00 minstrel show? That was quite an experience. Verry well done and hilarious.

[Federal Bummer]

To all those in company C 42 Indiana (AoP) bully for you! You guys were great and it was a pleasure being your orderly.

[KyCavMajor]

well I know one horse was killed near the C.S. camp after breaking its leg after its artillery carriage flipped.

Other than that I was a great event. Sadly I didn't get to participate in the hand to hand and had to watch from the fence line were my battalion stalled :( .

Michael Mumaugh
51st Alabama INF.

No "Artillery Carriage" flipped! It was in my unit and I have spoken to the owner, and those riding the limber, and it was just one of those things. That particular hitch has exsisted for some twenty six years, this is the first animal they have lost while in the traces.
The horse became tangled after stepping in a hole and snapped a leg, if you observe these six horse hitches in operation it amazes me it doesn't happen more often. Imagine all that weight, with six horses going down hill with no brakes!
The horses name was Blue, it was his second event, I understand after a bit of initial confusion both horses are to be buried in the park.

[KyCavMajor]

Clyde, a wheel horse for Lilly's Battery (Kent Oestenstad's unit, based in Alabama), had a heart attack while in harness waiting to go on the field for Sunday's battle. He just dropped in the traces while standing still, his death, at least, wasn't involved in any artillery carriage flipping.

He was a mellow, quiet horse who loved to pull and was all heart. He will be missed.

Sincerely,
Karin Timour
Period Knitting -- Socks. Sleeping Hats, Balaclavas
Atlantic Guard Soldiers' Aid Society
Email: Ktimour@aol.com

Do you suppose Clyde would have wanted it any other way? i understand he is to be buried there in the park.

[VaTrooper]

We have a horse that'll probably go down in battle. He's almost thirty and still goes out and loves it. The Vet says as long as he's healthy that we should continue to use him because it would break his spirit to be left behind and would probably lead to a quicker end.

[speaslee]

I appreciate your comments Mr. Lamoreaux, the march was an interesting experience and I am grateful to Chad Greene for allowing Raquelle and me the opportunity the follow the Army. I think the Living History Village was a wonderful success and would like to thank all of the contributors.

Sarah Peaslee
Citizens of the Ohio Loyal League


I had a great time as the orderly sergeant for Co A, 42nd Indiana with the AoP. My hats off to the big reb on the left of the Confederate battalion during the hand-to-hand scenario Sunday who knocked me on my can (pretty embarrasing!). The show in the village was a fantastic experience, as well as the interaction with the civilians in the village. Also, I must add kudos to the two ladies who set out on the preservation march, braving not only the distance and hills while pulling a cart of belongings, but the cavalry almost killing them multiple times. Once again the commissary of the AoP came through with good and plenty victuals, and the AoP sutler was a hit with the boys (bread in can - what will they think of next!).

[Hobbit]

Good:
Kickin' it with Wide Awake
Fighting with MLK.
Seeing Conely again
Minstrel show
Babes!
Oysters From Crabby!
Babes!
Seeing Landrum and Rasmus again

Bad:
Horse killed
Not finding the MLK before sundays battle
Long Drive, buyt worth it
Rash

Ugly:
Hangovers


Bully event!

[billmatt04]

Matt,

I wish I would have been able to see you there. The Minnesota Companies (1st and 2nd) were the Color company for the 2nd battalion of the WB and I had a great time as the Color Sgt. It really gave me an idea of how vulnerable a target they were as the color guard. This event was an improvement from our experiences with the Western Brigade at Franklyn and Corinth. A bit less canvas and we were able to camp away from the tent city on Sat. night. Were you at the 11:00 minstrel show? That was quite an experience. Verry well done and hilarious.

Ben,
Yes, I was at the show that night but with the dim light I couldn't recognize you. I wish I had been able to mosey over to your camp for a visit. Maybe next time. In the mean time, let me know where you and the boys will be next year - maybe I can fall in with you fellows again. I sure enjoy your company!

[CJDaley]

Bully event!

I agree. I'd also like to add a few things to your list:

Good:
National Guard doing traffic control/security.
Event organizers not missing any details.
Raising money for a great battlefield.
Seeing a CS cannon being pulled with rope traces.

Bad:
Mapquest getting a few road names wrong.

Ugly:
Mud.
Rain (Thursday only).
Temps dropping down into the 30s.

[Chris Suppelsa]

During the confederates preservation march thing, one of the water wagons got a good 6 feet of air going over a bump on the battlefield.

IT WAS AWESOME

[Jim of The SRR]

I was with Company A with the AOP. We hada great time. I believe we enjoyed the engagement with the Rebs during the Preservation March more than the regular battles. During the march the battalion had to move thru a gate at the bottom of hill before they could deploy into battle line. At the top of the hill an dover the crest were the Rebs waiting for us. I was commanding the skirmish line on the hill. I took them as high as I could go without exposing us to the Rebs fire. My job was to hold the Rebs off long enough for our battalion to get onto line. Just as the first company got onto line, the Rebs began their assault. It was a thrill to yell down to the battalion to "Hurry and get on the line!!!". We held the rEbs off for one or two volleys and then had to pull back to the main line, just in time. Whoever the rEbs were at the top of the hill, y'all did a FINE job!

The Minstrel Show was GREAT!!! Thanks to everyone who put the village together...it was really worth the walk from the AOP camp!

The unofficial, AOP, forage detail at the Bottom's House was also fun.

Regards,
Jim Butler

[Federal Bummer]

The unofficial, AOP, forage detail at the Bottom's House was also fun.

AMEN! JIM

[Mutt]

Had a great time!

I was down in the Living History Village, spending a good bit of time lounging in the tavern, but balancing it out with a nice stroll, visits to others in the village, Seniora Bella and minstrel shows and many many good conversations.

The event afforded me the great opportunity to make new friends, many of which frequent this board. Thank you to all for the hospitality and warmth I received while finding my niche in the event and getting my feet wet portraying civilian again. Can't wait to join you all at future events!

Also, a Thank you to those who organized the event and all of the hard work that went into it and the village.

Best Regards,

[Beaner]

Gents,
There's a pic or two of the Medich Battalion hitting the march in my albums. It was wonderful seeing you boys in blue being hung out to dry at the bottom of that hill. Sunday's battle was best I've participated in. Chris it was an honor having you in the ranks. Let us all remember those whose valiant horses fell at the event.

Sam Billingsley
4th Texas Co. E
Medich Battalion
AOT

[btfire]

Hello to everyone,
Perryville was my first event, and it was a blast. I had a great time in everything I did, but was almost overwhelmed by everything there was to see. I cannot thank everyone I encountered enough for all of the assistance and understanding they showed as I learned what I could in 72 hours. I hooked up with a great bunch of guys from the Palmetto Battalion, and I caanot say enough about them. I am so amazed at the distances people traveled to get to this event. This was my first time in Kentucky, also, and it is such a beautiful place. The battlefield was great. The only bad thing I can say about my whole time is that it was over too fast.
Thanks, everyone.
Brian T. McGarrahan

[Mcguire]

Good:
Kickin' it with Wide Awake
Fighting with MLK.
Seeing Conely again
Minstrel show
Babes!
Oysters From Crabby!
Babes!
Seeing Landrum and Rasmus again

Bad:
Horse killed
Not finding the MLK before sundays battle
Long Drive, buyt worth it
Rash

Ugly:
Hangovers


Bully event!

Glad to here you boys enjoyed fighting with us! I too wish you could have hooked up with us before Sundays battle. I must say we do know how too engage in a little non-sobriety, if you will, and play and sing and have a good ole time . It would have been an honor to have you boys kick it with us in camp. I gotta admit the Tater Mess has some great impressions. Maybe next time. Keep us informed as to what events you may be attending.

[majdoc]

Hi All
Had a great time. Worked with the AOT Provost with dave Thomas as Company Cpt.
Also it was fun wondering(sneeking) Thru Yankee camp Sat. night. You can learn a whole lot of what is going on from people who like to talk about what there army is going to do. :D
Hope everyone had a great time.
See you round the camp fire down the road.
Jim "Doc" Bruce

[Mcguire]

I was with Company A with the AOP. We hada great time. I believe we enjoyed the engagement with the Rebs during the Preservation March more than the regular battles. During the march the battalion had to move thru a gate at the bottom of hill before they could deploy into battle line. At the top of the hill an dover the crest were the Rebs waiting for us. I was commanding the skirmish line on the hill. I took them as high as I could go without exposing us to the Rebs fire. My job was to hold the Rebs off long enough for our battalion to get onto line. Just as the first company got onto line, the Rebs began their assault. It was a thrill to yell down to the battalion to "Hurry and get on the line!!!". We held the rEbs off for one or two volleys and then had to pull back to the main line, just in time. Whoever the rEbs were at the top of the hill, y'all did a FINE job!

The Minstrel Show was GREAT!!! Thanks to everyone who put the village together...it was really worth the walk from the AOP camp!

The unofficial, AOP, forage detail at the Bottom's House was also fun.

Regards,
Jim Butler

Them Rebs were the Medich Battalion and we had marched three miles to engage you Yanks. We were a little disappointed in your lack of aggresiveness. It was a long way to march for so little battle. But, we appreciate your respect and maybe next time your commanders will have a little more pluck!

[csa blacksmith]

Them Rebs were the Medich Battalion and we had marched three miles to engage you Yanks. We were a little disappointed in your lack of aggresiveness. It was a long way to march for so little battle. But, we appreciate your respect and maybe next time your commanders will have a little more pluck!
Ya, what was the deal with the yanks standing there while we poured powder into them saturday morning? We were a bit confused. :confused:

[Lilymess]

I was one of the winded Yankees on the preservation march. In our defense, the confederates did not have to climb a wet hill (using the term "hill" lightly, it was more like the size of Little round top) while skirmishing. If your wondering I was in the second group of skirmishers that scaled the hill only to find you all snuggled behind a fence in mass (nice touch). All kidding a side, well done on your part. The members of the 42nd Ind. had a great time and the AoP put together another great event.


