AAR Bummers

[Pvt_Sullivan]

Re: AAR Bummers

Nathan Willar is my hero.

To the organizers... you all did a herculean task in creating an environment for us and for providing once problems arose. I'd gladly go to an event hosted by the Armory Guards and Mess No. 1 again, no reservations. mistakes were made, when they were identified immediate action was taken to correct them and in the end we came out more educated and respectful of the sacrifices and obstacles the soldiers we attempt to portray went through. Any scorn heaped on the mistakes or the organizers is wrong and hateful.

To my comrades... I'm proud to be any of your file mates in Tramp Brigade Organization and the Southeast Coalition of Authentic Reenactors. It takes heart to keep motivated and engaged when things go wrong and you all have heart by the hogshead.

To the militia and cavalry... You can't have a civil war event without two sides. Thanks for putting in the effort and showing up, I hope you can look at your experiences and see the period moments in them as I am seeing those moments in my experiences.

To the civilians... I did not meet one of you who wasn't putting on your best First Person and putting everything into the event for our experience. Thank You and my apologies if playing my role as a cold, hard yankee to the hilt came over the top or ruined any of your moments. Lynda, you where right, you weren't happy to see me in Georgia on Sunday.

With that said, does anyone have a good anecdote or joke to laugh at?

Jamie Cassell told me I was a 'Walking Atrocity waiting to happen' but I never did shoot at anyone except Georgia Militiamen shooting at me...

[Jeremy Bevard]

Re: AAR Bummers

Each man in the 93rd Il followed event rules and showed up with an EMPTY haversack. The only event contraband that we had where two small topographical maps I found online, a compass and iodine tablets. All of these I was sure would never come out of our pockets. Fortunately, yes fortunately, they all did.

I have lots to say but I will try not to include stories, points and other items that are in other posts. I believe I will start this tale from the point of where the column of troops reached the top of that steep incline and rested on the hill. I believe this is where Third Division started on its own.

The 93rd Illinois men’s canteens were all nearly empty like so many others. We where told water was up the hill so a detail was sent. While waiting for them to return I sat and listened to the banter of the men in other parties while each of my men sat in peace resting or sleeping. The talk of refusing to move and mutiny was in the air. I was proud my men did not take part. Sgt Roscoe and I look at a map that I brought to see if we could figure out what was going on. We soon found out the canteens returned just as empty as they left. I informed Captain Sorchy and he suggested that if given the opportunity use the tablets we told him we had earlier in the event. At the bottom of the hill we moved down there was a fast moving creek where everyone filled up. It felt like a long 35 minutes to wait to drink it but it was cool and refreshing when the time came.

We where then sent out to forage for food in the area. Every party returned empty handed. We moved farther down the road into an area with two valleys. One to the left and one to the right. My party and another were sent down the one on the right. I continued to listen to our guide who led us deeper into the valley until I was out of sight of any men but my own. I was then told that we needed to climb a very steep and high hill. At the top water and food were not far. My men were tired which made the climb much more difficult. The promise of food and water was their motivation. Hence the hill has been named “Hungry Hill”.

While resting on the trail at the top the guide said there was plenty of food and water down the trail at a T intersection. He said to save your men’s energy I will scout down there. We will get your canteens filled and meet up with the rest of Third Division. We rested, slept and waited. I heard nothing but silence while I glanced at my watch.

I decided we could not sit there any longer. It would be dark soon and we needed food and water. Sgt Roscoe and I looked over the map and had a good feel for where we were. I made the decision to move in the direction the guide did. We moved out with two men out front for scout/advance guard. We heard some shots but they were way off in the distance. We continued for sometime moving down and out of another valley still following the same trail. We came to a T intersection. I sent the Sgt and a Pvt in one direction and two Pvts in the other direction. The rest of the party rested. While we rested I watched as a few of them started eating acorns off of the ground. My heart and frustration swelled as they shared this meager “meal”. The Sgt returned with news of water being found so a detail was sent. The other scouts returned with no positive information. I gave the order to move and we met up with the water detail and continued on. We found another water source at another intersection. We drank and topped off our canteens. We made a left on this small dirt road. The Sgt and another man went on ahead a bit. I was nervous because there were horseshoe tracks all over. I told my men to be on guard. When they found peanuts in the dirt I think they forgot this order. Thankfully, we came across a wagon with some ladies and this part of our story has already been told.

