Battle Of McDowell May 4-6, 2007 Highland County, VA [Archive]

BobDenton37thVA

10-19-2006, 11:16 PM

Pridgeon's Shenandoah Legion, Highland Historical Society & Highland Chamber of Commerce cordially invite you to participate in the 145th Anniversary Commemorative Living History & Reenactment at McDowell, Virginia. The event web site is hosted at http://www.BattleofMcDowell.org (the website will be updated by November 1, 2006). All proceeds go to the Highland Historical Society's preservation efforts and local civic organizations.

The event is scheduled for May 4-6, 2007; with the principal activities taking place beginning Saturday morning, and culminating Sunday morning before noon. First-person is strongly encouraged (not mandatory); however we request all participants to refrain from modern conversational references as much as possible throughout the event.

The event is invitation only, and we will be representing both CS and US forces who are engaged in active campaign. Details regarding authenticity and safety requirements will be available on the event website. Units, messes, and/or individuals who have not attended previously must be willing to undergo a pre-registration screening (references are strongly recommended as well). Reenactor attendance is limited to 1,000.

Those wishing to register early for the event may do so by accessing the following link:
http://www.battleofmcdowell.org/reenactors/registration/registrationform.htm

Those who have attended the McDowell event in past years know the charm of the place. For those who have not, the village is seated within the eastern portion of the Allegheny Mountains, at an elevation of 2,100' above sea level. McDowell lies at the crossing of the Bullpasture River by the historic Staunton-Parkersburg Pike (now US 250) within the scenic Bullpasture River Gorge, an acclaimed trout fishing area.

At the event both CS and US forces will be camped on and around Sitlington's Hill, the site of the original battle, which is a western spur of the 3,000' Bullpasture Mountain looming above. Peaks visible all around the village range from 3,000 to 4,000'.

The original Presbyterian Church that witnessed the battle still stands at the south end of town. Signatures of Union soldiers can be seen scratched into the bricks on the church's front wall. In addition, a cannonball is lodged in the right wall of the church, reportedly a misfired round from the Union guns that were placed on the hill just behind the church.

Thank you for your consideration if you are interested in attending, and your past support for this event if you are returning.

Your servant, et c.,
Bob Denton
Reenactor Coordinator-McDowell 2007 Event Committee

dusty27

12-18-2006, 11:51 AM

Wild Rover

12-18-2006, 12:22 PM

It is great to see the evnt back up on the AC, and must say the mainstream has come a long way if it meets the level of McDowell.

Anyhow, we are working hard on the event and putting all the right folks in the right slots, and am looking forward to working with Dave, Bill, Bob, Scot and the other leaders here in the East.

Anyone looking for a home for the event, if you do blue, can drop me a line at ltcolcsa@hotmail.com

This will be the event this spring, so don't miss out! Those who have been to past events can vouch for that.

Thanks again to the moderators for reposting this thread.

Pards,

Chris, this is EXACTLY the type of "rah, rah" post that we are asking people NOT to make. Like we have asked, bashing the event shouldn't happen nor should this type of "hype" happen on this thread or any other. Tell the folks what the event is about (Bob has done that) and let folks choose for themselves. The thread was placed here based on Matt's definitions. Don't question them again (It is great to see the event back up on the AC, and must say the mainstream has come a long way if it meets the level of McDowell), or we WILL remove it. - Mike Chapman

marine05

12-18-2006, 03:01 PM

Wild Rover

12-18-2006, 03:27 PM

Dan,

Sounds good, always glad to work with you guys!

Pards,

BobDenton37thVA

12-18-2006, 04:50 PM

I have reinstated this announcement in this folder. It is the folder that seems appropriate for the invited guests based on Matt's definitions.

It is for the discussion of the event by THOSE WHO PLAN TO ATTEND from our community. If you ain't going, you have your reasons. They don't need to be shared here.

I will personally watch this thread and all others concerning McDowell carefully...............

Thanks Dusty.

I personally don't care what "category" McDowell falls under, as long as those who need the info this forum can provide regarding the event can get it. IMHO that's the power of the web. All else is so much 'jaw-jackin', to use some good old period jargon.

Categories are an artificial construct anyways. They are a convenient way of transmitting information, but are useful only when we all agree on what we are talking about. Thus, the definition of what comprises a "mainstream" event here may be very different from what comprises one elsewhere or to other people.

On the event's website http://www.battleofmcdowell.org I have tried to be truthful about the event's goals and objectives, and have updated all the guidelines and regs as per the instruction and edits sent to me by the US, CS and Civilian coordinators. If those objectives and/or standards do not dovetail easily into the "semi-immersion", or any other category, so be it. As long as the event info gets disseminated and folks with reasonabe questions can get what they need to know answered in a timely manner, then the AC forum is serving an important service for which I, and the event committee, are personally grateful.

Regards,
Bob Denton

BobDenton37thVA

03-30-2007, 09:36 AM

Folks,

All those interested in attending the 2007 McDowell Event should be aware that registration will close on April 20, 2007. Although we will accept registrations from members of invited units after this time; we will not be able to guarantee rations issue to anyone who has not registered by the cut-off.

Thanks,
Bob Denton
2007 McDowell Event
Reenactor Coordinator

Duke20thSC

04-10-2007, 01:28 PM

This is a fine event and worthy of support. It has always served good purposes by raising money to fund restoration of historic buildings, purchase of battlefield properties and educational programs associated with Jackson't 1862 Valley Campaign. There have been tremendous research efforts in the past providing participants with information for the event and their impressions. It truly stands as an ideal example of a longterm commitment of the authentic community to a project. As such, it has earned a place on the calendar.