Scott Derick
Daylily Mess
"We look great for a day and then disappear, just like daylilies"

[CFHicks]

Yes, that hill was mighty steep. I was with the initial platoon of skirmishers under Captain Jimmy, I believe the delay was caused by all those cattle gates along our route, the whole battalion having to file through them it took a lot of time. It kind of sucked as they were barbed wire and we couldn't just tear them down or climb over them as They would have done.

It did make for a cool moment in the end though when we saw the tip of a Reb battle flag coming over the crest of the hill towards our puny skirmish line and our mixed up and unprepared battalion which was mostly still on the other side of the creek. There was lots of yelling and running there for a minute and we were all sincerely worried about our "chances" since we knew we were outnumbered etc. There were several spots like that where I forgot that the whole thing was fake and none of it really mattered in the end.

Once we captured the hill and moved on the battle got pretty stupid though and we wound up trading point blank volleys with each other across more modern fences with pickup trucks riding by and all that. And I could have done without all the Josey Wales cavalry guys shooting their pop-guns in the air and all the usual stuff they like to do. And marching on all that blacktop later on was just rediculous, there's no point to it, even if it is the original route. These guys on horses need to get that through their skulls somehow.

The best parts of the weekend were carousing with friends under the harvest moon and Jerry passing out in a sticker patch and puking all over the place on friday night, chopping down and dragging around a bunch of trees for no reason (very much like the real Army), the booze tent and minstrel show late on Satruday, and crapping in the latrines which became cooler and cooler looking as the event wore on. They were so full of empty cans, trash, and turds etc. that I wished I had my camera to take a picture. Sunday involved a more-boring-than-usual drill followed by long winded orations by the staff, and a big boring battle, once again just like the real Army. I thought overall it was a great time and a great effort, we'll all come crawling back next year I imagine.

[MO-Pard]

Bully event!

Although excited about the Living History, I wasn't sure what else to expect from the event. I think that was pretty much the feeling across the board, from the 7 of us who were able to make the ten hour drive. A couple thoughts:

Bully

The Living History as the 6th Tennessee. It was great to see Conley and Landrum again, as well as meet some killer pards like Joe, Matt, Jordon, Ben, Conley Sr, Bill and Jeremy. I don't think I ever remember a living history with such good, sincere and intelligent questions from the crowds. I had the honor of serving as one of the corporals and it was nice to have such good attitudes. The guys who made it here worked for 3 months on their impressions and research, and it showed!

The Wide Awake, Battle of Perryville production. Every Civil War enthusiast has heard of and know the quality of their productions. Those of you out there who had a chance to see some of the footage shot over the weekend will all utter a collective "WOW!". This will be their best yet and hope all support it. They are great, down-to-earth people, and I watched them ask a lot of people who came by the tent with a good impression to take part. Oh, and the awesome Wide Awake AoT or Bluegrass invasion tour tshirts......designed like rock concert tour tshirts!

The Minstrel Show. Wow! What a talented bunch of guys, great looks and so very entertaining. They left me wishing I had seen the early show as well, wishing I could see the show again soon, wishing the one I had seen wouldn't end.

The Civilian Town. The location, offerings and impressions were exellent. It was great to buy period goods at Ezra's, socks from Ms. Lawson, and a kind drink of "whiskey" from the tetering, dandy gentlemen at the Tavern.

The Sunday Battle. We didn't plan to take part, because our obligation as park volunteers was first to the Living History and some just didn't care to. There were some talking prior to leaving for the event about the possiblity of taking part in a battalion-scale drill/battle, but would just have to play it by ear. We found out too late Mr. Ventura who had extended an invitation to fall-in would not lead the AoT, and were unable to reach Silas before leaving home or prior to the battle. We sat and watched the battalions march up past the sutler area and saw one of our old MLK pards who was second Sgt and invited seven of us from the LH to fall-in. After a few concerns by the major, we were well received by the Medich battalion. What a great bunch of guys and there musicians were tight. Very impressive to see that many good drummers, fifers and base drum. I had a lot of period moments this weekend and a couple here. One, when we were formed up and began marching toward the battle, the aforementioned musicians played 'Dixieland' and even a trumpet was heard from some unseen spectator. The crowd noise, battle noise and the rebel yells from the field instilled a sense or period patriotism. Two, being the last battalion to make it to the field allowed us to see everything in front of us and crossing the fence and getting into formation during all the bedlam was priceless. Three, once we topped the hill, we immediately obliqued and went through the six foot high prairie grass. Movement was extremely challenging, we could hear the direction of firing, but the Feds couldn't see us coming yet. Trying to keep your feet while getting tripped up and having others bumping into you with the same problem, all while under fire was a great challenge. And by the way, Wide Awake was really impressed with the Sunday battle footage. Good job everyone.

Getting out the vehicles and the impression guidelines. Of course you will always see plenty of Farby impressions and there were such there. However, I went in thinking it would be a lot more widespread and was pleasently surprised to see much better impressions collectively than I expected. I don't know if this was due to the park laying down the law or if Wide Awake had any input. Granted, I didn't get out much, but from what little I saw it was better than expected. Sure others have horror stories, but that was my experience.

Beautiful Battle Park. The state has done a great job and Kentucky is beautiful. Reminds me of Missouri, although hillier than the northern portion and flatter than the southern portion. One of my favorites along with Wilson's Creek and Pea Ridge.

Seeing old pards. I have already mentioned several names, but also nice to see the pards from MLK (great guys and great CS impressions from a unit way up in Michighan.) Silvana, Anna, Vivian, Mitch. There were several others I either did see but couldn't get to to greet or just missed throughout the weekend. Of course, I can't mention everyone.

Not so Bully

Non 'battlefield tour' particpants, (i.e. old pards, AC c/p/h'ers) had a rough time finding us. A big part of this was we were kept so busy, and saturday literally were on the go from 8 that morning until after 10 p.m. before we could eat "lunch." It was great doing the LH, ghost tour and wide awake specialty shooting, but it left us so ragged and little time to do much else.

It just went too fast.

On to Banks Grand Retreat!!!!

Best Regards

[Chris Suppelsa]

Where was this maneys fence? I was looking for conleys group on and off all weekend.

[Spinster]

Chris,

It was one of those places that was "just over the next hill"--kinda like finding the end of the rainbow. They were up a ways from the cemetary.

Thankfully, since the Doc had grounded me to sitting much and lifting little for the weekend, all I had to do was send word, and those I needed to see came to me. I did attempt to walk out there on Saturday just to see, and make sure those boys knew where to come pay their dollar for Preservation and see the Dancing Princesses, but I gave up about halfway there.

From what I could tell, most were quick enough to find the Princesses on their own.

[Amtmann]

Dang it! Not only did I not get to see the Minstrel Show, I missed the Dancing Princesses too! :mad:

[rebel225]

Good-The Saturday morning battle.....Priceless
Bad-The loss of a comrade and good horse (Blue)
Ugly-The Mud on Thursday and Friday!

Paul Richardson
9th KY Cavalry

[coastaltrash]

Well I got about 1.5 hrs of sleep Friday before jumping the plane to Atlanta, then my connection to Nashville. Apparently, Rasmus got hot at the bottom of the suitcase because when airport security checked my bag, there he sat, in all of his wonder. Good ole Rasmus. I sure did appreciate getting EVER bag searched, TWICE, and having to take off my shoes, even though I was wearing flip flops, TWICE. Rasmus and I finally landed in Nashville and was picked up by my conscience (girlfriend) who had been to and from the airport waiting on me to land everytime Delta said they thought I would. She actually did however run into Art Milbert (WIG commander) in the airport, which was funny for all parties involved, except for me, because I was scheduled to be at the airport 2 hours before Art.

Arrived at Perryville late in the evening and unloaded the ladies things at her camp, and agreed to go park the car, then go find Conley and the rest of the boys. Dreading the walk back to CS parking I was shocked to realize the true distance I would be required to go. Oh no, not further, I actually parked across the street from the entrance to the park. (Later actions would prove this spot to be a moot point, but it was a nice spot, still is actually). Usual meet and greet followed. Watched Conley finish up the mail call, while under the ever watchful eye of Ms. Anna Allen. Saw the rest of the crowd drift in the Wide Awake tent and finally got bored and wanted to head to bed. After Conley and I fired up a second fire for the camp, I slept relatively warm, save for my feet, which had to be in canvas shoes for the weekend due to a broken bone in my foot. Canvas shoes in 40 degree weather is REALLY REALLY stupid for anyone that thinks it might be a good idea. In fact, half way through the night, I was wondering if wearing the boots with the broken bone would have been better.

Saturday morning came early. Another 2 hours of sleep would crank most of the living history group through the entire day. I have done many programs with the public, but never before have I seen such good questions and people who REALLY cared about this stuff. I talked with one group of 6 people about nothing but food for at least an hour. The guy liked Essence of Coffee so much he took down my recipe. Rasmus even amazed several people as he looked on from his post inside the knapsack. The Candle tour proved to be pretty interesting, and I would do it again.

Saturday night for me was the highlight. Went to the Melodians show with Liz, which was top notch. Rasmus however was a pain the rest of the weekend. He attended the 2003 show at Granger, but was steamed I left without him for this one. Rick, you should really get by and see one of those things, I mean those guys are REALLY good. I swear though, that banjo player looks familiar. Like some feller I bought tin from some time back. Opposite color though, who knows, perhaps his lovechild??

Sunday ended early for me, well at least the reenactment part. Rolled into the resting place at 1230am Monday Morning, and promptly died.

The GOOD

Skulking
Spending time with folks I don't see enough. Mainly Liz. The majority of the time, waving at each other from a distance is about it, so actually seein a show with her was worth it. But yeah Wambaugh, White, Daley and actually meeting Kara Bartels will be mixed in there too.
The Taters and other guys in the LH area. VERY good group of guys
The weather.

The Bad

Delta Connection flights
Return Flight home via Northwest

[Irishvol79]

I fell in with the Western Brigade for the Weekend and found ourselves part of an ambush Saturday morning. We woke up at 4 and were in hiding by 6. We were the ones that were supposed to provoke the fighting to get the whole thing started but that went to pot while we were sitting up the hill watching the fight down the hill in front of us. It was a very cool sight to see where we were at though with the fog. All you could see and hear was the muskets firing and the men yelling. It was quite a sight.
I would agree that Sunday's battle was a blast as well.
Too bad I missed the minstrel show though. I was feeling ill or I would have gone.

