ACWS Ltd PO Box 270 Washington, Tyne & Wear NE37 9BX The A.C.W.S. NEWSLETTER 2017 Spring Edition

Marbury 2017

ACWS is a Member of NAReS

Issue 184

1 A.C.W.S. CONTACTS Directors & Army Commanders

Mr Tim Davies Chairman

Mrs Linda Reed, Secretary

Ian Morris, Treasurer

Mr Peter Holt, Events

Miss Claire Morris, Membership

Mr Martin Cross, Health & Safety

Mrs Val Holt, Communications

Mr Mike Bussey, Webmaster

Mrs Vivienne Corbishley, International Co ordinator

Mr Tim Davis, Federal Commander

Mr Glenn Gibson Confederate Commander

2 New Chairman's Statement Greetings One and all, As you're now aware our previous Chairman has resigned. I have been co-opted by the board to be the Chairman for 2017. Can I just start by saying thank you for your support and kind words both from "Blue and Grey". I know if we all work together the upcoming season promises to be one of the best we have had in a long time. This year as you are aware we have a few fantastic events coming up such as the Alamo and culminating the International. With the Alamo we all need to register that means the whole family not just soldiers, women and children also. ACWS is registering under the Toluca Battalion both Blue, Grey and of course Green for the first time I can think of we can all fight on the same side apart from those portraying Texians. Last date of registration is the 23rd April. To all our Artillery you have been given a great opportunity to fight inside the Alamo. So yes this means you get to shoot at me! Registration forms are available on Remember the Alamo FaceBook page and ACWS member's page in the files section. I'm sure Major Gibson will have some paper copies if you are struggling to find them please contact Glenn. Uniform wise I will go over ideas at the training weekend. Also on the Alamo Face book page there is a link for Uniforms and hats if you wish to buy new ones. On a personal note I'd like to thank the past chair for his friendship and all his hard work for the society a lot of it has been behind the scenes I have now a big set of shoes to fill. This is the first of my ramblings there will no doubt be a lot more you know where to find me on camp i'm in the white tent! I may look ugly and scary but believe it or not i'm a big teddy bear so please feel free to come along have a chat or give me a ring if there is anything I can help you with. I am looking forwards to working with everybody on both sides no matter what colour jacket they wear. Cheers, Tim Davies Chairman ACWS Ltd 30th January 2017

3 Summary of ACWS Board Meeting 8th April 2017

Directors present: Tim Davies Chairman and Federal Army Commander, Linda Reed Secretary, Ian Morris Treasurer, Mike Bussey Webmaster, Claire Morris Membership, Peter Holt Projects, Martin Cross Health and Safety, Val Holt Communications and Glenn Gibson Confederate Army Commander.

In attendance: James Reed principal musician, Darren Paul member and Margaret McCarroll Catering.

Apologies received from Viv Corbishley, Stephen Griffin and Roger Willison-Gray.

The usual routine matters such as approving previous minutes and tracking action points from previous meetings were covered, but this note is intended to keep everybody informed about the important decisions taken.

It was noted that the board received the resignation of Michael Smart and Linda Reed took temporary chairman until Tim Davies was co-opted on the 27th January. Other decisions which had been made since the meeting in January were also noted, namely Roger Willison-Gray was welcomed into the position of Marketing officer to work alongside Claire Morris and the postal address was changed to PO Box 270, Washington, NE37 9BX.

The Chairman thanked everyone for their support. The board have kindly accepted an invitation from Nares to display an advertisement banner at our events. Ian Morris (Treasurer) is expecting the finances to be down at the end of the season due to the excessive costs to recover the van and cannon. More raffles and football cards will be held during the 2017 season. A discussion was had to be open and honest to the membership regarding recent events, everyone was in agreement this will be held at Kelham preparation weekend in May.

Mike Bussey (Webmaster) has changed the website from http to

4 https, which means that we now have secure connections on our website, our rankings in google and other search engines will not fall. Claire Morris (Membership) noted membership renewals are about average, however we do have 13 new members for the upcoming season. Glenn Gibson (Confederate Commander) stated the confederate army was recruiting well and some interest has been paid in rebuilding Rockbridge Artillery. Peter Holt (Events) gave an update on the Events for 2017 and registration fees were set. Darren Paul now has the battle plans for the International. The Chairman has been in contact with Chris Greenaway (Soskan Chairman) and talks went well. All past politics and bad feeling was now behind us all and we are looking to the future working together. Everyone is welcome including the Sharpshooters and Soskan have invited us to a 24 hour campaign next season.

A break down of the costs for the society van and cannon to be retrieved and items missing was given and it was noted that the cannon have now been moved to a new storage site. Thanks was given to everybody in Gainsborough for helping. The Roger Zwarycz trophy has now been purchased and the 32nd Virginia have chosen the engraving, this will be available for everyone to see at the Kelham Hall preparation weekend.