We moved down this road now with food in our bellies and new energy. We came across a cabin. More food was found and water. The moral of the group was high as we now had more then enough food for several meals.

We heard militia down the road just out of our view. The Sgt and I discussed our options and I deiced we would try and fight our way out and hopefully link up with 1st or 2nd Division. At this point Cav started coming up the road so we all dove into the woods. My heart pounding I decided to myself that at the right moment I would order FIRE and then order the men to run deeper into the woods and down a valley behind me. I new there was another trail back there from the map that we could find.

The Cav flew a white flag and I came out to talk with their leader. He informed me of some of the happenings and I gave him a short version of our story. It was agreed that we would move down to the other end of the road by the wagon to camp. He gave his word that his men and the militia would leave us alone for the night.

Arriving at that spot we came across four men from the 63rd Illinois who filled us in on the happenings of Third Division. We welcomed them to eat with us and they did. They continued on with us the rest of the event. That evening the men cheered our exploits, ate our forage, damned upper commanded, praised myself and the Sgt for our good fortunes and then slept a sound sleep.

We awoke well before dawn ate some more ham for breakfast and prepared to move. By the gray of dawn we were on the road and moving towards the cabin settlement. We now sang a different tune. One of revenge on the south for what we had gone though all these years. The cabin was emptied and holes where busted in the floor, walls and holes poked through the roof. We did our best to burn it to the ground but given we had only one torch left with no fuel but rendered pig fat and it was very damp it did not light well. Smoked up quite good however. I could hear the militias bugle calls as my men chased chickens, yelled at civilians and smashed up the cabin. In the process more food was found. One Pvt had a bowl thrown at him by a woman in tears which shattered on the ground. A plate was also thrown but did not break. One of my pvts picked it up and shoved it into his waist band. When asked what he was going to do with it his reply was “eat off of it”. I said if he kept this up he would have a fine set of china to ship home. This lady caused quite the headache for us as she cried and throw other items at me men. Another just stood and sang hymns. Yes, it all tucked at my heart however the damage was done and there was almost no stopping my boys now. It was chore to get them back together and on the road. They finally started to understand that militia or Cav could be on us any moment.

We went down the road and into the valley I spoke of earlier that was my escape route. My new objective was to link up with First or Second Division. After going down and up another valley we found the trail we wanted. It took us right to the other end of the Militia camp. They saw us and a few fired. Some of my men were thirsty for blood and wanted to fight. However, being severely outnumber and knowing what our objective was this was not my plan. This decision was solidified when I heard the boom of a cannon. I left a read guard to hold back the militia if pressed while I took the rest of my men up the road onto the high ground. I decided we would make a stand here if needed.

As the read guard fell back on us a women was found. She told me a whole mess of federals was just a few moments way. I sent scouts who quickly found a federal picket line. I talked with Lt Hooks of the pickets and informed him who we were and learned we had found the Second Division. My men fell back to the picket line while I was lead to Lt Cross. While I was gone my men shared their forage with the 2nd Division pickets as they were very hungry. This included a second ham that we had found and been carrying. They were quite grateful.

When I returned I intended to pull my men further into the lines for water and rest. However, the Confederates looked to be moving on this position. Perhaps we stirred them up. Lt Hooks said he could use our numbers if pressed. He gave me command and I pushed out the group as skirmishers to see if I could shove them out of our area. The skirmish lines forward movement stalled since there was not a lot of cover and good fire from the other side. Seeing Cav moving around on our right (which was smart because I had men already moving that way to flank) I gave the order to pull back to the works.

Lt Cross then gave me the orders that 2nd Division was moving on and I was to be their read guard. We soon heard more firing and what sounded like the cannon again. We all wondered if it was Third Division cutting their way out. We filled our canteens organized and marched out with our contraband guide.

Thank you to the event staff for putting it together.
Thank you Cpl Koch and Cpl Collicott you did a fine job your first time as NCO’s.
Thank you Sgt Roscoe for your hard work and extra ground you covered to save the feet of our men.
Thank you Cpt Sorchy for leading the Third Division through a tough event.

The 93rd Illinois foraging party experienced what it was like to be a foraging party moving on its own away from the help of masses.