Jon Birket

[MercyAngel62]

As usual, I had a well spent weekend at Perryville! The weather was absolutely beautiful, although it did get a bit chilly at night but that is to be expected in KY during October. I also enjoyed the Ghost Walk Saturday night! Great job to everyone who was involved! Everything went really well except for the fact that my car wouldn’t start Sunday and is still sitting in the field waiting for me to come get it this weekend. But other than the car trouble, I had a good time. ;) Can't wait til next year!

[Jim of The SRR]

A few Perryville Pics are posted at:

http://www.geocities.com/saltriverrifles/PerryvillePics.html

Regards,
Jim Butler
SRR
SCAR

[KyCavMajor]

Good-The Saturday morning battle.....Priceless
Bad-The loss of a comrade and good horse (Blue)
Ugly-The Mud on Thursday and Friday!

Paul Richardson
9th KY Cavalry

I kind of thought you were the "Ugly" Paul... lol :eek:
Especially after your first night of campaign style sleeping, in the rain and mud no less! My horse did think you were tasty though. :D
You will probably never set up a tent again!

[Ross L. Lamoreaux]

Did I forget to mention that on our way up to Perryville, the rather large van we were riding in was totalled by an even larger cement truck in Atlanta? even that didn't keep us from our appointment with destiny - we hitched a ride with another pard and crammed 6 full-sized men in a not-so-full-sized Jeep Cherokee. Lesson(s) learned: God was looking out for us, its great to travel light, its a long way from Atlanta to Kentucky with very closely packed pards, and Momma was right - wear clean underwear because you just never know! You should have seen the look on the cops face when we brought out the fake rubber leg with the brogan on it at the accident scene!

[csa blacksmith]

I kind of thought you were the "Ugly" Paul... lol :eek:
Especially after your first night of campaign style sleeping, in the rain and mud no less! My horse did think you were tasty though. :D
You will probably never set up a tent again!
Tod,

Your horse eat yankees too? Reb thought they were tastey and good with cetchup.:D

It was good meeting ya, didn't get a chance to catch up with ya during the weekend.

[Silas]

Good-The Saturday morning battle.....Priceless

I'll say. At times the firing distance between battalions was thirty feet. And immediately behind the Federals was the payin' public. We're darned lucky some of our guests were not hurt by something dropped down a musket by some good ol' boy. I saw some elevated, Confederate muskets, but not as high as they should have been.

My personal rule of thumb is that if you're having to elevate anywhere near 45 degrees to fire, you're way way way too close.

Even at that close distance, there weren't too many hits being taken on either side. It was sad.

Not sure who had the great idea about having the Federals come through the tater line and flank the Confederates. A small opening existed for such a tactic, but the left of the Federals overlapped the crowd by a good thirty to forty feet. I assisted in moving the crowd - more like stuffing them - back as far as we could shove them. I'm used to being inside a blast cone of a battalion firing, but few taters have had the privilege. The Federal left brushed against the crowd. There were tators for forty feet straight down range. Didn't seem to stop the left most company from firing. Some of them did seem to fire at a right oblique, but withholding fire might have been a better idea.

That battle was grossly unsafe. That battle may have been designed by generals who were concerned about safety and had a clear plan about how the battle was to be fought, but Major Charlie Foxtrot assumed command once the first musket was fired. There's something about the odor of consumed black powder wafting through the air which causes perfectly sane people to lose their minds.

Despite the best intentions of the two generals who tried to manage that battle, I witnessed two armed mobs slugging it out. I am very thankful that no one was seriously hurt.

That battle was the most unsafe battle I've seen since the Franklin scenario at the NSA event in 2004. Being that I reenact in the wild and wooly Pacific Nor'west and participated at Rich Mountain where ramrods were used, that's saying quite alot.

[Spinster]

Dang it! Not only did I not get to see the Minstrel Show, I missed the Dancing Princesses too! :mad:

I MIGHT bring at least one of the Dancing Princesses up to Sullivan's Tavern--if'n you send me some pictures, sizes, and prices of the tinware you didn't come down and sell us Sunday morning.

Next time you want to see a minstrel show, remind me to pack the full length pier mirror so you can.

[Micah Trent]

The Good - Saturday mornings battle. Hollywood couldn't even make it look better. Quite heavenly!

The Bad - Some of the officers at HQ not having the slightest clue on what was going on. It showed a couple of times, especially when one minuet we were to do drills and then not. This went on for some time.

The Ugly - Couple of spectators running on to the field during Saturday afternoons battle. I ran over this one guy hard as our brigade was getting pushed back...I have no clue if I hurt him or not...didn't stick around to check...I hoped he learned his lesson though. Ropes are there for a reason!

All in all...just an incredible weekend!

Micah Trent

[bAcK88]

I had a killer time at Perryville as part of the Living History that Jim Conley organized.

The Good:
Visiting Perryville for the first time and walking over almost every inch of the battlefield.
Meeting a lot of new people from the AC.
The LH guys were great. It was great to meet the Tater Mess, Jordon, Matt, Joe, and Ben and hopefully I'll be at another event with them soon.
Mail call was cool especially the letter from my sister, thanks Jim for writing most of them.
The ghost tour was unique.

The Bad:
Getting a little chilly on Friday night when my blanket fell off my shoulder.
Leaving at 2 PM on Sunday in order to catch my plane.
Flying.

The Ugly:
Catching up on my schoolwork.
Sun burn.

[Chris Suppelsa]

[QUOTE=Silas]
Even at that close distance, there weren't too many hits being taken on either side. It was sad.

QUOTE]


We were ordered not to take hits

[Jim Moffet]

Overall, P'ville was a great event. I have to agree about the Sat. morning battle - looked great as we advanced into it - the WB came in in a column of companies & wheeled into line - but it surely got too close too quickly. My close friend Marc Benedict from the 53rd PVI called it "the Great Bogocity." He was part of the flank attack (executed by the CG) and told me that they closed to 15 paces before firing the first volley! Of the 3 actions, it was certainly my least favorite.

The Sunday fight was lots better. The WB was posted as the 21st Wisconsin down in the mudhole at the base of the central cornfield. The boys waited at 'in place rest' for a good 20 minutes, listening to the battle getting closer while all we could see was the 'corn' rising steeply in our front. Feds were retreating on both our flanks. Then the tip of a CS flag appeared above the hill, and we opened up. The volley sounded like tearing canvas! This battle developed just right - reasonable ranges, heated firing - until our left flank was seriously threatened and we broke back to the road, and then up the hill with the AoP covering our right. By the time we reached the Federal batteries at the crest, we were down to about 40%, so we took lots of casualties, as did our enemies.

Other highpoints - the fife & drum jam w/ US & CS down by the Sutler's area Saturday evening; Gen. Dolive's Field Day on Sunday - wish other Federals had participated, it was better than we had first postulated; eating REAL salt pork (we found a source here in Minnesota) and the fact that the WB didn't go anywhere by the flank (except where that was all that would fit) - we did most of the SoB all weekend. For me, that's what big national events are all about!

Jim Moffet
Minnesota First
Western Brigade

[KCLoewe]

As a visitor and Adjutant of the WB, all I can say is that I had a great time. It was the best event I've been to in some time. And that is becuase of the men. All those in my battalion were an absolute joy to work for. I look forward to working with the WB again.

Kurt Loewe

[Greg Barnett]

It sure is nice to hear from everyone about the event. I attended only as a spectator and what I saw was impressive. I really enjoyed many of the activities that have been mentioned previously. Everyone involved surely did a great job all around. I have never been a spectator at an event before, but I have to say that this was a great event to attend as a spectator. I can only imagine the quality experience that a participant would have had.

Regards

[Beaner]

Chris the reason we were asked not to take hits early on Saturday afternoon was the battle scenario had just started and there was another 45 minutes of movement and fighting to do.

There were several hits taken during the Sunday battle. I saw yanks and Johnnies falling everywhere. Chris took a flip over the rail fence in front of the Federal position on top of the Hill. Half my company including myself went down due to a point blank cannister shot. Billy was lying everywhere. So was Johnnie.

Wide Awake filmed us as we advanced through the high grass and up the slope (We were on the extreme left of the Medich Battalion.The rest of the battalion followed on in eshellon on our right). Mr. Hodges stated he'd never seen so many reenactors taking hits and loved every minute of it. All I can say is excellent!, Laddies excellent!

Sgt. Sam Billingsley
4th texas Co. E

[Jim of The SRR]

All of the battle recreations generally developed into silliness. Ranges FAR too close, Rebs flanking our line down along the modern road edge of the property (as if historically there would not have been another division on our flank), lack of hits, force ratios way out of proportion. Our company took 150% casualties on Saturday afternoon battles (if that doesn't make sense...just think about it). Folks, we can not drag out a battle to 45 minutes when the Rebs have a 3:1 force ratio and insist upon crashing into/and flanking us at a rapid rate. Just f&*kin stupid, mainstream, powder-burnin, behavior!

However, I will say that the impressions looked much better than typical mainstream events. I really never saw any REALLY bad, glaring farb impressions (not saying there weren't any, I just didn't see any).

Regards,
Jim Butler

[Micah Trent]

I have to agree with you Jim about ranges being far too close. I know at one point, while the Indiana Brigade was being pushed back, a few of the Confederates were firing at us at not even 15 to 20 feet away if not closer. No joke! We were holding our line as told, but when they fired at such a close range, we were told to fall way back...it was getting a little too dangerous!

Micah Trent

[Jim of The SRR]

As you all know, Clyde the horse died at Perryville. I mention this as Clyde was there at the last Pickett's Mill. Here is a recent emailed poem I received regarding Clyde:

TO CLYDE
IN REMEMBRANCE

WE LOST OUR CLYDE THIS PAST WEEKEND.
A STEADY OFFWHEEL ARTILLERY HORSE, FAITHFUL,TRIED AND TRUE.
THE TEARSTAINED FACES OF WE ARTILLERMEN,
A FITTING TRIBUTE, SADLY BIDDING A FOND ADIEU.

