Case Shot & Canister

1BA Publication of the Delaware Valley Civil War Round Table Partners with Manor College and the Civil War Institute Our 22nd Year

April 2014

4BVolume 24

5BNumber 4

Editor Patricia Caldwell

Contributors Hugh Boyle, Book Nook Editor Rose Boyle Matt Bruce Nancy Caldwell, Artistic Adviser Jerry Carrier Jim Dover Paula Gidjunis Bernice Kaplan Herb Kaufman Walt Lafty Jack Lieberman Zack Margolies Carol Neumann Waskie First Person Clara Barton Jane Peters Estes John Shivo Presenter: Carol Neumann Waskie Larry Vogel Andy Waskie Sheryl Weiner Our April Meeting Tuesday, April 15, 2014

3BUOfficers President 7:30 pm Hugh Boyle 6:15 pm for dinner (all welcome - make reservations!) Vice President Jerry Carrier Radisson Hotel Treasurer Route 1 @ Old Lincoln Highway Herb Kaufman Secretary Trevose, PA Patricia Caldwell

e-mail:[email protected] U phone: (215)638-4244 Dinner Menu – Grilled Pork Loin with Burgundy Braised Button website: HUwww.dvcwrt.orgU Mushrooms. Served with salad, rolls/butter, iced tea, soda, dessert.

Umailing addresses: Substitute: Pasta (chef’s selection). for membership: 2601 Bonnie Lane Huntingdon Valley PA 19006 Call Rose Boyle at 215-638-4244 for reservations by April 10. Dinner Price $24.00 for newsletter items: 3201 Longshore Avenue You are responsible for dinners not cancelled Philadelphia PA 19149-2025 by Monday morning April 14.

round tables including the Bucks County CWRT in In This Issue Doylestown and the Union League of Philadelphia CWRT. In 1995 she was an instructor for the Civil  Final notice for 2014 dues War Studies Program at Holy Family University.  Paula Gidjunis updates preservation news and events at Gettysburg NMP From 1994 to 2002 she was on the Board of Directors  If you missed our March meeting, Walt Lafty for the Friends of Laurel Hill Cemetery and has represented the group on NPR radio show. will get you up-to-date

 Our Book Nook features several award In 1996 she became the co-owner of the History and winners, and a review of a book with a different Mystery Tours of Philadelphia, beginning the first view of the Lincoln assassination Ghost tours "Spirits of Philadelphia". After extensive  In keeping with our April themes, Sheryl research she found over 50 ghost sightings and is still Weiner takes us along on the Booth Escape Tour counting. The business was featured on the Travel  Larry Vogel tells us about another woman who Channel. championed the soldiers in a Civil War Vignette  Jim Dover touches on the aftermath of the fighting as our April themes continue

 Sesquicentennial timeline for April 1864

An Evening with Clara Barton

For many years Carol Neumann-Waskie has portrayed Clara Barton in the first person style, "Living History" Our March meeting was our annual discussion performance. A devoted fan of night and it was just that, a heated informative this brave and fearless woman, Carol has studied many aspects discussion. Sitting there and listening to the of Ms. Barton's life before questions, responses, and statements, one has to during and after the Civil War. admit that the knowledge of our membership is She has portrayed her at the incredible. I do not believe that there is a Civil National Archives and for the War round table anywhere that can compare Smithsonian's American History Museum. She with the Delaware Valley Civil War Round continues to speak for many groups in the area. I’ve Table. Each and every one of you is exceptional, been fortunate to have seen Carol’s portrayal several times, and she never fails to captivate the audience. and it also makes one proud to be part of this round table. Born and raised in the Philadelphia area, Carol has attended New York University and received degrees Coming this month we have a real treat, because and certificates from Community College of it is the return of an old friend. Not just an old Philadelphia, Rutgers University and Gwynedd friend but an original founder of this round Mercy College. Since 1986 she has been employed in table. She is also a former Vice President of this Temple University Health System in various roles. Currently, Carol is the Compliance Officer for the round table. Carol Waskie will give us a first Physical Medicine Department. person offering of Clara Barton. Those who have seen Carol as Clara Barton will agree that her Carol has been involved in Civil War History for portrayal is a special event. Years ago at the over 20 years. She was one of the original founders 135th anniversary of the battle of Antietam Frank and Vice President of the DelVal CWRT from 1992 Avato, Mike Pettine and myself attended as thru 2002. She has helped to found several other

members of the press for the Civil War Brigadier

newspaper. I was walking past a tent with people hanging outside trying to get in. I peeked in to see what the interest was. What I saw was hundreds of people mesmerized by Carol Congratulations to Jack DeLong for winning the portraying Clara Barton. She had that crowd in dinner book raffle at our March meeting. the palm of her hand. So don’t miss this month’s John Farley recently completed the required presentation. It will be a good one. courses for the Certificate Program of the Civil

War Institute at Manor College. John received his Hugh Boyle certificate from Hugh Boyle and Herb Kaufman at our March meeting. President

APRIL TRIVIA

1 – Where did the largest cavalry engagement of the war take place?

