HAPPY NEW YEAR!

I can't believe 2009 is almost here! It's such a great day--time to wipe the slate clean and start over! 2008 was a challenging year...I don't doubt that everyone felt that way. But I also feel I have so much to be thankful for--including wonderful readers like you!!!

HAVE A BLESSED AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Hopefully I will see you at the battlefields in 2009!

Kristie

PS--check out this great news below!

Bible Currently Undergoing Restoration for Unveiling During Author’s Bicentennial Year

Richmond, VA-In honor of Edgar Allan Poe's 200th birthday, the Library of Virginia, in partnership with Richmond, VA's Poe Museum, is preparing an exhibition on Poe's life and works. The centerpiece of the exhibition will be the Poe Family Bible, a rarely-seen artifact in the Poe Museum's collections. The exhibition will open July 18, 2009.

The Poe Family Bible includes genealogical information such as birth and death dates of Poe family members and notes on marriages, with the earliest family information entry dating to 1725. The handwritten notes also include a sketch of the Poe family burial plot at Westminster Hall and Burying Ground.

The Bible is currently undergoing restoration at Cat Tail Run Hand Bookbinding in Winchester, VA. EMC Corporation, the world's leading developer and provider of information infrastructure technology and solutions, is funding the restoration and digitization of the Bible through its Information Heritage Initiative, which preserves, protects, and makes cultural treasures globally accessible in digital form. The digital images and the Bible itself will be on display from July through December 2009 at the Library of Virginia.

The exhibit is part of Poe Revealed 1809-2009, a cooperative effort among Virginia historical sites, museums, libraries and performing arts organizations to commemorate the life and works of Poe throughout 2009. A schedule of Poe-related events as well as information for educators, students, Poe enthusiasts and visitors is available on the Poe Bicentennial Web site www.Poe200th.com.

Throughout 2009, Richmond, Virginia will host numerous events in honor of the Poe Bicentennial. During his adulthood, Poe spent time in Philadelphia, New York and Baltimore, but it was Richmond, Virginia that Poe considered home; the place where he grew up, married and first gained a national literary reputation.

###
The Edgar Allan Poe Museum in Richmond, Va interprets the life and influence of E.A. Poe for the education and enjoyment of the public. Founded in 1921, the Poe Museum preserves and exhibits artifacts and archival resources related to the life and works of Edgar Poe for a global audience. For more information about the Museum and its programs visit www.poemuseum.org.

The Library of Virginia is the state's oldest institution dedicated to the preservation of Virginia's history, literature, and culture. The Library was created by the General Assembly in 1823. The collections illustrate the rich and varied past of the commonwealth, documenting the lives of Virginians whose deeds are known to all, as well as those of ordinary citizens whose accomplishments are the foundation of our heritage. This rich treasure-house of materials attracts more than 190,000 visitors each year. For more information about the Library of Virginia please visit www.lva.virginia.gov.

Cat Tail Run Hand Bookbinding was established in 1991 by Jill Deiss, who studied bookbinding and restoration first in Northampton, Massachusetts, then at Cornell University's Department of Library Conservation, and in the Smithsonian Institution's Conservation Laboratories. Mrs. Deiss holds a B.S. in Chemistry and received a Master of Library Science degree from Syracuse University where she specialized in the study of archives and rare book collections. The other staff binders include Dee Evetts, Bill Deiss, Susan McCabe, and Amy Jackson with support from Brandi Ferrebee and Charlotte Kirks who serve as bindery elves.

Exciting new show about Abraham Lincoln on PBS!

ENJOY!!! I know I will!
Kristie

West Point Launches Center for Oral History

"Every soldier has a story."

Although countless works of fiction and journalism have examined the soldier’s life in wartime, there has never been an archive of soldiers’ experiences, spanning historic conflicts and other missions, told in the soldiers’ own words.

Now there is. The United States Military Academy at West Point, NY, has established the Center for Oral History, an online research center gathering the personal stories of American service men and women of all ranks – beginning with those returning from Iraq and Afghanistan and going back to veterans of Vietnam, Korea, World War II and other campaigns. http://www.westpointcoh.org/

Housed by the History department at West Point, the new Center – which will officially launch in 2009 – is advised by a board that includes documentary filmmaker Ken Burns and 1947 West Point graduate and former Presidential advisor Gen. Brent Scowcroft, among many other eminent historians, journalists, and educators.

Gen. David Petraeus, who recently became head of U.S. Central Command, welcomed the new Center: “Our army has a proud history, one that is chronicled in innumerable books and films. This Center aims to record our army's history in a different way, through the personal oral histories of our soldiers captured by thorough, thoughtful interviews. This is an exciting prospect,” General Petraeus said. The Center was conceived to help educate West Point cadets, through the stories of soldiers who preceded them into conflict; but also to create a trove of personal testimony that will assist the work of scholars and historians; and to help build a bridge of greater understanding and empathy between the military and the civilian population it serves. The Center’s web site will be open to all users.

“Oral history delivers a spontaneity and intimacy that you can’t draw from any other research sources,” said the Center’s director, Todd Brewster, a journalist and co-author of two best-selling books with the late Peter Jennings of ABC News. “In the best West Point tradition, we hope our recorded interviews will speak directly to the soldiers of tomorrow while contributing to the policy dialogue going on right now.” The choice of Brewster, who has served as senior producer at ABC News and has written for Time and Vanity Fair, underscores the Academy’s intention to make its new oral history center a resource for the general public as well as the military community.

Among the early projects undertaken by the COH: an oral history of the Iraqi conflict as well as a look back at the West Point Class of ’67, most of whose graduates were immediately sent to Vietnam. The Center will also interview former U.S. Secretaries of State and Defense whose decisions have been so pivotal to the fate of American soldiers.

The Center’s ambition is captured in its motto: “Every soldier has a story. Here is where the story is told.”

Here is a link to additional material about the Center – including a 12-minute video that includes some early interviews of soldiers featured in the news announcement below: http://www.westpointcoh.org/

EXCITING NEWS!!!

Congratulations, Dr. Boritt!

President Bush Awards 2008 National Humanities Medals

Recipients honored for outstanding cultural contributions

Leading Lincoln scholars and Civil War historians Gabor S. Boritt and Harold Holzer, and biographer and historian Richard Brookhiser among this year’s honorees

WASHINGTON (November 17, 2008) — Today, President George W. Bush awarded the prestigious National Humanities Medal for 2008 to scholars and Civil War historians Gabor S. Boritt and Harold Holzer and biographer and historian Richard Brookhiser during a ceremony held in the White House East Room. In total, nine distinguished Americans, one museum, and a philanthropic foundation were honored for their exemplary contributions to the humanities and were recognized for their scholarship, literary works, philanthropy, and preservation efforts. In addition to Gabor S. Boritt, Richard Brookhiser, and Harold Holzer, the President presented National Humanities Medals to Myron Magnet, journalist and author; Albert Marrin, children’s book author; Milton J. Rosenberg, radio show host and scholar; Thomas A. Saunders III and Jordan Horner Saunders, philanthropists; Robert H. Smith, philanthropist; John Templeton Foundation; and Norman Rockwell Museum.

Gabor S. Boritt is being recognized “for a distinguished career of scholarship on Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War era. His life’s work and his life’s story stand as testaments to our Nation’s precious legacy of liberty.”

Richard Brookhiser is being recognized “for helping reintroduce Americans to the personalities, eccentricities, and noble ideals of our Founding Fathers. His works of biography and history have rendered vivid and accessible portraits of the early days of the Republic.”

Harold Holzer is being recognized “for engaging scholarship on that crucible of our history, the American Civil War. His work has brought new understanding of the many facets of Abraham Lincoln and his era through the study of image, word, and deed.”

The National Humanities Medal, first awarded in 1989 as the Charles Frankel Prize, honors individuals or groups whose work has deepened the nation's understanding of the humanities, broadened our citizens' engagement with the humanities, or helped preserve and expand Americans' access to important resources in the humanities.

The Humanities Medal is the most prestigious award in the humanities. Over the last decade, including this year’s recipients, the National Humanities Medal has been awarded to only 107 individuals and 9 organizations. Among those recognized during this time period are Bernard Lewis, Judith “Miss Manners” Martin, Madeleine L’Engle, Harvey Mansfield, and John Updike.

Medal recipients do not compete for this award but are specially selected by the President for their life-long achievements in their diverse areas of expertise.

A detailed profile of each of the 2008 medalists is available at: http://www.neh.gov/news/archive/2008_Medalists.html

Gettysburg National Military Park has news!