DougCooper

04-10-2007, 03:06 PM

This event...and the extraordinary effort the town and the county have put in over the years (first event was 1997) have yielded a real success story. CWPT's latest campaign is to save the remainder of the battlefield. It ain't just a couple of corners or one section - its pretty much all of it that will never hear the sound of bulldozers. Without Bob Denton and the long list of folks who have made this happen for so many years, I think it is safe to say McDowell would remain obscure...not saved and eventually ruined. Bob started trying to save this battlefield long before many of us could spell CWPT.

It won't take too many more years before the growth begins to invade this beautiful little corner of Virginia...but they won't be able to touch McDowell if we can raise the final amount to keep it beautiful forever.

Can't beat that - and the Living History Community was indeed the prime mover in this one.

Well done Bob.

If you can't make it to the event, or even if you can, get on over to CWPT and plunk down some change to help secure the final piece. www.civilwar.org

Duke20thSC

04-10-2007, 03:33 PM

Thanks, Doug.

For those of you who don't know Doug, he is too humble an individual to acknowledge his role in helping to make this event the preservation money maker that it is and the keystone event of alternative events here in the East that it has become. Doug was the Federal commander in 1999 when there were a mere 88 Federals facing a horde of probably 300+ Confederates. The groundwork was laid for future efforts for the authentic reenactor which included:
1- Strong civilian presence;
2- Federal occupation of the town per the historical record;
3- Quality material culture standards for Federals and civilians;
4- Scenarios matching the diary accounts;
5- Close working relationship with the county historical society.

It was for these reason that, as the Federal commander in 2001 & 2003, I recruited Doug's participation, which did take place in 2003. He shared our vision for the event and did his utmost to carry it to completion.

It's a good event. If you can attend, you need to do so. If you miss it, you'll regret it.

BobDenton37thVA

04-10-2007, 04:26 PM

The idea to hold what is now known as the "McDowell Reenactment and Living History" was born in the Town of McDowell in May 1996, when Travis Haymaker, Randal Haymaker, and I decided to visit the little town in Highland County to see “what was going on” and privately commemorate our ancestors’ participation in the much-neglected and poorly known battle. Being familiar with the area (I first visited Highland when I was only 16 years old, and have been in love with the region ever since), I couldn’t wait to get there. We bedded down on Friday night, without tents, at the base of Sitlington’s Hill, only to be rudely awakened the next morning by a crashing thunderstorm. Soaked and still sleep-eyed, Reverend Les Leprade of the McDowell Presbyterian Church took us into his home and gave us a “little something to eat…” (a full breakfast!)

In fact, a tiny event was being held at the church that weekend; mostly staffed by local reenactors and townsfolks. We volunteered to give a public lecture, and then the conversations began with the Highland Historical Society and Chamber of Commerce that would eventually lead to the McDowell event that we know today.

The first “official” McDowell was held in 1997, and was originally conceived of as a “Confederate & Period Civilian Only” living history. The Chamber asked us if we could get “some Federals to shoot at”, and the event suddenly morphed into a reenactment! It was literally our way of sharing Highland County with our friends, that (and not preservation, per se) was seen as the principle goal, at least initially.

At the time, our battalion (known then as the “5th Battalion”) was one of the only groups to have an official period civilian unit, the Atlantic Guard Soldiers Aid Society (AGSAS), and the McDowell event would provide a perfect venue for this growing portion of the hobby. We also provided an opportunity for period-dressed local youngsters to bedevil the soldiers, particularly the Federals, hence the “town boy” impression was born.

Conceived from the beginning as a “history heavy” event, the working parameters for McDowell were not born in a vacuum. We purposely modeled it after ones that we had attended over the years that were successful, had unique and innovative aspects, and reasonably strict rules. We borrowed (with permission), the rules and regulations from Susan and Nicky Hughes’ wonderful Shaker Village event; the idea of “moving” battles, and alternating spectator and non-spectator battles in one event was taken from the early and well executed Neshaminy State Park events (the brainchild of a nearly forgotten reenactment scenario innovator, Scott Shablin); any and all reenactments and living histories that had good ideas involved in them were used as models.

McDowell soon gained a reputation for extremely strict rules, which dissuaded many from attending. However, it also began to be seen as a sort of "grail quest" for many eastern reenactors. The ability to say, “I was at McDowell…” took on almost mystical quality, like a pilgrimage of sorts, much to our wonder & amusement. Of course, as the event grew in reputation, so did its detractors; but the magical quality of Highland County, the site, and the warm and welcoming folks of the region continued to sustain the event.

The 1999 event saw the beginning of a concerted preservation emphasis, which, unfortunately, raised the ire of a few outspoken locals individuals opposed to this effort. The local opposition to the event has finally run its course and sputtered out; thankfully, the great majority of the folks there enjoy the reenactment, and look forward to its occurrence “on the first full weekend in May of the odd numbered years”. The concept of the town being occupied by the Federal troops and harried civilians was solidified in ’99, and used as a modus operandi through 2003. (Ironically, there were only two families in McDowell during the original occupation, the majority of citizens being hidden in the Davis Run Valley).

A different approach was taken in 2005 (i.e. CS in town, US out of town, two separate but equal groups of civilians, and a distinct emphasis on 3rd person interpretation combined with 1st person). Some things worked well, some didn’t. We will be returning to the original, and more accurate scenario in 2007 (i.e. Federals and two families of harried civilians in town on Saturday).

Its notable that in 2000, the McDowell Reenactment was accorded the unique privilege of being designated a Library of Congress “Local Heritage Festival” event, the first CW reenactment ever honored as such. The event committee continues to work in concert with various preservation groups, including the Civil War Preservation Trust, the Shenandoah Valley Battlefield Foundation, the Lee-Jackson Foundation, and others. We will be forever grateful for the participation of the C/P/H community in making all the McDowells from the first event to today such resounding successes!