2 – What Confederate Major General had to be released from arrest in order to lead his troops in mid-September of 1862? Herb, Hugh and John 3 – In what battle did A.P.Hill have three horses (Photo courtesy of Walt Lafty) shot from under him in a matter of hours? Matt Bruce spoke to the Cape May County CWRT (Answers in next month’s newsletter!) on “The Confederate Cruisers – The Confederacy’s

Blue Water Navy” on March 20. ANSWERS TO MARCH’S LINCOLN TRIVIA Jack Lieberman spoke in the persona of Percival Questions: Drayton on April 9 to the Wilmington, DE CWRT. 1 – Abraham and Mary Lincoln’s wedding date? –

November 4, 1842 2 – Robert Todd Lincoln’s birth date? – August 1, Hugh Boyle will speak on “Abraham and Mary” at 1843 the Our Lady Help of Christians 55+ Club in 3 – The date of Robert Todd Lincoln’s death? – Abington on April 11. July 22, 1926 4 – The date when Edward Lincoln died? – Jane Peters Estes remains active on the lecture February 1, 1850 5 – The date when Willie Lincoln died? – February circuit. On April 9 she spoke to the Allentown 20, 1862 (NJ) Villagers Club. Her topic was “The Battle of 6 – The date when Thomas [Tad] died? – July 15, Gettysburg: Where Were the Women?” Jane will 1871 repeat this program on April 28 to the United 7 – The date when Mary Todd Lincoln died? – July 16, 1882 Daughters of the Confederacy Philadelphia 8 – The date when the last of Abraham Lincoln’s Chapter #972 at the Annual Lee-Jackson-Maury blood line died and what was his name? – Robert Luncheon. Jane will also speak to the Lincoln Beckwith died on December 24, 1985. He Merchantville (NJ) Women’s Club on “Wedding was 81 years old. Customs and Traditions” on April 16.

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Jane will also present “Grave Matters: Victorian Mourning Traditions” at the New Jersey State History Fair on Saturday, May 10 at Washington

Crossing State Park. Additional information is available at http://www.njhistoryfair.org MAY 20 Michael Wunsch Jerry Carrier is understudying two roles in the “City of Jubilee” – Philadelphia Walnut Street Theatre's current production of & the Surrender of R.E. Lee, the comedy classic, "Arsenic and Old Lace." He April 10-15, 1865 will actually be performing those roles during the final four days of the run. Showtimes are 2 and 8 p.m. Thursday, April 24; 8 p.m. Friday, April 25; 2 JUNE 17 and 8 p.m. Saturday, April 26; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dr. Leslie Rose April 27. (There is also the possibility of another The Trent Affair 8 p.m. performance on Sunday.) The Walnut is located at 9th and Walnut streets in Center City JULY 15 Philadelphia. Annual Book Discussion Night Then, on Sunday, May 4, Jerry will be bringing Reelecting Lincoln Lincoln and Roosevelt confidant John Hay to the by John Waugh GAR Museum and Library in Frankford. Mr. Hay will talk about the two presidential icons, as well AUGUST 19 as his own distinguished career at 1:30 p.m. To Be Announced Get well wishes go out to Paul Greenberg who recently underwent major surgery. Get well soon, SEPTEMBER 16 Paul! Rich Wagner Philadelphia Breweries Zack Margolies attended Hugh Boyle’s March 23 presentation on Irish in the Civil War, and shares this compliment – “Kudos to our President Hugh OCTOBER 17 Boyle for his informative talk to a full house this Ken Milano afternoon on the Irish in the Civil War-North and Philadelphia Riots South. The talk was much more than this. Hugh's power point presentation encompassed the causes NOVEMBER 17 that led to Irish immigration, the hardships and discrimination they experienced in America, the Interviews With Lincoln’s anti-Irish-Catholic riots in Philadelphia, and the Secretaries New York draft riots.” Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Zack! DECEMBER 9

Annual Holiday Celebration

Austrian Village

Richard Lewis – Quakertown, PA

Joe Perry – Philadelphia, PA

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assembled will place US flags on the graves of veterans’ of all wars. As time and manpower permit, the cemeteries to be covered include Laurel Hill, Mt. April 9, 2014 through October 19, 2014 – Peace & St. James the Less. Refreshments and Slavery at Jefferson’s Monticello – National lunch provided. All welcome!