The meeting commenced at 12.17pm and concluded at 4.29pm Appointment of Marketing Officer On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am delighted to be able to announce the appointment of Roger Willison-Gray to the position of Marketing Officer of the Society Ltd to work alongside Claire Morris (social media) effective 30th January 2017. I wish him every success in this role, of which he has had previous experience. Linda Reed Secretary For and on behalf of the Board of Directors 31st January 2017

5 ACWS at Kelham The most impressive feature of Kelham Hall is the incredible 70 Hall, Newark foot huge domed chapel which makes it a year round favourite for The ACWS travelled to Kelham weddings and events. Hall, Newark on the 6th and 7th This Training weekend certainly May for the first ACWS event of bodes well for the 2017 season as the 2017 season. This was billed there was an excellent turnout as a Training weekend with the from both armies which was much main intention preparing for the improved from recent years training events. From a Union rd th International Event on 23 and 24 perspective, the US Sharp- September 2017. Although the shooters looked impressive and weather was cold at times, the rain from a Confederate perspective, held off throughout and this superb st venue always makes it a really both the 1 Tennessee and the enjoyable event which again 32nd Virginia had fine turnouts. In proved to be the case. Kelham Hall addition, it was really pleasing to and Country Park is a beautiful see a lot of new but clearly Victorian stately home located in experienced re-enactors in all the Trent Valley and nestling within the regiments in both armies. 44 acres of stunning parkland. A Overall, the main purpose of this significant feature for the ACWS is event was for both armies to walk the cornfield which has now just through and prepare for the been planted in readiness for our International Event on 23rd and International event. This should 24th September 2017 which they turn into a huge field of 6ft tall did. The scenario is the September maize which every Civil War re- th enactor should relish. Kelham Hall 17 1862 battle of Antietam/ itself is a stunning building and has Sharpsburg with a focus on the a rich history as the ancestral clashes in the Millers Cornfield and home of the Manners-Sutton the Sunken Road (Bloody Lane). It family and as a theological was the bloodiest single day battle college for an Anglican Order of in American history with a com- Monks for the preparation for bined tally of 22, 717 dead, missionary work. The distinct and wounded or missing. . The Millers unique features were built by Cornfield clash occurred in the renowned architect George Gilbert early morning of 17th September at Scott who also designed St the Northern end of the battlefield Pancras Hotel and Railway Station and the scenario will and the similarities are striking. be representing Union

6 Brigadier General `s forces particularly the Irish Brigade 4th Brigade of Doubledays Division against this weakened central recently named the sector of the Confederate line. The as they advance with colours flying Union forces will eventually totally through the Cornfield and pushing overrun the line and cause the rebels before them. The particular devastation by getting Confederate army scenario will be on the flank and pouring enfilade representing Brigadier General fire into the trap by seizing a knoll `s Texas Brigade overlooking the sunken road ( “We as they push the Union forces were shooting them down like back into the Cornfield having sheep in a pen. If a bullet missed been called up from their reserve the mark at first it was liable to position to aid Confederate strike the further bank, angle back General Thomas “Stonewall” and take them secondarily” – Jackson. They will attack with Sergeant of the 61st New York). particular ferocity having been Confederate Colonel John B interrupted from their first hot Gordon was shot 5 times in the breakfast for days. ( “the most sunken road and only survived by deadly fire of the war. Rifles are a Union bullet passing through his shot to pieces in the hands of cap and allowing the blood to drain soldiers, canteens and haversacks out from a wound to his face as he are riddled with bullets, the dead lay unconscious. Again, casualties and wounded go down in scores” will be massive with 5,600 from – Captain Benjamin Cook, 12th both sides with Confederate Massachusetts Infantry at the casualties laying 5 thick in the Cornfield). Casualties around the Bloody Lane. Please look at some Cornfield were massive on both of Alexander Gardners original sides totalling 13,000 in this early post battle photographs or Captain morning first phase. As such, the James Hope image of Bloody Cornfield at Kelham should see Lane to get an impression of the some considerable action as well carnage. The large battlefield at as the long authentic looking Kelham Hall also has a significant picket fence that is to be dip in the middle which will be constructed along its entire length. perfect for this second part of the The second scenario will be the scenario. Hopefully, this re- midday phase at the centre of the enactment will be filmed as both Confederate line at the Sunken the scenario and backdrop Road (later called Bloody Lane). certainly match and look the part. This part of the battle involved Apart from the preparation for the numerous mass assaults by Union International Event, the training weekend also allowed for both