[Marissa]

Re: AAR Bummers

I saw quite a bit as refugee without a homestead to safely call a home for nearly 48 hours. I feel as if what I felt this weekened would break any civilians spirits back in 1864. I was questioned and raided for food nearly 5 times and not just from the feds but rebs as well. It was definalty heartwrenching to watch 2 homesteads get burned to the ground (or at least attempted too) and all of the possessions getting ripped apart for what it seemed like nothing more than entertainment. That being said I defiantly grew from the expierience of this weekend, I have a greater appreciation for what it must of been like for a refugee without a home and having to trust the company of strangers for any little security.

For those complaining about the lack of food and water: I thought part of the expierience of doing Authentic Reenacting was to be proud of our ancestors who fought. Learn from then how it is possible to go 12 hrs without a nice meal. Feel what they must of felt, and yes even complaining amongsted your brothers about the absurdity of the authority. But to get up and desert? Just as they must have expiereiced deserting the question still remains but where will you go and how will you remain safe on your own in foreign territory.

Where ever our ancestors are I am sure they are rolling their eyes at us watching us expierience what they did, but at the same time I believe they will be proud that we did that and did not forget their expierience.

[Mad Hatter]

Re: AAR Bummers

This by far has been the toughest and most demanding of events. The terrain and lack of a map exacerbated the hardship, yet these were overcome by the individuals who served with me and the command structure of my unit. As a member of the 1st Missouri, we were out for blood; our families were murdered and/or burned out of their farms. Given the command structure, we had a lieutentant that asked for advise, pondered and then gave commands. Use of Henry's to the front and rear of our group gave indication of forethought, planning and betterment of reacting to any situation that may have befallen us. Fortunate that we had full bellies on Friday evening from some chicken and vittles a colored woman gave to the commander. Will not speculate on how the commander came across such fine faire. Friday evening was the most misserable of nights climbing that eroding, granite hill only to come back to the road and sleep so far from the fire. Saturday morning started out rather slow, but a reconnoiter of the road gave indication it was flooded led our unit away from the main column and up a long hill climb. Along about the time that a question was raised as to the chosen course, we found some sweet taters and corn alongside the high trail. Even finding a second basket as well further down the trail. We walked and stopped, scouted and knelt all through the morning. Round about mid day, we crossed a small stream of running water. Command decision was made to use some of our found bounty to fill our bellies and boil water to replenish canteens. We went about making three fires, cutting up our food stuffs to include the rationed bacon, digging a pool to collect water, and replenishing our energy. During this we could hear musket and Henry fire in the distance. Marching with full bellies, we ran into 2nd Div that were not the happiest of souls and then into some Reb deserters that gave the Lt some good information and a sack of stuff; bitters, honey, catsup, cabbage, taters, corn and bread crumbs. Once 2nd cought up to us, we gave 'em the corn, taters, head of cabbage and bread crumbs. They were very thankful saying that they had not seen water all day. It was a might poor sight to see them so hungry, but so damn grateful I was not one of them. Well moving on and we found some empty cups. Hoping to find some bitters or whiskey to fill them, we found some more corn and taters. Then comes along and officer that is lost, yet he has a map. Wonder how you become an officer and have no right intellect to decipher a map. Well commander gets ahold of it and we set off again and this time we find a settlement. Sure enough 2nd is already there with feet propped up on chairs and already settleing into camp and just waiting on the women to fix them dinner. One thing missing from our bellies was a good portion of meet. Wouldn't you know it, 2nd had cut most off a bone, but gave us the rest that still was good. Cutting it up and distributing it, I gave back a skinned bone with little meat the Women. They dared not say a word to me. After gettin back to the rest of the group, we were given orders to fire on one of the houses used in an ambush earlier that day. It was a sight to see the women takin' out their belongings and breaking dishes as we set fire. That night after getting the use of an iron pot, though the use of it from another unit almost came to a brawl, but we were ready. Hell we ain't got nothin' to lose and we protect each other like a pack of wolves. Settled in to taking back that ham bone and working it with the corn, taters and meat. Had some salt/pepper and spice to add. Scraped the bottom of the pot when it was done and then handed off the pot to another unit to use.
The next morning was just fine for waking up, had a big pot of coffee and then set out before the divisions. stopped on top the hill and let the rest of them pass by. We were to cover the div rear. Why? cause we are that good and having 7 Henrys made it so. We surprised the Jonny critters that were causing a lot of dust catching up to make trouble for the divisions. They moved off and then tried other means of cutting us off. Commander ordered us off the hill so that we did not get into a pinch. Moving down that hill after the division was a lot of leap frogging and fighting all the way down as fast as we could. I thought there were just 8-10 critters. Came to found out we evaded almost 40 all the while protecting the divs rear. Hoozah to the 1st Missouri.