WE BATTERYMATES REVERED HIM, A FAVORITE TO EACH AND ALL.
HIS CALM STRENGTH AND DEMEANOR, HIS BRIGHT EYES AND BUSHY MANE.
TO PULL OR BRAKE, PIECE OR CAISSON, HE MORE THAN MET THE CALL,
OUR MEMORIES OF HIS LOYAL SERVICE SHALL EVERMORE REMAIN.

HE FOUGHT HIS FINAL BATTLE ON AN EMERALD BLUEGRASS FIELD,
AND FELL AT HIS OFFWHEEL DUTY POST GIVING, TO THE LAST, HIS BEST.
THE KENTUCKY RANGERS GENTLY LAID HIM ON A RIDGE NEAR PERRYVILLE,
THE CAP'N SAID GOODBYE OLD FRIEND, REST, YOU MET OUR EVERY TEST.

MAY HIS EMPTY PLACE, BY EDITH, ON THE BATTERY PICKET LINE
BE RESERVED FOREVER, AS A MEMORIAL, TO TEMPER OUR REMORSE.
FOR SURELY THERE'S A HEAVEN FOR BELOVED ARTILLERY EQUINE
WHERE OLE CLYDE WILL GRAZE FOREVER, A TRULY FAITHFUL HORSE.

SUBMITTED BY: DR. DAVE

[rebel225]

I kind of thought you were the "Ugly" Paul... lol :eek:
Especially after your first night of campaign style sleeping, in the rain and mud no less! My horse did think you were tasty though. :D
You will probably never set up a tent again!

I just remember sleeping warm and cozy by the fire then something begins to nudge my foot through my canvas bivouac. Then out of no where some thing bites and about takes a chunk out of my ankle. :eek:

Tell Indy thanks, my ankle is still sore. :angry_smi :D

It don't matter if I never set up a tent again I still got to set up and pack all of dad and sis's tents and junk

Paul "Curly" Richardson
9th Ky Cavalry

[Chris Suppelsa]

How about the CS drummers who were beating off at 4:30 saturday morning :angry_smi

[GreencoatCross]

Mine and Dan's last minute stop at Bardstown to see the museum paid off later when we ventured into a downtown antique mall. Check out these finds!

The rebel soldier conquers my Medal of Honor winner U.S. Sharpshooter tintype and is the new gem of my collection. Five-button jeancloth frock...facings that seem to match the pants...trimmed with dark colored tape. Sweet.

Brian T. White
Wambaugh, White, & Company
www.wwandcompany.com
------also------
GHTI/WIG/USSS

[Timg152005]

I had a wonderful time at Perryville. First of all the land was beautiful. Coming from Florida it's nice to see hills and mountains. The weather was better than expected. The cooler temps gave me an extra shot of energy, or maybe it was running around in shorts on Thursday did that to me.
The Florida federal reenactors fielded two companies under the Army of Ohio. Not a bad turn out I say for driving somewhere around 850 miles one way. I can say after this event us Florida guys are ready for our season to start.

The Battle went well Sat morning, my company was sent on ambush positions to the hill across the main battlefield. We sat around for a good while watching the Union and confederate Cav dueling. I can say one thing, chain fires look impressive at night. We acted more as a reserve force when it seemed that the ambush was hopeless. One thing that stood out to me as looking dumb was when the entire federal army on the right got the order to cease fire. The rebs poured volley after volley into us and we couldn't fire back. I don't know what happened but it seemed rather silly for us just to stand there.

Saturday afternoon our company was sent out on skirmish duty on the left. Well that didn't last too long as we were rolled up the hill by the reb cavalry. After the quick run up the hill we reformed only to be pushed back. I took my hit and enjoyed the rest of the battle.

Sunday's battle to my was by far the best. Again the Army of Ohio was in reserve so we watched most of the battle. Our orders were to protect the union guns from capture. We did just that after about 45 rounds later. My hats off to the brave rebs who took hits on the extreme left (or my right for the union side) along the spectator line.

Sutlers row was an unexpected suprize. It was good to see a mix of mainstream, progressive, and authentic sutlers. I am ashamed to say that I missed the dancing and the minstrel show. Next time I will not fall asleep so early.

In closing I will say it was well worth the time to go to Perryville. I hope everyone who went had at one point or another a wonderful memory from the event.

Soldier in blue,
Paul Goudeau

[hoosiersojer]

Although I have been reenacting for three years now,this was my first National.And all I've got to say...is WOW!I'm more than ready for the next one!Other than the chilly nights and some really aching calves/feet from all the marching over those Kentucky hills,I had an absolutely awesome experience.Had some of those"Traveled-back-in-time" moments,during the battles,especially on Saturday morning.Watching the Confederate lines advancing through the fog towards you just gives you goosebumps.
It was cool meeting some of you folks from the forums and putting faces with the names,EW Taylor,Flattop.Thanks Jurt for taking the time to show a new guy around.Wished we could have had more time to hang.Special thanks to the guys from the 35th Indiana who gave the Monty Python's Holy Grail dialogue skit about the "Witch"around the fire Friday night.Hilarious and spot-on.
The worst thing about this event for me was the fact that it had to end so soon.Bring on the next National!


-Kevin Waggoner
4th OVI,Co.B

[KyCavMajor]

Tod,

Your horse eat yankees too? Reb thought they were tastey and good with cetchup.:D

It was good meeting ya, didn't get a chance to catch up with ya during the weekend.

Taste like chicken I understand.... It was nice meeting you in person Jay, wish we had more time to talk.

[KyCavMajor]

I just remember sleeping warm and cozy by the fire then something begins to nudge my foot through my canvas bivouac. Then out of no where some thing bites and about takes a chunk out of my ankle. :eek:

Tell Indy thanks, my ankle is still sore. :angry_smi :D

It don't matter if I never set up a tent again I still got to set up and pack all of dad and sis's tents and junk

Paul "Curly" Richardson
9th Ky Cavalry

Don't worry, we got Indy's stomach pumped in time lol :D He says don't sleep on his breakfast next time!
All kidding aside, you done good Curly

[PogueMahone]

Reading this thread makes me wonder if I was at the same event as some of you. I had a great time, but I was with the AoP and only saw Babylon when we ventured out to battle and when I visited the "village" Saturday night.

Hints at drunkenness and did someone say they did Monty Python around the campfire? First time bacon eaters even!! I'm glad you boys were camping mainstream and not screwing up our good time.

Sorry, boys, but I'm more convinced than ever that this forum is overrun with mainstream wannabe's and hardkewls.

A Dead Whale or A Stove Boat,

everytime,

Joe Smotherman

[Chris Suppelsa]

The worst thing about this event for me was the fact that it had to end so soon.Bring on the next National!

I second that

[Anna Allen]

Had a great time at Perryville. Enjoyed seeing old friends and making new ones. I had my one period moment at the black face minstrel show on Saturday night. That was killer. I felt like I stepped back in time when I entered the theater packed with people. I almost didn't think I'd get a seat until a fine young man gave up his place for Silvana and I.

All in all, I had a fair weekend. Somehow I always forget how cold it is at night and spent most of the time trying to keep my toes from falling off. But I think I know what to do next time to prevent this from happening again. It's not like I didn't have enough wool blankets either. Ah well...it's all part of the experience. You know it's a successful event if you come home with a sore body, you're dead tired because you managed to get two hours of sleep a night at most, a bad cold and sore throat and you find out you lost four pounds because you forgot to eat all weekend...oops. Yes, I really did have a great time and I can't wait for the next national event!

Here are a few pics I took. (http://good-times.webshots.com/album/554721470ShAmBj )

[yankeecav]

To all those in company C 42 Indiana (AoP) bully for you! You guys were great and it was a pleasure being your orderly.

Steve,

I really enjoyed my first event with the AoP and it was such an honor for me since the AoP was using the 42nd as it's impression. Co. C had a great bunch of guys that made all the hard work worth while. I would serve with you guys anytime, anywhere.

Tom Lowe
Pvt., 42nd Indiana Vol. Inf.
(Bvt. Corp. for color guard at Perryville)

[flattop32355]

Also it was fun wondering(sneeking) Thru Yankee camp Sat. night. You can learn a whole lot of what is going on from people who like to talk about what there army is going to do. :D

I'm curious as to which Federal camp you sneaked into? We were all supposed to have guards up and functioning, down to the battalion level, each night.

[flattop32355]

Ya, what was the deal with the yanks standing there while we poured powder into them saturday morning? We were a bit confused. :confused:

For your entertainment pleasure:

We of the Army of the Ohio were in line to the left front of your advance, when some other Federal force came in on your flank. Our Colonel was wounded, and command passed to our Major. At some later point, you rebs flanked the other Federals by marching across our front and turning your backs to us and pouring fire into the other line. Our Major saw what was happening, and began to move us against your extremely exposed position. Even a lowly corporal like me saw what was happening and smiled at the opportunity to wreak some havoc on your line.

At that point, some higher ranking muckety-muck trotted up on his horse and informed our beloved Major that he should not be taking such action without higher orders, and demanded that we cease and desist moving upon you all.
He reluctantly complied.

What he should have done was shoot the idiot and continued on...but I digress.

That may be an example of why we Feds were not more agressive in the field.

[NC5thCav]

Saturday night I simply ditched my gray shell jacket and walked into the Federal camp, carrying my enfield, accoutraments, and even wearing a gray kepi still. I had on dark blue trowsers, but still. I walked right by one sentry and even stood around a campfire with a bunch of Feds who were discussing the fact that it was a dry county and where to procure booze, and nobody ever questioned me. So the guards must have really sucked. There were also five more rebs in the tree line around the Federal camp at the same time.