7 armies to prepare for the season strength and sweat put in. On the and carry out the necessary Trade social side, it was clearly evident Health and Safety Checks which by the noise, music, singing and every soldier going on the partying taking place in the battlefield has to undertake. In evenings that everybody was glad addition, all firing muskets should to be at their first event of the be thoroughly checked to ensure season and renew old they are fit for purpose. There was acquaintances and welcome the also a Pyrotechnic display by the new members. Both armies ACWS Pyro Team which enjoyed lots of singing, merriment demonstrated the noise and blast and drinking around the various range ! of the various Pyrotechnic camp fires and long may it charges used. Both armies also continue. had individual regimental and Other highlights of the weekend battalion drill and firing practice included the ever popular sessions throughout the weekend beginning of season blanket sale which looked really impressive as for the discerning Civil War re- well as the Artillery and the Fife enactor bargain hunter. In and Drum Corps also having their addition, it was nice to see Lisa, own respective training sessions. Civil War Sutlers present at the Both included potential new event in order that many of the recruits and members. new members could pick up the Every ACWS weekend always has required uniforms and equipment. an unexpected highlight and for In addition, many members picked this event it was the superb and up their Texian/ Mexican hotly contested tug of war between impressions she had made or the 2 armies. The first bout was ordered for the Alamo Event. The won by the Union with a well Civil War Sutlers will be next at the disciplined swinging routine. After ACWS Spetchley Event if any changing ends, the Confederates member wants to order anything in managed to get an early rhythm the future. going and won the second bout. The ACWS next travel to Marbury, On changing ends again for the Cheshire for the Marbury Merry final winning bout, the Union Days Event on the weekend of 13th started strongest and certainly got and 14th May 2017. Highlights last the early edge but somehow the time were the Cheshire Dairy Confederates dug in, held on, Queen, the authentic Civil War managed to get another slow Church Service and fighting rhythm going and won the contest. behind the Church stone wall. Both sides must be really applauded for the real effort, Stewart“Goober“Douglas,43rd NC.

8 division played a crucial role in the that summer. Arriving at the small town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania on June 30 before the Confederate troops reached the place, Buford set up defensive positions. On the morning of July 1, Buford's division was attacked by a Confederate division under the command of Major General . His , Jr. men held just long enough for Union reinforcements to arrive. John Buford, Jr. (March 4, 1826 After a massive three day battle, – December 16, 1863) was a the Union troops emerged Army officer. victorious. Later, Buford rendered He fought for the Union as a valuable service to the Army, both brigadier general during the in the pursuit of Robert E. Lee after American Civil War. Buford is best the , and in the known for having played a major Bristoe Campaign that autumn, but role in the first day of the Battle of his health started to fail, possibly Gettysburg on July 1, 1863 while in from typhoid. On his deathbed, he command of a division. received a personal message from Buford graduated from West Point President , Military Academy in 1848. Buford promoting him to major general of remained loyal to the United volunteers in recognition of his States at the beginning of the Civil tactical skill and leadership War, despite having been born in displayed on the first day of the divided border state of Gettysburg. He died at age 37. Kentucky. He fought during the war against the Confederate Army Early Years Buford was born in of Northern Virginia as part of the Woodford County, Kentucky, but Army of the Potomac. His first was raised in Rock Island, Illinois, command was a cavalry brigade from the age of eight.[1] His father under Major General John Pope, was a prominent Democratic and he distinguished himself at politician in Illinois and a political Second Bull Run in August 1862, opponent of Abraham Lincoln. where he was wounded, and also Buford was of English descent. His saw action at Antietam in family had a long military tradition. September and Stoneman's Raid John Jr.'s grandfather, Simeon in spring 1863. Buford's cavalry Buford, served in the cavalry

9 during the American Revolutionary 1858. He was stationed at Fort War under Henry "Lighthorse" Crittenden, Utah, from 1859 to Lee, the father of Robert E. Lee.[3] 1861.[5] He studied the works of His great-uncle, Colonel Abraham General John Watts de Peyster, Buford (of the Waxhaw Massacre), who urged that the skirmish line also served in a Virginia regiment. become the new line of battle. His half-brother, Napoleon Civil War Throughout 1860, Bonaparte Buford, would become Buford and his fellow soldiers had a major general in the Union Army, lived with talk of secession and the while his cousin, Abraham Buford, possibility of civil war until the would become a cavalry brigadier Pony Express brought word that general in the Confederate States Fort Sumter had been fired on in Army. April 1861, confirming secession After attending Knox College in as fact. As was the case with many Galesburg, Illinois, for one year, West Pointers, Buford had to Buford was accepted into the choose between North and South. Class of 1848 at the United States Based on his background, Buford Military Academy (West Point). had ample reason to join the Upperclassmen during Buford's Confederacy. He was a native time at West Point included Kentuckian, the son of a Fitz-John Porter (Class of 1845), slave-owning father, and the George B. McClellan (1846), husband of a woman whose Thomas J. Jackson (1846), relatives would fight for the South, (1846), and two as would a number of his own. On future commanders and friends, the other hand, Buford had been George Stoneman (1846) and educated in the North and come to Ambrose Burnside (1847). The maturity within the Army. His two Class of 1847 also included A.P. most influential professional role Hill and Henry Heth, two men models, Colonels William S. Buford would face at Gettysburg Harney and Philip St. George on the morning of July 1, 1863. Cooke, were Southerners who Buford graduated 16th of 38 elected to remain with the Union cadets and was commissioned a and the U.S. Army. He loved his in the 1st profession and his time on the U.S. Dragoons, transferring the frontier had snapped the ties that next year to the 2nd U.S. drew other Southerners home. Dragoons.[4] He served in Texas John Gibbon, a North Carolinian and against the Sioux, served on facing the same dilemma, recalled peacekeeping duty in Bleeding in a post-war memoir the evening Kansas, and in the Utah War in that John Buford committed himself to the Union:

