To My Fellow Reenactors,
Site Tour At The Wall - Remembrance Day Weekend
Since the Mayan's don't seem to have the calendar right and I have finished unloading my Henry, Springfield, Colt, Navy and Star since no zombies showed up, I thought it was time to update you on what is happening with your event. I promise to keep it short because this time of year it's all about friends and family.
The Federal Command Staff and General Gesuero's Staff have been and continue to be hard at work on preparations for the 150th Gettysburg Reenactment and the special June 29 & 30 prelude events being held on significantly historical ground which we will all have a chance to fight and honor on.
The staffs including Divisional and Branch Commands will be in Gettysburg on February 9th to start to layout scenarios on the expanded battlefield. Your commanders are setting up the scenarios. Rest assured we are not taking the holiday off.
If you have the opportunity to visit Gettysburg you will find it beautifully decorated and in the holiday spirit. New Years Eve is always a real blast on the square. If you're in town for the holidays or News Years and have any questions etc. as always feel free to look me up.
More importantly than anything else, don't forget the meaning of the season and on behalf of my family, myself, and the Federal Staff let me extend a very Happy Holiday and a Joyous New Year.
Major General Allen Baldwin
Commanding
Federal Forces
150th Gettysburg National Reenactment
Friday, December 28, 2012
Numerous Resources Already Being Staged At Gettysburg Site
In the past ten days over 100 cord of hardwood has been delivered and placed on 16 designated woodpiles and cut to length. Another 5 piles will be moved and placed in the middle of fields at their final destination after the hay is cut in June. Over 1000 feet of fence posts and rails for the 5-rail historic fence are on site waiting to be placed for Pickett's Charge. The 5-rail fence was along Emmitsburg Road during the battle and you will notice that it is utilized by the NPS today. Over fifty 150 gallon horse troughs are also staged and ready to be placed. The troughs are filed by two dedicated farm wagons with mounted 500 gallon water hoyers that have mechanical pumps for expeditious filling and re-filling. AC and T Inc. from Hagerstown, the regions premier portable sanitation company and our exclusive supplier for all eighteen years of our existence, has already been contracted for approximately 300 units. No one supplies better units and services them more professionally then AC and T. They are not only our business partners they are friends and treat us accordingly. There is no question regarding preparation, organization, permitting, operations and access to local resources at The 150th Gettysburg National Reenactment.
More Gettysburg 150th Announcements
- National Reenactment Official Event For The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania -
The 150th Gettysburg National Civil War Reenactment, to be held on July 4, 5, 6, & 7, has been designated by the Pennsylvania legislature as the Official Gettysburg One Hundred Fiftieth Anniversary Commemoration Reenactment Event in Pennsylvania.
- Gettysburg 100th Anniversary Participants To be Honored During Event -
It is an honor and privilege for us to recognize participants from the Gettysburg 100th
Battle Anniversary in 1963 at this year's 150th Gettysburg National Reenactment. The
100th Anniversary participants will be recognized and honored on the battlefield with a 100
gun salute, and will receive a special medallion and a citation from the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania. If you qualify and plan to attend the 150th Gettysburg National Reenactment
please contact Joanne Sease at gac3@comcast.com or at 717-338-1525 to register.
The 150th Gettysburg National Civil War Reenactment, to be held on July 4, 5, 6, & 7, has been designated by the Pennsylvania legislature as the Official Gettysburg One Hundred Fiftieth Anniversary Commemoration Reenactment Event in Pennsylvania.
- Gettysburg 100th Anniversary Participants To be Honored During Event -
It is an honor and privilege for us to recognize participants from the Gettysburg 100th
Battle Anniversary in 1963 at this year's 150th Gettysburg National Reenactment. The
100th Anniversary participants will be recognized and honored on the battlefield with a 100
gun salute, and will receive a special medallion and a citation from the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania. If you qualify and plan to attend the 150th Gettysburg National Reenactment
please contact Joanne Sease at gac3@comcast.com or at 717-338-1525 to register.
150th Gettysburg National Reenactment Early Registration Extended!
With approximately 5,000 reenactors already registered, or waiting to be entered on our database, for the July 4, 5, 6, and 7 Gettysburg National Reenactment, at the request of many individual reenactors, units and senior military command, we are extending early registration to February 15. We know that a multitude of registrations come in between December 25 and January 31st, so it seemed prudent and sensible to extend this registration due to the fact that many groups and units do not meet until January. The fee will remain at $25 through February 15. We remind you that $5 of every reenactor registration fee will be donated to five local preservations. We are already engaged with several of these organization's projects including the Sgt MAC National Wreath Project and improvements to the1886 Eisenhower Iron Bridge and the Sachs Mill Covered Bridge. The other three beneficiaries' are the Adams County Historical Society, Gettysburg Museum on Seminary Ridge and the Land Conservancy of Adams County. Registering this many reenactors is a large and time consuming task - so your understanding and cooperation with accurately proving the requested information as soon as possible is greatly appreciated.
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Images from the 150th Fredericksburg
Colonel Rorhbaugh reports that the events in Fredericksburg this past weekend were outstanding. Just to give you a taste of the action, Denny put some photos online showing the river crossing. Though the US Army Corp of Engineers helped out with an actual pontoon bridge, those are our folks getting across in boats. Another YouTube video shows the desperate fight at Marye's Heights. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3SS-9wIGXA4. Congratulations to our Birney's boys for their struggle against the secessionist hoard!!! (cue dramatic music).
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
GAC 150th Gettysburg Federal Commander's update
To Brothers and Sisters in Arms,
Another Remembrance Day is in the books and just a fond memory, but it is one filled with many great moments and successes for the 150th Gettysburg Anniversary National Civil War Battle Reenactment and the Command Staffs. It was truly impressive to be able to meet with fellow Reenactors to discuss the event, site preparations, the special events the week before, scenarios, the battlefield , concerns, suggestions and in general the hobby. General Gesuero and his staff along with myself and the Federal Command staff embraced these opportunities to make sure that there was a never seen before level of communication on this event or any other event on such a personal level. I have to agree with General Gesuero that whether it was on the streets and pubs of Gettysburg Thursday and Friday night, at the parade on Saturday or during the social hosted by the GAC after the parade, the enthusiasm and response was enormous. The social was a great success with many attending, pushing the occupancy limits of the Mine to its breaking point. But more importantly, it gave all those in attendance a chance to communicate about the event. The ability to talk one on one with staff members and the commanders made for some very open and informative communication. "By Reenactors, for Reenactors," is what we heard over and over that weekend.
The first site meeting for the 150th Gettysburg Anniversary National Civil War Battle Reenactment was held on Sunday afternoon with all of the Federal Command represented along with the Confederate Command - more than fifty in attendance. General Geseuro and I conducted a tour of the entire site including expanded battlefield area, tactical areas, and camps. Additionally as the two wagon loads of staff traversed the property, attendees were able to view the 6 new stream crossing areas. All in attendance were in agreement that the site really has endless possibilities.
The site tour was finished up with a brief meeting with the Division and Branch commands. They and their staffs were given homework packets consisting of all the scenarios and maps of the battlefield. They have been charged with providing input on how to best utilize the battlefield to make this an epic event. An assignment that many Division Commanders have requested. The 150th Gettysburg Anniversary National Civil War Battle Reenactment will truly be a team effort from start to finish to produce a quality event in which we all can be proud.
Current registration numbers are reaching 3000. These numbers represent participants from over 20 different organizations from the United States and several foreign countries.