[csa blacksmith]

I'm curious as to which Federal camp you sneaked into? We were all supposed to have guards up and functioning, down to the battalion level, each night.
Well, I guess it wasn't that effective. We were going to make a raid on the federal camp for good fire wood, ours was wet and green. It wouldn't burn.:(

[Spinster]

Alas Mr. Bierderman, the answer is-----every major command area was infiltrated-----by civilian men on foot or on horse on either Friday or Saturday evening. Enough to take troop counts and to know where commanders were sleeping, right down to which pallet on which side of which fly or tent.

Last year my girls left little love notes for some select gentlemen, based on a challenge issued to get through all those pickets and passwords. This year we gals had other fish to fry, but still had some civilian men making the rounds.

One feller went back and forth so many times, I've got his socks in my mending basket...... :D

[flattop32355]

Alas Mr. Bierderman, the answer is-----every major command area was infiltrated-----by civilian men on foot or on horse on either Friday or Saturday evening. Enough to take troop counts and to know where commanders were sleeping, right down to which pallet on which side of which fly or tent.

Hmmmmm...not a good thing. We shall need to work on that.
And to think I got into trouble for challenging a Federal staff member who was still in modern clothing as to what he was doing in the division HQ area on Friday evening when we were tasked to guard it...

And it is "Biederman". The extra "r" is a common mistake, so don't feel badly about it. My Father was Mr. Biederman; I'm Bernie, or Doc, or "Hey, you...!"

[DougCooper]

I second that

The next NSA National event is Mill Springs, KY, currently scheduled for the last week of September, 2007. The NSA will be attempting to push the bar a bit higher again on scenario and impression fidelity. Grab your Tennessee frock or commutation jacket and march with Crittenden and Zollicoffer or fall in with Thomas' boys in blue. This will be one event where we will attempt to get close to the actual numbers engaged in the original units at the point of attack, and by rotating units as per the original battle, attempt to match the duration as well.

Planning has been ongoing even as the NSA prepared for Perryville, and this will ramp up very soon.

Like Perryville, the State Park at Mill Springs is a gem, and the goal once again is preservation and education via a great event on the original ground.

Here are some links (the Battle goes by many other names, among them Fishing Creek and Logan's Crossroads):

http://www.millsprings.net/ (details on the event, etc)

http://americancivilwar.com/statepic/ky/ky006.html

http://www.geocities.com/pentagon/quarters/1864/Default.htm

http://www.cr.nps.gov/hps/abpp/battles/ky006.htm

Stay tuned!

[Alamo Guard]

Alot has been said about wandering around visiting camps. This this was pretty much a mainstream event. Folks came and went pretty much where they wanted.
About the only thing the provost was really guarding was the firewood. They demanded passes for wood. Consequently a pencil, a piece of scrap paper, a moon lit night, a young wide eyed sentry....the result six passes, six armfuls of firewood and warming fires for the men at night.

[Hoosier Yank]

Sorry, boys, but I'm more convinced than ever that this forum is overrun with mainstream wannabe's and hardkewls.

A Dead Whale or A Stove Boat,

everytime,

Joe Smotherman

After reading these AARs I'm thinking the same thing thar Joe.

Many folks that have posted something here and we wearing blue for the weekend didn't want to participate with the AoP for some reason or another. Kinda feel sorry for them.

[ewtaylor]

For your entertainment pleasure:

We of the Army of the Ohio were in line to the left front of your advance, when some other Federal force came in on your flank. Our Colonel was wounded, and command passed to our Major. At some later point, you rebs flanked the other Federals by marching across our front and turning your backs to us and pouring fire into the other line. Our Major saw what was happening, and began to move us against your extremely exposed position. Even a lowly corporal like me saw what was happening and smiled at the opportunity to wreak some havoc on your line.

At that point, some higher ranking muckety-muck trotted up on his horse and informed our beloved Major that he should not be taking such action without higher orders, and demanded that we cease and desist moving upon you all.
He reluctantly complied.

What he should have done was shoot the idiot and continued on...but I digress.

That may be an example of why we Feds were not more agressive in the field.

Its good to see some "law and order" prevailed so there were no scenerio busting going on. I took a hit as our line was coming down the last ridge and saw some battle lines getting really close. I think the worst I saw was the CS cav attacking Fed right. The Cav was so close the Feds couldnt even fire their weapons (thank goodness). I was only there Friday and Saturday, but still had a good time. We drilled all of Sat. morning and after the battle I went into "town". The civilians did a fine job, had to leave and get home for personal reasons by 7pm (yes my chain of command knew I was leaving). Sorry I missed out not being with Conley's boys, but I didnt think it fair to those guys just being there 1 day.
I can't wait until Mill Springs, yes national events are mostly mainstreamers, with a sprinkling of the more progressive persuation, but they can be very enjoyable if ran correctly.
It was nice meeting you Bernie.

Everett Taylor

[Jim of The SRR]

Reading this thread makes me wonder if I was at the same event as some of you. I had a great time, but I was with the AoP and only saw Babylon when we ventured out to battle and when I visited the "village" Saturday night.

Hints at drunkenness and did someone say they did Monty Python around the campfire? First time bacon eaters even!! I'm glad you boys were camping mainstream and not screwing up our good time.

Sorry, boys, but I'm more convinced than ever that this forum is overrun with mainstream wannabe's and hardkewls.

A Dead Whale or A Stove Boat,

everytime,

Joe Smotherman

Joe,

Don't forget Cyberreenactors.

Jim

[Wild Rover]

Bernie,

No one snuck into our camp either night. I was responsible for the Camp friday night, and conducted patrols and there was a line out till ordered otherwsie by Division.


At the Advanced Camp Saturday night, we had posted pickets and ran patrols into the night ( I fell asleep around 8pm), and I doubt anyone realized that the entire 2nd Brigade had moved camp and Mike had us tucked into the hollow.

Pards,

[Norsk]

Reading this thread makes me wonder if I was at the same event as some of you. I had a great time, but I was with the AoP and only saw Babylon when we ventured out to battle and when I visited the "village" Saturday night.

Hints at drunkenness and did someone say they did Monty Python around the campfire? First time bacon eaters even!! I'm glad you boys were camping mainstream and not screwing up our good time.

Sorry, boys, but I'm more convinced than ever that this forum is overrun with mainstream wannabe's and hardkewls.

A Dead Whale or A Stove Boat,

everytime,

Joe Smotherman Joe,

Just to clarify, when Jim Moffet said that this was the first time we have had salt pork he wasn't speaking of slab bacon. That has been our main staple of meat for years. This was the first time we have been able to find actual salt pork, much different from slab bacon. We had to boil it a couple of times before we fried it just to get it to be tolerable. I truely enjoyed this since that is what I have read of the old boys doing.

As for camping mainstream, there was alot of canvas in about half of our battallion but our entire company which was the largest in the WB 2nd battallion slept on our gum blankets. Saturday we marched to a field and that night there was no cnavas.

Personally for me, having a good impression, accurate uniform and kit is very important. I love to experience life as a soldier as close to the way they would as possible and would just as soon not see farby impressions and canvas all around me. But I also enjoy helping others see the how much more gratifying it is to be more progressive in their impressions and attitude. I don't see how this can be done if you are always secluded and feeling so superior to all of the "Mainstreamers". Friday night someone from the tent city just up from us looke at our company street and said to one of my pards "wow that looks awsome. That's really the way to do it isn't it."

I would love to see the hobby grow more authentic but juist classifying people as Hardcore or Mainstream and separating your selves sure doesnt make it very appealing to those who may be flexible enough to grow.

Just my .02 worth.

[MercyAngel62]

"I would love to see the hobby grow more authentic but juist classifying people as Hardcore or Mainstream and separating your selves sure doesnt make it very appealing to those who may be flexible enough to grow."

Ben, I have to agree with you there. I have always wondered this. I just do the best I can with trying to improve myself and having fun while I do it. This is a hobby.......

[Old Reb]

I missed Perryville. Some how I got drunk in Lexington and just couldn't find the right road. Dang! I am glad to know it is just a hobby. I was worrying about that. Are you sure it is just a hobby? I thought it was real. Oh, well, I like Lexington. Horses, whiskey, college girls, cheeseburgers.

[Jim Moffet]

I agree with Ben & Liz. I've been improving my impression since getting started in 1972! Back then I lived in Pennsylvania & joined a very much "mainstream" unit. Looking back over the decades, there were specific moments that stand out when I met 'hardcores' who aided my development into a better reenactor. Almost all of these have been at large scale, national events, like Perryville 2006. This year, one fellow asked me "Why aren't you guys using dog tents?" I told him they hadn't been issued yet, so we don't use them here, and that the baggage trains with other tents were not near the field at Perryville, so we sleep under the stars. He went away questioning his own authenticity - maybe we will see him campaigning at Mill Springs.........

Was Perryville perfect - well, no. But the state of the hobby is doing pretty well, as I see it. We could sure use more participants, but it has NEVER been easier for a fresh fish to start on the right foot - to be highly authentic quickly. This website is a testimony to that fact.

An old Mudsill motto runs "Prior to each event, every reenactor should look at their impression and improve one part of it." (Or words to that effect.) I live by this motto - we all should. Having real salt pork to wrestle with, rather than slab bacon, was one for me this year at Perryville.

For me, what makes ACW military living history 'better' than other eras/periods is the ability to get together once or twice a year and put thousands of men into the field, properly organized into brigades of battalions, squadrons and batteries. It was an honor to help command a 125+ man battalion (the Western Brigade, 2nd Battalion), and using as much of the School of the Battalion as we could in a 48 hour timespan. This just cannot be done in other recreated periods. And it cannot be done if we limit ourselves to authenticity standards that are so rigorous that there are only 150 guys allowed in! (I'm 49 years old - proper standards wouldn't let me in unless as a field grade officer!) Seeing other battalions being properly maneuvred makes my heart skip! One area where I'd like to see improvement would be for more battalions to stop marching around by the flank - that's basic company drill.

I had a great time at Perryville. I experienced things I'd never experienced before, and had the opportunity to share my knowledge and experience with others who wanted to 'do it right.' I'm really looking forward to Mill Springs - it will be fun to do a very early war western theatre event: all you Feds got your frock coat yet?