10 One night after the arrival of the than a staff position, and he chafed mail we were in his (Buford's) for a field command. In McClellan's room, when Buford said in his slow Campaign, Buford was and deliberate way "I got a letter in the battles of South Mountain from the Governor of Kentucky. He and Antietam, replacing Brigadier become the new line of battle. sent me word to come to Kentucky General George Stoneman on at once and I shall have anything I McClellan's staff. Under Major want." With a good deal of anxiety, General in 1863, I (Gibbon) asked "What did you however, Buford was given the answer, John?" And my relief was Reserve Brigade of regular cavalry great when he replied "I sent him in the 1st Division, Cavalry Corps word I was a Captain in the United of the Army of the Potomac. States Army and I intended to After the Battle of Chancellorsville, remain one!" In November Major General 1861, Buford was appointed was given command of the Assistant Inspector General with Cavalry Corps, although Hooker the rank of major, and, in July later agreed that Buford would 1862, after having served for have been the better choice. several months in the defense of Buford first led his new division at Washington, was raised to the the , which rank of brigadier general of was virtually an all-cavalry volunteers. In 1862, he was given engagement, and then again at the his first position, under Major Battle of Upperville. In General John Pope, as the Gettysburg Campaign, Buford, commander of the II Corps Cavalry who had been promoted to Brigade of the Union Army of command of the 1st Division, is Virginia, which fought with credited with selecting the field of distinction at the Second Battle of battle at Gettysburg. On June 30, Bull Run. Buford personally led a Buford's command rode into the charge late in the battle, but was small town of Gettysburg. Very wounded in the knee by a spent soon, Buford realized that he was bullet. The injury was painful, but facing a superior force of rebels to not serious, although some Union his front and set about creating a newspapers reported that he had defense against the Confederate been killed.[7] He returned to active advance. He was acutely aware of service, and served as chief of the tactical importance of holding cavalry to Major Generals George the high ground south of B. McClellan and Ambrose E. Gettysburg, and so he did, Burnside in the Army of the beginning one of the most Potomac. Unfortunately, this important battles in American assignment was nothing more military history

11 . His skillful defensive troop Buford was sick, possibly from dispositions, coupled with the contracting typhoid, and he took bravery and tenacity of his respite at the Washington home of dismounted men, allowed the I his good friend, General George Corps, under Major General John Stoneman. On December 16, F. Reynolds, time to come up in Stoneman initiated the proposal support and thus maintain a Union that Buford be promoted to major foothold in tactically important general, and President Abraham positions. Despite Lee's barrage Lincoln assented, writing as attack of 140 cannons and a final follows: "I am informed that infantry attack on the third day of General Buford will not survive the the battle, the Union army won a day. It suggests itself to me that he strategic victory. The importance will be made Major General for of Buford's leadership and tactical distinguished and meritorious foresight on July 1 cannot be service at the Battle of overstated in its contribution to this Gettysburg." Informed of the victory. Afterward, Buford's promotion, Buford inquired troopers were sent by Pleasonton doubtfully, "Does he mean it?" to Emmitsburg, Maryland, to When assured the promotion was resupply and refit, an ill-advised genuine, he replied simply, "It is decision that uncovered the Union too late, now I wish I could live." In left flank. the last hours, Buford was In the , attended by his aide, Captain Buford pursued the Confederates , and by Edward, his to Warrenton, Virginia, and was black servant. Also present were afterward engaged in many Lieutenant Colonel A. J. Alexander operations in central Virginia, and General Stoneman. His wife rendering particularly valuable Pattie was traveling from Rock service in covering Major General Island, Illinois, but would not arrive 's retrograde in time. Near the end, he became movement in the October 1863 delirious and began admonishing Bristoe Campaign. the servant, but then, in a The hero at Oak Ridge was John moment of clarity, called for the Buford... he not only showed the man and apologized: "Edward, rarest tenacity, but his personal I hear that I have been scolding capacity made his cavalry you. I did not know what I was accomplish marvels, and rival infantry in their steadfastness... doing. You have been a faithful Glorious John Buford! servant, Edward.” John Buford died at 2 p.m., December 16, Death and Legacy By 1863, while Myles Keogh held mid-December, it was obvious that

12 Kelham May 2017

Bristoe Campaign.

