Regimental Dispatch

Oct 2004       Sic Semper Tyrranus Richmond, VA

Commander’s Column 

    Thanks to all who joined us for a fine living history weekend at Crampton’s Gap.  Good drill, good company, and good work with the public.  Plus, wasn’t it interesting to see another out-of-the-way Civil War park and location, a place that I have read about for many years but have never until now had the chance to visit; another reason we do this hobby.

     Next up, 140^th Cedar Creek.  Lads, I’m particularly looking forward to this one.  Living history is lovely, getting together with F’ers on a given weekend is great, continuing to put together the impression is always a pleasure, reading is rewarding, but nothing, I repeat nothing, for me at least, can compare with a rough and tumble powder burning, dirt eating, hot, sweaty, full scale battle reenactment, with all of those beautiful blue targets in our sights.  I’ve always been especially fond of Cedar Creek; beautiful country, easy in and out accessibility, and something of a family connection for us Ramseys: my wife’s ancestor, Robert Q. Dickenson of the 6^th Virginia Cavalry, fought there.  Plus once again, the money that we help raise through our efforts goes directly into battlefield preservation, and preservation of one of the most important, and most threatened battlefields in Virginia.  I would like to express my sincere thanks and deepest appreciation, in advance, to any and all of you good soldiers who join us for this memorable weekend.  Let’s make sure they all hear from, and never forget, the sound of our sharp volleys, and the power of our presence, as only the men of F Company, 21^st Virginia can project.  All who can, join me there Friday night, so that we can have the pleasure of starting the weekend together.  Be prepared for Sunday’s dawn tactical.

*********

Confederately,

Capt. Ramsey

1st Lieutenant’s Report

     I have just got back from the South Mountain / Gathland State Park in Maryland.   F-Company was there for a small Living History program.  It was thought to have been for both Saturday and Sunday, but with no real organized program for Sunday, we ended up leaving after church service and breakfast on Sunday morning.

     It was a beautiful state park that the Appalachian Trail actually runs through.  It is very close to Harper’s Ferry.  In fact, we took a car tour of Harper’s Ferry and its associated “Heights” and also visited Antietam Battlefield on Saturday afternoon / evening after our demonstrations were over.

     It was a great, little, laid-back event.  It was fairly well attended with eleven of us present.  It was a good chance to do some refresher drill, school of the soldier and company, and just kick back and relax and renew friendships with members we hadn’t seen in awhile.

     The food was good.  I ate well without having to cook anything.  When we got back from the Saturday tour, Corporal Pearson had prepared a meal of pork, rice, potatoes, and onions.  It was very good, so I indulged myself.  Sunday morning, Sergeant Firth fixed some bacon and eggs.  It was very good, so I indulged myself once again.  I felt like a scavenger.

     Since the park was on the Appalachian Trail, I even got to do some unexpected hiking on both Saturday evening and Sunday morning.  Saturday night, as I have gotten into habit of doing (since I suffer from sleep deprivation), I turned in early.  It was a beautiful and clear starry…starry night.  Private Alexander got the men to sing some period songs around the campfire.  They were in good tune and it wasn’t long before I was dead to the world.  I slept very well.

     Sunday morning we had an excellent church service.  The F-Company quartet, with the help of Cpl. Warner of the 4^th NC, did an excellent version of “Amazing Grace”.  The quartet consisted of Pvts. Alexander, Baird, Cpl. Warner, and, of all people, Cpl. Pearson.  I didn’t even know that he could sing.  But they were really good.  The Captain gave a very moving and inspirational sermon relating a story of an incident that happened at his church involving his family history.  It was a story of his great grandfather saving the lives of several children during a fire.  The service was a true blessing.  Afterward, we visited with a Boy Scout troop that had stopped by during the church service.  With the help of Pvt. M. Gammon, the Captain gave the scouts a brief demonstration.  For an abbreviated event, I had a great time.  It was nice to escape from the real world for the weekend.

     So, next up is Cedar Creek.  I hope everyone who is signed up for the event will be there.  I know that sometimes things do come up, but I do want to let you know that when you are not at events, you are missed.  So, please try to support the unit.  Cedar Creek should be a big one this year and hopefully a good one.  We have a  lot of people signed up, so I hope to see you there.  Take care.