Constitution Center, 525 Arch Street, May 18, 2014 – Sunday – 1:00 pm - Philadelphia, PA – Thomas Jefferson assisted in Sesquicentennial Year 1864 Exhibit Opening creating a nation based on individual freedom – yet Historic walking tour he was a slaveholder throughout his life. This at Laurel Hill Cemetery – compelling exhibition follows the stories of six slave and wreath-laying at Laurel Hill Cemetery, an families who lived and worked at Monticello. For info informative lecture presentation, and a tour of 215-409-6600 or www.constitutioncenter.org . Visiting prominent Civil War gravesites. The day will conclude hours: M – F 9:30 am – 5 pm; Saturday 9:30 am – with a casual cocktail and dinner reception at Laurel 6 pm; Sunday 12 noon – 5 pm Hill’s historic Gatehouse-Museum. The program will be co-presented by Dr. Andy Waskie; and independent researcher and historian, Russ Dodge. April 24, 2014 – Thursday – 7:00 pm – Glen The tour and opening of the exhibit will commence at Foerd-Holy Family University Lecture Series Laurel Hill Cemetery, 3822 Ridge Avenue, – “Gardens of the Jazz Age” – Jenny Rose Philadelphia, PA 19132. Free Parking is available. Carey, the director of the Ambler Arboretum of Advance registration is requested. RSVP 215.228- Temple University, Ambler, will speak in the ETC 8200 or [email protected] Auditorium of Holy Family University. Using images from magazines, books and Glass Lantern Slides June 6-8, 2014 – Friday to Sunday - Civil War from the Archives of American Gardens at the Trails: Gettysburg Rediscovered with Jane Smithsonian, she weaves garden history, design, Peters Estes – Includes 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners, social history and women's history into a tale of the hotel accommodation, transportation via Starr times. At its height in the 1920's, the Jazz Age was motorcoach (with numerous local pick-up locations), known for music, dancing, liberation and fun. and all attractions. Sightseeing will include: Seton Influences from Europe and America's own garden Heritage Center (Daughters of Charity), Seminary past combine to produce some of the most creative Ridge Museum, “Steam Into History" Train Excursion, and opulent gardens in American Garden History. National Civil War Museum (Harrisburg, PA), and Gardens, like art and music reflect their time of Gettysburg National Park (film, cyclorama, museum creation. All are welcome to attend; the lecture is free and guided battlefield tour). Cost per person: and open to the public. $499.95/dbl, $459.95/triple, $629.95/single. Trip will be reoffered in October. May 3, 2014 – Saturday – 7:30 am to 8:30 pm – General Meade Society Spring Trip – Summer 2014 culminating on September 6- Itinerary: 'Frederick, MD; the Civil War Medical 16, 2014 – Star-Spangled Spectacular, Museum; Civil War Sites' - 7:30am departure from th Baltimore, Maryland – Celebrate the 200 the Cannstatter with 8:30 pm return. Cost - anniversary of our National Anthem with family- $75/person complete: bus, tours, donations, friendly activities throughout the summer in refreshments, luncheon. All funds over costs go to Baltimore, culminating in September with “Star- the G.A.R. Museum & Meade Society. Contact: Jerry Spangled Spectacular”, a 10-day free festival. McCormick - [email protected] or 215-848-7753 Tall ships, Navy gray hulls and the Blue Angels will

come to Baltimore’s popular Inner Harbor to May 10, 2014 – Saturday – 11:00 am to 5:00 – celebrate the Star-Spangled Banner. For more New Jersey State History Fair – Washington information visit: www.Baltimore.org as well as Crossing State Park – There will be a number of www.starspangled200.org, or call 1-877-Baltimore. historical organizations, speakers, exhibits, etc. that may be of interest to DVCWRT members, including a September 14, 2014 – Sunday – 3:00 pm – presentation on “Grave Matters: Victorian Mourning Memorial Service for Fran Ward at Laurel Hill Traditions” by Jane Peters Estes. Additional Cemetery – All those who knew and loved Fran information - http://www.njhistoryfair.org/. Ward are invited to a memorial service to celebrate her life and her services to the history community. May 18, 2014 – Sunday – 10:00 am – Please bring your memories, souvenirs, thoughts, Gravesite placement of veterans’ flags at prayers and stories of Fran and Jack Ward to share. Laurel Hill Cemetery – Meet at the gatehouse of Refreshments served gratis by the General Meade Laurel Hill Cemetery, 3822 Ridge Avenue, in Society. Philadelphia (215-228-8200) at 10:00 AM. The group

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Dues for 2014 Year – Final Notice

Dear Members of the Delaware Valley Civil War Round Table:

Thank you to the majority of members who have paid their dues for the 2014 year. Also, welcome to RICHARD LEWIS and JOE PERRY, recent new members.

To those who have not yet paid their dues for the coming year, we very sincerely hope that you will consider retaining your membership. This year we have a wonderful group of speakers presenting information and educating us about a wide variety of topics.

Please understand that if we do not receive your dues we can no longer retain you as a member. Even if you have a scheduling conflict that prevents you from attending meetings, your membership includes our superb monthly journal, Case Shot & Canister.

Meetings are held on the third Tuesday monthly at the Radisson Hotel, beginning at 7:30 PM, and are filled with fellowship and information. This year we have many terrific planned activities and speakers. All with an interest in history are always more than welcome at a monthly meeting.

Dues remain only $25.00 for individuals and $35.00 for families. NOTE: Please add a $20.00 donation if you wish your newsletter sent by US Mail.

Please send your dues payable to “Delaware Valley CWRT” to: Herb Kaufman, Treasurer, 2601 Bonnie Lane, Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006.

Please consider continuing your membership and hope to see you soon!

Herb Kaufman, Treasurer

GETTYSBURG CLEANUP

Our spring Gettysburg cleanup will be held on April 26. We meet at 10:00 AM on East Cemetery Hill on By Paula Gidjunis, Baltimore Street by the 27th Pennsylvania Monument. Preservation Committee Chair Herb Kaufman has graciously offered to conduct a tour of the first day actions after the cleanup for those who attend. A sign-up sheet will be passed around GAR WORKDAY at the next meeting.

The Civil War Round Table sponsored another workday at the GAR Museum and Library on BOOK AND MAGAZINE SALE Saturday March 8, 2014. We got to explore some of the hidden treasures – organizing them and making The Preservation Committee would like to thank all sure they will be cared for properly. We also those who supported our book sale last month. We disposed of the insignificant items. The GAR raised $163.00 towards our funds to support provided a delicious lunch and all had a productive battlefield and historic preservation. day. Particular appreciation goes to Herb Kaufman for Attendees: Hugh Boyle, Herb Kaufman, Mary Ann running the event and bringing all those books and and John Hartner, Linda and Jim Dover, Rich magazines back and forth from his house. Jankowski, Walt Lafty, Bernice Kaplan, Judy Folan, Ann and Jack Kauffman, Tom Donnelly, Larry Vogel, John Shivo, and Paula Gidjunis. Non-member Kerry Bryan also assisted us. Photos below courtesy of Paula Gidjunis & John Shivo.