General Gesuero and I, along with our collective staffs, continue to work hard to ensure a quality team that will deliver an event "by Reenactors, for Reenactors," with the event organizers provide the the best logistical and infrastructure support as possible to help make the 150th Gettysburg Anniversary National Civil War Battle Reenactment will be an event that we will be proud of and always remember.
In closing let me wish you and your families a joyous Holiday Season and a prosperous New Year. If you're in Gettysburg please feel free to contact me or look me up.
Y.O.S.,
Major General Allen W. Baldwin
Another Remembrance Day is in the books and just a fond memory, but it is one filled with many great moments and successes for the 150th Gettysburg Anniversary National Civil War Battle Reenactment and the Command Staffs. It was truly impressive to be able to meet with fellow Reenactors to discuss the event, site preparations, the special events the week before, scenarios, the battlefield , concerns, suggestions and in general the hobby. General Gesuero and his staff along with myself and the Federal Command staff embraced these opportunities to make sure that there was a never seen before level of communication on this event or any other event on such a personal level. I have to agree with General Gesuero that whether it was on the streets and pubs of Gettysburg Thursday and Friday night, at the parade on Saturday or during the social hosted by the GAC after the parade, the enthusiasm and response was enormous. The social was a great success with many attending, pushing the occupancy limits of the Mine to its breaking point. But more importantly, it gave all those in attendance a chance to communicate about the event. The ability to talk one on one with staff members and the commanders made for some very open and informative communication. "By Reenactors, for Reenactors," is what we heard over and over that weekend.
The first site meeting for the 150th Gettysburg Anniversary National Civil War Battle Reenactment was held on Sunday afternoon with all of the Federal Command represented along with the Confederate Command - more than fifty in attendance. General Geseuro and I conducted a tour of the entire site including expanded battlefield area, tactical areas, and camps. Additionally as the two wagon loads of staff traversed the property, attendees were able to view the 6 new stream crossing areas. All in attendance were in agreement that the site really has endless possibilities.
The site tour was finished up with a brief meeting with the Division and Branch commands. They and their staffs were given homework packets consisting of all the scenarios and maps of the battlefield. They have been charged with providing input on how to best utilize the battlefield to make this an epic event. An assignment that many Division Commanders have requested. The 150th Gettysburg Anniversary National Civil War Battle Reenactment will truly be a team effort from start to finish to produce a quality event in which we all can be proud.
Current registration numbers are reaching 3000. These numbers represent participants from over 20 different organizations from the United States and several foreign countries.
General Gesuero and I, along with our collective staffs, continue to work hard to ensure a quality team that will deliver an event "by Reenactors, for Reenactors," with the event organizers provide the the best logistical and infrastructure support as possible to help make the 150th Gettysburg Anniversary National Civil War Battle Reenactment will be an event that we will be proud of and always remember.
In closing let me wish you and your families a joyous Holiday Season and a prosperous New Year. If you're in Gettysburg please feel free to contact me or look me up.
Y.O.S.,
Major General Allen W. Baldwin
Update for two 150th National Reenactment beneficiaries
The Gettysburg Anniversary Committee had previously announced that $5 of every Reenactor registration fee will be donated to five local beneficiary's on behalf of the 150th Gettysburg National Civil War Reenactment. They are the Adams County Historical Society, The Gettysburg Museum At Seminary Ridge, Land Conservancy Of Adams County, The SGT MAC National Wreath Project and Preservation and Improvement Of The Eisenhower Iron Bridge and Sachs Mill Covered Bridge. Even thought the event is still six months away we are proud to provide an update and progress on two of these projects. Within the next month the unique and historic 1886 Eisenhower Iron Bridge will be re-opened again to foot and bicycle traffic. In a public/private partnership trees have been trimmed and all new oak planks have been installed. Painting will be done this spring. Approximately $4000 for the materials was donated by The Gettysburg Anniversary Committee and The Tim Shields Family.
The SGT MAC Foundation, National Wreath Project and Scholarship has been supported consistently by GAC since local Marine Sgt. Eric McCollley was killed in a helicopter crash off the coast of Africa in 2006. GAC Operations Manager knew Eric well. He was an Eagle Scout in Randy's scout troop, was on the high school swim team with Randy's daughter and lifeguarded at the local pool. SGT MAC board member, and local veteran's advocate Marine Stan Clark, facilitates the very popular Patriotic Area at the event each year. Visitors write comments of appreciation on numerous banners and the banners are delivered to appreciative combat troops. Included are photos of the almost completed Eisenhower Metal Bridge, combat unit displaying their banner that was taken into battle, a scene from last Friday's distribution of 1800 wreaths in Gettysburg's Soldiers National Cemetery and GAC Operations Manager Randy Phiel pausing last Saturday beside Sgt McColley's gravesite after helping to distribute and place 5400 wreaths at Quantico National Cemetery. Over 150 volunteers at Gettysburg, and 500 volunteers at Quantico participated in the placement and commemoration on November 30 and December 1. Despite Giant Food providing wreaths at cost and ABF Freight donating transportation the cost the year was $56,000. There is no overhead or administrative fees. Every penny goes to the project. The goal is 10,000 wreaths by the 10th anniversary in 2016. If you would like to consider donating to or participating in this patriotic project contact Stan Clark at scmb@embarqmail.com or go to http://www.sgtmac.org We urge your contribution and participation. If you have the opportunity in the next six weeks to walk through the Soldiers National Cemetery or drive through Quantico and see the results - it will be a visual and emotional experience. The photo collage documents: Improvements at the Eisenhower 1886 Iron Bridge - The National Wreath Project at Gettysburg Soldier's National Cemetery, Friday November 30, 2012 - Sgt Eric McColley Gravesite, Quantico National Cemetery, December 1, 2012 - Patriotic Area Banner, Combat Unit of 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment in Marjah, Afghanistan.
The SGT MAC Foundation, National Wreath Project and Scholarship has been supported consistently by GAC since local Marine Sgt. Eric McCollley was killed in a helicopter crash off the coast of Africa in 2006. GAC Operations Manager knew Eric well. He was an Eagle Scout in Randy's scout troop, was on the high school swim team with Randy's daughter and lifeguarded at the local pool. SGT MAC board member, and local veteran's advocate Marine Stan Clark, facilitates the very popular Patriotic Area at the event each year. Visitors write comments of appreciation on numerous banners and the banners are delivered to appreciative combat troops. Included are photos of the almost completed Eisenhower Metal Bridge, combat unit displaying their banner that was taken into battle, a scene from last Friday's distribution of 1800 wreaths in Gettysburg's Soldiers National Cemetery and GAC Operations Manager Randy Phiel pausing last Saturday beside Sgt McColley's gravesite after helping to distribute and place 5400 wreaths at Quantico National Cemetery. Over 150 volunteers at Gettysburg, and 500 volunteers at Quantico participated in the placement and commemoration on November 30 and December 1. Despite Giant Food providing wreaths at cost and ABF Freight donating transportation the cost the year was $56,000. There is no overhead or administrative fees. Every penny goes to the project. The goal is 10,000 wreaths by the 10th anniversary in 2016. If you would like to consider donating to or participating in this patriotic project contact Stan Clark at scmb@embarqmail.com or go to http://www.sgtmac.org We urge your contribution and participation. If you have the opportunity in the next six weeks to walk through the Soldiers National Cemetery or drive through Quantico and see the results - it will be a visual and emotional experience. The photo collage documents: Improvements at the Eisenhower 1886 Iron Bridge - The National Wreath Project at Gettysburg Soldier's National Cemetery, Friday November 30, 2012 - Sgt Eric McColley Gravesite, Quantico National Cemetery, December 1, 2012 - Patriotic Area Banner, Combat Unit of 3rd Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment in Marjah, Afghanistan.