Bob Denton
Reenactor Coordinator
McDowell 2007 Event Committee

CJDaley

05-02-2007, 10:24 AM

As we approach the 10 year anniversary of the first McDowell event, I think it's important to re-read Bob's last paragraph about what this event has meant to battlefield preservation:

In 2000, the McDowell Reenactment was accorded the unique privilege of being designated a Library of Congress “Local Heritage Festival” event, the first CW reenactment ever honored as such. The event committee continues to work in concert with various preservation groups, including the Civil War Preservation Trust, the Shenandoah Valley Battlefield Foundation, the Lee-Jackson Foundation, and others.

Wild Rover

05-08-2007, 10:00 PM

Gents,

Seen some AAR's, interested in seeing what folks on the AC think. IMHO it was the best Mcdowell yet.

Pards,

hendrickms24

05-09-2007, 03:07 AM

Chris,

This McDowell was my third one and each having been enjoying and a different experience for me. Each McDowell event I had a different job to do either as a Corporal, Orderly sergeant and this past event as an Aid de Camp to Gen. Milroy. This year’s event has been the best one for allowing the spectators the ability to interact better with the reenactors then the past two events. Through out the day we had a flow of people coming through the Brigade Headquarters and they asked numerous questions. The spectators were also able to see some interaction between the period citizens and the Federal chain of command and seemed to enjoy it. The camp guard was busy through the day dealing with the civilians and I felt sorry for the corporal and sergeant of the Guard who never seemed to get a break. As for my job, I helped with the duties at the HQ, which seemed to go from complete boredom to a flurry of activity in a heartbeat. Sometime in the morning the AAAG Josh Mordin, the Provost Lt. Hill, and myself went around, inspected the battalion camps, and reported the deficiencies to each company commander. The biggest issue I saw was the same old tarnished brass on the soldiers but in all most of the camps where in good order.

I will not go into the Saturday battle but I can understand why ADC where mounted during the actual Civil War. Running back in forth between the battalions was a little tiring. :tounge_sm The Sunday really did come out nicely and the battalion and company officers did a good job moving the troops were they needed to be when asked to do so by Mr. Watson.

later,

lhsnj

05-09-2007, 10:36 AM

Chris

I had a great time at this past McDowell. For me it was the best of the 3 (01, 03, 07) that I have attended.

Here were some of the highlights for me:
-Helping to finish the bridge across the creek for the Confederates to use to pass over.

-Running guard details at the headquarters area and being able to interact with spectators as we helped them off the wagons. Also I was able to have a short (15minute) interaction with one of the ladies (Mrs Robert Stitlington) from town who encountered my picket line.

-The fight on saturday and not knowing every detail of what was going to happen and having to react to what I saw and what the orders were.

-Being the skirmishers to advance into McDowell and help secure the Hull House and witness the surrender of the officer and guard detail there to my officer.

-Sunday's fight on the hill and seeing those Federals come up that hill at us and just the smoke, noise and confusion as we countered and fought and moved to the flank.

Thanks to Bob, Dave, and all the others for putting in the time and effort for this event.

SamuelCathey

05-09-2007, 12:00 PM

I have mixed thoughts on the value of forums and rarely attend battle reenactments but thought I would take a moment and toss out a couple thoughts. In past years I probably would have been tempted to rant and rave, but here in my late 30s I have hopefully mellowed.
I enjoyed camping and being by the river at McDowell. What a beautiful place. I also talked to several people I had never met before. People seem very nice and genuinely into the Civil War. Sadly, it seems to me that the progressive/authentic/or whatever you want to call it movement is really in crisis. There were very few authentic looking impressions at the event. I'm out of touch with who all is considered the latest cool vendor to buy from but it is quite clear that many of the sellers of so-called authentic goods are inhibiting the quest for great uniforms and gear. Most of the uniforms I saw at McDowell looked like they were made from patterns made or altered by folks with little knowledge in that complex area. Shoulder seams were especially in disarray. It was disappointing to see because the "hardcore movement" is a worthy endeavor. Unfortunately, at the moment the movement is largely composed of people who want a high standard but are not able to exhibit one.
I'm going to keep this short because angering folks who are sensitive about their impressions (and for some reason we all are) is not my intention. Over 20 years ago a man I respect very much told me to put on my uniform, get out all my books and stand in front of a mirror. He said it should be pretty easy to see whether or not your clothes look like those in the books. That advice works just as well today. I would argue that a sizeable chunk of the campaigner hobby would be on the hunt again for great items following some very honest evaluation of their own kit.
Anyway,enough said about that. I would ask about the gigantic fresh veges found in the Spring and the foil coffee bags, but that would be another topic...

Sam Cathey

BobDenton37thVA

05-09-2007, 02:03 PM

Over 20 years ago a man I respect very much told me to put on my uniform, get out all my books and stand in front of a mirror. He said it should be pretty easy to see whether or not your clothes look like those in the books.

And that advice is as good today as it was then. I think I might know the identity of that anonymous wise man myself!

Just as a footnote to your post Sam, I've noticed that one of the things affecting the appearance of the clothing folks wear is they want their clothes to fit like modern clothes, which 19th clothing did not. Clothes of that time period (as you well know) were supposed to force the wearer's body into a strangely "inhuman" posture; puffy chest, small waist, with shoulder seams gently sloping away from the neck (not squared off). The conventions of period styles did not include "loose fitting" or "baggy" clothes we so love today. Thus, when someone buys a jacket, and they feel it binding a little under their armpits, they immediately assume it does not fit properly, when in fact, that pressure is an assurance that it does.