Meeting attendees browse through the offerings at our preservation book sale. [Photo courtesy of Walt Lafty]

Larry Vogel and Walt Lafty do the heavy lifting, while Paula Gidjunis provides the direction. FREE PROGRAMS AT GETTYSBURG

NATIONAL PARK

Here are some free lectures being presented at the Gettysburg NMP Visitor Center. The programs cover a wide-variety of Civil War topics and are not all Gettysburg related.

April 26 National Junior Ranger day. Children ages 7-12 can participate in special activities at Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center and Eisenhower National Historic Rich Jankowski, Bernice Kaplan, John Shivo, Mary Ann Site. Free at Gettysburg NMP. At Eisenhower NHS Hartner and Kerry Bryan help with the cleanup. the activities are included in site admission.

MAY 2014 July 6-11 The Eisenhower Academy. A one-week May 17 Mamie remembers Gettysburg. Join living institute for school teachers covering Eisenhower's historian Ruthmary McIlhenny as she performs her foreign and domestic policy, 1950s popular culture first person program as Mamie Eisenhower. Also and Eisenhower's leadership. Graduate credit or watch a 1950s fashion show presented by the Victory Pennsylvania Professional Education Credit Society. Included in site admission. (717) 338-9114. available. Registration required. Fee. Go to: As part of this event, the Gettysburg Foundation will www.nps.gov/eise host a special High Tea for an added fee. For tickets call 877-874-2478 or visit Some of the past lectures have been uploaded to www.gettysburgfoundation.org. YouTube. Check them out here: www.youtube.com/user/GettysburgNPS/videos JUNE 2014 June 7 D-Day anniversary weekend. Join a Park Ranger for a talk on Eisenhower and the Men of D- Day. World War II living historians portray a variety of soldiers and talk informally with visitors at

Eisenhower National Historic Site. Included in site Who Had the Most Impact in admission. For more information call 717-338-9114 or 1864? visit www.nps.gov/eise Text and Photos by Walt Lafty June 7 National Park Ranger walks and programs begin at Gettysburg National Military Park. Offered Summarizing the March meeting is going to be a daily. Free. The schedule will be announced in tough task for a couple of reasons. First, filling in March and will be posted on www.nps.gov/gett/ for Larry Vogel is not easy considering the

outstanding job he does every month covering this June 7 National Park Ranger programs begin at Eisenhower National Historic Site. Offered assignment for our editor, Pat Caldwell. Secondly, daily. Activities are included in site admission. The the DELVAL members have such extensive schedule will be announced in March and will be knowledge and enthusiasm when it comes to the posted on www.nps.gov/eise Civil War. That was evident as many members contributed to the discussion but it’s not possible June 14 Gettysburg National Military Park brass in this short piece to name everyone and every band concert. The Wildcat Regimental Band will point. So, in coming off the bench to pinch hit for perform free at the Gettysburg National Military Larry I will do the best I can and try to Park Museum and Visitor Center as well as present an evening concert at the Pennsylvania Memorial. summarize the key points. I’ll be glad next month Call for a program schedule 717-338-4433 or 717-334- when our starting player is back in the game. 1124 x8023. More information is available at www.gettysburgfestival.org> After the traditional Pledge of Allegiance led this month by Jim Dover, and with the announcements JULY 2014 made by President Hugh Boyle, Treasurer Herb July 1 – 4 Battle of Gettysburg anniversary programs Kaufman presented a Certificate to John Farley - Special National Park Ranger guided walks and from The Civil War Institute at Manor College. programs will be offered. Free. John completed the courses required of the Civil July 4 - 6 Sacred Trust talks and book signings - War Program. Congratulations, John! (see photo in Historians, authors, National Park Service Rangers Member News column). and others provide talks and book signings about Gettysburg and the Civil War. Topics encourage the Our Vice President Jerry Carrier opened up the general public, as well as students of the Civil War, annual discussion night with the topic “Who had to delve deeper into the nature of the conflict that the most impact in 1864”. In addition to Jerry’s divided our nation. Free. Events take place from vast content knowledge, his leadership and 9:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center. facilitating skills were quite obvious as he led (and at times refereed) some great discussions,

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differences of opinion, and interesting insights, as position of promotion with that of the Union, the the group talked about the topic. point was made how General Halleck gave permission to not hire by seniority but by who is needed for the job.

Near the end of the meeting, it seems we digressed back to 1863. The discussion then focused on some “What Ifs”. One “if” was, what would have happened had the South surrendered after Vicksburg and Gettysburg? That led into Emancipation and the 13th amendment, and another round of thoughts on the Presidential election of 1864 from that perspective of an earlier Confederate surrender.

While it didn’t seem to this author that there was a clear consensus as to who made the most impact Jerry began by reminding the audience that the in 1864, it appeared that Sherman, Grant, and Lee, year 1864 began with General Grant receiving his were mentioned most during the night’s rd 3 Star. He then opened up the discussion by conversations. asking, “Was it the year of Grant, Sherman, Lincoln, Lee, or someone else? The discussion quickly focused on the Eastern Theatre, specifically the Overland Campaign. Interesting points were made by many such as why Meade stopped; how Union Corps Commanders performed badly; how Lee’s only choice was to defeat Grant in the open field; and many other great points pertaining mainly to the Wilderness.