Jim Moffet
Minnesota First
Western Brigade

[ewtaylor]

I missed Perryville. Some how I got drunk in Lexington and just couldn't find the right road. Dang! I am glad to know it is just a hobby. I was worrying about that. Are you sure it is just a hobby? I thought it was real. Oh, well, I like Lexington. Horses, whiskey, college girls, cheeseburgers.
You sure you werent at Perryville??

Joe, Ben, Liz, and a few others posting on here lately, this is the Authentic-Campaigner forum. We like events that hold participants to the proper standards of uniforms, equipment, camping, drill, etc. If only 300 people show up, then thats 300 people having a good time the way we here at this forum think it should be done.
As a matter of fact rule #1 of the A/C forum rules:
[No Farbism - All discussion here must strive toward authenticity - this is not the forum for status quo reenacting or status quo thinking. Don't come here to argue with hardcores about what they are doing "wrong."]

Everyone should read the rules of posting, before posting. I hope I said this without hurting any feelings.


everett taylor

[fahtz]

I know all the Wide Awake Film crew and our selected pards had a good time running around and filming different aspects of the event, and some of the best footage any of us have taken in years while working on the small scale close up stuff. Spring 2007 b'hoys you will see what we all think to be the best DVD yet!

[AndrewMartin]

I think what happened to the AC when it went down, was like a dam breaking allowing a "farb overflow" to pour into our authentic town!

I'm reading posts on this site that I never thought I would read! Whatever?

[Jim Moffet]

No offense at all - good to keep things properly dressed, as it were. In this case we are A/C'ers who have attended an event that gives other reenactors the opportunity to learn and grow in the ways of A/C recreation. I look forward to the chance to spread the 'gospel' of A/C whenever I can. Events like P'ville make that possible.

Jim Moffet

[AZReenactor]

So Perryville was just a national Mainstream event that allowed farbisms but made accomodations for C/P/Hers to camp seperately, right? Seems to me simply allowing folks to sleep off in the bushes away from the normal zoo doen't make an event authentic. So why are we discussing it here?

More likely this event and its after action reports would better be discussed over in Oz (http://www.cwreenactors.com/forum/).

[Dan52d]

The AC is the new Oz. Or has that already been pointed out?
I’ve seen so many references to how great it was in this or that Farb battalion I thought this was Oz. :sarcastic

Dan Deal

[Spinster]

So Perryville was just a national Mainstream event that allowed farbisms but made accomodations for C/P/Hers to camp seperately, right? .

Troy, at its inception, it was not meant to be. While the NSA, taken as a whole, is more aptly described as 'progressive' than hardcore, the organization continues to upgrade its own standards and functions.

The politics and funding mechanisms that forced this event into a shared mainstream to uberfarb event were simply astounding. Made my head hurt, and I LIKE politics.

As this end of the hobby endeavours to preserve itself, implement its own funding mechanisms, and grow without sliding back into the mainstream, there will always be struggles.

We will lose patience at folks who can't follow simple rules, and play smack down rather than teach.

Folks who really don't want to learn will wander over here and mess in our playhouse because its the kewl place to be. Myself, I've grown so testy in recent months, I've contained my postings to the OTB because I'm not fit for polite company most days.

So yep, we are discussing it here because sections of it were absolutely grand. As long as that invisible fence stayed up between the separated camps, we did ok. Not great, but ok.

And I know we've done some good teaching in the last few years--Its not unusual for perfectly good hardcore fellers to be utterly clueless about correct women's attire of the period. We spend a lot of time giving the "what a red-blooded man would know about women's clothing" lecture.

And so I took great satisfaction as I saw one hardcore feller come a bit unhinged :baring_te Sunday morning, as one very mainstream gal in a skirt, blouse, no corset, ding-dong belle hoop, and a hat with "follow me boys" ribbons on it came parading down our little street, accompanied by some dandy in an electric blue uniform with about a zillion buttons on it. "How dare they come down to this town and farb it up!" said he.

Well, that's what happens from time to time with the AC as well. Who knows, maybe they looked around and saw that they did not look like the rest of the folks there. Maybe they learned something.

[coastaltrash]

Good Lord, people can't even post about an event they went to without folks getting all sensative and turning it into an "Us vs Them" bullshit cry babyfest. If you KNEW flat out it was a mainstream event (call it what you will) and went, then point fingers at people who attended the same thing, then you are point blank a hypocritical person. I enjoyed myself, the authenticity was the same as any other NSA event I have been to, but I still had fun. Conley worked hard to make the LH area for us away from others and out of the way, I don't think anyone walked away with a bad feeling. It was a mainstream event, with some campaigners attending, just like every other one out there.

[Jerry Gouge]

Did I forget to mention that on our way up to Perryville, the rather large van we were riding in was totalled by an even larger cement truck in Atlanta? even that didn't keep us from our appointment with destiny - we hitched a ride with another pard and crammed 6 full-sized men in a not-so-full-sized Jeep Cherokee. Lesson(s) learned: God was looking out for us, its great to travel light, its a long way from Atlanta to Kentucky with very closely packed pards, and Momma was right - wear clean underwear because you just never know! You should have seen the look on the cops face when we brought out the fake rubber leg with the brogan on it at the accident scene!

You forgot to mention that on the way home the Jeep said "enough is enough" and one of its coolant hoses burst. Thankfully it burst while we were ensnarled in a traffic jam on the southern slope of the mountain between Kentucky and Tennessee. So we put the gear in neutral, left the motor off and coasted to the bottom of the hill while still in bumper to bumper traffic. When we got to the bottom we creeped to the nearest auto parts store, replaced the burst hose, ate some Italian soft tack and then loaded the 6 of us back into the Jeep. Then on to hot Lanta. If I did not preach it before, let me preach it now....TRAVEL LIGHT!

Jerry Gouge
1st Georgia Regulars

[Jim of The SRR]

Joe,

Just to clarify, when Jim Moffet said that this was the first time we have had salt pork he wasn't speaking of slab bacon. That has been our main staple of meat for years. This was the first time we have been able to find actual salt pork, much different from slab bacon. We had to boil it a couple of times before we fried it just to get it to be tolerable. I truely enjoyed this since that is what I have read of the old boys doing.

As for camping mainstream, there was alot of canvas in about half of our battallion but our entire company which was the largest in the WB 2nd battallion slept on our gum blankets. Saturday we marched to a field and that night there was no cnavas.

Personally for me, having a good impression, accurate uniform and kit is very important. I love to experience life as a soldier as close to the way they would as possible and would just as soon not see farby impressions and canvas all around me. But I also enjoy helping others see the how much more gratifying it is to be more progressive in their impressions and attitude. I don't see how this can be done if you are always secluded and feeling so superior to all of the "Mainstreamers". Friday night someone from the tent city just up from us looke at our company street and said to one of my pards "wow that looks awsome. That's really the way to do it isn't it."

I would love to see the hobby grow more authentic but juist classifying people as Hardcore or Mainstream and separating your selves sure doesnt make it very appealing to those who may be flexible enough to grow.

Just my .02 worth.

Ben,

That is great you and your guys are trying to do it right. But, why not push it one more step? Why not participate at c/p/h events? Or go to events like Perryville and camp and fight with the c/p/h groups? It seems a waste to rough it and be in the midst of the circus. In any case, you were at least leading by example at Perryville.

Jim Butler

[Jim of The SRR]

I agree with Ben & Liz. I've been improving my impression since getting started in 1972! Back then I lived in Pennsylvania & joined a very much "mainstream" unit. Looking back over the decades, there were specific moments that stand out when I met 'hardcores' who aided my development into a better reenactor. Almost all of these have been at large scale, national events, like Perryville 2006. This year, one fellow asked me "Why aren't you guys using dog tents?" I told him they hadn't been issued yet, so we don't use them here, and that the baggage trains with other tents were not near the field at Perryville, so we sleep under the stars. He went away questioning his own authenticity - maybe we will see him campaigning at Mill Springs.........

Was Perryville perfect - well, no. But the state of the hobby is doing pretty well, as I see it. We could sure use more participants, but it has NEVER been easier for a fresh fish to start on the right foot - to be highly authentic quickly. This website is a testimony to that fact.

An old Mudsill motto runs "Prior to each event, every reenactor should look at their impression and improve one part of it." (Or words to that effect.) I live by this motto - we all should. Having real salt pork to wrestle with, rather than slab bacon, was one for me this year at Perryville.

For me, what makes ACW military living history 'better' than other eras/periods is the ability to get together once or twice a year and put thousands of men into the field, properly organized into brigades of battalions, squadrons and batteries. It was an honor to help command a 125+ man battalion (the Western Brigade, 2nd Battalion), and using as much of the School of the Battalion as we could in a 48 hour timespan. This just cannot be done in other recreated periods. And it cannot be done if we limit ourselves to authenticity standards that are so rigorous that there are only 150 guys allowed in! (I'm 49 years old - proper standards wouldn't let me in unless as a field grade officer!) Seeing other battalions being properly maneuvred makes my heart skip! One area where I'd like to see improvement would be for more battalions to stop marching around by the flank - that's basic company drill.

I had a great time at Perryville. I experienced things I'd never experienced before, and had the opportunity to share my knowledge and experience with others who wanted to 'do it right.' I'm really looking forward to Mill Springs - it will be fun to do a very early war western theatre event: all you Feds got your frock coat yet?

Jim Moffet
Minnesota First
Western Brigade

Jim,

I liked your post. But I have one question...why do feel the need to keep at least one or both feet in a mainstream organization? If you really are pushing the envelope then it seems like a logical step you would try to particpate with the c/p/h guys at an event (mainstream or c/p/h event).
I hear lots of good talk, but I don't see any of these guys leaving behind the canvas circus. Without creatings ome physical space between the canvas city and your groups more authentic camping style, you are really just wasting your efforts and not supporting those that may think more like you.

Regards,
Jim Butler

[Jim of The SRR]

You sure you werent at Perryville??