Kate Lawhon from the Gettysburg National Military Park shared some great pieces of news with me! See below!

Main Street Gettysburg and Gettysburg National Military Park will provide an update on the David Wills House museum exhibits and aspecial "behind-the-scenes" look at original artifacts that will be on display in the museum.

The briefing will take place in the Library of thepark's new Museum and Visitor Center, 1195 Baltimore Pike, and in theCollections Storage Area. Both are located on the lower level of the Museumand Visitor Center.The briefing will be held on Thursday, November 13, 2008 from 10: a.m.until approximately 11:30 a.m.
_________________________________________________
Gettysburg National Military ParkSuperintendent John Latschar will be leaving his post on March 1, 2009 tobecome the new president of the nonprofit Gettysburg Foundation, it was announced today by the Gettysburg Foundation and the National Park Service.

"John's vision and leadership are an important part of the successful public-private partnership between the Gettysburg Foundation and theNational Park Service," said Robert Kinsley, Chair of the GettysburgFoundation. "John's experience and dedication exemplifies the type of leader we are looking for as we continue to work with the National Park Service to preserve Gettysburg for future generations."

Latschar was selected after a unanimous vote by the Board of Directors of theFoundation. "Obviously, Bob Wilburn is leaving some huge shoes to fill," said Latschar. "No one else could have taken the Gettysburg Foundation from a concept tothe opening of our new museum and visitor center in eight short years. I'm excited about the opportunity to continue to work towards the preservation and care of Gettysburg NMP and Eisenhower NHS from a new perspective. My goal will be ensure that we continue our momentum, and to move the organization forward into a new era of philanthropy for the benefit of this and future generations," said Latschar.

Working as a partner with the National Park Service, the Gettysburg Foundation raised $103 million to build a new park Museum and Visitor Center which has ensured the preservation of the Gettysburg's museum collections and the Cyclorama painting. The facility's 24,000 square feet of museum exhibits have improved visitor understanding of the significance of the Battle of Gettysburg within the context of the causes and consequences of the American Civil War. A final keystone to the projectwill begin this winter when the park and the Gettysburg Foundation demolish two outdated visitor facilities located upon the center of the Union Army's battle line of July 1863.

"John's background and perspectives as an army officer, a combat veteran, a Ph.D. historian, and park superintendent contributed to his success in addressing preservation challenges at both Gettysburg NMP and the Eisenhower Site in innovative ways," said Dennis Reidenbach, Regional Director for the National Park Service Northeast Region. "The projects and partnerships he created have dramatically improved the park's ability to meet its mission now and for the future."

"It has been a pleasure to work with the dedicated park staff, our partners, and the community to create the new museum and implement battlefield rehabilitation to restore Gettysburg's historic integrity and enhance visitor understanding of the battle. I'm also proud of our combined efforts with Main Street Gettysburg and others to develop the David Wills House, a National Park Service museum opening February 2009 in downtown Gettysburg about the aftermath of battle and Lincoln's Gettysburg Address," said Latschar. "As President of the Gettysburg Foundation, we will continue to work with all our Gettysburg-area partners on the implementation of the Borough of Gettysburg Interpretive Plan."

Latschar has been superintendent of Gettysburg National Military Park since 1994. He is a 31-year veteran of the National Park Service. Prior to his appointment at Gettysburg, he served as the first Superintendent of Steamtown National Historic Site in Scranton, PA, and in various capacities at the NPS Denver Service Center. He has been recognized by the National Park Service for his leadership numerous times, including being named Superintendent of the Year for the Northeast Region of the NPS in 1991 and in 2001, Superintendent of the Year for Natural Resource Stewardship in 2003 and for Cultural Resource Stewardship in 2000.

The Gettysburg Foundation is in the midst of a $125 million Campaign to Preserve Gettysburg, which includes the construction of the new Museum and Visitor Center at Gettysburg National Military Park. TheFoundation's broad preservation mission began in 1989 and includes land preservation, battlefield rehabilitation, artifact preservation and monument and cannon-carriage preservation. The Foundation has more than 30,000 members and supporters nationwide and internationally.

New Gettysburg Chapel Photo!

Our good friend John Wega left us a message we wanted to share:

Dear Friends;

I wanted you to see some pictures of the newly expanded USCC Chapel in Gettysburg. We have estimated over 2,000 people have attended services with us on Sunday this year. And it seems the attendance has been growing. Thanks for your support.

I pray we can build many more of these. It is amazing to watch people walk and drive by and look at the chapel. It gets a lot of attention!

Blessings,

John and Susan

CWPT Photo Award Winners Announced

Hello!
It's been awhile since I've posted--and I apologize for that. Now that the October issue is out, I will have more time to get out the day to day news and views.

You HAVE to check out this link. These are the winners of the 2008 CWPT Digital Photo contest. These amateur photographers have taken some amazing photos of battlefields!

http://www.civilwar.org/photocontestwinners08/index.htm

Congratulations to all!!

Battlefield Journal

Sprited Tours coming!!

As darkness descends on Saturday the 18th of October, some strange but true tales will be told by lantern-carrying costumed interpreters roaming the streets of Old Town Manassas during special walking tours sponsored by the Manassas Museum.

The Spirited Past of Manassas Walking Tours of Historic Old Town Manassas will present the unusual, twisted or simply strange tales about people, places and disasters in the area. The stories have been gathered from newspaper articles, diaries, personal interviews, letters, and local gossip. Tours will begin at The Manassas Museum every half hour between 5:30 PM and 9:00 PM, last approximately 45 minutes, and are appropriate for all ages. The cost is $15 per person. At the conclusion of the walk, those on the tour can return to the Museum for hot cider and cookies.

Stories will include the great 1905 fire in Manassas, strange happenings at the Hopkins Candy Factory and other historic buildings in Old Town, and some frightening events at the historic Railroad Depot.

Advance tickets are recommended. Tickets may be purchased at the Manassas Museum, 9101 Prince William Street, by visiting www.manassasmuseum.org or by calling 703-368-1873.

CIVIL WAR RE-ENACTMENT SCHEDULED

The Civil War returns to the C&O Canal on Saturday and Sunday, October 4 and 5, 2008, in the Cushwa Basin. Civil War Union reenactors will be encamped by the Conococheague Aqueduct to interpret the impact of the Civil War on the canal. The reenactors will present demonstrations on Saturday at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., and Sunday at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, at 3:00 p.m. the reenactors will also play a game of baseball in the Williamsport River Bottom Park as soldiers may have played the game during the war. Reenactors from the 116th Pennsylvania and 95th Pennsylvania will be participating in the weekend.

These activities held at the Cushwa Basin are part of the Williamsport Harvest Hoedown being held in the Williamsport Byron Park on Saturday, October 4, 2008, in support of the Williamsport Food Bank.

The Hagerstown-Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau is sponsoring a trolley, which will run for free on Saturday October 4th between the Cushwa Basin, Byron Park and the Discovery Station Museum in Hagerstown from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Discovery Station Museum will have its new C&O Canal exhibit open for the public. The trolley will provide transportation for visitors to participate in the activities at all three attractions.

The C&O Canal was greatly impacted by the Civil War. The Union Army used the canal to transport troops and supplies. Confederate troops attempted to destroy the canal structures, especially during General Stonewall Jackson's efforts during December of 1861. The Army of Northern Virginia under General Robert E. Lee twice crossed the Potomac River in the Williamsport area, while en route to Gettysburg and again when retreating into West Virginia after this major campaign. Earlier, in 1861, Captain Abner Doubleday, known as the "inventor of the game of baseball," encamped with Union forces at Williamsport while protecting the canal. Doubleday's men were known to play a version of baseball in Washington County, at that time.
For more information please call the C&O Canal NHP Williamsport Visitor Center at 301-582-0813. For more information about the Discovery Station Museum, call 301-790-0076.

The C&O Canal NHP is Maryland's largest and most-visited national park. Headquartered in Washington County, the park's web site is: www.nps.gov/choh. Discovery Station is a hands-on science center, family-friendly museum located in Downtown Hagerstown at 101 West Washington Street. The museum's web site is: www.discoverystation.org. The C&O Canal NHP and the Discovery Station are members of the Hagerstown-Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau. For more information, see: www.marylandmemories.com.

The Passing of John Y. Simon

Please see below for this sad news from the Ulysses S. Grant Association. Mr. Simon was an asset to the Civil War world and will be missed...

JOHN Y. SIMON
1933-2008


We regret to announce that John Y. Simon, editor of The Papers of Ulysses S. Grant and executive director of the Ulysses S. Grant Association, died in Carbondale on July 8, 2008.