Private William Hurst, 1st Missouri Engineers

[marktaylor]

Re: AAR Bummers

I had a blast! This ranks in the top 5 events of all time for me. It's been said many times, but a huge THANKS goes out to the organizers as well as all the participants for making this event happen.
I can certainly understand the frustration with the lack of water. As a militiaman, I did not experience this discomfort so I feel that I cannot comment too much on the subject.
All complaints aside, lets keep in mind the goal of this event: to help save the Wray collection at the AHC. I am sure Kiev, Robby, Eric, ect. will announce the final total as soon as it is determined, but it looks like we raised quite a bit of money to help save the collection.
Was I tired? Yes.
Was the terrain treacherous? Certainly.
Was the event planned well? Of course. Mother nature and medical emergencies intervened with monkey wrenches, neither of which anyone has control over.
Did all of this make it an authentic experience? Hell yes!
Bravo to all who helped with making this happen. I'd drive much, much further than I had to in order to attend all over again.

[Danimal29]

Re: AAR Bummers

Wow, it sounds like some attending had the ultimate experience and then others had nothing but dissapointment, myself being greatly dissapointed. I saw no civilians, no militia nor did I find any food which is what I thought the event was supposed to be all about. Yes, I ended up walking off site around 3:00 on Saturday afternoon because by that point I had lost all confidence in the event staff and most of the leadership. As myself and my pard were driving off site we came upon the rest of our foraging party who had been lost and not even intending to accidentally walked off site. I think the event had a lot of potential and I would have loved to had the experiences of a lot of those who have posted so far, but unfortunately I didn't. I was hoping my return to the hobby after nearly 2 1/2 years away was going to be an awesome time, but unfortunately without lying I can't say that it was. The trip down and time spent with my pards who I hadn't seen in a long time and the tour at the Atlanta History Center were great, but all in all the event was a bust in my book.

[PetePaolillo]

Re: AAR Bummers

With that said, does anyone have a good anecdote or joke to laugh at?

Pete...How about the game we played while on the march? What kind of food does your comrade look like? ...and the other Cassell quote of the day...." We ate better at Andersonville!":)

To expand more on my weekend..I personally had a great time. The event staff totally put their blood and guts into hosting this event and it showed. Yes there were mistakes made by some of the guides and division command as well as some map skills lacking but we all know the history. We know that soldiers got lost, ran out of food and water and had officers that were at times inept. The maps, guides and scouts were sometimes unreliable..They pressed on and overcame the adversity handed them. This is what they did and we expierenced some of that at Bummers. My expectations were different but what I came out of this with was a reality expierence. That was what I wanted. I felt a wee little bit of what it was like and that is what we strive for.
As a lowly private...It was amazing to hump it on an empty stomach and running low on water and knowing that it would be dark soon. It was not a good feeling but it was a realistic one. I truly enjoyed the Comraderie that was exhibited by most of the men in the 3rd division especially the SCAR parties of the 48th and 59th Indiana.."The Lost Hoosier Bastards".
The NCO leadership of Sgt Berezuk, Sgt Shogren and Corporal Cassell was second to none. They kept the boys motivated and moving. The quiet professional leadership of Lts. Butler, Cooper and Giddens was calming. They strategized and worked together to get us where we needed to go.

The March on Saturday was at times physically demanding but we knew that going in.. The staff told people to be in shape..If you were not then you knew it. I personally never felt that I was in danger. I made sure to move slowly and keep sure footing. I knew that I could keep going and would have marched into the night if ordered. I knew that there was Plenty of crystal clear ice cold flowing water from various quick moving streams throughout the March. I filled my canteen up after I ran out and took several big swallows when needed and I had no issues...That water was safer than the well water I drink at home, I guarantee that. No one was going to go thirsty...If you felt the need to use tablets or boil it than so be it....I would rather get my water from a stream than a plastic jug anyways...To each is own.
We were well rested, fed and watered Sat night and were up bright and early Sunday Morning raring to find forage. We made the easiest, mostly downhill 2 mile march before we came across some civilians and refugees. The first person interaction was intense and actually had me shaking with adrenaline as we ransacked their belongings searching for anything we could use....We had a solid engagement with the militia and had several back and forths, capturing and allowing the escape of prisoners. I would have liked to have had a run in with the cavalry but I never did see them during the event.