13 Marbury

14 Marbury

15 Kelham May 2017

16 him in his arms. His final reported cavalry arm of the service. That we words were "Put guards on all the have been deprived of a friend and roads, and don't let the men run to leader whose sole ambition was the rear." our success, and whose chief On December 20, memorial pleasure was in administering to services were held at a church on the welfare, safety and happiness the corner of H. Street and New of the officers and men of his York Avenue in Washington, D.C. command. President Lincoln was among the ... That to his unwearied exertions mourners. Buford's wife was in the many responsible positions unable to attend due to illness. The which he has occupied, the service pallbearers included Generals at large is indebted for much of its Casey, Heintzelman, Sickles, efficiency, and in his death the Schofield, Hancock, Doubleday, cavalry has lost firm friend and and Warren. General Stoneman most ardent advocate. That we are commanded the escort in a called to mourn the loss of one procession that included "Grey who was ever to us as the kindest Eagle," Buford's old white horse and tenderest father, and that our that he rode at Gettysburg. fondest desire and wish will ever After the service, two of Buford's be to perpetuate his memory and staff, Captains Keogh and emulate his greatness." Wadsworth, escorted his body to In 1866, a military fort established West Point, where it was buried on the Missouri-Yellowstone alongside fellow Gettysburg hero confluence in what is now North Lieutenant Alonzo Cushing, who Dakota, was named Fort Buford had died defending the "high after the general. The town of ground" () that Buford, Wyoming, was renamed in Buford had chosen. In 1865, a the general's honor. It is the 25-foot obelisk style monument smallest town in America. It was was erected over his grave, sold at auction for $900,000 on financed by members of his old April 5, 2012 to an unnamed division. The officers of his staff Vietnamese by its owner, who had published a resolution that set served in the U.S. military in forth the esteem in which he was 1968–1969. In 1895, a bronze held by those in his command: statue of Buford designed by artist ... we, the staff officers of the late James E. Kelly was dedicated on Major General John Buford, fully the . In appreciating his merits as a 1992, the M8 Buford light tank was gentleman, soldier, commander, produced and named after him. and patriot, conceive his death to be an irreparable loss to the

17 ACWS at Marbury the Cheshire Dairy Queen which was well received as she inspected all the troops. The first The ACWS travelled to the skirmish on the Saturday started at Marbury Merry Days on the the top of the hill when an weekend of 13th and 14th May unsuspecting Confederate guard 2017 and due to the splendid was taken out and dragged behind weather (apart from the occasional the Church wall and the 2 shower) enjoyed an excellent Confederate artillery pieces he weekend. This picturesque village was supposed to be guarding were site must be one of the best the quickly overrun and captured by ACWS has been in recent years. Union forces. The Union forces The awesome views from the were led by the quick firing green magnificent St Michaels Church jacketed US Sharpshooters who which overlook the Big Mere are drove off the remaining stunning. This is a particularly Confederate rearguard. The Union historic site and the gate to the forces then appeared en masse, Church is a poignant First World manned the 2 captured artillery War Memorial with its inscriptions pieces and proceeded to head and there is a First World War down towards the Confederate Memorial Grave in the graveyard. artillery camp. However, unknown The Big Mere also reputedly to the Union forces, the contains an unexploded World Confederate camp also contained War 2 German bomb and as such battle hardened Confederate care has to be taken with regards Infantry and they quickly formed a any activities that take place on or battle line on the drums and under the waters of the Mere. This started to advance towards the is always an excellent site for a Union forces to try and recapture Civil War skirmish re-enactment their invaluable 2 artillery pieces. due to being able to utilise the The skirmish developed into a Church wall and the hill that climbs fierce fire fight as the up to it. Confederates doggedly advanced The ACWS were the main up the hill but kept taking heavy headline act of the Marbury Merry casualties from the massive Union Days village fete and were volleys being poured into them in contracted to do infantry and the process. As a result, the artillery drill sessions during the Confederates were forced to day as well as 2 battle skirmishes slowly retreat leaving the whole at the end of each day. The ACWS battlefield covered in blue, green formally opened the weekend by and grey bodies. The second providing a Guard of Honour for skirmish on the Sunday started