150th Gettysburg National Reenactment Participant Medallion update
The 150th Gettysburg National Reenactment is a very special event and the Participant Medallions should be very special as well. After consulting numerous Reenactors it was determined that a Participant Medallion on a campaign ribbon was most desired to be displayed both on and off the uniform. The campaign ribbon will appropriately be blue & gray. The one side of the draft concept shown here conveys: the iconic Gettysburg Reunion Hands At The Wall image, 150th Gettysburg Participant and denotes 150th Anniversary The Battle Of Gettysburg, July 1863-2013. The other side of the medallion conveys the iconic Friend To Friend image, and denotes the chronology from top to bottom of Brother Against Brother, Friend To Friend and One Nation Under God. The 150th Gettysburg National Reenactment July 4-7, 2013 is also engraved on this side.
These medallions will only be available to registered Reenctors at event registration and will not be made available to the general public. We want every registered Reenactor to receive a Participant Medallion. Due to the need to order these custom made special Participant Medallion in advance, there will be an announced Reenactor registration cut-off date for guaranteeing a Participant Medallion. Organizers will provide ample notice.
These medallions will only be available to registered Reenctors at event registration and will not be made available to the general public. We want every registered Reenactor to receive a Participant Medallion. Due to the need to order these custom made special Participant Medallion in advance, there will be an announced Reenactor registration cut-off date for guaranteeing a Participant Medallion. Organizers will provide ample notice.
A rare opportunity for unique Gettysburg Lutheran Seminary skirmishes
Planning is progressing very nicely between The Gettysburg Lutheran Seminary, Generals Baldwin/Gesuero and GAC with highly anticipated results for two exciting and unique skirmishes prior to the 150th Gettysburg event on July 4-7 - camping and living history at The Lutheran Seminary on June 29 & 30.
The skirmishes will be on the actual ground and around these historic buildings. Military Command and the organizers are also involved in planning a Cavalry Battle in Hunterstown. One skirmish will be on Saturday morning June 29 and the other Sunday afternoon June 30. The Calvary Battle in Huntertown will be either Saturday afternoon or Sunday morning. Participating units will also be providing ceremonial responsibilities for the Monday grand opening of The Gettysburg Museum At Seminary Ridge - home of The Historic Old Dorm and its famous cupola. Schmucker Hall is called the most historic privately held building in Gettysburg.
Besides the two skirmishes there will also be limited opportunities for camping and living history from Friday, June 28 through Tuesday July 2. These are rare and unique opportunities only made possible through local contacts, resources and a track record of responsibility.
Please contact Colonel Rorhbaugh (cpldlr160@comcast.net) regarding these opportunities.
The skirmishes will be on the actual ground and around these historic buildings. Military Command and the organizers are also involved in planning a Cavalry Battle in Hunterstown. One skirmish will be on Saturday morning June 29 and the other Sunday afternoon June 30. The Calvary Battle in Huntertown will be either Saturday afternoon or Sunday morning. Participating units will also be providing ceremonial responsibilities for the Monday grand opening of The Gettysburg Museum At Seminary Ridge - home of The Historic Old Dorm and its famous cupola. Schmucker Hall is called the most historic privately held building in Gettysburg.
Besides the two skirmishes there will also be limited opportunities for camping and living history from Friday, June 28 through Tuesday July 2. These are rare and unique opportunities only made possible through local contacts, resources and a track record of responsibility.
Please contact Colonel Rorhbaugh (cpldlr160@comcast.net) regarding these opportunities.
Friday, November 30, 2012
Civil War Christmas events
Hale Farm and Village - Bath, Ohio
Holiday Lantern Tours
December 1, 7, 8, 14-16, 19-23
Reservations: http://www.wrhs.org/Properties/Holiday_Lantern_Tours
Farnam Museum - Richfield, Ohio
The Spirit of Christmas Past - A Farnam Family Holiday
December 7, 8, 14, 15, 22, 28, 29
Reservations: http://www.olhs.org/2012/11/the-spirit-of-christmas-past-farnam.html
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Birney's Division 2013 Event Schedule
Thank you to everyone who participated in the Birney's Division Annual Meeting, in person or on the conference call, last Friday in Gettysburg. So many of you have been giving feedback throughout the year about events for 2013 and we are happy to have boiled it down.
You can review the 2013 event calendar for the organization at http://www.birneysdivision.org/schedule. Not all websites for next year's events have been updated so please keep checking back. For LARGE events such as the 150th Gettysburg (July 4-7), take a moment to review the registration deadlines as listed on their website.
If anyone has questions regarding events on the schedule, please contact your Battalion Commander or staff member.
A note from Colonel Smith, 2d Battalion HQ:
You will also notice that the schedule is broken down into events where the Division is participating as a whole, and regional events where our two infantry battalions are involved individually. Last year, 2nd Battalion's schedule including an inordinately large number of events. In many cases, we were unable to attend Division activities because of scheduling conflicts. After feedback from various units, the 2d Battalion staff fleshed out a schedule with an equal focus on Division and regional events. The staff felt that this, as well as concentrating on a smaller number of events, would enable stronger participation by member units.
As you will also note, 1st Battalion has a Spring Muster planned for April. At this time, the 2d Battalion staff is discussing the best approach for this season's early training. Participation in Spring drills has been poor over the last few years and the staff wants to provide the best instructional solution. More to follow.
You can review the 2013 event calendar for the organization at http://www.birneysdivision.org/schedule. Not all websites for next year's events have been updated so please keep checking back. For LARGE events such as the 150th Gettysburg (July 4-7), take a moment to review the registration deadlines as listed on their website.
If anyone has questions regarding events on the schedule, please contact your Battalion Commander or staff member.
A note from Colonel Smith, 2d Battalion HQ:
You will also notice that the schedule is broken down into events where the Division is participating as a whole, and regional events where our two infantry battalions are involved individually. Last year, 2nd Battalion's schedule including an inordinately large number of events. In many cases, we were unable to attend Division activities because of scheduling conflicts. After feedback from various units, the 2d Battalion staff fleshed out a schedule with an equal focus on Division and regional events. The staff felt that this, as well as concentrating on a smaller number of events, would enable stronger participation by member units.
As you will also note, 1st Battalion has a Spring Muster planned for April. At this time, the 2d Battalion staff is discussing the best approach for this season's early training. Participation in Spring drills has been poor over the last few years and the staff wants to provide the best instructional solution. More to follow.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Prelude Events To Offer Unique and Special Opportunities
From the 150th Gettysburg Anniversary Committee:
In the process of attempting to facilitate additional and unique opportunities for Reenactors as part of the 150th National Reenactment, Command Staff and the Gettysburg Anniversary Committee have been working to secure a few special venues for skirmishes on historically significant property. These skirmishes will occur the weekend prior to the event. This is the same group of individuals that were able to set up skirmishes on Baltimore St. and the Seminary property last year as an opening to the 150th Anniversary in Pennsylvania.