In closing. I would just like to extend my hardy thanks to all of The Armory Guards and Mess No. 1 who made the weekend so special. You worked very hard and we noticed. Please do not beat yourselves up over any mistakes or problems that occurred...Stuff happens and the majority had a great time. You will never please everyone. Thanks from the bottom of my heart!!! I also heard that a very large sum of money was raised for the wray collection at the Atlanta History center. That is awesome!!!

I would like to see another "Bummers Death March" event sometime down the road. Maybe the grueling march to Columbia for the 150th??

[blackhattertuck]

Re: AAR Bummers

AAR of Pvt. John (Adam) Clark, 1st MO. Volunteers.

Friday-

Our band of 17 fellows led by Lt. Maddus (Matt Woodburn) formed up with the three divisions on Friday night. As we set out, I noticed the poor quality of the government issued torches with respect to illumination. They provided three minutes of excellent light, five minutes of fair to middling light and five hours of some of the most excellent darkness I've seen. We marched along the road next to the Flint River (or perhaps it was the Mississippi... it seemed about as large) until the head of the column of 1st Division started banging away. We were instructed to climb the hill to our left and watch for a possible rebel thrust into the flank of the column. After climbing the hill in darkness so complete that my comrades two files over were invisible to my eyes and stumbling on the small stones that seem to grow so well in the rich Georgia soil, we sat for at least an hour and a half, trying desperatly to arrest our slow slide down the hill by jamming our bodies into the larger, more anchored stones. If Rebels had come down that hillside, they would have come "At the Tumble" and no force short of a well-mortared brick wall would have stopped them. When we were releived by the 97th Ind. we made our way back down the slope. It was darker than before, and at this time, I was almost certain I would break an ankle. Happily, I was wrong. After cursing our way down to the road, we made camp and slept, weary, bruised, hungry, and sore.

Saturday-

We awoke early, and packed our things; ready to move at a moment's notice. As 1st Division prepared to move, Lt. Maddus gathered us around for a short conference. It should be noted that the 1st Mo. Eng. were attatched to XV Corps HQ. Being thus, there were three people on Earth whose orders we would obey without question: Capt. Orlando Poe, Gen. Peter Osterhaus, and Uncle Billy. None of those three men were currently with this foraging party. Lt. Maddus explained that we were going to leave 1st division and go off on our own hook, securing what food we could for ourselves and for our regiment. He gave us a choice of taking the high road, the ridge we had partially climbed the night before, or the low, the road by the river. We chose the high path. After reaching the top, we encounted Lt. Craddock's party of the 97th Ind. and decided to work in concert with them. It was not long, however, that our paths diverged and we saw nothing more of them. Along the high road, we soon found two caches of sweet potatos and corn and filled our haversacks and knapsacks with the bounty. We proceeded up and down the hills in patrol formation, the 6 men with Henry repeaters making up part of the advance and rear guards. When a fork was encountered, scouts were sent down each path, and the most promising one was chosen. Before long, we were hopelessly lost, off of the boundries of the event site, and short of water. We sat down at about noon near a small stream, from which we drew water to boil with the sweet potatos, corn, and what bacon we had been issued Friday to make a passible stew, thus conserving what little precious fluid remained in our canteens. While we rested, our indefatigible scout Pvt. Ewing found a fairly clear road up ahead. Refreshed, we pressed on. The going was: "Steep hill, trees, ravine, another hill" It was shortly after one, that we encounted our first contact with other federals. It was hearting to know that they had not dropped off the face of the Earth. We also encountered two Rebels, recently released from Elmira prison and walking back home to Columbus, GA. After questioning them, Lt. Maddus gave them safe passage and sent them on their way. However, Pvt. Robinson (Jordan Ricketts) having lost a brother in the Centrailia massacre six weeks ago, snapped, and fired on the two with his Henry as they scurried away. Having learned from the Rebels that there was a Cabin just atop the next ridge, we pressed on, finding the placed already occupied by most of 1st Div. We were just having a look around when a patrol of Rebel Cavalry made a push towards the place. We formed up with the other men there, and soon sent them scurrying with the help of "Mr. Henry." Returning to the cabins, we soon learned that some of the women had, earlier in the day, lured the 97th Ind. into an ambush, resulting in the death or capture of the entire party. Angered at this betrayal, Lt. Maddus had us prepare our torches and make ready the coal oil we carried in two canteens. He approached the ladies residing in the structures and informed them that they had two minutes to remove anything they believed they needed. One of the ladies began to protest that the houses had been guarenteed protection from all depridations by high command. Lt. Maddus' reply was an angry: "You have wasted 15 seconds." They then began to scurry, gathering their things with haste, protesting all the while, as we doused the canvas roof and walls with oil and lit our torches. At the Lt.'s order, we fired the rear-most cabin as the other boys from the 1st Div. swarmed into the other carring out tables, chairs, crocks and assorted other sundries, smashing plates and glass with undisguised glee. We made camp in the rocky field next to the flames, satisfied that we had wrought a small measure of vengance on those who supported the Rebellion.