A smooth transition was made by Jerry as he moved the conversation to contrasting the Eastern Theater with the Georgia Campaign and General Sherman. Quite a few thoughts were talked about regarding the Atlanta Campaign, the March to the Sea, and how these events influenced the I stated previously that Jerry Carrier “led and at presidential election of 1864. Again, great points times refereed” some great discussions. Well, were made by many members. “refereed” doesn’t mean that there were arguments as there were none. However, there Some interesting dialogue followed regarding a were a few times when opposing views were being few Confederate misfortunes. Did someone say discussed politely yet with some strong Jefferson Davis? Yes, his name was mentioned as convictions. In some other forum or perhaps with a (or “the”) possible blame for certain misfortunes a less experienced facilitator, I could envision a such as the appointment of Braxton Bragg as well few of those intellectual exchanges escalating to as the appointments of others. Points were made an argument. Jerry kept the ship on course. This regarding promotions made in the Confederate brings up one of the many things I love about the Army mostly by seniority, certainly something DELVAL members. That is, views are discussed preferred by Robert E. Lee. Someone mentioned (including opposing views) but they seem to always that Lee was a good “Union” man, i.e. he strongly be done with courtesy and respect. So to all who recognized seniority. Contrasting the Confederate participated and shared their thoughts and

9 interesting insights, thank you for doing so respectfully and with courtesy. The

Some final thoughts, especially for those who missed the CSPAN-3 American History television nd Book show on Saturday March 22 . Five Historians nominated six people as Person of the Year for 1864. Historian Gary Gallagher nominated two Nook people together as one, Grant & Lee. Five of the six people discussed on the show were people we discussed at our March Meeting. Those five were By Hugh Boyle, Book Editor Grant, Sherman, Lee, Lincoln and Patrick Cleburne. The sixth person was North Carolina Governor “Award Winners” Zebulon Vance. He didn’t make our list but somehow made it on the list covered by CSPAN. The Grand Army of the Republic Civil War Library th To paraphrase Paula Gidjunis from a recent email and Museum at their annual luncheon on March 29 regarding the show, the discussions fit in with our featured historian, author, lecturer and Professor March meeting topic. Allen Guelzo as the main speaker. All who attended that event left enriched and educated. Allen Guelzo was last year’s 2013 winner of the GAR’s Samuel P. At the end of the CSPAN event, William Town Award; this year he was the main speaker. Tecumseh Sherman was voted by the audience as Professor Guelzo now shares the 2014 Gilder the Person of the Year for 1864. My only surprise Lehrman Lincoln prize with Martin P Johnson. Their about that was the event was held at the Virginia prize was a split of $50,000. Professor Guelzo won Library in Richmond. How about that, Richmond for his new book “Gettysburg, The Last Invasion”. Virginia voting General Sherman Person of the Martin P Johnson won his share of the award for his Year? Wow, the capital of the Confederacy. I book “Writing the Gettysburg Address”. Both of wonder if Sherman would have felt honored, these award winning books give readers a new look surprised, or both? at the battle and the famous speech that defines America. Both of these books, if they are not already, should be on your summer reading list.

Member contributions to the newsletter Happy Reading!! are always welcome and encouraged. Please submit short articles, informative pieces, newsy items and opinion pieces to the Editor. …. that in disapproving a musician’s Short articles of 600-800 words are request for leave, Confederate Major especially desired. General D.H. Hill explained that priority First-time authors encouraged!!! leave was for “Shooters” not for Tooters”. Please send as a Word document to [email protected] The NY Times is running a feature entitled Thank you! Disunion on its Opinion Pages. It’s a daily chronicle of the events of 150 years ago today. HUhttp://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/categor

y/disunion/U

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with the Booth family did not help him either. The Backstage at the Lincoln book tells of Ned’s ordeal at trial, his conviction and Assassination – The Untold his going to Fort Jefferson in the Dry Tortugas.

Story of the Actors and The author also tells the story of actor John Mathews who was in the play “Our American Cousin” that Stagehands at Ford’s Theatre night, and the letter that John Wilkes Booth gave him By Thomas A. Bogar that afternoon to give to the newspaper the next day. When Mathews saw Booth run by him that night, he Reviewed by Hugh Boyle, Book Editor immediately went home and burned the letter. Mathews did not tell of the letter till years later.

Many books have been The most interesting account is that of John T. Ford, written about the Lincoln the owner of Ford’s theater. He believed that Assassination, looking at Spangler was innocent, so he paid for Spangler’s every angle, every defense [$1200], but the loss of the use of the theater situation; there are made payment impossible. The loss of the theater books about John was a devastating loss to him and his family, one Wilkes Booth, books on from which he never fully recovered. possible conspiracies,

Booth’s getaway and The book also tells of the careers of people like Harry pursuit. There are Hawk who utters the last words that Lincoln heard, books on the trial of the and of Laura Kean, the star of the show that night, conspirators, there are and how their careers were affected by the some on Mary Surratt, assassination. Backstage at the Lincoln Assassination Dr. Mudd, Lewis Thornton Powell is a fascinating and informative book. Anyone with and even a memoir of the prisoners in Fort Jefferson. an interest in the Lincoln Assassination will find this Thomas Bogar in his new book, Backstage at the book a pleasure to read. Lincoln Assassination, looks at the assassination from a completely different point of view – the actors and Published by Regnery History, 2013; 377 pages; stagehands who worked at Ford’s Theater that night list price $27.95. available from Amazon new & on the presentation of “Our American Cousin.” used from $15.21, also available as ebook.