We are proud and honored to announce at this time there will be a two skirmishes at the Seminary on Saturday morning June 29th and Sunday afternoon June 30th associated with the 150th Gettysburg National Civil War Reenactment. Also, on Monday morning July 1st at 8:00 a.m. we will be providing troops and artillery for a First Shot Commemoration on Seminary Ridge; and at 10:00 a.m. for the Official Opening Ceremonies of the Gettysburg Seminary Ridge Museum. There will also be some limited camping and living history opportunities on Seminary Ridge. Schmucker Hall -- deemed by many as the most historic building in Gettysburg, with its iconic cupola and the historic exchange between Generals Buford & Reynolds -- has undergone a meticulous historic $15 million renovation to become The Gettysburg Seminary Ridge Museum. Besides being utilized as an observation post the Old Dorm housed approximately six-hundred dying and wounded from both armies with over seventy succumbing to their wounds in the building. The museum will feature three floors of exhibits that include interpreting the First Day Battle that swirled around the building, Civil War Medicine as the largest Field Hospital in Gettysburg during the battle and Civil War Religion that both inspired and divided our nation in the 19th century. Tours of the cupola, four major video productions, twelve original commissioned murals, sixteen audio programs and interactive children's stations. There are also plans for some exterior interpretative opportunities such as the Barricade to the west of the museum.
We are also working with the Hunterstown Historical Society and landowners to provide a "Battle of Hunterstown" cavalry opportunity in Hunterstown. "Springing the Trap" will be Saturday afternoon/evening June 19 or Sunday morning June 30.
In the process of attempting to facilitate additional and unique opportunities for Reenactors as part of the 150th National Reenactment, Command Staff and the Gettysburg Anniversary Committee have been working to secure a few special venues for skirmishes on historically significant property. These skirmishes will occur the weekend prior to the event. This is the same group of individuals that were able to set up skirmishes on Baltimore St. and the Seminary property last year as an opening to the 150th Anniversary in Pennsylvania.
We are proud and honored to announce at this time there will be a two skirmishes at the Seminary on Saturday morning June 29th and Sunday afternoon June 30th associated with the 150th Gettysburg National Civil War Reenactment. Also, on Monday morning July 1st at 8:00 a.m. we will be providing troops and artillery for a First Shot Commemoration on Seminary Ridge; and at 10:00 a.m. for the Official Opening Ceremonies of the Gettysburg Seminary Ridge Museum. There will also be some limited camping and living history opportunities on Seminary Ridge. Schmucker Hall -- deemed by many as the most historic building in Gettysburg, with its iconic cupola and the historic exchange between Generals Buford & Reynolds -- has undergone a meticulous historic $15 million renovation to become The Gettysburg Seminary Ridge Museum. Besides being utilized as an observation post the Old Dorm housed approximately six-hundred dying and wounded from both armies with over seventy succumbing to their wounds in the building. The museum will feature three floors of exhibits that include interpreting the First Day Battle that swirled around the building, Civil War Medicine as the largest Field Hospital in Gettysburg during the battle and Civil War Religion that both inspired and divided our nation in the 19th century. Tours of the cupola, four major video productions, twelve original commissioned murals, sixteen audio programs and interactive children's stations. There are also plans for some exterior interpretative opportunities such as the Barricade to the west of the museum.
We are also working with the Hunterstown Historical Society and landowners to provide a "Battle of Hunterstown" cavalry opportunity in Hunterstown. "Springing the Trap" will be Saturday afternoon/evening June 19 or Sunday morning June 30.
GAC Is Highly Respected For Eighteen Year History Of Community Event Responsibility, Planning and Execution
The Gettysburg Anniversary
Committee (GAC) is known in this historic community for unsurpassed event
planning and execution. They have been routinely permitted by Freedom,
Cumberland and Straban Townships, 18 years in a row. Each year, planning
details become more improved and effective. This year is no exception. In fact
this year planning has voluntarily reached even higher levels due to the scope
of this 150th National Event. Besides the normal coordination of inter-agency
planning with other local/state agencies and entities, GAC is also coordinating
their planning with the Department of Homeland Security, the Pennsylvania
Emergency Management Agency, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the
Pennsylvania Emergency Health Federation.
Working
with these agencies, in addition to all the other agencies GAC normally works
with, takes a significant amount of extra commitment and time. Even with that
elevated level of planning - the entire process is almost complete. As a
result, both Cumberland & Straban Townships have already issued Letters Of
Intent to GAC for the July 4,5, 6, and 7 150th National Event. Included below
are excerpts of those letters from both townships Code Enforcement Officers
expressing their intent to issue the permits and their utmost respect for the
level of planning, permitting and execution performance that has been obtained
over the previous eighteen years.
Straban Township
Our office is familiar with the
event and the event management as well as the planning involved, coordination
and local support. We have reviewed similar events in the past for your
organization and have found the planning and execution of those events to be
exemplary. Please consider this letter as our indication of Straban Township's
intent to issue the necessary permits and approvals providing that you have
completed a successful review of all necessary submittals.
We appreciate your attention to
the necessary planning and execution detail and look forward to working with
you and your staff on this historically significant and culturally important
anniversary. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or
concerns.
Cumberland Township
Please consider this
as your Special Event Permit Letter of Intent in regard to the 150th Gettysburg
Anniversary National Civil War Re-enactment scheduled for July 4 thru 7, 2013.
Your past performance over many years of re-enactments in Cumberland Township
has shown excellent compliance regarding our requirements and for the safety of
the participants and the general public. Upon formal review of your 2013
application you will receive the final permit at that time. We look forward to
working with you on this and any other future endeavors.Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Remembrance Day Commanding Generals Events
150th
National Reenactment Commanding Generals Allen Baldwin (USA) and Brian Gesuero
(CSA) welcome all military senior staff and unit command, for a post
Remembrance Day Parade social and information gathering event at the Reliance
Mine Saloon in the Quality Inn on Steinwehr Avenue across from the Wax Museum.
Please join the Generals for a beverage and conversation from 2:30 p.m. - 5:00
p.m. or immediately following the parade.
General Gesuero and I are personally very excited about these skirmishes. More details will be released on Remembrance Day. These skirmishes are a reality based on the commitment and reputation of GAC in the community and the relationship that the staff has with the community as a whole. Several of us live here and will be here when the event is over. We will not only see community members but Reenactors who visit the area.
These skirmishes are for Reenactors by Reenactors.
On Saturday, both General Gesuero and I will be located at Reliance Mine Saloon during the hours of 2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. to welcome troops or senior staff, and answer any questions you may have. We invite you to stop in, have a beverage, say hello and discuss the event.
On
Sunday afternoon Generals Baldwin and Gesuero will be hosting a site tour at
the site of the 150th Gettysburg Anniversary National Civil War Reenactment.
From the Federal Commander
Brothers in Arms,
General Gesuero and I are personally very excited about these skirmishes. More details will be released on Remembrance Day. These skirmishes are a reality based on the commitment and reputation of GAC in the community and the relationship that the staff has with the community as a whole. Several of us live here and will be here when the event is over. We will not only see community members but Reenactors who visit the area.
These skirmishes are for Reenactors by Reenactors.
On Saturday, both General Gesuero and I will be located at Reliance Mine Saloon during the hours of 2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. to welcome troops or senior staff, and answer any questions you may have. We invite you to stop in, have a beverage, say hello and discuss the event.
Your Obedient
Servant,
General
Allen Baldwin
Teleconference into the Birney's Annual Meeting
Not able to make it to the Birney's Division Annual meeting this Friday (November 16th, 8 pm EST)? You can now conference in on your phone and listen to the discussions.
To access the conference, call (605) 475-3200, then enter code 490991#. Depending on your phone service, long distance or cell minute charges may apply.
This call is open to all members of Birney's Division units only.