Sunday-

Making our coffee in the embers of yesterday's fire, we packed up and prepared to march to "greener pastures." As the cabin had not burned completly, we refired the remaining structure to ensure its destruction. Moving off the way we had come the previous day, Lt. Maddus decided to let the balance of 1st Div. pass by us and act as a rear guard to allow the Division time to return to the main column with the forage and food they had collected. It wasn't more than 30 minutes after the last party passed us by, that a band of cavalry made a foray toward us. We let them close the distance before we gave them a rapid fire from our repeaters. They soon "absquatchalated and vamoosed." Before long, however, we saw them head off to our right, while a force of infantry moved to the bottom of our little hill. Concerned that the cavalry was planning on cutting us off from the Divsion, Lt. Maddus ordered us to proceed off our ridge and back towards the main column. In a few minutes, however, our rear guards sang out "Cavalry in the rear!" and we scattered to cover on either side of the rocky trail. The fire from the repeaters drove them off. This began our running fight down a 40 degree, rocky trail, stopping just long enough to take cover and let "Mr. Henry" spit a few rounds to keep the mounted troops at bay. We reached the river road, exhausted, yet continued our flight, just barely keeping the enemy at bay. In this manner, we reached the end of the event, tired, yet proud that we had held off twice our number of mounted troops.

What I learned-

-Even though I didn't have a repeater, being in a group where six men did have them, and under the command of an officer who knew how to deploy them, made me feel very safe, almost invincible.
-The major crop of central Georgia is stone.
-There is a grim satisfaction in retribution.
-The "Old Fellas" were tough.
-An event is only as good as the people you fall in with.

[Gallo de Cielo]

Re: AAR Bummers

I want to offer a few simple words of thanks to the folks who worked for something along the lines of two years to organize and orchestrate this event. Fleshing out the ranks of the militia, I spent the most time around the GA boys who had clearly done a significant amount of work to prepare the site, build cabins, and look to all the other details, big and small, which make up event planning. Tom has already very correctly pointed out that organizing these things is a sign of mental weakness. He is correct. I am glad for all the Herb Coats' and Kiev Thomason's and folks of their ilk who poured many hours of blood, sweat, and tears into this.

Nine of us came from the far side of the big river to offer our services, and for most of us at least, to repay the trips made to BGR and Piney Woods by our friends.

I don't really see the need to hack out a multi-page free-flow of memories so I'll say this-

There appeared to be three different sorts of folks signed up for this event.

The first portion were those who signed up to make the "kewl list" but who never showed. I have no idea what those numbers were but I would wager that they were significant. Perhaps a quarter to a third of those who registered never even attended. Using my militia company as a point of reference- we were maxed out on registration with ten of us coming who weren't even on the list. Lists suck. That said, even with the no-list folks who came out from points west, our company had perhaps 25 men.

The second portion were those who came and then bailed because they began to taste just a wee bit of what soldiering and campaigning really is. That's a person's own, individual call to make but anyone who had read accounts of this campaign, as well as the pre-event info, knew generally that they'd be challenged. They also knew that no matter what, their "war" ended in 36 hours. They also (supposedly) call themselves "authentic campaigners" yet flee the field when they are called upon to walk the walk.

The third portion were those who came, dealt, and remained.