For more than four decades, Dr. Simon oversaw the publication of thirty volumes of the Grant Papers and the preparation of Volume 31, which will close out the chronological series. He wrote extensively on Grant, Lincoln, and the Civil War, lectured widely to audiences small and large, and participated in countless roundtables, panels, and forums dedicated to examining that crucial period in our nation's history.

A founder of the Association for Documentary Editing, Dr. Simon helped modernize editing practices and mentored younger editors who sought a model for their own projects. He took seriously his role as Grant's editor, and viewed the Grant Papers as the equivalent of a portable presidential library. The project receives a steady stream of Grant-related queries, from journalists and local historians to children writing grammar school papers and callers hoping to verify a family link to the General. Dr. Simon treated all with dignity, humor, and respect. He had a loyal corps of admirers who sought his time for treasured conversations about history and a variety of other subjects, including his lifelong affliction as a Chicago Cubs fan.

Dr. Simon also relished his dual role as history professor at Southern Illinois University. Over forty-four years, his courses on the Civil War, Reconstruction, and Illinois history remained popular with generations of students, many of whom stopped by to see him years afterward on campus visits. He took great pleasure in these reunions and enjoyed introducing the visitors to his staff colleagues. His lectures were often humorous and sometimes pointed, livened by wry observations and colorful examples. He preferred to inspire as much as instruct, and he was never stingy with grades, but he left a lasting impression on his listeners.

John Y. Simon's well-honed sense of historical skepticism served him well in his long career. His skill and tenacity in questioning accepted truths and conjectured facts resulted in the exposure of more than one historical fraud, and taught those who worked under him an invaluable lesson in open-mindedness and persistence. He leaves his legacy on every page of the Grant Papers, in every obscure correspondent whose name and circumstances were painstakingly hunted down and verified, and forever preserved as part of our nation's historical record. He will be missed.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
All questions and inquiries related to the Association should be directed to:
Frank J. Williams, President
Ulysses S. Grant Association
300 Switch Road
Hope Valley, RI 02832
(401) 364-3642
(401) 539-7979 (Fax)

TAMING THE WILDERNESS

Check out the event below!!!

Please join Friends of Wilderness Battlefield
at Historic Ellwood

“Taming the Wilderness”
A Living History Event

Sunday, September 28, 2008
11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

No Admission Fee-Donations Welcome
Enjoy craftsmen, artisans and specialists as they demonstrate the building trades and homemaking skills related to the construction of Ellwood and the settling of the Wilderness during the 1790’s. Special activities will occur throughout the day and will include:

Brick And Stone Masonry - John Friedrichs Of New Dimensions Builders
Hewing And Shaping Logs for Construction - Craig Jacobs Of Salvagewrights
Blacksmithing And Traditional Ironworking - Ross Sullivan Of Cherry Hill Forge
Colonial Foodways And Open-Hearth Cooking - Susan Titus
Traditional Brick And Plaster Work - Virginia Limeworks
Spinning And Weaving - Members Of The Fredericksburg Spinners And Weavers Guild
Colonial Furniture Reproduction - Traditional Craftsman Chris Kerr
Inn And Tavern Life - “Tavern Wench” Elaine Pratt
Frontier Life On The Trail - The Westmoreland Longhunters
Split-Oak Basket Weaving - Mary Lynn Rowland
Architectural and Decorating Details - Langley Freeauf
Children’s Games Of The Period - Fun for Kids and Grown-Ups Alike

Rain or Shine. Refreshments will be available on the grounds. Donations accepted.

Directions to Historic Ellwood:
Ellwood is located approximately 15 miles west of Interstate 95 near the intersection of Route 3 and Route 20. Follow Rte 3 West about 15 miles to its intersection with VA Rte 20. West on Rte 20 about 1/3 mile to entrance on the left.
Look for the brown “Ellwood” signs.

Visit www.fowb.org for more information about Friends of Wilderness Battlefield.

This sounds great!

Also, website problem should be taken care of this week! And the new issue will be out in October!

Battlefield Journal Website Problem

Hello and Happy Sunday!

It has just come to my attention that the changes to my website for the latest issue didn't take. It looks right on my side but not in the "real" world. Luckily, we have this blog! I have a request into Yahoo (Site Builder and Yahoo Business are my Web hosting service) to see what the heck is going on, so thanks for bearing with me!

Have a great rest of the weekend!

Battlefield Journal

Podcasts are in!

New Podcast Enhances Visitor Experience at Antietam National Battlefield
Most-Visited Historical Attraction in Western Maryland Now Has Audio and Video Programs

( SHARPSBURG , Md. ) – Antietam National Battlefield is just one of several national parks across the country where park rangers are turning into podcasters. Hundreds of brief audio and video programs are up on park websites and on iTunes giving visitors a new national park experience. People can learn about park resources, take a guided tour, get help planning trips, and meet actual rangers.

"While nothing can replace a personal experience in a national park, we think our podcasts will enhance people’s trips or give them the opportunity to learn about a park that they can’t visit," said Mary A. Bomar, Director of the National Park Service (NPS). "Whether people download them to portable devices or watch them on their computers, these free electronic presentations give us another way to serve park enthusiasts of all ages."

Podcasts are a great way to offer ranger-led tours of specific areas that people can enjoy on their own schedule. More and more people download guided tours onto their own iPods or mp3 players prior to their national park trip. When they arrive, they literally have a ranger in the palm of their hand to guide them on a walking or driving tour.

"The use of podcasts is something new for us, but definitely something we will be expanding," said Antietam National Battlefield Superintendent John W. Howard. "They are quite popular with our visitors. The Cornfield podcast has already had about 100,000 hits since it first came out. Civil War Traveler and Antietam rangers are currently working on a new podcast for the Union Advance Trail near Burnside Bridge , so stay tuned."

The podcast can be downloaded from the Civil War Traveler website at www.CivilWarTraveler.com or from iTunes, located at www.iTunes.com. The Civil War Traveler site includes a downloadable map showing all the walking tour stops. A 16-page full color trail guide is available on the Antietam National Battlefield website at www.nps.gov/anti.

Antietam is one of four Civil War battlefields in the United States to offer a podcast of an NPS ranger talking about the decisive and dramatic battle. Park staff worked with Civil War Traveler to develop the Antietam podcast. Interpretive Park Ranger Keith Snyder provides real time interpretation along the eight stops of the 1.6 mile Cornfield Trail. An introduction is given by John Fieseler and music is provided by Southern Horizon, a group that performs 19th century period music. John Fieseler is a well-known former radio personality, and is the Executive Director of the Frederick County Tourism Council. Fieseler additionally serves on the Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area board of directors. The Maryland-Certified Heritage Area includes Washington County, Frederick County, and Carroll County.

Antietam National Battlefield is the site of the bloodiest single day battle in American history. At the conclusion of the September 17, 1862 battle there were 23,110 casualties. Today, Antietam is considered North America's most well-preserved Civil War battlefield park. The visitors center had more than 300,000 people stop inside during 2007, and during that year the park counted an estimated 700,000 people throughout the 3,200 acre site. The park also offers guided tours, and Segway tours through TourGlides. For additional information about Antietam visit www.nps.gov/anti.

Antietam National Battlefield is a member of the Hagerstown-Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau. For more information, see: www.marylandmemories.com.

PHOTO WINNER!

I know...I know...twice in one day! But we have chosen our winner for the Photo contest. We would have liked to have seen a LOT more entries, but we had enough if we pooled them all together...so (drumroll)...the winner is...

HANNAH LANDIS with her Stonewall Jackson statue photo. We loved how the light radiated from behind the statue, giving it an ethereal glow! Hannah will receive a Civil War basket in the mail. Hannah, please send us an email to verify your home address!

Thanks to all our entrants!!!

We look forward to doing it again!

Battlefield Journal

Amazing Find!

Hello, everyone!!



This is a GREAT find from the Philadelphia Civil War museum. Although the video link is no longer live, we have this news report. On the video it shows the signatures of the men who witnessed the document--including James Longstreet's signature! Wow! That made my day!

http://www.newsday.com/news/nationworld/ats-ap-civil-war-surrenderaug02,0,6059670.story?track=rss



Enjoy!

Battlefield Journal

http://gmy.news.yahoo.com/v/9111012/cbs3_philly/20080803/av_localcat_dontlaun/_goodmorningyahoo_cbslocal61923

Ed Bearss Lecture

We just received an exciting piece of news from the National Museum of Civil War Medicine in Frederick, Maryland!