*****

Respectfully submitted

1^st Lt. Turley

140th

Cedar Creek

(October 15-17)

In Commemoration of the 140^th Anniversary of the Battle of Cedar Creek, the Cedar Creek Battlefield Foundation has arranged to co-host the three day event with Belle Grove Plantation. In addition to the fields surrounding the Heater House traditionally used for the reenactment, the 285 acres surrounding Belle Grove will also be used for campsites and battlegrounds. Reenactor fees will solely benefit the CCBF and the two organizations will split the spectator and sponsor proceeds. Participation will be limited to 12,000 - no Walk-ons will be allowed. Camps will open at noon, October 14^th.

Substitutions

No substitutions for passes mailed will be permitted after September 1, 2004. All other substitutions must be made by September 30th.

Last Registration - $25: After August 31 and postmarked by September 30, 2004. Register for the event by completing the registration form and sign waiver. Receipt of waiver will be marked as such on the roster but passes will not be mailed out. Mail with fee to CCBF, or phone 888-628-1864 with credit card. o Check in at the registration tent will be required. If you have not sent in your waiver, please bring a signed copy of waiver with you in order to save time. Release forms will be available on site as well.   WE CANNOT ACCOMMODATE WALK-ONS THIS YEAR.

Schedule for the Weekend

Directions:

The Cedar Creek Battlefield is located just south of Middletown, Virginia, near Winchester in the northern Shenandoah Valley. 
FROM THE NORTH:  Take Interstate 81 south past Winchester to the Middletown exit  #302, go west on 627, south on Route 11 to the original Battlefield. 
FROM THE SOUTH:  Take Interstate 81 north to Strasburg exit #298, North on Route 11, about 2 miles to the Battlefield. 
FROM WASHINGTON-BALTIMORE: 

Take Interstate 66 west to its intersection with Interstate 81, take 81 north to the Middletown exit #302, and follow directions from NORTH.  Cedar Creek Visitor Center is located at 8437 Valley Pike, Middletown, VA 22645

Rations for the Weekend

As we have done since Spotsylvania, individuals will supply their own food rations.  Bring what you wish to carry and cook on your own.  We will still have camp mess as we always do.  Please keep in mind that, even though the location of our camp may be close to where our wagons will be placed, don’t over-tax yourselves with unneeded items.  The back you may save is your own.  Plan on chilly evenings, but don’t forget the ever-present chance of rain.

Members Registered by 1^st Sergeant

Catlett, Firth, Gammon, Gregory, Ward, Captain Ramsey, Lawrence, Harris, May

Pearson, Stafford, Perry Sr., Lt. Turley, Schirmer, and 1^st Sergeant Wilson.

Remaining Events For 2004

Crampton’s Gap Through the Eyes and Ears of Cpl. T.Warner, 4^th NC

Due to the strange schedule this year (I felt a hankerin' to wear wool) and Cpl. Pearson, knowing I needed a break from job searching, invited me to attend the South Mountain L.H. weekend. I was quick to accept knowing we always have a good time in the field. So the weather was great, the location, Padgett's Field Crampton's Gap, was where the last stand was made before withdrawing was historic, only the spectators were lacking. We had a captive audience as our location was a rest stop for a 100-mile bike ride and some of the riders came into camp to see what was up.
       We had a short drill session to shake out bugs and then did our first demo of three scheduled and proceeded to rest, possibly canceling the other 2. EXCEPT for a family that was recruited, so we did a firing program for them. We then found out Sunday wasn't advertised and no ranger would be present for firing so we would have church and then dismiss. Two of our number got to assist with the BIG gun demo of the artillery piece, attending the Caisson, Pvt. Catlett, the #5 man, and Pvt. M. Gammon, volunteering as the #6 man. Love them earplugs!
       After the demo many went touring Maryland Heights, Cpl. Pearson and I stayed in camp for fire preparation. Saturday evening, the Cpl. was worried about the woodpile but it was never ending and some mighty fine sangin' was had around the fire and at church the next day. Remember the blue light jogger on Saturday around midnight and the strange noise in the trees. Sunday a Boy Scout Troop shared Church with us and Capt. Ramsey shared a great family story of friendship. As we parted our ways to head home there were thanks to all, Pvt. Alexander and I continued and explored Fox's Gap and the action there. Again, my thanks to F Company and those in attendance for a great weekend.