Joe, Ben, Liz, and a few others posting on here lately, this is the Authentic-Campaigner forum. We like events that hold participants to the proper standards of uniforms, equipment, camping, drill, etc. If only 300 people show up, then thats 300 people having a good time the way we here at this forum think it should be done.
As a matter of fact rule #1 of the A/C forum rules:
[No Farbism - All discussion here must strive toward authenticity - this is not the forum for status quo reenacting or status quo thinking. Don't come here to argue with hardcores about what they are doing "wrong."]

Everyone should read the rules of posting, before posting. I hope I said this without hurting any feelings.


everett taylor

Yeah, it seems like the new name should be the "Pseudo-Authentic-Campaigner" forum.

Jim

[Jim of The SRR]

So Perryville was just a national Mainstream event that allowed farbisms but made accomodations for C/P/Hers to camp seperately, right? Seems to me simply allowing folks to sleep off in the bushes away from the normal zoo doen't make an event authentic. So why are we discussing it here?

More likely this event and its after action reports would better be discussed over in Oz (http://www.cwreenactors.com/forum/).

Just sleeping off in the "bushes" is NOT what authentic reenacting is about. You clearly have mythical misconceptions. Did you spend time in the AOP camp?!

Jim Butler

[Hobbit]

Landrum,
AMEN bro. My thoughts exactly.

[Rufus]

Well regardless of what everyone else thinks about Perryville, I still had a great time. And to the officers, and NCO's of Co. C 42nd Ind. you did a great job, and I look foward to future events.

[csa blacksmith]

Good Lord, people can't even post about an event they went to without folks getting all sensative and turning it into an "Us vs Them" bullshit cry babyfest. If you KNEW flat out it was a mainstream event (call it what you will) and went, then point fingers at people who attended the same thing, then you are point blank a hypocritical person. I enjoyed myself, the authenticity was the same as any other NSA event I have been to, but I still had fun. Conley worked hard to make the LH area for us away from others and out of the way, I don't think anyone walked away with a bad feeling. It was a mainstream event, with some campaigners attending, just like every other one out there.
Amen, I'll have to agree with you. Everyone has to start somewhere. I'm wondering if its even worth getting on here anymore.

[Anna Allen]

Man, I love this hobby. :rolleyes:

[Hardtack Herring]

On Thursday Oct. 4rth myself and Edwin Santana of The Liberty Hall Fifes and Drums (Stonewall Brigade) set out from Norfolk Virginia to pick my son Levi Herring (Also LHFD) to head to the Perryville event. We were invited to the event by our good friends in Medich's Midwest Battalion.

The trip out was pretty good despite the rain we passed through in West Virginia. Upon ariving at the event the weather would proove to be just about as perfect as you can get this time of year in the hills of Kentucky. It was a chilly at night but not super cold. Each day temps warmed up quite a bit by 11am to near perfect re-enacting weather.

We pulled into registration a little later than planned (around 3pm) as we had spent Thursday night in a hotel in Shelbyville and stoped at a few antique stores on the ride to Perryville. after parking the car for the weekend we decided we would head to sutler row and check out a few of the great vendors that were present. After checking out their wares we played a few tunes at the end of Sutler row. As we decided to wrap it up and head to camp we heard some Yanks playing in their camp and decided to head over to meet them before the event realy got started. We played a few tunes with them in their camp and decided we would have a more formal Jam outside the Sutler area Saturday night.

Now it was starting to get dark and we needed to head back over the hills and across that muddy little stream and real steep hill again. I know everyone who was there knows exactly the one I am talking about... The one with the single board laying across it doing absolutley nothing. Once we made it to the top of the hill we started into the woods where it seems to me the majority of the CS army was. We passed a few Cav Camps on the way. Ran into a few pickets. We finaly found Medich's Battlion in Camp just on the edge of the woods towrads the back of the CS Camp.

When we arived in camp a few of my old.... And I do meen OLD buddys from The Liberty Hall Volunteers were in camp so we layed out bedrolls in their area of camp. As the night went on more and more LHV streamed into camp. As my good friend John Wickett pointed out the last time we were able to get so many of the old timers together was way back in the 1900's! So we sat around the fire and caught up and then it was off to bed. Revellie would come early and we knew we need our rest for what was expected to be one hell of an event.

It did not take long for me to fall asleep despite the chilly temps. It seems to me it took even less time for The 1st Sargeant to wake me up saying it was time to sound the Revellie. As I pulled myself out from under the covers reluctently I could hear the drummers from the battalion behind us beating something..... We fell into line to start our Revellie Sequence and then was told WAIT do not start yet it is only 4:30! . Those Drummers who beat off early robed me of an hour of sleep! Shame on you. Now the Bugles set in as well. It seemd the event was starting a little early. We went over and warmed ourselves by the fire and ate some corn cakes and fixed some baccon. At 6am we fell back in and sounded the Revellie.

I am not sure what time it was but we were orderd to beat first call, sound the assembly and to the colors. Once the Battalion was formed a dress parade was held. Not long after that we were order to form the Battalion again. We had know idea where we were heading to but we knew we would soon see the elephant as we could hear musketry off in the distance ( Battle of Pottsville perhaps?) We marched 3 miles mostly on a small road. Well, the battalion was on the road but we seemd to be marching in a ditch most of the way. It was still a good march though. We had a wagon with us as well as a large group of Cav and of course Medich's Battlion. We finaly went into a line of battle along a the top of a fairly steap ridge and layed down to await the approaching Yankees. We were there perhaps 30 minutes or so and the Yankees attacked. I could not see much from where we were behind the lines but I know they pressed hard on the main front and our right. Yankee Cav charged up the hill on our right flank but were repulsed by The Liberty Hall Volunteers and our Cav. That much I did see. The Yankee Infantry must have attacked pretty hard on our front as well. I am not sure how many times they charged but they eventualy pushed us off of our defensive position on top of the ridge. We withdrew back the way we had aproached and took up a new line behanid a gate. The Yankees must have reorganized as well as they soon continued their attack. They must have sufferd heavy casualties attacking through the gate as their assault was halted and they withdrew from the field of battle.

We then formed again and started the march back to the main event site. Upon ariving back in our camp we had a short amount of time to prepare something to eat... More corn cakes, a little hardtack and some baccon. Then we formed for the afternoon battle. As the Army came together we stood to the side of the road and played a few tunes and were joind by our fellow musicians from the 33rd Alabama. As the Assault began we were soon seperated from Medich's Battalion. We made our way across the field towards the fight. We halted along a ridge and decided we would halt there and lay down as we recieving a great deal of enemy fire . The battle was in full swing and we were lost! In my opinion this battle was not nearly as good as the smaller fight we had earlier in the morning. After the battle was over we still could not find the Battalion ( It seems they had switched flags right before the battle had started and we were unaware) so we headed back to camp on our own.

It was starting to get close to the time we had set up for the adult fife and drum jam outside of the sutlers so we headed over that way. This turned out to be a great jam and we played for close to two hours I would guess. The music was very good and a decent size crowd gatherd and watched us play for sometime. This was a high point of the event for sure. To every one who was at that jam Bully for you! A good time was had by all. It was nice to meet the Yank musicians. They were all very good.

After the Jam my son wanted to head over to the dance... You do not have to say it.. I know....But it has been along time scince I have been to an event that even has a decent dance and this being a fairly mainstream event I said what the hell. I know all you guys saw the ever so many attractive ladys running around. So we went and danced with what seemd like all the ladys of the South. We had good time at the dance as well. I want to thank all the Ladys who danced with us Virginia boys. You all are the finest and nicest group we have come acorss in a long time. Thanks for making us feel so welcome.

Now it is off to the Minstrel Show! Being a huge fan of period music this was most certainly a high lite of the event. I had never seen a Black Face Minstrel Show but have read about them and know all of the music. The Alendale Mellodians sure did a fantastic job. Their performance was almost exactly the way I had imagined a Minstrel Show to be. They told jokes, danced and sang songs like Uncle Ned and Old King Crow. Not only was there show very authentic but their theater provided an extra touch.

Once the minstrel show was over we head back to camp over the muddy stream and up the steep hill..... Revellie would come early in the morning. But hopefully not too early this time!

At around 5:45 the 1 Sarge woke me up. We assembled the Field Music. This morning found the whole CS Camp silent... Untill we started our sequence starting with Three Camps. We held another dress parade that morning. Then it was off to Battalion Drill. We drilled for perhaps an hour or perhaps a little more. After Battalion drill we took a little break and then formed the field music to march out of camp and work with the young drummers of Medich's Battalion for a bit.

We formed for the Battalion and joind the rest of the CS army to march to Sunday afternoons battle. This was another high point of the event. Our Battalion marched at the rear of the army and I could see the entire CS Army snaking along the road with horse drawn guns and wagons. We marched at the head of Medich's Battalion playing patriotic tunes.

We were halted durring the march and informed of the dead horse. We were not far from where it laid. I straind to get a good a look but did not see the horse. I am pretty sure it was to our front though. The march resumed and we passed by a large group of period Civilians ( Oh those beutifull Southern Belles) We marched past playing Dixie. The army snaked past the ever growing crowd of spectators untill we arived at our stageing area. There we were joind once agian by our friends from the 33rd Alabama and we played Field Music as the Army prepared for the grand assault.

When the orders were given to advance we went into Dixie once again and the whole CS Army stepped off in perfect order. This was a fantastic. We advance pushing the Yanks back with ease. We made our way through 2 tall fields untill we came to a road with a rail fence. Our Army had halted there and were taking heavy fire from the enemy. The Yank Line began to waver a little and I knew it would not be long before we would jump that fence to press the enemy harder. We played Hell on the Wabash and sure enough up and over went our boys. We fallowed. As we reorganized I was hit by an enemy ball in the stomach causing great pain and suffering which I am sure caused a disturbance along the line. My fellow band mates dragged me a little to the rear where I laid in great pain as death slowly over came me. I died in my pards arms.

After my death... Well there is not too much to tell.... I was dead.

I think Perryville was great event and it was what it was. I knew it would not be a hardcore campaign event but rather a large mainstream event with a campaign twist. My expectations were not to high and I enjoid myself. For those of you who have not figured this out that is the key. Make the event what you want it to be and do not let the little things bother you. HIGH EXPECTATIONS OF AN EVENT will lead to certain disapointment.