In that third and final group, my thought is that the civilians deserve the most recognition. They "made" the event, at least for me. We encountered a group of three or four women living in two small cabins atop a hill Saturday morning. Their food and excellent interaction made for a fine start. They will remember our group as we were present for the discovery of the tit-mice as wood was moved that morning for a fire. You ladies know who we are and we surely appreciate you all and what you do. We encountered several "settlements" of folks during our grand tour of the site and all of them were outstanding. Most worthy of commendation were the three we met up with and marched out among on Sunday (young Miss Anna Allen and a "Brandi/Brandy" were encountered toward the latter stages of the exodus- they are fine folk too). Among the three of them they were carrying more weight in food, equipment, water, and bedding than any man I know would chose to. This was done while wearing skirts and the many accoutrements peculiar to the female impression. One woman was several months pregnant and carrying a baby as well. As Tom has said, those three were tough as nails and are honorary Ground Hornets for life in my book.

We ran across a modern fellow on a mountain bike as we wandered around attempting to leave Sunday. He was gracious enough to strike a quick image for us.

On a final note- the woman with the baby indicated that Federals had taken the child's blanket. That's a pretty low move and should someone be foolish enough to admit to such a thing, the fate awaiting won't be a pretty one.

[Amos]

Re: AAR Bummers

Hank Trent, Paul Morrison and I were escaped prisoners from Andersonville making our way north to meet up with Sherman's men. We based our persona's on three men from the 1st Wisconsin who got away and got help along the way from slaves they saw.
Other than the usual walking and research, my pre-event planning also included one one meal a day starting Sunday and nothing on Thursday. I wanted to be hungry when we ran into the foragers. For food I had a small cornbread loaf.
Paul couldn't start until Friday noon time, so we had a meet site for that time.
Hank and I started Thursday around 11 AM. Herb dropped us off at the southern end of the north/south road.
To skip the details, we went all over the site checking trails, water points and hiding when we heard wagons (trucks, ATV's) coming. We found the two cabins on the road from Babbs Crossroads and checked them out. Found some money at the one where the militia would be. We were surprised by four horsemen on the road. They hadn't gone live yet and stopped to chat for a minute. To help out if we were surprised by CS forces, Hank came up with a story that he was a local who caught me and was taking me to a town to collect a bounty. That story helped us at least twice on Friday and Saturday. We camped Thursday night near Babbs Crossroads on a small trail that went to Moss Falls.
Early Friday we went to check out the first cabin. As we approched a woman came out and we asked for some food. I offered to pay for it and she gave us a small package that had 3 small pieces of beef and 2 hard boiled eggs. I gave her $20 in CS money that I took from the other cabin. We went back to camp and packed up to go wait for Paul on the north/south road which we did around noon. We went north and took the bike trail over to the river and cut noth to moss falls trail. At the falls, Paul spotted a basket on the far cliff face and went to get it. Wound up there were two baskets, so we stashed the one and sat in the road and tore into the corn and sweet taters. We were so busy stuffing our faces we didn't hear the 4 cav until they told us to throw up our hands. Paul jumped up and started handing corn to them and talking like they were old friends and gave them the story, which they bought. :wink_smil
We then went to the church and up the hollow behind it to spend Friday night. Heard the shooting during the night and knew Uncle Billy's boys had shown up. Saturday morning we thought we'd go to the north road and run into the foragers. Got up on the road and ran into militia, cav and more militia and spent some time hiding. We were close to the "hotel" so we moved that way. Paul gave the story to the ladies there and they agreed to feed him but not Hank and I. They relented finally and we got a little rabbit stew, an ear of corn and a nice juicy pear. We left and went towards the intersection of the north road and the moss falls road. We saw some cav and militia so we went down the hill and spent a long time laying on the hillside watching the militia near the house.
We heard firing back towards the "Hotel" and a bugle so we thought the foragers were there. We went down through the hollow and came to the "hotel" from the rear but were spotted by some militia and caught. :cry_smile
There was cav and militia there along with prisoners they had captured. Paul told the story again but I'm not sure it was working this time. Then more foragers attacked and all was confusion. Hank went down and I refused to go with the rebs. A militia man shot at me. I don't know if he just missed or missed on purpose but I played dead. They kicked me a couple of times and dropped grass on my face to check but I didn't move. After what seemed an age the CS moved off and a man and his wife dragged Hank and I off to the side for planting. Before dirt could be dug, more foragers showed up and Hank and I jumped up and joined them.
The officer commanding this group put Hank and I with Bill Cross and his men. The rest of Saturday was spent eating anything we could find, sleeping and talking. We were worried about Paul being captured but hoped the story would help him out.
Sunday we marched out with the foragers.