*****

Cpl. T. Warner, 4th NC Inf

The Treasurer’s Account

Sports update…………..South Mountain

Championship final................the "Old Farts" led by the hard throwing right hander, Private Alexander, and the great hitting of "Long Ball" Private D. Gammon and  "Twinkle Toes" 1^st Sgt. Firth, plus the elusive running of "Ghost Man" defeated the "Young Studs"  Saturday night......The "Studs" led by their pitcher Pvt. #5 Catlett and the hard hitting of "In the Bushes" Pvt. M. Gammon and "I Almost Caught it" Pvt. Harris, plus the late additions of Cpl. "I Am Not Sure I Want to Play" Pearson and Pvt. "I Can't See the Ball" Baird were defeated 8-2......it should be pointed out that #5 was called out by the umpire for not being able to find 3rd base.. more details are available from the players listed........should they wish to comment.  

*****

Submitted by Pvt. Alexander

Remembering Crampton’s Gap
 

 On Sunday morning, September 12, 2004, members in attendance at South Mountain’s Living History event stood proud for this photo opportunity taken by one of our kind guests from the Boy Scout Troop that shared our Church service before breaking camp.  From left to right:  Pvts. Baird, Catlett, Gammon D., Harris, Gammon M., Cpt. Ramsey, Cpl. Warner (4^th NC), Lt. Turley, 2^nd Sgt. Firth, Cpl. Pearson, and Pvt. Alexander.  To the rear, are the remains of an original barn from 1887.

Pvt. Catlett’s Recollections
of That Weekend
South Mountain, MD
Sept. 11, 2004
by Pvt. Catlett #5

      Captain Ramsey started the day with prayer and a moment of silence for the victims of Sept. 11th.  Then on with the business of drilling in preparation for demonstrations for visitors to the park and a chance for them to see what a camp looked like for the common foot soldier.  As you know, this weekend we took on a name from the original F-Co roster.  That really put a human touch to this event.  I think our brothers were smiling from their heavenly loft.

     Now you ask: How did I acquire the #5?  The park service was asking for volunteers to help them with the artillery piece.  I got the job of #5 man; he carries the charge from the limber to the #2 man on the 12-pound Napoleon.  What a blast that was!  Also, Pvt. M. Gammon joined me on the last demo as #6: the man responsible for giving me the correct charge.  Our last demo was cancelled because of lack of visitors.

     Captain and Private Alexander took us for a tour of area battlefields in their wagons.  That evening, in camp, Private Alexander came up with an idea of a game that might take our minds off the war.  I believe he called it "Baseball".  You hit this leather covered and sewn ball with a sawdust slab bat.  (This might catch on).  We may have had our first dispute:  Private Alexander saying #5 didn't touch base?  Maybe we'll need the Captain to settle this one.

Later on that evening by the inferno (thanks Corporal Pearson), Private Baird and Private Alexander played Chess and other members sang and drank Root Beer.  All, including the gnats, had an enjoyable time.

     Sunday morning we were up early for the last formation and Sunday services.  Also joining us was a group of Scouts from Maryland.   Thanks to Lt. Turley for the service and to Captain Ramsey for a compelling sermon.  And, let's not forget the F-Co Quartet: Privates Baird, Alexander and Corporals Warner and Pearson. 

     I've been longwinded enough, but remember: Artillery: Never, Infantry: Forever!  See you later my pards.

Private Catlett #5

From The Secret Diaries

Of Private Gregory

“I’se Got Nothin’ Ready’”

Private Gregory is diligently working on his next piece.  He’s been given the month off for good behavior.