18 with both armies in the Church the field but at a huge cost. Both yard and the Confederates battles were thoroughly enjoyed by portraying a forage party that was the public and organisers and full heading back down the hill credit to both armies for taking towards their camp. The Union massive casualties. Both the army led by Union Major Tim Davis artillery and the excellent are unsuspectingly hot on their pyrotechnics added to the overall heels and ambush the impression. Nevertheless, Confederate rear guard of the everyone will agree that the most 32nd Virginia. The Confederates credit must go to Martin Clarke, 2nd are forced to retreat and regroup South Carolina, who stood in at the as the Union forces surge forward. last moment and did an excellent On the right flank of the Union and informative commentary on army is the 118th Pennsylvania both days for the public. From a Regiment - “The Corn Exchange personal perspective, his ability to Regiment” - led by their pick up on all the orders and indomitable 1st Sergeant Phil commands being shouted and Golder who literally lets nothing screamed by the Officers and stand in his way as they surge NCOS from sides and why they forward in an effort to outflank the were doing them was a really confused and retreating rebel informative and interesting style army. Nevertheless, the for the public to enjoy. Confederate army regroups and This was a busy weekend for the by forming a dogged and ACWS with numerous additional determined firing line stop the activities taking place throughout pursuing Union forces and start to the weekend. Both armies took it in slowly push them back up the hill. turns to do full drill and firing They are soon reinforced by a sessions in the arena. Confederate cannon which Confederate Major Glen Gibson suddenly appears on their left and led the ever popular Kids drill with they begin to take the upper hand the wooden muskets which the as the Union forces gradually public thoroughly enjoyed. The retreat. However, the Confederate Ask a Soldier questionnaire cannon is taken out by a direct hit continues to be popular at such from the Union artillery and the tide events and encourages good I turns towards the Union army as nteraction between the younger their numbers begin to tell. Both members of the public and the sides then take huge casualties as Civil War re-enactors. The ACWS the Confederate army is slowly- Drum and Fife Corps held their forced back and the Union takes ever increasing popular practice sessions. Cont on page 22

19 authentic camps will have a bigger area than last time and be in a more central position. Living History with Infantry Skirmish both days.

Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th Events Report June 2017 The Alamo Event, Weston Park, Weston-Under Here we are with the International Lizard, Nr. Shifnal, Telford, Preparation event and our first Shropshire, TF11 8LE society event under our belts. This is NOT an ACWS run event, it There was a good turnout for both is part of MFest 300. Glenn events with very good atmosphere Gibson is our main contact; and prevailing throughout both camps. details are updated on their It was also good to see some Facebook page. Registration for members returning to the fold this event is now closed. ACWS after time away. Those who will not be issuing warning orders attended Kelham have an idea of for this event. what the International event weekend will be like having seen Saturday 8th & Sunday 9th July the area and battlefield. I am sorry 2017 St Margaret’s Summer we could not attend Marbury but Fayre, Draycott-in-the-Moors, the feedback I have received has Staffs. ST11 9AE been very positive and a good Camping Friday – Sunday. time was had by all. Please take Parade Saturday afternoon. note of the dates and venues of Saturday evening local rock group the new events which have added with bar and barbeque. Sunday to our programme recently. Drill Display, Kid’s Drill and Infantry only skirmish. This is a full Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th society event. Confirmed subject June 2017, Hardwick Hall East to contract. Park, Sedgefield, Co. Durham, Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th July TS21 2DN 2017 Heckington Show Hall Camping From Friday to Grounds Heckington, Sleaford, Monday. I am awaiting the finer Lincs NG34 9RP. details from the organisers and Camping from Friday – Monday. these will be included in the This the ‘Largest Village Show’ in warning orders. A multi-period England with over 35,000 visitors event as last year. Our over two days last year.

20 On Saturday evening there will be Saturday 2nd – Sunday 3rd a Firework Concert and a tribute September 2017. Earls Barton, band Queen II. Living History, Drill Northants. The Midlands and Firing Displays on both days. History Festival 2017. I do not have the final details regarding Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th camping or time etc. these will be August 2017, Spetchley Hall and published on FB members page Gardens, Worcester WR5 1RS, and ACWS website as soon as I Camping from Friday 11th to get them. This is a fully society Monday 14th August 2017. Living event with Living History and Shropshire, TF11 8LE history with a skirmish each day, skirmish with Infantry and Artillery infantry, artillery and cavalry on both days. Saturday evening attendance as self-funding. entertainment includes a Wedding Reception with live music provided Saturday 26rh – Monday 28th Au- by Greenman Rising. Troll’s gust 2017. (Bank Holiday Week- Bottom (Spetchley Beer Tent end) Oulton Park Circuit, organisers) are running the bar as Cheshire, CW6 9BW. well as celebrating their 20th Camping from Friday – Tuesday. Birthday Party, I am assured there This is a Historic racing Weekend will be cake and jelly. This run by with multi-period History Weekend Re-enactor for Re-enactors so with no firing whatsoever. No come along and join in the fun. Animals Allowed due to the nature Saturday 23rd to Sunday 24th Staffs. ST11 9AE of the event. This event is by September 2017, ACWS invitation from a WWII group we International Event 2017 at have not worked with before if Kelham Hall and Country Park successful this could lead to other near Newark, Nottinghamshire, events in the future. There is a NG23 5QX. Living history and restaurant and bar for the use of battles each day involving infantry, re-enactors in the evening. This is artillery and cavalry. Confirmed a full society event. Confirmed subject to contract full society subject to contract. I will need event open to all members and names and numbers of adults and guests. If you wish to give a hand children whether you will be in the setting up of this event you attending this event by 16th July will be very welcome and you can Lincs NG34 9RP. 2017. You will be asked to show camp from Thursday to Tuesday. your ACWS membership cards, so All others camping from Friday to if bringing guests I will need their Monday. Maps the details of full names and details. camps etc will be issued with the Warning Orders. Peter Holt