As far as the rations go, yes, that needs improvement, at nearly all events. In early spring in the Allegheny Highlands only root cellar vegetables would have been available; winter apples (all shrivelled, but delicious when you cut away the exterior); potatoes, maybe some onions (small ones), ramps would have been available locally as well as morels (mushrooms). There were ramps growing, btw, near your campsite on the slope of the hill that was just above you. Fresh and preserved meat would have been available, of course, and bread. Its notable that being able to structure our unit's rations to the time and place of the portayal was always one of the 37th's favorite pastimes, in the days prior to these event ration issues.

Anyways, enough of my blithering...
Bob D.

Wild Rover

05-09-2007, 02:21 PM

Bob,

Good thoughts. I would also say that while not all participants at Mcdowell might have had what one would call a grade A+ kit, the military functionality of the participants were better than any event previous.

Folks "got it", and I would much rather be with folks who can operate and act authentically than folks in top grade kits.

Attitude and knowledge are hard to obtain, anyone can melt down a credit card and buy the uber cool kit.

Some folks love material culture, and some folks love military functionality, and some folks just love the action. But either way, end the end, we all have far more in common than we do not here on the cph side of things. we also benefit from helping each other along the authenticity journey, and not laughing at those perceived behind ( for often they are ahead of you in other matters).

Folks would do well to remember that.

Pards,

JimConley

05-09-2007, 03:38 PM

Sadly, it seems to me that the progressive/authentic/or whatever you want to call it movement is really in crisis. There were very few authentic looking impressions at the event. I'm out of touch with who all is considered the latest cool vendor to buy from but it is quite clear that many of the sellers of so-called authentic goods are inhibiting the quest for great uniforms and gear. Most of the uniforms I saw at McDowell looked like they were made from patterns made or altered by folks with little knowledge in that complex area. Shoulder seams were especially in disarray. It was disappointing to see because the "hardcore movement" is a worthy endeavor. Unfortunately, at the moment the movement is largely composed of people who want a high standard but are not able to exhibit one.

Just as a footnote to your post Sam, I've noticed that one of the things affecting the appearance of the clothing folks wear is they want their clothes to fit like modern clothes, which 19th clothing did not. Clothes of that time period (as you well know) were supposed to force the wearer's body into a strangely "inhuman" posture; puffy chest, small waist, with shoulder seams gently sloping away from the neck (not squared off). The conventions of period styles did not include "loose fitting" or "baggy" clothes we so love today. Thus, when someone buys a jacket, and they feel it binding a little under their armpits, they immediately assume it does not fit properly, when in fact, that pressure is an assurance that it does.
Sam and Bob,
These are two of the best posts I've seen on the boards in months. And I do wish it was something more folks would stop to think about when they get into this area of the hobby.

It'd be interesting to see a discussion on this with some more depth, but I fear it would go down hill rather quickly.

Charles Heath

05-09-2007, 04:32 PM

I would ask about the gigantic fresh veges found in the Spring and the foil coffee bags, but that would be another topic...

Sam,

No doubt because of the giagantic pain in the ass it is to plan ahead, prep the soil, select the varieties, time the planting-harvest cycle to fit the event, grow the darn things, store them properly, transport same to far away places, and issue them to folks who may or may not know they didn't come from the local grocery store. I don't know about others who go through this process for events, but for the past 15 years we've had about as many failures as successes in this regard, and sometimes it is just plain nice to open up a can. :)

At least it is fertilized with mule manure.

S.D.Foster

05-09-2007, 04:59 PM

Overall, I enjoyed the event. This was my first time to McDowell. Here are a few reflections:

THE GOOD:
People conducted themselves in a military manner (at least from what I saw on the Federal side)
Most impressions I saw looked good. But I do agree there were a few things that could have been easily amended.
The march up the mountain on Sunday was great.
The weather on Friday and Saturday (until dusk) was as perfect as I could have hoped for.
Some great vendors were set up at McDowell, and all that I met were friendly and informative, even if you didn't end up buying something.

THE BAD:
I was a little disappointed to find out that things were unclear at registration. It took some time to discover where the civilians were supposed to be (I brought a few of them with me).
I was looking forward to an issue of hardtack with the rations. Some of the rations ran low when my company went for rations, but we were all fed and to my knowledge nobody went without.

THE UGLY:
The rain Saturday night was OK, but the wind afterward was a bit more unpleasant. But that is not the fault of anyone at the event!

I will most certainly plan to attend future events at McDowell.

billwatson

05-09-2007, 06:12 PM

It is the darnedest thing that you just can't beat a produce vendor into believing that you really, truly want 300 pounds of SMALL, UGLY carrots or onions or whatever.

Ron Myzie and I were talking about the lack of repackaging of the rations we saw at the Confederate camp and trying to figure out how to avoid that at future events. The "event" supplied the rations, and the respective commands were to handle breakdown and repackaging into appropriate containers and whatnot. That happened OK on the federal side, but apparently not on the Confederate, and we were feeling bad about it and wondering if there's a step in the process we've overlooked. What we might do is jointly volunteer to provide Confederate commissary services at an upcoming event. That would give us a chance to see how things work over there and maybe figure out adjustments to make at the "event" level.

The price of hardtack went up since last June, and we decided to just skip it this time, especially given the last-minute rush to registration. The stuff needs to be ordered well ahead for the order to be met satisfactorily.