Editor’s note

Here are a vital few pieces of information for the 140^th Battle of Cedar Creek.  This is probably the largest reenactment that has been held at Cedar Creek for quite some time, if not the largest.  What you will need to bring with you to this event is patience.  From the looks of the overall map, the Confederate Campaigners will have the least amount of walking, not only from the parking area, but also to the battlefields and the Sutler areas.  Unlike the past, it appears that registration will be held outside of the battlefield near the entrance to the town.  When coming off of I-81 and exit #302, follow the signs to the Cedar Creek Battlefield.  Before you reach Route 11, it looks like they will have registration tents set up on the right hand side of the road.  Parking for the Confederates will be past the Heater House, the Battlefield and just past Belle Grove Road on the right hand side of the road.  They will have Confederate Parking clearly marked and/or manned by volunteers.  As a word to the wise, perhaps it would be best after registering and parking, to take a casual walk without all of your gear to the designated area where the Confederate Campaigners will be encamped for the weekend.  The map shows that we’ll be camped along the tree line that runs perpendicular to and away from Route 11.  No need to burden yourself for either a few hundred feet or what could end up being a mile walk trying to find your comrades.  Everything always seems easier on paper.  We’ll see what reality brings.  Nonetheless, it does not look like we will have the breath-taking views of the creek this year.  The Union campaigners and cavalry luck out this time.  Blymy!

Overview Map For Cedar Creek

I-81, Registration, & exit #302 this way  >>>>

Back to South Mountain.  As this was an event in my backyard, so to speak, I was first to arrive and had the distinct pleasure to finally meet Mr. Jurgella, the Park Service representative.  We had plenty of correspondence leading up to this event and it was a delight to see him upon my arrival.  The gnats were in full swing at the hour of 3 p.m.  Our fire pit had already been determined, but I was given the green light to move rocks from the wall to make a fire ring.  There was ample wood to get me started, but with the aid of Pvts. Alexander and Catlett, my fires did not go hungry the entire weekend.  Pvt. Harris was next to arrive and it was great to get back into the groove again as more men gradually arrived, others later in the evening and the rest on Saturday.  Despite the lack of local citizens, it was a fine weekend to get the cobwebs out of the system to drill and be merry.  The area was fantastic.  The weather was magnificent and our time, as a unit, was very gratifying.  Even though I enjoy a good battle, the time we all spent this weekend, playing ball, singing around the fire at night, and swigging on the ice cold sarsaparilla meant a lot more than burning powder.  You know how I love to improvise when it comes to shelter…well…in the center photo on page three, you can see the split rail fencing that surrounds the stone barn.  Most of those rails had been replaced recently, so as I was looking for things to burn when I got there, I saw a nice pile of split rail fencing rotting in the woods.  Hmmm, should I burn them or should I make better use of them?  What a dilemma.  I decided to grab one of the rails and a large branch from the woods and made myself a mighty fine lean-to.  I sure love hemp twine.  It’s a miracle worker.  Was it rough looking?  Yes.  Was it pretty functional?  You bet.  I’ll put it to you this way.  It didn’t rain, but the overnight and morning dews never touched my soul.  Improvise young men. Improvise.  I don’t even want to get started about the baseball.  I volunteered to just play the outfield so the rest of the guys could bat.  I must be getting old.  I catch like a Yankee while taking a river bath (pathetic).  I didn’t want to bat.  I was afraid that my blasts would have taken down the 1887 barn, and that just wouldn’t have been right.

     The evenings were just cool enough to snuggle under the blanket and it was a treat.  Some people count sheep to sleep; I was counting snores………. I lost count. Sunday, despite the lack of a program, was worth being there for church service and the hymnal singing.  Yes, Lieutenant, I sing.  I also play the guitar, the dulcimer, and the harmonica.  You should see me chew gum and walk, though.

     For all the men who gave their time and long drive for South Mountain, I thank you whole heartedly.  It was a weekend away from stress well spent.  And, last, but far from least:  Pvt. M. Gammon, it is my extreme pleasure to serve in the field with you.  Even though you are still in the learning process, you have an excellent potential in this hobby, you have a great attitude, and you have a politeness about you that should make your parents very proud.  Your willingness to help others and to step forward to show what you’ve learned as a young soldier is commendable.

Final thought

What in the heck was with this chess playing on Saturday night?  I found it extremely distracting as I was concentrating in the fine art of throwing wood on a raging fire.  I couldn’t stay focused.  I kept hearing those cursed pieces being placed down on the chessboard.  How annoying. 

     Pvt. Baird, I just wanted to let you know that Pvt. Alexander was cheating every time we went into another camp song.  You’ve got to watch that shady character.  Hmm…just when you think that you know somebody…wham!