21 Cont from Page 19 Sergeant Stuart Wardley commanding a full artillery crew. The Southern Womens display This is important as the bigger also proved popular and Union artillery is always well informative. One of the highlights crewed and the Union artillery of this particular event is always display in the arena was excellent the Church Service at St Michaels and again well received by the Church on the Sunday morning. public. Credit for both must go to As usual, it was commendably well ACWS Health and Safety Officer attended by both Union and Martin Cross for all these artillery Confederate re-enactors in their developments and improvements respective uniforms and well and all the necessary training that appreciated by both the Reverend is required. At the end of the and the congregation. Another Event, the organisers formally unexpected highlight for those thanked the ACWS for their hand full of Confederates that excellent participation throughout participated was an early evening the duration of the weekend and fully kitted march around the Big hopefully we will be invited back Mere. again in the future. Taking over 3 hours through The ACWS next travel to the difficult and boggy terrain, they Frontline Multi Period Event at eventually made it safely back and Hardwick Hall, Sedgefield on 17th it was thoroughly enjoyed by them and 18th June 2017. The following all. Certainly a possibility for expanding and developing by both weekend of 24th and 25th June armies the next time we attend. 2017, many members of the During both fine evenings, the ACWS will also be attending the Union and Confederate armies Alamo Event at Weston Park, enjoyed their usual friendly and Telford, Shropshire. enjoyable campfire sessions and it is really nice to see officers and Article by soldiers from both armies now Stewart “Goober” Douglas, regularly visiting each others 43rd North Carolina. campfires. Overall, both Union and Confederate armies had good Peter has had a Thank you from attendances and from a Marbury saying we added colour Confederate perspective it was and excitement and were highly nice to see a full turnout from the entertaining and they had raised 43rd North Carolina and pleasing to over £10,000 for the church. Ed. see new Confederate artillery

22 Legend of the Lost cavalry detachment forcing them to retreat back to the main Civil War Cannon on Confederate army which was Cotton Hill eventually achieved with difficulty. On September 11th, General Cox`s Most Civil soldiers both Blue and Federal army suddenly retreated Gray lost many personal and and Confederate General Loring military items during the American ordered all the Confederate forces Civil War. However, 1 Confederate to pursue the retreating Federals captain lost something a little bit and Captain Abbott and his bigger. He lost his precious bronze troopers to take with them a cannon and it`s whereabouts still bronze cannon back up to the cliffs remain hidden up to this very day. on Cotton Hill overlooking the This is the fascinating story of the River Gauley to destroy a long lost Confederate cannon on temporary bridge the retreating Cotton Hill. Federals were using and generally In an official post war Civil War harass them. The subsequent account the details are as follows. action was successful with the th bridge being hit and demolished by Captain Joel H Abbott, Co. H, 8 the cannon as well as knocking out Virginia Cavalry recalls that on a munitions magazine that was in September 9th 1862, the overall the mouth of nearby Zoll`s Hollow. Confederate commander, General However, in his post Civil War Loring had begun to move his account, Captain Abbott fully Confederate army down to recalls that after this engagement confront General Cox`s Federal “and then trying to get the gun army then based in the Fayetteville back and finding it a difficult job, area. Confederate Captain Joel we hid it in a deep ravine, and it is Abbott was subsequently given there yet”. All the Confederate orders to take a detachment of his forces then left the area in pursuit 8th Virginia cavalry through the of the Federal forces resulting in woods to the Cotton Hill area and the battle of Charleston on cut any telegraph wires and hold September 13th 1862. However, all the road leading to a temporary the conversations since this bridge across the River Gauley to successful engagement by obstruct the Federals. However, Captain Abbott have centred not on September 10th a regiment of on the actual operation itself but Union cavalry crossed the river what happened afterwards to this and climbed Cotton Hill and cut off lost Confederate cannon. Because Captain Abbott and his rebel he was such a respected and