Sam, I wish I'd known you were there, I've looked forward to meeting you for some years now.

nrandolph

05-09-2007, 07:12 PM

Well, as someone, who with my good friend Mark Trail, worked the commissary and HQ mess, we did our very best to avoid any modern packaging. I know that it was always a concern to Ron Myzie and Kevin Kelley, our sergeant.
That said, Mark and I had a real blast! We had both "volunteered" to Ron way prior to the event and it just felt like home for the both of us. I'm sure we have Ron to thank for that atmosphere, along with the other members of the HQ staff. They were considerate and appreciative, probably not a period quality of all the officers at HQ!
I thoroughly enjoyed the variety of work we had, cutting up the bacon slabs, and the beef quarters (a first for me), peeling potatoes, and cooking nearly non-stop from Friday eve till Saturday eve, just don't e-mail my wife and tell her!
We had a good little scenario late Friday night with a Mrs. McGillicuddy and the two Wise sisters making their way into camp for rations, being questioned and finally allowed to draw rations and being escorted out to the end of our lines by the provost (Josiah Hurd?) and myself.
Saturday's battle was interesting to watch from our perch about a thousand yards up on the rise away from the action. It was easy to see the moves and counter moves of both sides from our view. Our officer (Ron) finally decided we were in danger of having our one road of retreat cut by the advancing rebels and he climbed aboard the wagon, which had the commissary gear, told the driver to move it, and Mark, Kevin, and I took off running in full gear behind the galloping wagon (cough, cough) for a half mile or so.
Saturday evening and night was rainy, but Kevin got up from time to time throughout the night to insure that we had a hot fire for some coffee at wakeup. Got a bit cool toward dawn also.
The march up to the battlesite itself was invigorating, and a good wakeup. I'll have to say that I've seldom, if ever, attacked up a 45% grade, and after the third time up, I made it to within about twenty yards of the Confederate lines, took a hit, and collapsed on the ground panting and allowing my burning thigh muscles a chance to recuperate. The battle was well done.
I'd also like to thank the guys in Co.A, 3rd Loyal Virginia for having Mark and I step into their ranks Sunday. They were alot of fun and made us feel very welcome! Thanks also to Bill Watson and all the officers at HQ and some of the boys of the 82nd Ohio, who we shared our cooking fire with in town.
Mark and I both enjoyed the event and it was certainly the better of the two McDowells we've been able to attend.

Neil Randolph
1st WV

Arthur Stone

05-09-2007, 07:44 PM

Gents!
I for one had a great time at McDowell this year. It was a different experience for me to do a war correspondent ( Alfred R. Waud). Accompanied by my friend Joe Bordenaro as Joseph Borden from Philadelphia. We were treated rather well by the federals all in all. It was good to see old friends, and meet new ones.
We missed out on our rations for the event because we were run out of the civilian camp, to which we registered. Live and learn I guess!
The highlight of the weekend for me was to be on the hill with the Pittsburg Battery, when the Rebs attacked and overran the gun. The first shot of canister took down 20 of those brave lads. We couldn't get out of there fast enough! And finding an" A "frame for Saturday night in the federal camp. We had around eight lads in there and laughed all night. The boys from the 13th and 14th N.J. and Rich Hill (Lt. Josiah Hurd). It was good to see him out in the field again.
My hat is off to the organizers, Great job! Hope to see you at the next one.

Alfred

Eric Wisbith

05-09-2007, 08:30 PM

For me the part that takes the cake was no women and children in uniform. I havent seen that since the early '90's, when dinosaurs roamed the earth. Running a line of pickets halfway up the mountain and maintaining it thru the night was cool, even with the rain. I woke up about 3 AM and the moon was shining through the mist, awesome!

Charge Bayonets

05-10-2007, 12:15 AM

Hey,

I had a great time.

Thanks for getting the event togather.

This was my second trip to that tiny town, and I half expected it not to be as good as my first. (I was just in such awe at what I went through as a new guy last year.)

rations weren't bad, (did miss the hardtack, but I understand) weather bearable, gorgeous setting.....

The fights were great
(Even if my company did get worked over more than once..
Saturday for example:
"Ok, you're going down this hill, and you're not coming back up"
Great.
Worth every awkward slide to the bottom though)
Yanks impressed me.

I really had a great time.

Thanks again event coordinators.

Knapsack Matt

05-10-2007, 06:45 AM

The event was pretty good. Randy sorry I had to take you prisoner.

Matt

frankstevanus

05-10-2007, 07:57 AM

Definitely a step up from the typical "powder burn-saber dance" mainstream event.
And Chris and company did a great job organizing the activities. Best thing, my over weight horse lost about five pounds running up and down those mountains. Good stuff!
Thanks Chris

Wild Rover

05-10-2007, 09:21 AM

Frank,

Be sure to thank Bob, Dave and Bill...I was just there to play!

You were a life saver. Funny when 21st Century mthods fail, 19th Century methods save the day.

The guy who went down is ok, talked to him, it was a blood sugar thing, he will be more careful next time.

Pards,

John Slade

05-10-2007, 07:34 PM

Comrades,
I am the young confederate who took sick early on Saturday. I want to thank all of you for your help, and for finally getting me to Saunton. I am sorry if my inability to perform my soldierly duties brought down the experiance of others. Just remember sickness killed more than battle, and it didn't stop for the campaign. However this is not ment to defend myself, but rather to thank others.
I loved the event and am really looking forward to coming back in two years. I especially loved building the bridge and look forward to further and more ambitious projects in the future.
Finally, I was sent to the hospital without my gear, and while I have most of it back, I am still missing two items.
1-a black untarred, federal pattern haversack, with a tin cup on the outside, an poke sacks inside.
2-a medium brown blanket with tan stripes on the ends.
any help will be appreciated.

Thanks again.
A.P. Duafala
27 Va G
Wheeling's own Shriver Greys

Guy Gane III

05-13-2007, 09:46 AM

I had a great time!

I was impressed by the number of good impressions I saw (at least on the Fed side - I didn't see too many Rebs being on Lt. Col. Buffington's staff.

The Saturday drizzle was a bit discomforting but the attitudes of anyone I came across was just the opposite.

Although there were a few less than spectacular kits, you can't base the event on those things. Those with low kits still knew their drill and were well trained - from what I saw.