National Museum of Civil War Medicine to Host Renowned Historian Ed Bearss

Frederick, MD – The National Museum of Civil War Medicine (NMCWM) is proud to welcome world renown historian and author Ed Bearss to the museum on Thursday, July 31at 7:30 p.m. A gifted speaker and one of the most well respected historians on the Civil War. Mr. Bearss will be talking about his own sever wounding in WWII and relating his experience to that of both Civil War and modern soldiers.

Mr. Bearss is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran of World War II, a military historian and author known for his work on the American Civil War and World War II eras and is a popular tour guide of historic battlefields. He served as Chief Historian of the National Park Service from 1981 to 1994 and provided commentary for The Civil War, PBS Series by Ken Burns and Civil War Journal on A&E Network.
The National Museum of Civil War Medicine is the premiere repository of exhibits and artifacts devoted to the technological and procedural advances made in the medical field between 1861-1865. These changes occurred in the midst of tremendous social and economic upheaval. The Museum is committed to effectively weaving the narrative of suffering soldiers, caregivers, their families and the dramatic and innovative developments in medical treatment. The Museum utilizes its collection to heighten public awareness of the modern medical practices that originated on the battlefields and in the hospitals of this once divided country. Interactive educational programs, exhibits, seminars and lectures provide the knowledge that Civil War medicine connects us not only to our past, but is the scientific and historical link to our present and our future.
Ed Bearss’ talk is one in a series of lectures that is running throughout the summer at NMCWM. While the weekly lecture series has averaged 50 attendees, Mr. Bearss’ lecture has already hit capacity with advanced reservations in excess of 80 individuals.

For more information call 695-1864 or visit us online at www.civilwarmed.org

Contributor Spotlight--Wayne Rowe

Hello, loyal readers!

I thought you all may be interested to hear about the background of some of our talented authors! This interview will also be on the website!

INTRODUCING: WAYNE ROWE!

1) Describe how you became interested in the Civil War. What do you consider your favorite area for study and research?

Seems like I’ve always been interested in the Civil War, but I guess it all began when I received the American Heritage book “The Civil War” as a Christmas present when I was eleven years old. I was taken by the very unique diorama-type battle maps and pictures.

For the last seven years I have participated in reenactments and have researched the First Company, Richmond Howitzers, a Confederate Artillery unit.

2) When did you begin writing? What has that journey been like?

I have written books as a Research Fellow when I was in the Navy. Only recently have I written Civil War articles, and have given speeches at ceremonies and to Civil War Round Tables.

The journey has been more exciting then I could ever have imagined. Jeff Shaara said in the introduction to his book on Civil War battlefields: “. . . the research is the energy behind the story, and the energy behind the research has come from walking in the footsteps of the characters.”

I’ve walked in the footsteps of the Richmond Howitzers over many battlefields. I’ve visited dozens of museums, historical societies and libraries up and down the East coast. I’ve held and read the diaries, letters and memoirs of Richmond Howitzers and yet only now after about nine years of research am I getting to know who these men were.

3) Are you a full time writer? If not, what else do you do?

I am not a full time writer. Wish that I were. I am a retired Naval Officer who is currently the Head Reference Librarian at the Naval War College in Newport, RI.

4) Do you have a specific writing or researching technique or tip you'd like to share?

Do your homework. What I mean by that is do thorough research. Use primary sources when possible. Know your audience. Have at least one or more people read, critique and edit your draft. Keep it simple. Do not use twenty words to say something when two words will do.

5) What are some of the next projects you are working on?

I am currently working on the transcription and compiling of two works (diary & a reflection) of a Richmond Howitzers for a book.

Other books are in the works on several key men of the Richmond Howitzers. I have not yet decided if there is enough material to write one book or several books, but I am keeping my options open.

6) Any advice for beginning writers you would like to give?

Keep a narrow focus on your topic or subject. This will help with both doing research and writing your papers, articles, and books. Keep track of the resources you use so you can build a good bibliography and footnotes. Always give credit to an author whose work you have used to avoid being accused of plagiarism. Research is the fun part, but start early on in the process by doing some writing. In today’s world of computers, you can always cut, paste and edit later. The art of actually putting pen to paper or fingers to keyboard is always the toughest part of the process. And most importantly, pick a topic you are passionate about as you will be spending many hours working on it.

Lincoln Signature on Display!

HAPPY 4th of JULY EVERYONE!!!

On the eve of Independence Day, and in honor of the 145th anniversary of the conclusion of the Battle of Gettysburg on July 3, 1863, the National Constitution Center announces that it has acquired for display the only known signature made by President Abraham Lincoln at Gettysburg when he gave his historic Gettysburg Address. While almost every American is familiar with the Address, many do not know that President Abraham Lincoln’s famous opening words – “Four score and seven years ago” – were a reference to July 4, 1776, in acknowledgment of the ideals expressed in the Declaration of Independence.
The signature is on the first page of an autograph book from the dedication of the Gettysburg Cemetery . Acquired at auction by businessman and philanthropist Lewis Katz on behalf of a Trust for his grandchildren, the signature will be on loan to the Center for ten years and displayed in the Center’s permanent exhibition, The Story of We the People.
The autograph book was purchased amid intense public and media interest at Sotheby’s on April 8, 2008, among twenty other Lincoln documents, and was the second highest purchase at the auction.

“We are extremely grateful to Lewis Katz for bringing this important treasure to our museum and understanding the role it can play in the story we tell,” said Joseph M. Torsella, President and CEO of the National Constitution Center . “It is an honor to obtain such a rare piece of history to include in our permanent exhibition. Lincoln ’s role at Gettysburg signaled a major turning point in American constitutional history, and this treasure will connect visitors in a unique and tangible way to that defining moment.”

” Pennsylvania is known for its rich historical legacy, and I am thrilled that this rare artifact has returned,” said Edward G. Rendell, Governor of Pennsylvania. “I am not surprised that Lewis Katz understood that this important piece of our past belongs at the National Constitution Center .”

“In making this loan, we hope to achieve two important objectives,” said Lewis Katz. “First, we want visitors to the Center to connect to history in a personal way. Signatures offer a unique opportunity for visitors to imagine the moment the pen touched the paper. Second, it is our sincere hope that others share great treasures with the National Constitution Center – through loan and purchase – so that the American story can be told, in part, through documents and objects.”

Signatures of Simon Cameron, Lincoln ’s Secretary of War; William H. Seward, Lincoln ’s Secretary of State; and the Governor of Pennsylvania, A.G. Curtin, share the first page with Lincoln ’s signature, A. Lincoln. All three of these men were seated on the main platform with Lincoln at the dedication ceremony. The remaining pages of the autograph book include signatures from John Hay, one of Lincoln’s secretaries; Henry Mercier, the American-born Minister from France; Reynaud, the Admiral commanding the French Naval Division of the Gulf and North America; Ulissa Isola, an Italian Army captain; Joseph Bertinatti, the Minister from Italy; Abner Doubleday, a Union General who fought at Gettysburg; A.W. Bradford, the Governor of Maryland; John. G. Nicolay, Lincoln ’s private secretary; and George Sykes, a second Union general at Gettysburg .

The signatures, all gathered on the day of Lincoln’s unforgettable address, were obtained either at the main platform at the dedication ceremony, or at the Gettysburg railroad station following the dedication, and were probably gathered by a member of the President’s traveling party. No one else would have had access to so many people of prominence.

Beginning in February 2007 with the acquisition of a rare copy of the Emancipation Proclamation signed by Abraham Lincoln, and continuing with the Lincoln signature, the Center is working to build a collection of treasures through long-term loans and permanent acquisitions, including rare and important documents and items with iconic status that uniquely capture crucial moments in American history.

The autograph book is a significant addition to the icons of American history that have been displayed at the National Constitution Center . Over the years, these have included treasures such as Benjamin Franklin’s copy of the Constitution, Thomas Jefferson’s manuscript draft of the Declaration of Independence, FDR's leg braces, and tools used by the Watergate burglars.

Admission to the National Constitution Center is $12 for adults, $11 for seniors ages 65 and up and $8 for children ages 4-12. Active military personnel and children ages 3 and under are free. Group rates are also available. For ticket information, call 215.409.6700 or visit http://www.constitutioncenter.org/.