I was able to re-eunite with some long time friends, camp in an authentic camp , eat authentic food, we marched at least 6 miles on Saturday not including Saturdays afternoon action, faught a great battle on Sunday and played a ton of ok music.For me that is enough to make the 700 plus mile trip worth it.

Too sum it all up.

The Excellent

Even though my son is vet of quality events such as Franklin, Port Republic and Rich Mountain I always get a kick at watching him. He is growing into one hell of a living Historian!

The US-CS Field Music Jam Saturday Night

The Minstrel Show

A large National event with much better impressions than I had expected. I only saw two or three really bad impressions up close

Talking to Eric ( Forgert his last name at the moment) in the parking lot after the event. He is truley a Fresh fish ( First event ever). Hearing his stories about his adventure back in time and how he wants to become as authentic as possible was good news to my ears.



The Good

Saturdays March to the Battle
Saturdays Battle

Sundays March to the Battle
Sunday Afternoons Battle
Working with the young Drummers Sunday

The Bad

When the event ended I realized there so much more to see at the event than what I saw. It had been a long event for us and even though I was pretty worn out and my left knee was hurting real bad I always hate leaving an event. It has always been hard for me to jump back to real life. We were the last to leave the parking lot.

The Ugly

That damn muddy stream and steep hill from the Sutlers to CS camp!

Not related to the event itself but rather some of the posts regarding this event. Everyone knew this was not going to be an EFBU. It was what it was and I think just about everyone can say they liked at least one aspect of the event. Sometimes the bitching I see on this fantastic board depresses me. Yes I like EFBU the best but once in a while it is good to get a large event of better quality than most of the national events I have been too. It is great too see that large events canbe held with out the bad impressions like we saw in the old 125th days. It is rather apparent to me that impressions are improving. Perhaps not the point that most of us on this board would like to see...But at least I can go to a huge event like Perryville and look at it as a farb fest.

I also want to say to some of the new comers to this Forum.....Bad stuck up snotty attitudes are not what the AC, Progressive, Campaigner and Community is about. A true Authentic Living Historian is about researching and working to make his or her impression better. Taking that knowledge and sharing it in the classrooms and with general public. Preserving our endangerd battlefields and helping others fellow re-enactors who may or may not have seen the light. The name calling and fighting has got to stop. That is just not professional. Plain and simple. Sure we like to have our own smaller more authentic events but from time to time I enourage the AC community come out attend some of these better larger events. It is apparent that many of us did for Perryville.


All in all I think for a national event it went over very well. The modern food vendors were set up pretty far away from the majority of the event. Perhaps a little cIose to the living history area. I did not see any huge CS camps full of A frames and Wall tents. Flys were in pretty heavy use however alot of the guys were under the stars. The wagons and horse drawn guns were a nice touch. Event though some people may not be happy with the event as whole ( Which I am having a hard time understanding) You can not tell me that a single one of you did not have a MOMENT at Perryville.

I want to give a shout out to all the fine people we met and old friends we saw at the event.

My Hat is off to Medich's Battalion for being great hosts.

To our good friends in the PSL who made the trip out from the east. You guys are great.

To the Cavalry guys we hung out with for a bit Friday Night. 3 Cheers for Texas, Alabama and Tennesee!

To all the fine Southern Belles who danced with us Saturday night.

The Boys in the 33rd Alabama

The US Field Music

All of our bandmates from Medich's Battalion

Do any of you guys know where the Allende Mellodians went? Hopefully to Virginia!

To my pards in The Stonewall Brigade.... You should have been there!

Last but not least I want to thank everyone who organized this BIG event. All the Volunteers who gave up there time to make the event go as smooth as it did. Of course I want to thank all of my fellow re-enactors and living historians who travelled from all over the country to converge on the small town of Perryville.

Here are some links I came across with some pictures and videos of the event.

http://www.amnews.com/public_html/?module=displaysection&section_id=177&format=html

http://www.heraldleaderphoto.com/multimedia/battleof/perryville.html

And of course The Liberty Hall Fifes and Drums page at

www.putfile.com/libertyhall

No Perryville pictures there as we did not bring a camera with us but some fine pictures and videos none the less.

[AZReenactor]

I guess I was just confused by the sign at the entrance to this portion of the AC.

Authentic Events
Authentic events only to be discussed here.
Sub-Forums: Future Events, Events of 2007, Events of 2006, Past Events

I wasn't at Perryville and am not speaking about the appearant quality of this mainstream event. I simply see this this discussion as being symptomatic of the increasingly mainstream nature of the AC forum. What particularly caught my attention was a discussion over in OZ trumpeting Perryville as an example of :
Perryville this last weekend proves that the A/C side of the Hobby and the Mainstream side of the Hobby can get along. These rude comments by some or finger pointing by others does not hold water. I am a mainstream reenactor with the Big Gun, Big Cooler, and Big Tent, Did I have a fun weekend at Perryville, no I think great is a better chioce of words. In the future when we get to pointing fingers at each other just remember one word.
Perryville. Fun time by all. Then a few posts later the same author points to this thread on the AC as confirmation of his views that we should all just get past our authentic standards and look for ways where mainstream and hardcore can play together still more often.

Perryville may have been a fine mainstream event with some actual authentic efforts, but it bugs me that the AC has become a forum for trumpeting the virtues of big tent and big cooler events. Is the purpose of this forum simply to make the mainstream a little less farby or is it to seek genuaine quality? Is a mainstream event without "too much visible farbiness" really our goal or do we actually seek even higher quality events with genuine authenticity and no farbism?

[unclefrank]

I had fun and it was worth the trip. See you all soon. :)

[PogueMahone]

Yeah, I'd say some of you don't get the point of my earlier post. I wasn't complaining about the event. I went to the event and knew what to expect. (It was actually better than I expected.)

I was complaining about quality of the comments.

"First time bacon eater" is an expression. It implies a green, fresh fish campaigner. Someone who has finally climbed off the fence long enough to burn a rail. I'm sorry that you boys have never had salt pork before, but if you participated with the AoP or WIG or Columbia Rifles at events, you would have gotten salt pork or salt beef so much you'd be saying "Again!!"

If you camped without a tent but within the structure and logistical support area of the mainstream camps, you were camping mainstream. I saw a camp near the "village" that was a bunch of bedrolls on the ground. It was in the mainstream area. Was this your camp? Did you have dug sinks or portajohns? We had sinks. There is photographic proof. (The ladies in my office have enjoyed that shot quite a bit, btw.)

And, I, too, am glad you are improving and progressing. But, you need to support progressive units. You need to climb off the fence. Give 100%. Why spend all that money are the better gear and uniforms and then spend all your time in a place that doesn't appreciate it?

It is a challenge, boys and girls. Take it up. Prove yourself to yourself. Take the next step.

trying to remember if I have an auto signature set up or not,

so here goes nothing ...

[csa blacksmith]

Oh, almost forgot. was that a authentic flashlight being used for musket inspection in the authentic camp saturday morning? :D

[Jerry Gouge]

Well I don't much care what Perryville was or was not. I went with good friends, I sat around the campfire with good friends, I campaigned with good friends and I thoroughly enjoyed myself with good friends. Have I been to better, more authentic events? Yes. But to me the trip was worth the 2200 miles I traveled and I had a great time.

My hat is off to those who participated with the Army of the Pacific. As always they do it right and we had a great time.

Much of the rest I care little about.

See you around the campfire.

[Jim of The SRR]

If you camped without a tent but within the structure and logistical support area of the mainstream camps, you were camping mainstream. I saw a camp near the "village" that was a bunch of bedrolls on the ground. It was in the mainstream area. Was this your camp? Did you have dug sinks or portajohns? We had sinks. There is photographic proof. (The ladies in my office have enjoyed that shot quite a bit, btw.)

And, I, too, am glad you are improving and progressing. But, you need to support progressive units. You need to climb off the fence. Give 100%. Why spend all that money are the better gear and uniforms and then spend all your time in a place that doesn't appreciate it?

It is a challenge, boys and girls. Take it up. Prove yourself to yourself. Take the next step.

trying to remember if I have an auto signature set up or not,

so here goes nothing ...

And this forum is for those folks who have gotten off the fence! So, I hope the moderators will take note of that.

Jim Butler

[Jim of The SRR]

Oh, almost forgot. was that a authentic flashlight being used for musket inspection in the authentic camp saturday morning? :D

Jay,

Not in the AOP camp. I doubt you walked a 1/2 mile to our camp! Please go back to Szabos and get off the AC forum.

Jim

[58th C]

Jim and Jerry,
Thanks for letting my son participate with the AoP- I am sure he was the quietest drummer you've had- and likely the only one in camp asking for more hardtack ( the remains of which little brother ate for a snack yesterday.) He had a great time, but I am sure most events will now pale in comparison to spending time in an authentic camp.

Lauren Kaye

[Jim of The SRR]

Lauren,

He did a fine job and campaigned and soldiered with the men without complaint! He proved himself tougher than some of the men.

Regards,
Jim Butler

[S.D.Foster]

I went to Perryville this year. I had gone in 2002 with the AoP and had a great time. This time I went with my wife and 20 month old daughter, so I ended up not going with the AoP so I could dedicate more time to them at the event. I was quite proud of my little one when she started saying "horse" - what better place to learn this word than Kentucky, and what better time than at a re-enactment?

I have to admit the weather was about as perfect as I could have hoped for (after the rain, which happened before I arrived). If all days there could have been like Saturday, and all nights as Saturday night, well I would have considered Kentucky to be Heaven on earth.

We posed for a family image:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v486/thumpersean/CW/familyperryville2006.jpg

Sean Foster

[Anna Allen]

I love the image! You guys look great! Aw, and what a sweet little baby. :)

[Jerry Gouge]

Lauren,

He did a fine job and campaigned and soldiered with the men without complaint! He proved himself tougher than some of the men.

Regards,
Jim Butler

Yeah, he was tougher than me. I stayed in camp Saturday (or should I say I volunteered myself for camp guard) while he led the column on the preservation march. He seemed to enjoy himself. We kidded him a right smart and he took