I had a great time. Moving around while not being spotted, trying to get some food, how to deal with civilians, what to do if we ran into CS troops while waiting for the foragers to show up made this event for me.
I saw Uncle Tom Yearby, was he still soliciting for votes for sheriff? :tounge_sm
I didn't see any skunk apes, or I could give a report on how they taste as I was that hungry.
Thanks to Herb and evryone else involved.


Chuck "Amos" Reynolds

[Daniel G.]

Re: AAR Bummers

Bummers was one of the best events I’ve ever attended.
I was tired, hot, cold, hungry, thirsty, angry, and wished I was back home. I was forced to crawl some steep hills and rocks on my hands and knees, and kept telling myself “Maybe there is water on the next hill”. I realized Friday that an army of ants had raided my haversack, but that cornbread tasted a lot better with ants. Yummy! :D
It sucked, which is what made it so real for me. I asked for a soldiers experience and I got one. I had a total blast and I’d do it all over again in a heartbeat.

Will Tatum and I had the opportunity to desert our company on Friday which was a very real experience for me. We marched all over the site on Saturday and somehow managed to make it off the site too. We bluffed two elements of Wheeler’s Cavalry twice as well as one fellow attached to the mountain gun while Will filled our canteens. We told them we were a patrol from Company B. Later on Saturday we had to surrender to a Federal picket and took the Oath of Allegiance. Then we managed to escape the Yankees on Sunday during their march back, with all of our gear and weapons.

Thanks to everyone who put this one together!! This experience ranks as one of the best I’ve ever had. Thanks again!

Daniel G.
11th Ga. Co. C

[Peachfuz]

Re: AAR Bummers

I was in the portion of the 54th OH that walked off the event late Saturday afternoon. For me, it wasn’t picketing in the middle of an obstacle course within 200 yards of a modern road on Friday night that made me throw in the towel. It wasn’t climbing the sheer cliffs while looking down at the flooded and raging Flint river. It wasn’t going almost 5 hours, 10 miles, and 600 vertical feet on a canteen and a half of water and a raw ear of corn. It wasn’t the back tracking, un-informed officers, or the lost guide. It wasn’t the fact that after getting lost with a half complete map and somehow re-gaining our bearings only to find an Engineer unit who now only would not say where they were going, but sent us on a path that would put take us to Dripping Rock Rd. (about 1.5 miles from the parking lot). It was the hype. All this talk about strolling through the Georgia countryside, encountering food laden civilians at every bend and militia at every intersection. About how “hardcore” this event would be and about the high standard the impressions would be held to. I made the mistake of believing it all only to be disappointed.
Whose fault is this? Mine, the event organizers, the officers/forage party leaders, the people I fell in with? This is the question I have been asking myself since about 4 p.m. Saturday and I don’t have an answer. What I do know is that I had a great time driving down from D.C. with 11 other guys who I consider closer then kin. I had a fantastic time at the AHC, walking the halls, seeing the Wray collection, talking shop with Gordon Jones and viewing artifacts I have been wanting to get details on for almost 10 years.
I am glad that others had a better time that I, in particular the other guys of the 2nd Division, namely the 15th Michigan. To see those guys trudge up that hill and see their faces drop as we told them the water was gone was heart breaking. I thank the organizers for their effort and wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors.

[Possum]

Re: AAR Bummers

I had a blast.

Yes it was hard work and yes it was quite boring at times, but thats what I think made this event so cool, because the Georgia Militia had to fight boredom and long marches.

On a scale 1-10, I'd give the event an 8.

[marktaylor]

Re: AAR Bummers

I had a blast.

Yes it was hard work and yes it was quite boring at times, but thats what I think made this event so cool, because the Georgia Militia had to fight boredom and long marches.

On a scale 1-10, I'd give the event an 8.

Just wanted to add if Rocky would have gotten to spoon with me on Friday night, it would have been an 11!

[jones56ga]

Re: AAR Bummers

"On a final note- the woman with the baby indicated that Federals had taken the child's blanket. That's a pretty low move and should someone be foolish enough to admit to such a thing, the fate awaiting won't be a pretty one."

I carried a basket up the big hill for the lady holding the child. I watched that dear child brave the elements alongside grown men, with no coat or blanket....I have a few questions I want answered NOW....

Firstly...Is this true, Secondly...if so was it part of the scenario? Thirdly, If it is true, and was not part of a scripted scenario, who did it? I would like to beleive that this is not true, or was planned. If not, I want to know who did it, and why...there's a lot of fathers, including myself, that want to find out. If you know, respond.