The National Constitution Center, located at 525 Arch St. on Philadelphia’s Independence Mall, is an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing public understanding of the U.S. Constitution and the ideas and values it represents. The Center serves as a museum, an education center, and a forum for debate on constitutional issues. The museum dramatically tells the story of the Constitution from Revolutionary times to the present through more than 100 interactive, multimedia exhibits, film, photographs, text, sculpture and artifacts, and features a powerful, award-winning theatrical performance, “Freedom Rising”. The Center also houses the Annenberg Center for Education and Outreach, which serves as the hub for national constitutional education. Also, as a nonpartisan forum for constitutional discourse, the Center presents – without endorsement – programs that contain diverse viewpoints on a broad range of issues. For more information, call 215.409.6700 or visit http://www.constitutioncenter.org/enter.org/.

U.S. Christian Commission News

Check out this information! Just click on the link to connect to a great website and event!

http://www.usccgettysburg.org/event_detail.asp?event_id=359

Also, some info on a July 3rd event--just in time for the 145th Anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg

As a rare prelude to the Gettysburg 145TH Anniversary Battle Reenactment, both visitors and local citizens will have an opportunity to experience a unique living history event in Gettysburg on Thursday July 3rd at 11AM along Baltimore Street and in front of the historic Adams County Courthouse. The 1,000+ civil war reenactor participants will have traveled 1,500 miles and two days from Texas making the pilgrimage to Gettysburg for the National 145TH anniversary celebration. Although the reenactors normally portray CSA General Hood’s Texas Division, on July 3rd they will change their colors and replicate Confederate Jubal Early’s pre-engagement forage march into Gettysburg which occurred on June 26, 1863.

On a rainy Friday afternoon in 1863, Confederate General Jubal Early and his division of 5,000 men approached Gettysburg on their way to support Lee’s pending northern invasion by cutting off the railroad at York and destroying the bridge across the Susquehanna at Wrightsville. The 2400 residents of Gettysburg were aware the Confederates were close by and had taken precautions by fleeing with or hiding merchandise, livestock and supplies. Attempts to raise militia for Pennsylvania’s defense were largely unsuccessful. Among the members of the 743 member 26th Pennsylvania Emergency Militia, were young men from Pennsylvania (Gettysburg) College and the Lutheran Theological Seminary. The Pennsylvania militia attempted futilely to defend Gettysburg, but were quickly overwhelmed and retreated toward Harrisburg. Early rode into Gettysburg and wrote a requisition for 1,200 pounds of sugar, 600 pounds of coffee, 60 barrels of flour, 1,000 pounds of salt, 7,000 pounds of bacon, 10 barrels of whiskey, 10 barrels of onions, 1,000 pairs of shoes, and 500 hats…..or, in lieu thereof, $5,000 cash. Following a meeting of borough council, President David Kendlehart composed his reply and sent it back with Constable John Burns as the town representative. In summation, the response stated that the supplies were far beyond that in the town’s possession and that the stores would be opened and the citizens would furnish whatever they could. Early’s men found that little had been left behind. They paid for some merchandise with Confederate money and took 2,000 army rations from a train intended for the militia. A Confederate band played Dixie in the square that night causing concern and annoying many residents. Before starting for York the next morning, Early paroled the members of the hapless 26th Pennsylvania Militia. This raid was a mild preview of the war that would come to Gettysburg one week later.


Last fall, Texas reenactors and local organizers met and agreed that Early’s March Into Gettysburg would provide a novel experience for the Texas participants after they had traveled several thousand miles to attend the reenactment. It was determined Early’s March would also add a new historic dimension to the reenactment, be an excellent prelude to Independence Day and be an historically appropriate and interesting community event. Event organizers put their heads together with local officials to figure out how all the parties could reasonably make it work.

The Texans will assemble and form for parade march at the Gettysburg Middle School complex at approximately 10AM on July 3rd. Their ranks will include infantry, cavalry, artillery and reenactors portraying civilians in period dress along Baltimore Street. At 10:45am, they will march north on Baltimore Street to the historic courthouse. The troops will form on Baltimore Street between High Street and the town square in review for the ceremony. General Early (Jack King) and his senior staff will ceremonially make demands and receive a drafted reply from the town officials. Visitors and community members are encouraged to view the March and ceremony. PA State Senator Terry Punt (portraying Senator Mc Sherry), Adams County President Judge John D. Kuhn (portraying Attorney David Wills) and Adams County Sheriff James Mueller (portraying Sheriff John Burns) are three public officials that have already agreed to participate in the historic ceremony at the courthouse. Participation by several other local officials is anticipated. After the ceremony the troops will then march via East Middle Street back to the middle school complex. Immediately following the ceremony there will be an event press conference with General King and his senior staff, “local elected officials”, Federal and overall event commander Allen Baldwin, and Confederate event commander Dave Cornett.

In addition to Early’s March Into Gettysburg on Thursday June 3rd, there will be six major battles and significant living history activities during the Independence Day weekend event on July 4, 5 & 6. Spectators will be thrilled with extensive pyrotechnics during all the major battles and particularly on Sunday during the massive Pickett’s Charge. The Gettysburg 145TH National Civil War Battle Reenactment is an all-day family event. It will stimulate the senses and make those dusty old history books come alive. Gates open at 8:30 each day. Complete event information and tickets are available at www.gettysburgreenactment/com or by calling the Gettysburg Anniversary Committee at 717-338-1525. Tickets should be ordered in advance as grandstand seating normally sells out prior to the event and tickets are priced higher at the gate. For information on accommodations and visiting Gettysburg, please contact the Gettysburg Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-337-5015 or online at www.gettysburg.travel

Doll Coincides with Battle of Gettysburg Anniversary

HISTORIC CHINA DOLL MARKS 145TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE BATTLE OF GETTYSBURG

Every little girl needs a dolly to play with! And what better way to mark the historic significance of the 145th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg than by doing so with a token china doll, Miss Lydia Webb, and all of her era-appropriate clothing and accessories from the 1850s. Miss Lydia Webb will be auctioned off just before Pickett’s Charge on Sunday, July 6.

Designed after the popular Jenny Lind doll in the mid-1800s, Miss Lydia Webb is a token of living history. Made and donated by Sherry Riley, the doll comes equipped with underclothing, dresses, an apron and cape, a locket, parasol, and a tea set, all made or donated by Sherry Riley. The doll also comes fitted with an authentic reproduction crinoline ‘Cage’ made and donated by “Needle and Thread,” a doll-sized quilt made a donated by Jill Coleman, a knitted shawl made and donated by Patsy Hartnett, a wicker trunk donated by Bob McIlhenny, and a coupon for a grand ball gown, donated by Maggie Abbott and Samantha Rife of “LaBelle Femme.”

Raffle tickets for the doll will be sold during the At High Tide reenactment June 28-29, the JEB Stuart reenactment July 3, and during the weekend reenactments of the Battle of Gettysburg July 4-6. Raffle tickets for the doll can also be purchased during business hours at the Conservancy’s office at the Ag Center, located at 670 Old Harrisburg Road, Gettysburg, or by calling 717-334-2828. Tickets are $5.00 each and all proceeds benefit the Land Conservancy of Adams County, a member-supported nonprofit land trust with the mission of preserving the rural lands and character of Adams County.

Summer is here!

Hello, everyone!
Summer is upon us!! It's hot where I am; don't know about you! Now, we start to see some great events! Here are a couple you may be interested in! Have a great time! Battlefield Journal

GETTYSBURG NATIONAL MILITARY PARK CELEBRATES WITH A CIVIL WAR MUSICCONCERT
The Wildcat Regiment Band, Civil War era musicians representing the 105thPennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, will perform a free concert outdoors atthe Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center on June 21 in conjunction with the Gettysburg Festival from June 19 -29.

The earlyWildcat Regiment concert will begin at 11:00 AM. The Grand Concert willbegin at 3:00 PM. Bring blankets and lawn chairs for your seating. The Wildcat Regiment Band represents the regimental band of the 105thPennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. The 105th Regiments was recruited in 1861 from the "Wildcat" congressional district made up in part by Indiana and Jefferson Counties. With Bandmaster Bruno J. Pino conducting, this modern re-creation of the Wildcat Regiment Band utilizes original instruments and reproduction hand-made uniforms. The concert at 11:00 AM will explore "TheAmerican Brass Movement: Bands and Bandmasters of the American Civil War"and will feature original musical instruments of the period.