Standing behind the lines to actually observe more than usual, I have to mention the importance of awareness by the company commander and the orderly sgt. There was an incident that occured on Saturday (thankfully nothing happened) during the battle, but was quelled quickly when the accused left the ranks so as to avoid a conflict. The accuser was at fault, as I witnessed it. Safety is a huge part of this hobby and there are no excuses.

Overall, I had a great time and I wish my sore hip and legs would have been able to carry me up the mountain and through the battle. Except for my lameness, I had a blast and many thanks to those who organized the event.

Cheers,

Desperado

05-13-2007, 08:53 PM

This wasnt one of my favorite events. I thought it was supposed to be authentic ? Gold foil bags of coffee ? C'mon. At least take the sticky price tags off, for goodness sake. The uniforms and such were better than a main stream event I reckon. I didnt see any rubber soled combat boots or people wearing blue jeans with suspender buttons sewed on.

And then there was the guys out there playing picket. They did a fair enough job, but why didnt the officers of the Companies let the men know what the pass words were ? It happened to me twice, I was stopped once and never having been told what the pass word was had a little akward trouble with the picket and he with me,as we didnt quite know what to do with one another. And then once on picket duty myself, the Sgt in charge just dropped me off at my post and never told me either the challenge or the pass. So having stopped someone I was never sure whether it was safe to let them pass or not !

And the battles. Good Lord. They were the dullest things I'd ever been involved with . Command of the battalion I was with seemed totaly inept. Inept, confused,contradictory. If this had been a real battle the Yankees would have routed us Rebs Im guessing. I've not been in this hobby long,but Ive never been under poorer leadership before,or leadership that seemed so poor. It seems the officers in charge didnt know how to do anything but fight only 2 companies at once and then only in skirmish line. Im used to considerable action and manuevering. Not standing at order arms watching 2 companies in skirmish line try to fight a whole yankee battalion.And any period mood I might have been able to work myself in would have been destroyed when the trucks came up to take us to the battlesite for the sunday "tactical" . 1st CS Mechanized Infantry ? Oh well, as cold as it was I was glad of the things honestly.

I guess in short I considere McDowell to have been a mainstream event with good uniforms and unfortunate officers ! I had some fun mind you, its better than stayin at the house and wastin time and you always get to meet new people and have a good time talking and fellowshiping around the various campfires which is one of the main reasons we all do this I reckon. I just had pretty high expectations for this event, and they were not in the least close to being met.

But thats just my opinion, like I said I had some fun and everyone else seems to have as well so my comments are not in the least meant to offend or upset anyone or take anything away from someone who enjoyed the thing. Or to upset anyone who was in charge, I dont know who any of the officers were so Im totaly unbiased anyway. This is just my observations and personal feelings. Dont nobody get upset with me.

D.Matthew Sharp

Pvt Schnapps

05-14-2007, 08:12 AM

An in-depth view of the harassment of the civilian population of McDowell :) , and other stuff. This was my third McDowell, and the best, thanks to everyone involved.

dixiecowboy25550

05-16-2007, 08:04 AM

Michael,

That was an interesting report. I couldn’t help but beam with some pride with mention of the "poor fellow buried under the guards” (not that I was a local ruffian or anything ;) )." That was enjoyable. I haven’t had as much fun in ages. Thanks to everyone for their hard work and dedication.

Andrew Marcum

Chessa

05-16-2007, 12:27 PM

One thing I noticed at McDowell: As the pickets got younger, it got easier to pass through the lines ::snickers::

I had a great time :) Granted, it was my first event out of state (never slept in a tent at a reenactment before), but it was a good first event. We had pretty good food and a great group of civilians. I just wish I had come up with a better persona...

dixiecowboy25550

05-16-2007, 09:52 PM

Outside of the food, I have a difficult time seeing the validity of any of your arguments.

Should guards and soldiers know the password in order to enter camp? Yes. However, is this the event’s fault or the company commander and sgt for not properly preparing their troops? Without a doubt, the company commander and sgt (men you obviously chose to join for the event) are at fault.

You compare the battle scenarios to mainstream battles? As someone who is not “new to the hobby,” No mainstream battle challenges the vigor like the two marches on Saturday and Sunday and the fighting on the treacherous terrain that followed.

While at first glance your selfish statement of the 1st CS Mechanized Infantry seems both enlightening and comical, I am certainly glad that the event organizers didn’t follow your nearsighted plan. 250-300 men marching up a curvy, mountainous US highway that is frequented by locals who have a tendency to speed sounds like a liability no sane person would face. Thanks to those wise enough to overlook the selfish outlook of those wishing to endanger the lives of everyone by marching that dangerous road. I can imagine the devestation if someone wrecked into a column of marching soldiers. Kudos to whoever actually considered this situation and made the correct choice.

Your expectations weren’t met. What were these expectations and what did you use for your basis? As someone who has attended multiple events, both “mainstream” and “authentic” I have a difficult time seeing how someone with little experience in the hobby can form these expectations, be so critical of an event’s authenticity, and have such negative feedback toward event leadership.

ContinentalMorganGuard

05-16-2007, 11:17 PM

All events have their down falls, but you have to go with an open mind and not let things bother you. Sure, being my first McDowell my expectations were very very high. However they weren't met because I was basing my expectations on the website and my friends previous experiences. Yeah the rations kinda blew my period rush for a second, but I had a great weekend over-all. I think we have to remember we live in the 21st century, even though we would rather be in the 19th, so we'll never escape modern world completely. Maybe I got lucky because my company built the bridge, then got to secure the Federal HQ, and slept in captured tents. The battles were great, and as I'm telling my friends this was one of the best events I've ever been too in 11 years in the hobby. Like I said it had its pit falls but I had some great first person moments, enjoyed great senery, and for the most part the guys in my company were awesome. I'll be back in two years, Lord willing!

billwatson

05-16-2007, 11:33 PM

So the biggest glitch at this McDowell was an oversight that led to no repackaging material for the Confederate coffee. It's easily fixed. It could have been fixed this time if we'd known at the "other" camp that there was a problem, because I think we could have come up with the material to handle it, one way or another. Or there could simply have been no coffee issue; might even have been more accurate, they'd have had to wait until they took over the federal camps to scavenge coffee.