To access the conference, call (605) 475-3200, then enter code 490991#. Depending on your phone service, long distance or cell minute charges may apply.
This call is open to all members of Birney's Division units only.
How to get news and information from Birney's Division HQ
As we get ready to hold our annual meeting, this is a reminder to everyone that receiving news from the organization is very important. Throughout the year, we distribute a variety of detailed information. Some of it on specific events, but other information is for ALL members.
We have a number of streams where you can receive information and updates. We HIGHLY suggest that every member subscribes to the Yahoo Group email. This distributes emails from the staff to all members who subscribe. This is for EVERYONE and not just company commanders. To Subscribe, click on this link and carefully read the instructions. You DON”T have to have a Yahoo user name to receive the emails. http://groups.yahoo.com/subscribe/BirneysDivision
Here are several other places to find Birney’s Division updates:
http://www.birneysdivision.org (Schedule and News pages)
http://twitter.com/birneysdivision
http://www.facebook.com/groups/BirneysDivision
2013 is going to be an important year with the 150th Gettysburg. Don’t get left in the dark! Please pass this on to other members of your unit who may not be on the Yahoo Group Email.
We have a number of streams where you can receive information and updates. We HIGHLY suggest that every member subscribes to the Yahoo Group email. This distributes emails from the staff to all members who subscribe. This is for EVERYONE and not just company commanders. To Subscribe, click on this link and carefully read the instructions. You DON”T have to have a Yahoo user name to receive the emails. http://groups.yahoo.com/subscribe/BirneysDivision
Here are several other places to find Birney’s Division updates:
http://www.birneysdivision.org (Schedule and News pages)
http://twitter.com/birneysdivision
http://www.facebook.com/groups/BirneysDivision
2013 is going to be an important year with the 150th Gettysburg. Don’t get left in the dark! Please pass this on to other members of your unit who may not be on the Yahoo Group Email.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
December Lantern Tours at Hale Farm
Holiday Lantern Tours at Hale Farm and Village
Dec 1, 7, 8, 14-16, 19-23
Beginning at 6:00pm (by reservation)
2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath, OH
http://www.wrhs.org/calendar/Holiday_Lantern_Tours
BATH, OHIO — The annual holiday Lantern Tours return to Hale Farm and Village December 1 through December 23, 2012. This lantern-lit journey takes guests on a holiday history tour of Northeast Ohio during the Civil War.
A lively blend of history and theatre, Lantern Tour vignettes are presented in the village houses based on research of newspaper accounts, advertisements, diaries, and classic holiday literature from the era.
“Lantern Tours have become a tradition for northeast Ohio families,” says Kelly Falcone, Vice President of Hale Farm and Village. "If you haven’t visited Hale Farm and Village during the holidays, we invite you to join us this year. We are always delighted when our guests leave with a historical view of the Christmas traditions."
Visitors are invited to the Jonathan Hale House for a Victorian-era holiday treat after the tours. The Museum Store, located in the Gatehouse, Visitor Center is open throughout the tours and features unique holiday gifts including toys and games, lanterns, books, photographs, and the ever popular halemade early American products such as pottery, glass, ironware, textiles, baskets, brooms and candles.
Lantern Tours depart every 20 minutes beginning at 6:00 pm and reservations are required. Lantern Tours are an indoor/outdoor activity. Guests are asked to dress for the weather. Reservations are required. For ticket availability and reservations call 330-666-3711. Admission is: $15 for WRHS Members, $20 for non-members. Discount rates are available for groups of 15 people or more.
Dec 1, 7, 8, 14-16, 19-23
Beginning at 6:00pm (by reservation)
2686 Oak Hill Road, Bath, OH
http://www.wrhs.org/calendar/Holiday_Lantern_Tours
BATH, OHIO — The annual holiday Lantern Tours return to Hale Farm and Village December 1 through December 23, 2012. This lantern-lit journey takes guests on a holiday history tour of Northeast Ohio during the Civil War.
A lively blend of history and theatre, Lantern Tour vignettes are presented in the village houses based on research of newspaper accounts, advertisements, diaries, and classic holiday literature from the era.
“Lantern Tours have become a tradition for northeast Ohio families,” says Kelly Falcone, Vice President of Hale Farm and Village. "If you haven’t visited Hale Farm and Village during the holidays, we invite you to join us this year. We are always delighted when our guests leave with a historical view of the Christmas traditions."
Visitors are invited to the Jonathan Hale House for a Victorian-era holiday treat after the tours. The Museum Store, located in the Gatehouse, Visitor Center is open throughout the tours and features unique holiday gifts including toys and games, lanterns, books, photographs, and the ever popular halemade early American products such as pottery, glass, ironware, textiles, baskets, brooms and candles.
Lantern Tours depart every 20 minutes beginning at 6:00 pm and reservations are required. Lantern Tours are an indoor/outdoor activity. Guests are asked to dress for the weather. Reservations are required. For ticket availability and reservations call 330-666-3711. Admission is: $15 for WRHS Members, $20 for non-members. Discount rates are available for groups of 15 people or more.
Friday, November 02, 2012
Birney's Division 2012 Annual Meeting
The yearly meeting for all members and units of Birney's Division will be held on November 16th, 2012 at 8 pm in Gettysburg. PA during Remembrance Day weekend. The location will be the Gettysburg Volunteer Fire Hall, 35 N. Stratton St., one block from the circle in town going east on Rt. 30E. Make a left on Stratton St. and parking is in the rear.
Items on the agenda will be the 2013 event schedule and the planning of the 150th Gettysburg event. ALL members are encouraged to attend!!
There will also be details on where and when the Division will form for the Remembrance Day Parade on Saturday. If you have any questions, please email Chief of Staff Mike Maffei at general_maffei@verizon.net
Items on the agenda will be the 2013 event schedule and the planning of the 150th Gettysburg event. ALL members are encouraged to attend!!
There will also be details on where and when the Division will form for the Remembrance Day Parade on Saturday. If you have any questions, please email Chief of Staff Mike Maffei at general_maffei@verizon.net
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Masonic ceremony at Gettysburg
As in past years we, the Masons of Birney's Division, are holding a gathering the Saturday morning November 17th on Steinweir Avenue at the "Friend to Friend" monument at 10:30 AM.
We are inviting all Masonic and non Masonic reenactors that are interested in this gathering and speech. Please pass this notice on to all of your Masonic reenactor friends. The talk is worth your while to attend.
The central theme for the speech will be to honor those who fought at Gettysburg, veterans throughout all times, their family, those who serve today, as well as those who cared for the wounded. The speech will also honor those who were Masons.
Major General Ed Kelley
Birney's Division
Commanding
We are inviting all Masonic and non Masonic reenactors that are interested in this gathering and speech. Please pass this notice on to all of your Masonic reenactor friends. The talk is worth your while to attend.
The central theme for the speech will be to honor those who fought at Gettysburg, veterans throughout all times, their family, those who serve today, as well as those who cared for the wounded. The speech will also honor those who were Masons.
Major General Ed Kelley
Birney's Division
Commanding
Monday, October 08, 2012
Ohio Leadership Conference registration closing this week
October 27, 2012
10 am to 5 pm
Ohio Village, Columbus Ohio
Just a reminder that registration is closing on for the Ohio Civil War Reenactor Leadership Conference on October 15th. We only have a few people attending from Birney's Division and I would like to have your voice there. I don't want just myself and Captain Baltzer as the only voices from Birney's. We need your feedback and ideas to make our activities in Ohio the best they can be!