The Gettysburg Festival features ten full days of celebrating America through Music, Theater, Film, Art and Dance from June 19 through 29. Tofind out more go to the website http://www.gettysburgfestival.org/

GRANT AND LEE IN WAR AND PEACE OPENS THIS FALL AT THE NEW-YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY
By the end of the Civil War, most Americans considered either Robert E. Lee or Ulysses S. Grant to be a hero. The reputations of the two generals were molded in part by a sectional bias that would aggrandize the achievements of one often to the detriment of the other. In recent years, Grant has earned a growing reputation for his pioneering use of Federal power for civil rights and post-war reconstruction--a remarkable shift from a presidency that was more often condemned as a bumbling series of scandals and corruption. Similarly in the eyes of today's viewers, Robert E. Lee's role as a symbol in American politics may have outstripped his actual feats as a Confederate general. This thought-provoking, interactive historical exhibition and its catalog plunges visitors into the promises and disappointments that Grant and Lee faced. It offers a challenging interpretation of the nation's history at mid-century to every American who wonders how we became what we are today. The New-York Historical Society exhibition complements the Virginia Historical Society sister exhibition Lee and Grant.

WHAT: Grant and Lee in War and Peace
WHEN: October 17, 2008 through March 29, 2009
WHERE: The New-York Historical Society
170 Central Park West at 77th Street
ADMISSION: Members and children 12 and under: FREE
Non-Members: $10 Educators, and Seniors: $7
Students: $6

PHOTOGRAPHY CONTEST

Hello again!
Just wanted to remind you all to keep submitting your photos...we're going to keep going with the Photography Contest--we want to get as many of your photos as we can emailed to us!

Please don't forget to let us know which category you're submitting for!

Thanks and good luck!
Battlefield Journal

First Confederate Blockade Runner Found in Florida!

Tampa, Fla. (May 22, 2008) – It may not have all the excitement of an Indiana Jones movie, but underwater archaeologists from The Florida Aquarium have discovered their own bit of treasure. It isn’t gold or silver, but it does have a lot of value to Florida’s Civil War history.
After two years of searching and more than 100 man-hours of underwater data collection, the first Confederate Blockade Runner ever found in Florida has a name: the Kate Dale. “I’m 98 percent sure,” says John William Morris, principal investigator on the project. “In this field you are rarely 100 percent sure on anything, but with all the data we’ve collected and historical records we’ve research, I can say with confidence this is the Kate Dale.”
The Kate Dale is one of three blockade runners owned by James McKay, considered the father of maritime industry in Tampa. Measuring more than 80 feet in length, the Kate Dale was a sailing vessel used to gather goods from McKay’s warehouse located near Lowry Park and shipped to foreign countries for cash to bring back for the Confederate Army. The story from there is as murky as the waters in the Hillsborough River.
With almost zero visibility during most of the work and the occasional run-ins with alligators and other marine life, underwater archaeology has its own inherit dangers, says Mike Terrell, Dive Training Officer for The Florida Aquarium.
“Our divers have challenging conditions to overcome on a daily basis,” says Terrell. “Sometimes it’s working with little to no visibility while trying to take down extremely accurate measurements. Other times you have to keep one eye on the work and another on a passing gator or the rare bull shark sighting.”
The Kate Dale will remain in its current location while more research is done on its fascinating story.
“It depends who you talk to as to whether James McKay was a sympathizer for the confederate army or a spy for the union,” says Tom Wagner, spokesperson for The Florida Aquarium. “I relate him to a kind of Tampa Rhett Butler who was using both sides for capital gain.”
The work on the Kate Dale ends today, but research will continue as the pieces of the puzzle come together to form as complete a picture as possible about the historical significance of the wreck. Union records indicate a battalion of union soldiers were sent to the Hillsborough River to set fire to both the Kate Dale and the Scottish Chief, another McKay owned blockade runner.
The program’s goal is a three-part project that encompasses the search and discovery of what lies at the bottom of our local waterways, building an educational curriculum around the discoveries and using the discoveries to recreate shipwreck exhibits at The Florida Aquarium.

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY!

One of the long-lasting traditions stemming from the American Civil War, Memorial Day today symbolizes the start of summer: picnics, bbqs, parades...but none of us forget that while on Veterans Day, we say thank you to the vets who have fought and come home, Memorial Day does just that--memorializes. And in this time of suffering for soldiers who have passed away in all of our wars, including the one going on now--and the families who are left behind--we give our prayers and thoughts to all who keep us and have kept us a free nation.

I have included below a copy pictures of some of New England's Civil War memorials town squares or in cemeteries. No matter who is in the White House or which presidential "hopeful" is duking it out...we have much to be thankful for.

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY! Have fun and stay safe!

Battlefield Journal

Historic African American Schoolhouse Available For Curatorship

The historic property known as the Hornbaker House in Washington County, is coming available for restoration under the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Resident-Curatorship Program. This property is located on the grounds of Fort Frederick State Park, 11100 Fort Frederick Road, Big Pool, Maryland. An open house will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2008 from 1 pm-3 pm, for those interested in learning more about the site and the program.“The Resident-Curatorship Program is a great opportunity for citizens to be directly involved in the preservation of Maryland’s historic resources.” said Bruce Alexander, Manager of Curatorships and Cultural Resources for DNR. “The curator who chooses to live in and restore the Hornbaker House will be preserving an important part of our state’s history.”Built in the late 19th century (circa 1899) the Hornbaker House was originally an African-American School. Once known as the Fort Frederick "Colored" school house, the small school was constructed to provide for the education of area African-American children during a time of racial segregation in Washington County. It operated on and off for a few years, then closed permanently in April 1909, when its students were sent to other segregated schools in Clear Spring and Williamsport. The Washington County school board sold the property in 1914, and it was enlarged and turned into a residence.Under this exciting program, in exchange for a lifetime lease, curators agree to restore and maintain the house according to strict historic preservation standards and at no cost to the state. The program requires that curatorship proposals represent at least $150,000 worth of improvements to the property, which must be completed within seven years. Certain properties may require a significantly greater investment. In addition, the curatorship is subject to regular inspection by state officials, and can be terminated for non-compliance. Resident-Curators, who can be individuals or organizations, must also agree to open the property to the public three to five times each year.

Fort Frederick State Park is the home of Fort Frederick, America’s premier stone colonial fort. It was built by the colony of Maryland in 1756 to protect its western boundaries and as a base to attack French claims to the Ohio River valley. The Fort Frederick State Park was Maryland's first state park, created in the first Maryland state park legislation in 1922.

Currently Fort Frederick is an educational center for the study of the French and Indian War, with significant African-American heritage and listed on Maryland's list of historic African American sites. Historians say that Fort Frederick is the United States' largest stone fort built by the British in the colonies. Fort Frederick has been called "Western Maryland's First Homeland Security," and "The Gibraltar on the Potomac."

In 1857, the fort began to be farmed by Nathan Williams, a freed African American slave, who helped escaping slaves make it across Maryland to freedom. Williams, born a slave in the Shenandoah Valley, had obtained his independence and then was able to buy his wife's freedom. They had seven children, built a house inside the fort and farmed the property. During the Civil War, the family prospered by selling farm goods to both Union and Confederate troops stationed on either side of the nearby Potomac River to keep a watchful eye on the strategic C&O Canal. The Williams family continued to farm nearly 100 acres surrounding Fort Frederick for the next 54 years.
Since 1982, the state's Resident-Curatorship Program has helped to preserve over 40 historic buildings on state parkland. More information, including photographs and bid proposal guidelines, can be found on our website: www.dnr.maryland.gov/land/rcs/ or by contacting Bruce Alexander at 410-260-8457.

Fort Frederick is located off of Rt 70 exit 12 at State Route 56, Big Pool, MD. For more information about other Fort Frederick activities, please call the park at 1-301-842-2155 during the office hours of 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. The state park includes part of the C&O Canal National Historical Park, and is adjacent to the Western Maryland Rail Trail.

Fort Frederick is a member of the Hagerstown-Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau. For more information, see: http://www.marylandmemories.com/. Additionally, Fort Frederick is a member of the Washington County Association of Museums and Historic Sites. For more information, see: http://www.marylandmemories.org/museum/.

SVBF Releases Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Visitor Guide

Perhaps you’re a casual student of the Civil War interested in following Stonewall Jackson’s 1862 Valley Campaign. Or your family is visiting a certain part of the Shenandoah Valley and you are interested in exploring a battlefield in the area. Or maybe you just want to get a quick understanding of the region’s Civil War history.

A new guide, released this week by the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation, is designed to do all of this. The visitors guide to the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District is a free 48-page, full-color booklet that provides an overview of the Valley’s Civil War history and information about how to explore that history at Civil War sites throughout the region.