I think also that D. Matthew Sharp just volunteered to invest his time two years from now helping us prevent the problem. That would mean arriving Thursday night or Friday morning with the right sacks and pitching in when the rations arrive and need to be dealt with before most of the guys get there. Thanks, D. Matt, for embracing the attitude that all the participants are investors in the enterprise with a vested interest in making it come out better each time, rather than consumers of a product. See you in May 2009.

LindaTrent

05-17-2007, 07:39 AM

I see civilians were at McDowell again this year. Anyone care to give a report? I had other commitments (close to home) and didn't even look into going this time.

Thanks, and looking forward to the reports!

Linda.

Chessa

05-17-2007, 11:11 AM

Hi Mrs. Trent!
I'm actually working on a report from the civilian side of things so my reenacting group can put it in the newsletter. I'd be happy to email it to you when I'm done or I could post it here. :)

Chessa Swing

LindaTrent

05-17-2007, 12:35 PM

I could post it here. :) Chessa Swing

Hi Chessa,

You could post it here, as I'm sure I'm not the only one wondering how it went.:tounge_sm I was at McDowell in 01 as a local dairy farmer, 03 as a traveler, and '05 as Mrs. Leonard Propst (out at "Davis Run"). This year I decided to skip McDowell as I've been cutting back on events, but I've been looking forward to the AARs.

So if you don't mind... ;)

Thanks,

Linda

Chessa

05-17-2007, 02:11 PM

Alright!

Here it is. I'm planning on doing a little more editing (my spelling is horrid), but you'll get the drift :)

The Battle of McDowell 2007

As we awoke to reveille early Saturday morning, the smell of burning wood and fresh, cool mountain air filled our tent. Arising to clothe ourselves, we were soon out of our weekend abode, fully dressed in our period attire. The Federal Army had neglected to issue the town civilians rations; but a kind gentleman brought us some authentic Virginia Brunswick stew for breakfast. We soon had taken our places on our respective front porches scattered from one end of town to the other. The blue-clad Union soldiers marched to and fro, warily watching the civilians as they knitted, sewed, and chased cutely dressed toddlers (who, very enthusiastically, found new bugs and creatures around the house).
After a few hours of such tasks, some civilians went to address some issues at the Union Headquarters. This was much easier said than done, as pickets had been placed every so many yards and had been ordered to ask for passes (the only place to acquire such passes was at Headquarters). So, after passing the first few pickets, our friends got sent back. Upon trying later, they were told that if they came back, they would be shot on site. Of course, at the same time, the Federal soldiers were dealing with a group of very rambunctious boys who insisted on harassing them at every turn. (A few girls tried to get involved, but being in many petticoats, it was hard to keep up). The boys would sound a taunt and then would follow the sound of guns, firing one after another in perfect time. Each time, they somehow managed to escape, causing the soldiers many a headache. Around noon, the group of town boys brought us our rations. We had a feast of bread, onions, potatoes, bacon and a few pieces of beef. Though not top notch quality, we didn’t starve. After leaving our rations, the boys proceeded to annoy the soldiers more. Soon after, they were all arrested and marched through the streets. To no avail did some civilians try to reason with the soldiers to release their beloved neighbors.
Later that afternoon, we were told that the Confederates had come into town, saving us from the Yankee invasion. Many civilians grabbed their belongings and went to meet them. Realizing they had already passed, we watched the battle that ensued from afar, shouting to our boys in gray to keep up the good work. In amazement did we watch as company after company ran down the side of the hill, seemingly to never stop coming. As the battle was almost over, we ran back to our houses, catching glimpses of gray clad men tumbling down the hill. Soon the town was filled with a flood of Union soldiers, retreating from the fight. Immediately the Confederates followed, finding blue clad soldiers running and hiding. Finally, the Confederate Army had flushed out all the Federal soldiers.
About 5:30, it began to rain. First a light drizzling rain, and then a heavy, cold rain followed. After having eaten dinner, we played with the children, sewed, and did various other small things in our tent, as some Confederate soldiers (persuaded by the bottle I believe) escorted us off our front porch with the permission of the house owner. Later that night, after the other civilians had gone inside a local house to escape the inclement weather, a soldier appeared with some choice cuts of meat to share with the civilians. The few civilians still outside went to bed. The night was a cold and windy one, on top of being wet. The wind gusts underneath the tent flaps and made it hard to sleep. The little one with us slept fine, as she was protected between my friend and I.
Sunday morning, we found it hard to wake up. Earlier, we had realized that some of the soldiers from the front porch had slept in the un-watched tent next to us. They had started the fire back for us, and were up talking. We stayed in our tent for a little while, then got dressed and stiffly made our way out of our weekend home. Having eaten a few morsels for breakfast, we went and mulled about the town, looking at more Merchants and going about our work. Soon the Church bells rung. As we went into the church, the kind towns people smiled and welcomed us. Many of them had come in their charming costumes. We were disappointed when we realized there wasn’t enough room, but as we were about to leave, a few young women moved to let us and our massive skirts in. We sat down and the service began. We sang the period hymns Amazing Grace and O For a Thousand Tongues. After the service was over, we were thanked for coming to the town and asked if we would like to eat afterwards. We declined as we had already agreed to meet some friends in the next town for a museum trip. As we loaded up our horse-less wagon, we left the charming valley and proceeded to trek homeward.