As it is suggested on the book jacket you will learn how Booth’s theatrical training helped him prepare for the assassination, why the police arrested and harassed dozens of innocent people, how Booth was connected to the cast and crew of “Our American Cousin”, and what eyewitnesses saw the night of the murder. Come Along on the John Wilkes The author also tells us of the Confederate sympathizers among the cast and crew. Many of Booth Escape Route Tour! these actors and crew members spent weeks and months in jail for nothing more than knowing John Text and Photos by Sheryl Weiner Wilkes Booth or for having a conversation with him, and there were some who know much more who In September 2011, I followed John Wilkes were never brought in for questioning. One crew Booth as he made his way from Ford’s Theater member would suffer more than the others – Edman where he shot President Lincoln, to Garrett Spangler, the man that Booth asked to hold his horse Farm, where he himself was shot and met his when he arrived at the back of Ford’s Theater that end. Booth’s journey took 12 days. Mine took 12 hours. Of course I didn’t follow the exact night. Ned, as he was known, told a peanut vendor to route on a horse, but instead traveled in an air hold the horse, but information from other cast conditioned bus complete with bathroom. The members led to an arrest and trial on conspiracy to Surratt Society sponsors eight Escape Route murder the president. Spangler’s long term friendship tours a year – four Saturdays in the Spring, and

11 four Saturdays in the Fall. This is a very We now toured popular tour – to go, you first call the Surratt Surratt House and Society to get your name on the mailing list, and tavern (pictures then when you receive the notice in the mail, below). We stood in you send in your first and second choices of the actual tavern dates (with check), and then hope that you grab and the bartender a seat on the bus. These tours always sell out. (in period costume), told us about the Since my daughter Brooke lives in Arlington, I operation of the had a place to stay and a somewhat willing tavern and that companion for the trip. (Can you believe she fateful night. We would rather go shopping!!!) As soon I got the then went through mailing from the Surratt Society, I drove to the a door and found post office, mailed in my check ($150.00) for two ourselves in the interior of the house. Upstairs seats, and we got our first choice. we went to a step down attic room off a bedroom and I found myself looking at a long small The tour began at 7:15 A.M. at Surratt House, passage way between the adjacent bedroom the meeting place to board the bus. Our tour floor and dining room ceiling – the place where guide correctly guessed that the mother was the John Surratt hid the carbines, and where John “Civil War Buff”, and the daughter was groggily Lloyd knew where to get them when Mary along for the ride. We got on the bus, and took Surratt told him to get the “shooting irons” the highway into Washington D.C for our first ready the night of April 14th. To me, this was stop – Ford’s Theater. the highlight of the trip looking down that space. Pictured below is the door to the attic At Ford’s Theater (we had our own private area and the spot between the dining room Ranger, as we were there before opening), we ceiling and floor of the bedroom where the toured the portion of the downstairs museum carbines were hidden. dealing with the assassination, and then went up to the theater for the Ranger presentation. After that we got back on the bus and followed the approximate route (F Street, Pennsylvania Ave) Booth took to flee the city. On the way to the Navy Yard Bridge at 11th Street, we passed a townhouse with a green metallic roof – home to David Herold and his mother and sisters. Although the original Navy Yard Bridge is no longer standing, the modern bridge is almost right next to the original. You can see part of the moorings of the original bridge.

After crossing the modern Navy Yard Bridge, we continued up Harrison Road (now Good Hope Road), until we got to Soper’s Hill where Herold caught up to Booth. Today, Soper’s Hill is…just a little hill surrounded by houses. Next stop Surratt’s Tavern (pictured below).

After leaving Surratt House, we made our way to Dr. Mudd’s house. Dr. Mudd‘s house was in the middle of nowhere and still is – nothing is close to it. The house (pictured below) is maintained by the Dr. Mudd Society, and we were not allowed to take any pictures inside. 12

but their next stop was the Pine Thicket where they hid out for several days until Confederate Agent Thomas Jones put them in a boat to cross the Potomac. We passed by portions of the Pine Thicket. We then rode up to Jones’ house (Huckleberry – pictured below), that is now a private residence. Unfortunately, due to heavy rains the week before our trip, we could not walk down to the river where the first crossing took place. All along the way our tour guide described for us what happened along the route. I noted that daughter Brooke was listening

intently. Much of the original furniture is still there, including the sofa Booth laid on when Dr. Mudd treated his broken leg. We were met outside the house by a woman in period dress who told us that only by an accident of history were we there. She told us about the “kindly Dr. Mudd”, including how he treated a slave’s gunshot wound right in the house! Our tour guide later told us that she omitted the fact that Dr. Mudd shot the slave in the first place, but I guess such details sort of detract from the image of the “kindly” doctor. Unlike the Dr. Mudd Society members, the Surratt Society members do not believe that Mrs. Surratt was innocent. Before crossing the Potomac, we stopped for We toured the house and tobacco barn and lunch at Capt. Billy’s Crab House where of other out buildings on the Mudd property that course I treated Brooke to lunch. The food was also contained some of the doctor’s creations he pretty good but not cheap, as everything is a la made while imprisoned at Fort Jefferson. carte. I am still trying to figure out how I paid Pictured below is the path Booth and Herold $47 for lunch! I also noted that along the way took when they left Dr. Mudd’s house. Brooke was updating her Facebook status – Stop 1 at Ford’s Theater, Stop 2 at Surratt House, and so on.