“The Valley’s Civil War history is fairly complex,” said Howard Kittell, the Battlefields Foundation’s Executive Director. “It includes a number of military campaigns, more than a dozen full-scale battles and countless engagements, and a variety of participants, from commanders and soldiers on the field on both sides to the Valley’s residents who struggled to keep their families and livelihoods together while war raged all around them. This guide untangles the twisted threads of those stories and weaves them together in a way that helps the reader understand what happened here. It then helps them find the sites that tell that story today. In addition, having residents and visitors becoming more engaged in the battlefields and other historic sites will lead to a stronger sense of stewardship of these nationally important historic resources.”

Guiding visitors through the history and to the sites

The Guide presents information in two ways. The first section provides a chronological review of what happened in the Shenandoah Valley over the course of the Civil War. It includes maps depicting movements of armies, timelines of the various military campaigns, and a list of the historic sites associated with those campaigns.

Communities throughout the eight-county National Historic District—and beyond—each have a unique part of the Valley’s Civil War history. The guide’s second section describes these distinct stories and provides detailed information about the historic sites in that community—location, hours of operation, contact information, and a brief site description.

Finally, the guide also offers general information about Civil War events and activities in the Shenandoah Valley and a list of resources to help travelers plan a visit to the region.

“This is the first comprehensive Civil War guide of its kind here in the Shenandoah Valley ,” said Jean Tardy Clark, a Foundation Trustee and chair of the Foundation’s Tourism Committee, which managed the project. Clark is also the director of Lexington-Rockbridge Area Tourism. “By helping visitors quickly understand the Valley’s Civil War history and making it much easier for them to find our Civil War sites, we hope to encourage them to stay longer and maybe learn a little more about our past.”

An overall vision for visitor services in the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District

The guide was completed in time for the opening on Monday of the new Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District Civil War Orientation Center in Winchester , the second of five planned orientation centers in the District. (View the release.) Together, the guide, the orientation centers, and the large brown signs at all of the major entrances into the National Historic District are the most visible parts of an overall plan to help visitors understand and explore the Shenandoah Valley’s unique and important Civil War story.

The first National Historic District orientation center opened in McDowell in 2005. An interim orientation center is under development for the Harrisonburg-Rockingham area and partners in the Signal Knob area of the National Historic District—where northern Shenandoah County , southern Frederick County , and Warren County converge—are beginning to consider options for their orientation facility.

The Battlefields Foundation’s visitor services initiatives are guided by the District’s Management and Implementation Plans, approved by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior in 2000, and the District-wide Marketing Plan, adopted by the Foundation’s Board of Trustees earlier this year. The plans were developed through a series of public meetings and were guided by partner organizations throughout the region. A District-wide Interpretive Plan is due to be completed this summer.

Preparing for the Civil War Sesquicentennial

Along with the orientation centers, the guide is part of the Battlefields Foundation’s effort to help partners in the Shenandoah Valley prepare for the Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War, which begins in 2011. As a main theatre of the Civil War and the site of more that 60 percent of its battles, Virginia is expected to be a primary destination for travelers seeking to learn more about this chapter in American history.

Guide details: availability, funding, development

The guide is available at visitor centers and Civil War sites throughout the region, at the 11 welcome centers along interstate roadway entrances into the state, and at other sites throughout Virginia and beyond. (*A list of these sites appears at the end of this release.) It can also be downloaded from the “Visit the Valley” area of the National Historic District website: www.ShenandoahAtWar.org.

(Note: A pdf of just the front cover of the guide may be downloaded from the news area of the National Historic District website: www.ShenandoahAtWar.org.)

The guide was funded in part by a marketing leverage grant from the Virginia Tourism Corporation as well as the Battlefields Foundation’s federal appropriation, and by tourism offices throughout the Valley.

Development of the guide was managed by the Battlefields Foundation’s Tourism Committee. Committee members Scott Harris, Director of the New Market Battlefield State Historical Park , and Don Pierce, Page One History Publications, served as content advisors on the project.

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Created by Congress in 1996, the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District encompasses Augusta , Clarke, Frederick , Highland , Page, Rockingham, Shenandoah, and Warren counties in Virginia and the cities of Harrisonburg , Staunton , Waynesboro , and Winchester . The District’s legislation authorizes federal funding for the protection of ten Civil War battlefields in the Valley and for the coordination of interpretation and promotion of the Shenandoah Valley ’s Civil War history.

As authorized by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior, the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation serves as the non-profit manager of the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District, partnering with local, regional, and national organizations and governments to preserve the Valley’s battlefields and interpret and promote the region’s Civil War story.

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ON THE WEB:

Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation and the
Shenandoah Valley Battlefields National Historic District:
www.ShenandoahAtWar.org

New Survey!

Thank you for answering our last survey! The question was: Should the Battlefield Journal expand to include other wars? A whopping 89% of you said NO! That's great to know and it's even greater to see that you're taking the time to answer our survey!

We have another one! Tell us how rising gas prices are affecting you!

Take the survey here!

Great News for the Journey Through Hallowed Ground!

PRESIDENT BUSH SIGNS JOURNEY THROUGH HALLOWED GROUND NHA INTO LAW ENDORSEMENT CREATES 38TH—AND MOST HISTORIC—NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA

Waterford, Virginia – On Thursday, May 8, 2008, President Bush endorsed the Journey Through Hallowed Ground National Heritage Area (JTHG NHA), signing the 38th—and most historic—National Heritage Area into law. The legislation, S. 2739, passed the House on April 29, 2008, by a vote of 291 to 117 and the Senate on April 10, 2008, by a vote of 91 to 4. The JTHG NHA recognizes the unparalleled cultural, historic and scenic resources within the entire JTHG corridor—the region that generally follows the Old Carolina Road (Rt. 15/231) from Gettysburg, Pennsylvania through Maryland, to Monticello in Albemarle County, VA. This region, known as Where America Happened™, holds more American history than any other region in the country with nine Presidential homes (Ash Lawn-Highland and Oak Hill (Monroe), Kennedy’s Country Home, Camp Hoover, Eisenhower National Historic Site, Montebello (Taylor), Monticello (Jefferson), Montpelier (Madison), Pine Knot (Roosevelt), and Camp David, 73 National Historic Districts, the largest collection of Civil War Battlefields, significant sites from the French and Indian War, the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812, 15 historic Main Street communities, numerous scenic roads, rivers and landscapes.The Journey Through Hallowed Ground Partnership is a public-private partnership comprised of every elected body within the four-state region and over 150 other partner organizations all working collaboratively to provide opportunities for interpretive historic, heritage education and recreational programs that celebrate the unparalleled American heritage found along this region. The National Heritage Area designation is a national honor that will expand opportunities for economic development, particularly within the heritage tourism industry, as well as the educational programs for students of every age. This designation will serve as a springboard to encourage Americans and others to Take the Journey™ and discover what those who came before us created on this hallowed ground.“We are thrilled that the President has signed the legislation to create the Journey Through Hallowed Ground National Heritage Area,” said Cate Magennis Wyatt, President of the JTHG Partnership. “This historic Act of Congress would not have been possible without the leadership of Senator John Warner, Congressman Frank Wolf and the leadership of each member of Congress within this four-state corridor. We applaud the work of our Partners, as their efforts and vision are responsible for today’s national recognition, and I share their pride as we accept this designation.” In addition to its lead sponsor, Senator John Warner (R-VA), the national heritage area legislation, which was originally introduced as S. 289, was co-sponsored by Senators Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD), Robert P. Casey Jr. (D-PA), Barbara A. Mikulski (D-MD), John D. Rockefeller IV (D-WV), Arlen Specter (R-PA), and Jim Webb (D-VA).“The Journey Through Hallowed Ground National Heritage Area shines light on a region that holds great significance to the history of this Nation,” said Senator John Warner. “I will continue to work with the Journey Through Hallowed Ground Partnership and support efforts that bring opportunity to the region and its visitors.”“I am extremely pleased that the Senate recognized the importance of Maryland and our regions’ unique place in our nation’s history,” said Senator Benjamin L. Cardin. “The creation of the Journey Through Hallowed Ground National Heritage Area will provide a wonderful opportunity to ensure that future generations have a much better appreciation of America’s past and of Maryland’s important contributions to it.”In the House, the legislation was first introduced as H.R. 319, as sponsored by Congressman Frank Wolf (R-VA). The bill was co-sponsored by Representatives Richard H. Baker (R-LA), Rick Boucher (D-VA), Eric Cantor (R-VA), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), the late Jo Ann Davis (R-VA), Tom Davis (R-VA), Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL), Jim McCrery (R-LA), Jim P. Moran (D-VA), Todd Russell Platts (R-PA), Ted Poe (R-TX), C. A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD), John P. Sarbanes (D-MD), Jim Saxton (R-NJ), Allyson Y. Schwartz (D-PA), Robert C. Scott (D-VA), Mark E. Souder (R-IN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Albert Russell Wynn (D-MD). “The Journey Through Hallowed Ground is something that each and every citizen should have the chance to experience,” said Congressman Frank Wolf. “The rich history of our nation can be traced directly to this corridor and I am proud to be a Partner in the effort to celebrate this hallowed ground.” The Journey legislation had strong bipartisan support including that of four governors, state legislators, and the endorsement of every town, county, borough council and board of commissioners throughout the 175-mile corridor. The JTHG NHA has also garnered broad-based support from local business groups, tourism officials, non-profit organizations, educators and citizens living along the region.