The conference is open to all Civil War reenactors of any rank and branch (Union, Confederate or civilian), however I highly encourage all of our Battalion company officers attend (even those of you in PA). A registration fee of $10.00 will cover food. Go to http://www.facebook.com/OCWRLC to print the registration form and for more information or email me at clsmith@5thohio.com to get a form.
Your Servant,
Christopher L. Smith, Colonel
Commanding
Birney's Division, 2d Battlion
10 am to 5 pm
Ohio Village, Columbus Ohio
Just a reminder that registration is closing on for the Ohio Civil War Reenactor Leadership Conference on October 15th. We only have a few people attending from Birney's Division and I would like to have your voice there. I don't want just myself and Captain Baltzer as the only voices from Birney's. We need your feedback and ideas to make our activities in Ohio the best they can be!
The conference is open to all Civil War reenactors of any rank and branch (Union, Confederate or civilian), however I highly encourage all of our Battalion company officers attend (even those of you in PA). A registration fee of $10.00 will cover food. Go to http://www.facebook.com/OCWRLC to print the registration form and for more information or email me at clsmith@5thohio.com to get a form.
Your Servant,
Christopher L. Smith, Colonel
Commanding
Birney's Division, 2d Battlion
Monday, September 24, 2012
First call for Perryopolis
The final Birney's Division reenactment of the season is close at hand in Perryopolis, PA. If you have never attended you are missing some cool stuff. Period buildings and troop barracks (heated!) plus trenches and major pyrotechnics.
We will most likely have a single combined battalion. Please send the following information to Capt. Murphy ASAP.
1. Name of unit.
2. Number of military personnel.
3. Name and contact for the person in charge of your unit for the weekend.
Again, please email Capt. Murphy with this information at ltmurph54th@yahoo.com. For more information on the event including registration, go to http://perryopolis.webs.com.
We will most likely have a single combined battalion. Please send the following information to Capt. Murphy ASAP.
1. Name of unit.
2. Number of military personnel.
3. Name and contact for the person in charge of your unit for the weekend.
Again, please email Capt. Murphy with this information at ltmurph54th@yahoo.com. For more information on the event including registration, go to http://perryopolis.webs.com.
Monday, September 17, 2012
"Copper" picks up where "Gangs" left off
I am not sure how this new BBC series slipped under the radar of so many Civil War enthusiasts, but if you have not seen "Copper", then you are missing some really good stuff! Sort of a follow up to the film "Gangs of New York", "Copper" follows irishman Kevin Corcoran after he returns home from the war months after the draft riots of 1863. Now a police detective, Corcoran lives and works in the poor and dangerous Five Points district that was the center piece of the film. It is a pretty gritty show and combines all of the elements that make up a juicy plot. Wealth vs. poverty, scummy politicians, racial/cultural divides. Just to be clear, I am talking about 1864 and not 2012.
Check your cable programming to see if you get BBC America. You can also visit the website at http://www.bbcamerica.com/copper.
Monday, September 03, 2012
Date Correction
All,
Correction to the 150th Antietam dates, the dates are 14-16 September. My apologies for any issues i might have caused.
CPT Murphy
Correction to the 150th Antietam dates, the dates are 14-16 September. My apologies for any issues i might have caused.
CPT Murphy
15-17 Antietam Last Call
ALL Company Commanders,
This is your last call for Antietam on 15-17 September. If your unit is planning on attending and you have not given me your numbers please do so immediately. If your unit has changes or updates since your last correspondence with me get me those changes. Please remind your troops that there is a
non-spectator battle Friday evening at 6 PM, it is going to be a cornfield scenario with an actual cornfield, first call for that battle will probably be 4:45ish as we all know how it is at national level events. The command staff will mostly be on site Thursday afternoon. Any questions let myself or COL Rohrbaugh no ASAP.
Respectfully,
CPT M. Murphy
Adjutant, Birney's Division
This is your last call for Antietam on 15-17 September. If your unit is planning on attending and you have not given me your numbers please do so immediately. If your unit has changes or updates since your last correspondence with me get me those changes. Please remind your troops that there is a
non-spectator battle Friday evening at 6 PM, it is going to be a cornfield scenario with an actual cornfield, first call for that battle will probably be 4:45ish as we all know how it is at national level events. The command staff will mostly be on site Thursday afternoon. Any questions let myself or COL Rohrbaugh no ASAP.
Respectfully,
CPT M. Murphy
Adjutant, Birney's Division
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Ohio Civil War Reenactor Leadership Conference
October 27, 2012
10 am to 5 pm
Ohio Village, Columbus Ohio
I would like to invite members of Birney's Division to the first Ohio Civil War Reenactor Leadership Conference being held this October. Several of us in both the military and civilian reenacting communities have been been discussing ways to bring people together and meet face to face. This conference will not only help bridge the divide we may have in some areas, but also explore ways we can support the key events we have throughout the state.
The conference is open to all Civil War reenactors of any rank and branch (Union, Confederate or civilian), however I highly encourage all of our Battalion company officers attend (even those of you in PA). A registration fee of $10.00 will cover food. Go to http://www.facebook.com/OCWRLC to print the registration form and for more information.
Birney's 2d Battalion needs to have as strong of a presence at this meeting as we do on the field here in Ohio. If you have any questions at all, please email me at clsmith@5thohio.com.
Your Servant,
Christopher L. Smith, Colonel
Commanding
Birney's Division, 2d Battlion
10 am to 5 pm
Ohio Village, Columbus Ohio
I would like to invite members of Birney's Division to the first Ohio Civil War Reenactor Leadership Conference being held this October. Several of us in both the military and civilian reenacting communities have been been discussing ways to bring people together and meet face to face. This conference will not only help bridge the divide we may have in some areas, but also explore ways we can support the key events we have throughout the state.
The conference is open to all Civil War reenactors of any rank and branch (Union, Confederate or civilian), however I highly encourage all of our Battalion company officers attend (even those of you in PA). A registration fee of $10.00 will cover food. Go to http://www.facebook.com/OCWRLC to print the registration form and for more information.
Birney's 2d Battalion needs to have as strong of a presence at this meeting as we do on the field here in Ohio. If you have any questions at all, please email me at clsmith@5thohio.com.
Your Servant,
Christopher L. Smith, Colonel
Commanding
Birney's Division, 2d Battlion
Monday, August 27, 2012
Gettysburg Anniversary Committee makes 2012 donations
The Gettysburg Anniversary Committee, organizers of the Annual
Gettysburg Civil War Reenactment present checks from this year's reenactment to
three local organizations in front of historic Schmucker Hall on the campus of
the Gettysburg Lutheran Theological Seminary.
Next year's 150th Gettysburg Anniversary
National Civil War Battle Reenactment will donate a portion of the event
proceeds to five local beneficiaries including the renovation of Schmucker Hall
into the Gettysburg Seminary Ridge Museum. Other beneficiary's next year will
include the Adams County Historical Society,Sgt MAC National Wreath Project,
Land Conservancy of Adams County and the Sachs Mill Covered Bridge Improvement
Project.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Maryland, My Maryland unit portrayls
The order of battle is coming together for Maryland, My Maryland. Birney's Division will have a battalion of around 70 military personnel. Federal Commander Mike Lavis has outlined what unit Birney's will be representing in each scenario. Where available, I have linked a reference website so you may understand the unit and their action at South Mountain and Antietam.