This was a great event. The town people seemed happy to have us there, preparing the bread and meat for us! I felt very welcomed and very much appreciate their kindness.

Strawfoot

05-18-2007, 11:13 PM

Old Reb

05-19-2007, 08:55 AM

I've been quiet lately. Been thinking about this little hobby of ours. After all that thought I am convinced it is just a hobby and bashing others because they do it one way and others do it another way ain't worth dry spit on a hot day! Go where you want to go with whom you want to go with and let it go at that. Very few of us could tote a bag of horse manure when compared to what the real men in the real war experienced. There is no sense other than vanity and ego to say one way is better than another way or one person is better than another because of where they go or where they bought their kits. Told you I had been thinking.:)

Charles Heath

05-19-2007, 09:46 AM

Uncle Tom,

...and here I was just a studyin' over Mike's post, and considering just how wonderful it would be as a nominee for AC Forum Post of the Month for May.

Old Reb

05-19-2007, 01:26 PM

Mr. Charles,
Wasn't aiming at Mike or anyone in particular but everyone in particular. Call it the shotgun affect. If it hits something, then it done good. I wasn't referring to sham battle events, 'cause that is another hobby and not our little area. Authentic Campaigner events ought to have some element of campaign or just be called authentic garrison event, but not campaigning, 'cause as you have so wisely stated in the past, walking from the parking lot to the event sight with your knapsack or bedroll doesn't quailfy as a campaign experience.

Strawfoot

05-19-2007, 10:59 PM

Tom,

One of these days I'll get out in the field with you guys again. I never have a problem walking that walk, BECAUSE of what you said in your post.

We can suffer for a day or two, sure. But in the end we're all just a bunch of weak sisters compared to them.

Regards,

Mike Phineas
Arlington, TX
(signed on with Ewing's company for Outpost/TAG II)

Pvt Schnapps

05-21-2007, 11:21 AM

For the record, and for what it's worth, I understand that the packaging issue on the Confederate side resulted from one or two folks being unable to show up or pitch in as planned. It seems like a small thing, but unwrapping a couple of hundred loaves of bread and repackaging coffee takes some time and effort and I suppose if there's any irritation in the responses to Mr. Sharp's post, it's because the author didn't seem to realize that, or that he might have as much a role as anyone in addressing it by simply offering to help.

We were more fortunate on the Federal side, having Mr. Myzie and four assistants, along with an array of period supplies and equipment, to prep the food. This too can seem like a small thing, but in fact these folks have invested considerable time researching their jobs and gaining experience at other events. As it was, we needed additional help in cutting up the beef, and were fortunate to have someone skilled who could be detailed to that task.

Overall this investment could have the downside of making our headquarters seem large for the forces involved. But I think this was outweighed by the staff's actual accomplishment, and by the fact that we now have even more experience to contribute to future events.

The whole realm of event support in a period manner seems to be attracting more and more attention. Maybe it's just that some of us see our days as combat infantry to a large extent passed, but I think there's also a certain attraction in getting beyond the powder to see how the war was fought in a larger sense. Battles are exciting, but they could only happen because of the work of clerks and commissaries.

As Higginson said, "Courage is, no doubt, a good quality in a soldier, and luckily not often wanting; but, in the long run, courage depends largely on the haversack."

hendrickms24

05-21-2007, 04:51 PM

Mike,

Well stated and having more people get involved in the prep work will help things run smother. Hopefully when people important people can't make a certain event and we will have others ti fill in with out any major problems.

Julio C. Zangroniz

05-30-2007, 05:48 PM

We'd like to inform everyone that our selection of photography from the 2007 McDowell program is finally online.
There are well over 400 photographs of the biennial event sponsored by this beautiful Shennandoah Valley community every two years.
To access the photography, simply log onto the following: http://www.zphotos.smugmug.com, and then scroll down to the gallery called "7McDowell."
Currently, we have over 50 photo galleries on display at our website. They illustrate such a varied wealth of topics as air shows, weddings, models, American Civil War and French and Indian War reenactments, etc. etc. etc., so feel free to meander as your fancy dictates. It won't cost you anything to enjoy the sights at one or more galleries.
There is something very, very special about the 2007 McDowell photo gallery: we are offering both event participants and spectators the opportunity to purchase a limited edition Event Photo CD of the entire collection you will see on display in the Internet, for $30 per disk, with a $5 shipping and handling fee whether you order one or more copies.
The only "catch" is that you will have to place your order within the confines of a very specific deadline: the next 90 days, on or before August 31, 2007.
After that, the 2007 McDowell collection will not be available for purchase, as we expect to be busy with other projects.
We guarantee you that the 2007 McDowell Photo CD will give you the most comprehensive view of the event anyone has. We feel confident that this CD is the most thorough and complete historical collection of this very important event.
Zangroniz Photography will donate part of each and every sale to the Highland County Historical Society for the continuing preservation and interpretation of the battlesite and museum.
We are proud to do so, and we are deeply indebted to every participant and every spectator for their support, both during the event and afterwards.
We remind you that our work comes with a full, 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. Either you love what you get from us, or we return all your money upon return of any unwanted merchandize. No questions asked.
This purchase will place you in a highly select group, as this is the very first time that this offer is available to an event of this magnitude.
If you would like to consider Zangroniz Photography to record your event, please contact us at: Jzangroniz@comcast.net and we will be happy to discuss it with you.
We thank each of you, once again, for your support and encouragement, which we hope will continue to give us the means to carry on work that we hope will be historically meaningful to future generations of Americans.
We thank you. God bless our country.
Sincerely,
Julio C. Zangroniz