A Passion for History

Look at this information I received from the state of Virginia. I know exactly how Mr. Bowman feels. I can't even describe how much I love history. We'd love to hear your feelings! Feel free to comment below on this post!

Passions for History are Rooted in Virginia-Mitch Bowman of Virginia Civil War Trails entices history addicts to delve deep into Virginia's passionate beginnings-

Mitch BowmanWatch his video(Richmond, Va.)--History is alive in Virginia and nobody knows that better than Mitch Bowman, a proud history addict from way back when. Bowman helped lead the charge to create the Virginia Civil War Trails, a driving trail that connects 400 sites across the state, from battlefields to homes and national parks, to lead visitors through Virginia, where more Civil War battles were fought than any other state.

A former officer and pilot in the U.S. Air Force, Bowman's passion for Virginia's rich history, from Jamestown to the Civil War to the struggle for Civil Rights, makes visits to Virginia more meaningful.

"My real passion is helping educate people," explains Bowman, in a video vignette on Virginia.org, "and share with them things that impact their lives, that they really don't realize have shaped their lives or the world around them."

Mitch's deep, personal commitment to an honest and accurate portrayal of the Civil War in Virginia is a big part of what makes Virginia an excellent destination for visitors seeking the roots of the nation. Virginia is an American history icon, spanning more than four centuries, from 1607 and the first permanent English settlement in Jamestown to the genesis of Brown vs Board of Education at R. R. Moton High School in Farmville. Virginia is the "Mother of Presidents" claiming eight in total, with new and exciting additions to presidential homes including Mount Vernon, Montpelier and Monticello. In Virginia, historical legends such as Booker T. Washington, Chief Powhatan, Thomas Jefferson, Maggie Walker and Daniel Boone come alive in interactive museums and exhibits that showcase how these leaders paved the way for our nation. ? Diverse historical trails such as the Civil Rights in Education Trail, the Virginia Indian Heritage Trail and the new Road to Revolution, which traces the life of Patrick Henry, help visitors relive history in a whole new way.History thrives in the streets of Virginia's historic downtowns and Main Street communities. Vacations to Richmond, Roanoke, Staunton, Alexandria and other historic cities are the best way to combine stunning historic architecture, sites and stories with world-class dining, shopping and arts.Ready to delve deep into your passion for history? Go to Portraits of Passion at http://clik.virginiainteractive.org/CT00041702ODE0NTQA.HTML?D=2008-05-08 to watch a video of Mitch Bowman at the American Civil War Center and plan a trip to connect with Virginia's passionate beginnings points.

Quilt on Display

You know...sometimes things are just too beautiful to ignore. This piece I received on a Quilt Exhibit in Adams County, PA is one of them...

Take a look at this!

Barclay Brooks and Posie Wright examine the 1850’s signature quilt which will be on exhibit at the Virginia Quilt Museum in Harrisonburg , Virginia , now through September 22, 2008 .




A special exhibit called Quaker Quilts and Heritage at the Virginia Quilt Museum in Harrisonburg , Virginia , features a quilt belonging to the Menallen Friends Meeting of Biglerville. The Menallen Friends recently acquired it in honor of two loyal members, William and Posie Wright (both now deceased). William had served as Menallen’s clerk and Posie was the historian for Menallen Friends Meeting for many years. The quilt was purchased by friends of the Wrights and donated to Menallen Friends Meeting.

The quilt is a signature quilt and has 72 squares with 74 names written inside them. The identities of those on the quilt are being researched by Judith Pyle and Debra McCauslin, of Gettysburg . Nearly all the signatures have been identified and include many past members of Menallen Friends Meeting. Based on dates of marriages and deaths, the quilt is thought to have been created sometime between 1847 and 1851. The fabrics used are thought to be from that era as confirmed by several experts. Some of the persons on the quilt are Quakers (a.k.a. Friends) from MD, VA, OH and IN. Several connections appear to be related to Salem , Ohio which is considered to be the Anti-Slavery Headquarters of the West. Several Quaker families from Pennsylvania moved to the Salem area as part of the Western Movement. The reason the quilt was created is not yet known but is suspected to be related to the abolition of slavery.

One name on the quilt is that of Mary Payne who was born a slave in Virginia but later manumitted by her owner in 1843. Payne lived on Bendersville’s Bear Mountain when she and her family were kidnapped by five men on July 24, 1845 . Payne was taken back to Virginia to be sold on the auction block. She was later freed again and she returned to Pennsylvania and lived with a Quaker Valley family in Adams County upon her return.

The exhibit will run now through Sept 22 and is located at 301 South Main Street in Harrisonburg , VA. The exhibit’s guest curator is Mary Robare of Winchester , VA. Robare assisted Pyle and McCauslin with some of their research and she requested the quilt become part of the exhibit.

At the conclusion of the exhibit, the quilt will be returned to Menallen Friends Meeting and placed in storage. It will be removed from storage for programs which will be conducted for the public upon request where McCauslin and Pyle will share their findings.

For more information, contact Debra McCauslin at dmccauslin@gettysburghistories.com or by calling 717-528-8553. The Virginia Quilt Museum can be contacted at 540-433-3818.

INTERVIEW WITH JAMES PERCOCO!

Hello, everyone!
Like I promised, we have an interview with James Percoco! Part of it is online here but the entire interview is on our website! www.battlefieldjournal.com.

Thanks to Jim and and Jennifer Ballot for her help with this!



Battlefield Journal: First, I LOVED the book. I am a lover of Civil War monuments and have done a lot with the New England town square monuments as well as written a book about Gettysburg from the point of view of the monuments. My question is how did you choose which monuments to include in the book?

JP: First of all I am glad you loved the book. All writers want to hear that.

I actually visited about 30 monuments of which seven ended up with full chapter treatments. The others are listed in an Appendix. My criterion was based on the following:
• The statues had to be from the Great Age of Lincoln Sculpture 1870-1935
• All sculptors had to be born in the century in which Lincoln lived – 19th,
• The statues had to reflect the several genres/themes related to Lincoln sculpture – Great Emancipator, Great President/Statesman, Man of Sorrows,
Youthful Lincoln, Commander-in-Chief
• The sculptures had to be of high artistic merit – meaning that aesthetically they had to be successful or they had to have a story that was deeply tied to the Lincoln myth or legacy. I was actually tempted to give each of the seven I picked a report card grade, because I only think that three of the seven deserve an A for artistic merit, The Standing Lincoln by Saint-Gaudens (Chapter 4), Lincoln of Gethsemane by Borglum (Chapter 5) and Lincoln
by French in the Lincoln Memorial (Chapter 7). I really wanted to give full chapter treatment to Lincoln the Lawyer by Lorado Taft in Urbana, Illinois
and Captain Lincoln in Dixon, Illinois. Each reveals another dimension of Lincoln’s life – the circuit lawyer and his role as a Captain in the militia from New Salem during the 1832 Black Hawk War; it’s the only statue of Lincoln in uniform and wearing a sword. Unfortunately the paper trail was limited on these two statues and I could not flesh out much of a story either behind the statue or about the sculptural process.

Battlefield Journal: You seemed to have an exceptional group of students that traveled with you. Overall, do you find that students, especially of middle and high school age, are that enamored with history? What are the chances that future generations might not even understand why those Lincoln monuments were placed where they were?


JP: Most young people gravitate towards history when it is made relevant. The key for me has been showing students that I find monuments to be very relevant to my life and that transfers over to them in the way I approach and teach history.

I actually find all of human history relevant and have always taught it as such; we can’t understand how we got to where we are today without having some sense of what transpired before we lived.

I think given Lincoln’s role in U.S. and World History future generations are going to understand why Lincoln statues permeate our public spaces. Many foreign nations have public statues to Lincoln, as well, such as Mexico, Great Britain, and Russia. The Chinese, in Beijing, are very open about the design of Chairman Mao’s mausoleum and that it is based on that of Henry Bacon’s Lincoln Memorial.

Check the website for more!!!