We, of course, had a much easier Potomac crossing than Booth and Herold, and made our way to Quesenberry House, that has been much enlarged since Elizabeth Quesenberry lived there. Mrs. Quesenberry did not allow Booth and Herold to enter her house, but Confederate agents enlisted by Mrs. Quesenberry took Booth and Herold to Cleydael, the home of Dr. Richard Stuart, Confederate sympathizer. Dr. Stuart,

having heard of the assassination by now, After leaving Dr. Mudd’s house, we stopped at wanted nothing to do with Booth and Herold. He St. Mary’s Church where Dr. Mudd and his wife did give them some food and sent them to are buried, and where Booth first met Dr. Mudd William Lucas’ cabin, where they spent the in 1864. At this point in the story, Booth and night. Herold ended up at Oswell Swann’s cabin that is, of course, long gone. Swann took Booth and Cleydael (pictured below) is in the middle of a Herold to the home of Samuel Cox, which we new housing development also named Cleydael, were able to see in the distance from the bus. in honor of the historic home. Our tour guide Cox’s house, “Rich Hill”, is rotting away, and told us that the home was in the possession of will probably soon also be gone forever. Booth an older woman who had since died, and was and Herold may or may not have gone into Cox’s now up for auction. Considering the beautiful home (depending on whose story is believed), and spacious homes adjacent to the property,

13 and the decrepit condition of Cleydael, it is We now found ourselves at the site of Garrett probable that Cleydael will be torn down and a Farm. The farmhouse foundation (what’s left of “McMansion” built in its place. it) is part of the medial strip between the northbound and southbound lanes of Rt. 301. We made our way alongside trees, stumps and underbrush to a small clearing (what’s left of the farmhouse foundation) next to a plaque. The plaque was placed there by a white supremacist group in honor of Booth. Our tour guide explained that he always stands on the plaque during the tour (pictured).

Back to the trail. Booth was furious at Dr. Stuart who had refused to help him and instead sent him to a free Black – Lucas’ cabin – to spend the night. Booth cut out a page of his memorandum book and wrote a note to Dr. Stuart to pay him $5.00 for the food (after some thought, Booth reduced the amount to $2.50 for the greater insult). Booth did Dr. Stuart a big favor by writing that note – it saved Dr. Stuart I noted that the southbound lanes were way from the noose. below us and asked our guide how Garrett could operate a farm on such a hill. The tour Lucas took Booth and Herold to the guide explained that in 1865, the farm was on Rappahannock Ferry at Port Conway. We fairly flat ground with hills, and that when the crossed the river on a modern bridge and soon highway was built, the state just bulldozed found ourselves looking at the path Booth, everything below grade to make the highway Herold and three Confederate soldiers took flat. upon disembarking from the ferry at Port Royal (pictured below). We took a look at Peyton So ended our tour. Brooke and I enjoyed it very House, where they hoped to stay and rest. The much, and the following year she treated me to Peyton sisters refused to allow them into the a tour of Lincoln’s Cottage. She enjoyed that house because their brother wasn’t there. tour very much also (see us pictured below). (What would the neighbors think?) The house She is not yet a true “Civil War Buff”, but we’re is falling apart, along with many houses in Port working on it! Royal. Some homes looked very well kept. Most were not. We did not visit The Trappe, a “shady” house of ill repute, if you get my drift. It’s long gone – now part of the A.P. Hill Military Reservation.

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Bickerdyke had built 300 hospitals and aided the wounded on 19 battlefields. Bickerdyke was so loved by the army that the The Woman Who Outranked soldiers would cheer her as they would a General Sherman? general when she By Larry Vogel appeared. At Sherman's request, General William Tecumseh Sherman’s staff was at she rode at the head their wits end trying to deal with an outspoken, of the XV Corps in insubordinate female nurse who consistently the Grand Review in disregarded the army's bureaucracy and military Washington at the procedures. When they went to the General to end of the war. complain, he threw up his hands and exclaimed, "She ranks me. I can't do a thing in the world." A statue of her was erected in Galesburg. Who is this woman who “outranked” a General? [Photo: http://www.bickel.talkingrelics.com/about2.html]