23 dependable captain it was climbing or hiking in the area keep believed he would not make up your eyes peeled as you may such a tale. So, is the cannon still across a valuable piece of out there and if not, where is it American Civil War history! now? To back up his story, several peo- Article by Stewart “Goober” Doug- ple in the local community have las, 43rd North Carolina. their own stories about the missing bronze cannon. In the early USEFUL TIPS FOR 1900`s, a local coal miner found the cannon and due to a miners MUSKETS strike at the time in 1902 was desperate to put the cannon back 1. Bore will be clean and clear, a to good use by using it against the distinct ping is expected when then coal companies. However, his ramrod is dropped to the breech friends declined to participate in 2. Lock, half cock is expected to such a foolhardy venture and engage and hold the weapon’s refused to help retrieve the weight on the hammer as well as cannon. It remained where he not fire from normal trigger pres- found it. In addition, a young child sure called Jimmy Blevins remembers 3. Cone is to be clean outside as finding the cannon whilst out well as clear through; the bolster playing and his young siblings who area around the cone is also to be accompanied him at the time fully free of major fouling. recall this. However, being unable 4. Bands should be tight and not to move it or get it home, they just moveable with hand pressure, all left it where it was in the dense screws are to be present and also undergrowth. In addition, a couple be seated well enough to resist of hunters have also stated that finger pressure they have come across the cannon 5. Blued weapons are expected to whilst out hunting. However, none be free of any major surface rust; of these parties have been able to bright weapons are expected to be positively identify the actual bright and free of rust. location of the cannon and it would 6. Stocks are to be free of any also appear to have been spotted major cracks/missing pieces of in different areas in the vicinity wood. whilst still covered in dense 7. Bayonets should be well fitting undergrowth. As such, if it is still to the rifle and the locking ring out there, it lies somewhere in the should be present and functional. New River Gorge area, West 8. Bayonet scabbards are Virginia. So if you ever go rock required. A tip / finial must be

24 present and covering the point of over to its knees, pulling itself the bayonet. up again to try all over again. A long dress would get in the way Article by Stewart “Goober” Doug- of little feet, and once they have las, 43rd North Carolina. mastered the art of walking, ac- cidents still happen. Victori- an houses were not child Hemlines for young friendly places. Fitted carpets Ladies were not the norm so little feet had loose rugs to contend with All little girl’s like to copy their as well as open fires, which Mom’s and wear make-up and does not bear thinking about. high heels when playing, but re Victorian mothers saw the need enacting is not just playing ‘The to keep their little ones as clean Lady’ it is re-creating history, so as they could. Remember they let’s do it right. did not have the luxury of t Victorian fashions for little children throwing dresses into the followed strict rules and etiquette washing machine and walking just as for adults. Until babies away to do something else with were toilet trained boys and girls their time. Laundry day was were dressed alike in petticoats time consuming. First the and dresses, the hair style was the copper had to be filled and a fire gender give away. Hair parted in lit under it, and wait until water the middle was for girls and parted hot enough to begin the to one side and it was a boy. It washing. Clothes were then didn’t matter if the boy had curls. scrubbed, rinsed several times. It was a big day in a small boy’s life The clothes were then put when he was taken to the barber through the mangle to get all the for his first grown up haircut. It water out of them and finally would also be about this time that hung out to dry. At aged 3-4 he would be ‘breached’ and put years old the hem was knee into trousers for the first time. length progressing down Little girls continued to wear the towards the ankle as the child petticoats and dresses. It is a got older until she was 13-14 misnomer that little girls wore years old when it had reached ‘long’ dresses with the hemline ankle length By the time girls sweeping the floor. Apart from were about the age of 15, they being impractical it was started work The girl is now dangerous. Picture a cute baby classed as a adult now and the taking its first steps and falling hemline dropped to its optimum back onto its bottom and rolling length.

25 I recently received the following letter from one of our members and thought it may be of interest to some of you. : Editor

The Editor ACWS Newsletter

Richard John Page Pentrosfa Llandrindod Wells Powys Wales

Dear Sir,

Re: New Book of Civil War Art by Mr Don Troiani

Members may have Mr Troiani’s books on Civil War art, and may know that he has more recently being concentrating on the Amer- ican War of Independence. Mr Troiani has decided to retire (he is, after all, 6 months older than me) but he issuing one last one last Civil War Art Book with 10 NEW paintings and 300 photographs. It should be out in early December 2017 on Amazon at £25.00. This may/may not be of interest to you all!

Best wishes Yours sincerely

Richard Page.

26 Change of Society Address Following the resignation of Mike Smart, the ACWS have had to change our correspondence address which had been set up at Mike's business address. Therefore, please note the new Postal correspondence address for the Society: ACWS Ltd, PO Box 270, WASHINGTON, NE37 9BX Please change any literature etc which may reference 17 Swan Street, Sileby, LOUGHBOROUGH, LE12 7NN to the new address. All mail to the Directors will still be forwarded if sent to the new address. We tried, but were unable to get PO Box 1861 Washington. Mike Bussey For and on behalf of the Board of Directors 11th February 2017 The Newsest Recruit

We welcome Anastasia Kathleen Dawn Davies into the ACWS Family.

She was born to Major Tim and Caz Davies on 23rd March 2017.

27 EVENTS CALENDAR 2017

17th & 18th June 2017 Sedgefield

24th & 25th June 2017 The Alamo

8th & 9th July 2017 St Margaret’s Fayre Draycot on the Moor

29th - 30th July 2017 Heckington Show, Sleaford, Lincs.

12th & 13th August 2017 Spetchley Park

26th 27th & 28th August 2017 Oulton Park, Cheshire

2nd - 3rd September 2017 The Midlands History Festival East Baton, Northants.

23rd & 24th September 2017 Kelham Hall International

Watch this space for future events

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