Saturday, September 8, 1:00 pm - Battle for Fox's Gap (South Mountain)
12th Ohio Volunteer Infantry
http://www.ohiocivilwar.com/cw12.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_South_Mountain
Saturday, September 8, 7:45 pm - Frost Town Road (South Mountain)
4th Pennsylvania Reserveshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/4th_Pennsylvania_Reserve_Regiment
This battle will be going on at the same time as the Crampton's Gap scenario on another part of the property. The sound of a "far off battle" will give a depth to each group as they engage in their own scenario.
Sunday, September 9, 6:30 am - Into the Corn (Antietam)
97th New York Infantryhttp://dmna.ny.gov/historic/reghist/civil/infantry/97thInf/97thInfMain.htm
Sunday, September 9, 12:00 pm - Up Comes Hill (Antietam)
89th/103rd New York Infantry
http://civilwarintheeast.com/USA/NY/NY089.php
http://dmna.ny.gov/historic/reghist/civil/infantry/103rdInf/103rdInfMain.htm
More information to follow on camps and logistics over the next few days!
Saturday, September 8, 1:00 pm - Battle for Fox's Gap (South Mountain)
12th Ohio Volunteer Infantry
http://www.ohiocivilwar.com/cw12.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_South_Mountain
Saturday, September 8, 7:45 pm - Frost Town Road (South Mountain)
4th Pennsylvania Reserveshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/4th_Pennsylvania_Reserve_Regiment
This battle will be going on at the same time as the Crampton's Gap scenario on another part of the property. The sound of a "far off battle" will give a depth to each group as they engage in their own scenario.
Sunday, September 9, 6:30 am - Into the Corn (Antietam)
97th New York Infantryhttp://dmna.ny.gov/historic/reghist/civil/infantry/97thInf/97thInfMain.htm
Sunday, September 9, 12:00 pm - Up Comes Hill (Antietam)
89th/103rd New York Infantry
http://civilwarintheeast.com/USA/NY/NY089.php
http://dmna.ny.gov/historic/reghist/civil/infantry/103rdInf/103rdInfMain.htm
More information to follow on camps and logistics over the next few days!
Thursday, August 16, 2012
From the Gettysburg 150th Federal Commander
Planning for the 150th National Gettysburg Anniversary Civil War Battle Reenactment has been underway for some time. In reality, it started back at the 135th Battle Reenactment as various groups came together to solidify the hobby and provide a great reenactment experience. For myself and the Command Staff of the First Federal Division Headquarters', the 140th and 145th were dress rehearsals to prepare the Staff and the event organizers for what will be a landmark event like the 125th Battle reenactment was. With all of this in mind, and the fact that many veteran reenactors have relayed to the command staffs that this will be their final swan song in the hobby, we must continue to push forward to provide the best experience for the troops. The military command and event staffs are meeting and communicating almost daily to ensure a well-planned event.
Camping areas, battlefield layout, amenities, support issues and event preparedness have all been key items of discussion. Additional stream crossings are being planned along with other site improvements. The phrase, "moving forward" has become the statement of my staff when dealing with this event. The planning will continue and commitments increased as needed when we get closer to the date. A Divisional Commanders meeting is planned for Remembrance Day and in mid-December. More will follow and the attendance broadened to make sure we reach all and address the needs of the units and the troops. We have also rearranged the website and improved it to be more reenactor friendly.
In closing with the theme of "moving forward," I am proud to announce that two of the four Federal Infantry Division Commands have been accepted. Brigadier General Ron Palase will command the 1st Federal Infantry Division and Brigadier General David Shackleford the 2nd Federal Infantry Division. I hope to name the other two Infantry Divisional Commands in the near future.
All involved continue to work tirelessly to make the 150th Gettysburg Battle Reenactment a memorable event for all.
Your Obedient Servant,
Major General Allen W. Baldwin
Commander Federal Forces
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
First Call! Maryland, My Maryland
Maryland, My Maryland
150th Anniversary of the Battle of South Mountain & Antietam
September 7-9, 2012
Boonsboro. MD
http://www.marylandcampaign150.org
Per Capt. Murphy's email, we are beginning to get ready for the Antietam events. If you are a Birney's Division unit (1st or 2d Battalion) and are attending Maryland,My Maryland (see date and location above), I would like to get an idea of our numbers. PLEASE email me the following information as soon as possible.
1. Unit Name
2. Number of military
3. Number of Civilians
4. Number of tents and type
Birney's Division units will be camping in the garrison area. This means we will set up AS USUAL with company streets and civilian walls and flys around the edges. This is just how we setup at the 145th Gettysburg.
Again, this is just an initial call for numbers. More details will be sent out over the next few weeks. Please email the requested information to clsmith@5thohio.com
150th Anniversary of the Battle of South Mountain & Antietam
September 7-9, 2012
Boonsboro. MD
http://www.marylandcampaign150.org
Per Capt. Murphy's email, we are beginning to get ready for the Antietam events. If you are a Birney's Division unit (1st or 2d Battalion) and are attending Maryland,My Maryland (see date and location above), I would like to get an idea of our numbers. PLEASE email me the following information as soon as possible.
1. Unit Name
2. Number of military
3. Number of Civilians
4. Number of tents and type
Birney's Division units will be camping in the garrison area. This means we will set up AS USUAL with company streets and civilian walls and flys around the edges. This is just how we setup at the 145th Gettysburg.
Again, this is just an initial call for numbers. More details will be sent out over the next few weeks. Please email the requested information to clsmith@5thohio.com
Monday, August 13, 2012
Divisional First Call 150th Antietam
This is for all company commanders of both 1st and 2nd Battalions. I need for all companies to report there intentions for the 150th Antietam event being held on 15-17 September. Registration closes on Wednesday and there are no walk-ons or on-site substitutions. By this time you should all have a good idea of what kind of attendance you are expecting. I need the breakdown by company as follows:
Officers:
Enlisted:
Civilians:
The divisional staff will be on site and we are looking to get these numbers so we can organize our efforts for that weekend. For those attending Maryland, My Maryland the weekend prior please contact COL Smith or MAJ Penix. Please get me those reports no later than 29 August. You can send your reports to CPT Murphy at ltmurph54th@yahoo.com any questions can be directed to that address as well.
Respectfully,
CPT M. Murphy
Adjutant, Birney's Division
Officers:
Enlisted:
Civilians:
The divisional staff will be on site and we are looking to get these numbers so we can organize our efforts for that weekend. For those attending Maryland, My Maryland the weekend prior please contact COL Smith or MAJ Penix. Please get me those reports no later than 29 August. You can send your reports to CPT Murphy at ltmurph54th@yahoo.com any questions can be directed to that address as well.
Respectfully,
CPT M. Murphy
Adjutant, Birney's Division
Tuesday, August 07, 2012
Attention! Orders for Hale Farm
1. Setup is permitted no earlier than 10 am on Friday the 10th. The only exception are those who have been pre-approved by Col. Minton for Thursday night. You MUST check in at Federal HQ (the "First Settlement" Log Cabin near the sawmill) BEFORE you set up your camp.
2. All reenactors MUST check in at registration prior to entering the grounds. Reenactors who have not pre-register will need to do so at that time. Only pre-registered reenactors will receive a Sunday breakfast ticket and firewood chit. Firewood will be located at Federal HQ. You must present your chit to draw firewood.
3. Federal reenactors will be on the Visitor's Center side of the property this year as we are trying to change things up. The camp location map is shown here (or will appear as a separate post). The Confederate reenactors will be in the Village. A new programming area will be near the Visitors Center and Sutler Row will be on the path going into the Village.