When a surgeon questioned where this same woman got her authority to take a certain action, she replied, "On the authority of Lord God Almighty, have you anything that outranks that?" The Civil War Institute Who was this woman who got her authority from God? Our Winter/Spring semester is almost complete, but we still have one BRAND NEW ELECTIVE Mary Ann Bickerdyke, also available!! known as Mother Bickerdyke, was this Classes may be taken as part of the certificate woman. She was born in program or individually. Class hours are 6:30 till Ohio and later moved to 8:30 pm, unless otherwise noted. Call (215) 884- Illinois. Mother 2218 to register or for an application for the Bickerdyke became the certificate program. Manor College is located at best known, most colorful, 700 Fox Chase Road in Jenkintown, PA. and probably most http://www.manor.edu/coned/civilwar.htm resourceful Civil War nurse. Widowed two years * Indicates Core Course before the war began, she supported herself and ** Indicates Elective Course her two sons by practicing as a "botanic Physician" in Galesburg, Illinois. When a young Union **NEW COURSE –The Overland Campaign of volunteer physician wrote home about the filthy, 1864 - .6 CEUs – 6 hrs – “Wherever Lee goes, there chaotic military hospitals at Cairo, Illinois, you will go also.” This was Gen. Grant’s Galesburg's citizens collected $500 worth of instruction to Gen. Meade in his plan to “hammer supplies and selected Bickerdyke to deliver them continuously against the armed force of the (no one else would go). enemy.” This course follows the tactics and battles of the Overland Campaign from May 5 to June 16, She stayed in Cairo as an unofficial nurse, and 1864, beginning in the Wilderness and culminating through her energy and dedication she organized with the siege of Petersburg. the hospitals and gained not only General DATE: Thursdays, May 1, 8, 15 Sherman’s appreciation but also that of General TIME: 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm Ulysses S. Grant. By the end of the war, with the SESSIONS: 3 help of the U.S. Sanitary Commission, Mother FEE: $79 INSTRUCTOR: Herb Kaufman, M.Ed.

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When the war ended in April 1865, Johnny Reb Aftermath – A Quiet Walk and his “Lost Cause” simply marched quietly down a road that would take him to his heart- into History rending life at home. For Billy Yank the By Jim Dover individual regiments were ordered to return to their home states to be welcomed by their The necessary duty after every battle was families and fellow citizens. The great adventure interment of the dead. This gruesome and was over. The last regimental muster rolls were nauseating task was usually done with haste made out and final pay added up. After turning rather than reverence. In some instances bodies in their equipment to the quartermaster of their were so poorly covered that they became state’s commonwealth, the army paymaster uncovered after a rain and the hogs and wild would arrive at camp, and the men lined up one animals would root them out and eat them. last time. After their pay was distributed the officers and men said their good-byes and After the battle of Gettysburg some Union everyone shook hands. soldiers took care and buried their dead in decent graves. The Confederate dead were They were happy and sad as they parted ways – another matter. The enemy bodies were buried some for forever. as best they could be, and with the armies moving off, it was left for the civilians to finish. The dying letter of John Moseley of the 3rd Alabama to his mother gives us this insight: “Dear mother, I am here a prisoner of war and mortally wounded. I can live but a few hours more at farthest. I was shot fifty yards in the enemy lines. They have been exceedingly kind to me. I am very weak. Do not mourn my loss. I had hoped to have been spared, but a righteous God has ordered it otherwise and I feel prepared to trust my case in His hands. Farewell to you all. Patrick H. Taylor and Isaac L. Taylor of the 1st MN Pray that God may receive my soul. Your unfortunate son, John.” A woman wrote to the St. Paul Press on the st return of the 1 Minnesota Volunteers, “As I st Thus was the life of the common Civil War saw this little fragment of the once splendid 1 soldier and a great deal more that goes beyond Minnesota march by me, carrying their stained this report. and tattered flag, I absolutely shivered with emotion. There the brave fellows stood, a grand These incredible men came to volunteer from shadow of the regiment which Fort Sneling their native states and foreign countries, such as knew. Their browned faces looked so composed Canada, France, Germany, Australia and and serious. There was history written on every Ifreland. Their occupations in the 1860’s were one of them. I never felt so much like falling those of a farmer, shoemaker, fireman, actor, down and doing reverence to any living man.” watchmaker, gunsmith, cigar maker, saloon keeper, barber and telegraph operator. The trades sent carpenters, masons and cabinetmakers. Factories sent machinists, mechanics and millwrights. 16

During the April 3-4 Battle of Elkin's Ferry (AR), MG Philip Sheridan moves from command of an infantry division in the Army of the Cumberland to command cavalry in the Army of the Potomac.

On April 7, James Longstreet is recalled to Virginia.

In the April 8-9 Battle of Sabine Crossroads, Confederate General Richard Taylor defeats General Nathaniel Banks, halting his advance to Shreveport.

By a vote of 38 to 6 on April 8, the U. S. Senate approves the 13th Amendment and sends it to the states for ratification.

On April 9, U.S. Grant issues campaign orders to George Meade: "Wherever Lee goes, you will go there." Similar orders are issued to William Tecumseh Sherman.

On April 9-10, General Frederick Steele engages Confederate forces in the Battle of Prairie D’ane (AR), before being driven back to Little Rock.

In the April 12 battle of Fort Pillow (TN) Nathan Forrest’s troops massacre the black occupants of the fort.

On April 17, Grant ends prisoner exchanges with the South, saying that the practice was “...prolonging the conflict”.

Elsewhere on April 17, a bread riot breaks out in Savannah.

On April 20, Gen. P. G. T. Beauregard assumes command of the Richmond defenses.

Also on April 20, culminating a three-day attack that included the appearance of the new Confederate ironclad ram Albemarle, General R. F. Hoke captures Plymouth, NC and a large amount of badly needed supplies.

On April 22, the motto "In God We Trust" is approved for US coinage (Coinage Act of 1864).

On April 30, Confederate forces win the Battle of Jenkin's Ferry (AR), effectively ending the Federals’ failed Red River Campaign.

Also on April 30, Jefferson Davis's young son Joseph dies following a fall from the Confederate White House.

April Fool’s Issue of Harper’s Weekly Thomas Nast April 2, 1864

Delaware Valley Civil War Round Table 3201 Longshore Avenue Philadelphia PA 19149-2025

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