4. We have two battles planned for Saturday. In the morning ("Pillage the Village", 8 am) for the reenactors and the tradition afternoon battle for the public. There will be only one battle on Sunday afternoon. We have added earthworks for the scenarios and there will be a great deal more cavalry than usual. Both Federal and Confederate riders will be on the field making it about 80 horse in action! You will receive a reenactor version of the schedule when you check in/register. There is a public schedule online at http://www.wrhs.org/Properties/Civil_War_Reenactment_Encampment#schedule
5. At this time, we would like to ask any Federal reenactors who have a Confederate jackets to bring it to the event. There may be a need to ask for volunteers who wish to galvanize for battles only. The is strictly on a volunteer basis.
If you have any questions at all, please email me at clsmith@5thohio.com
Monday, August 06, 2012
Quartermaster needed for Hale Farm this weekend
This weekend will be the annual Civil War event at Hale Farm & Village. One of the favorite events in Ohio. For those of you attending, information will be posted shortly with details such as setup time, schedule, and so on. As with last year, for those who are pre-registered, you will be receiving a chit to draw firewood from the Quartermaster. We have plenty of really good wood but this will ensure that everyone gets their share.
On behalf of our Federal Commander Col. Minton, I would like to request a volunteer to serve as the Quartermaster NCO to stand several shifts in order to check for firewood chits and issue the appropriate amount of firewood. This person will be needed to work this post both late Friday afternoon into the evening and Saturday early and late morning. There may also be a need to administrate shortly after the battle on Saturday. This will not impact your participation in the other activities.
You must be a Federal military reenactor and probably best if you are a big guy with a "don't mess with me" look. Maybe carry a baseball bat... or a tire iron.
Please contact Col. Smith at clsmith@5thohio.com ASAP.
On behalf of our Federal Commander Col. Minton, I would like to request a volunteer to serve as the Quartermaster NCO to stand several shifts in order to check for firewood chits and issue the appropriate amount of firewood. This person will be needed to work this post both late Friday afternoon into the evening and Saturday early and late morning. There may also be a need to administrate shortly after the battle on Saturday. This will not impact your participation in the other activities.
You must be a Federal military reenactor and probably best if you are a big guy with a "don't mess with me" look. Maybe carry a baseball bat... or a tire iron.
Please contact Col. Smith at clsmith@5thohio.com ASAP.
Wednesday, August 01, 2012
A peek at Maryland, My Maryland schedule
Hi pards,
For those of you going to the 150th Antietam event known as "Maryland, My Maryland", here is a little heads-up on the schedule you can expect.
Thursday, Aug 2
8am- Online Registration Closes. No Walk-Ons.
Wednesday, Sept 5
Noon- Sutler Arrival
Thursday, Sept 6
Noon- Participant Registration Opens till 8pm
7pm- A. P. Hill Marchers Shuttled to Harpers Ferry
Friday, Sept 7
10am- Registration opens for Participants till 11pm
4pm to 8pm- Wagon Rides from Parking to Camps
10pm- Camp closes to all car traffic for the weekend
11pm- All cars out of camp, will be towed if not gone by 11pm
Saturday, Sept 8
6am- Registration opens till 8am- no participant will be able to register after 8am.
7am- Horse Drawn Wagons Ferry remaining participants into camp
7am- All Camps go “period” for the weekend.
9am- Gates open to the Public
10am- Lectures at the Main Activity Tent on Sutler Row begin
1pm- Battle of Fox’s Gap
3pm- Cavalry Demonstration for the Public- Fox’s Gap Field
5pm- New Old World Theater performs Period Theatrical Play at the main activity tent
6pm- Gates Close to Public
7:45pm- Simultaneous Dusk Fights, participant only, Frost Town Road and Crampton’s Gap
9:30pm- Troops assembled for march to Cornfield Battlefield for the night for those who wish to do so. All troops can participate and camp on the field.
Sunday, Sept 8
5:30am– Those troops not camped in the Cornfield Area will form and march to the scenario.
6:30am- Into the Corn- Battle Begins. Participants only Scenario. Troops will remain in the field till the next scenario.
10am- Gates Open to the Public
10:30am- Public Lecture on the Battle of Antietam- Public viewing area.
Noon- Up Comes Hill- Final Public Scenario
1:30pm- Event Ends
As you can see, there will be several unique scenarios giving us a chance to do some things that we don't get a chance to do. As with everything in this hobby, it is a "volunteer" army.
Our camp setup will be garrison in style as we normally do. More information to come.
Your Servant,
Christopher Smith
2d Battalion, Birney's Division
Commanding
For those of you going to the 150th Antietam event known as "Maryland, My Maryland", here is a little heads-up on the schedule you can expect.
Thursday, Aug 2
8am- Online Registration Closes. No Walk-Ons.
Wednesday, Sept 5
Noon- Sutler Arrival
Thursday, Sept 6
Noon- Participant Registration Opens till 8pm
7pm- A. P. Hill Marchers Shuttled to Harpers Ferry
Friday, Sept 7
10am- Registration opens for Participants till 11pm
4pm to 8pm- Wagon Rides from Parking to Camps
10pm- Camp closes to all car traffic for the weekend
11pm- All cars out of camp, will be towed if not gone by 11pm
Saturday, Sept 8
6am- Registration opens till 8am- no participant will be able to register after 8am.
7am- Horse Drawn Wagons Ferry remaining participants into camp
7am- All Camps go “period” for the weekend.
9am- Gates open to the Public
10am- Lectures at the Main Activity Tent on Sutler Row begin
1pm- Battle of Fox’s Gap
3pm- Cavalry Demonstration for the Public- Fox’s Gap Field
5pm- New Old World Theater performs Period Theatrical Play at the main activity tent
6pm- Gates Close to Public
7:45pm- Simultaneous Dusk Fights, participant only, Frost Town Road and Crampton’s Gap
9:30pm- Troops assembled for march to Cornfield Battlefield for the night for those who wish to do so. All troops can participate and camp on the field.
Sunday, Sept 8
5:30am– Those troops not camped in the Cornfield Area will form and march to the scenario.
6:30am- Into the Corn- Battle Begins. Participants only Scenario. Troops will remain in the field till the next scenario.
10am- Gates Open to the Public
10:30am- Public Lecture on the Battle of Antietam- Public viewing area.
Noon- Up Comes Hill- Final Public Scenario
1:30pm- Event Ends
As you can see, there will be several unique scenarios giving us a chance to do some things that we don't get a chance to do. As with everything in this hobby, it is a "volunteer" army.
Our camp setup will be garrison in style as we normally do. More information to come.
Your Servant,
Christopher Smith
2d Battalion, Birney's Division
Commanding
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
First Call, Hale Farm! PLEASE READ
"The Drums of August"
August 11-12, 2012
Hale Farm & Village - Bath, OH
A max effort event for the 2d Battalion of Birney's Division. Pre-registrations must be post marked TODAY. Walk-ons are permitted. Click the link below for all of the event information including registration details.
http://www.wrhs.org/Properties/Civil_War_Reenactment_Encampment
At this time, we are asking for a estimated count of Birney's Division members. Please send me BOTH numbers based on those who are registered and those who plan to walk-on.
1. Unit name.
2. How many MILITARY personnel?
3. How many CIVILIANS?
4. Number of tents and type.
Please EMAIL the above information to clsmith@5thohio.com as soon as possible.
August 11-12, 2012
Hale Farm & Village - Bath, OH
A max effort event for the 2d Battalion of Birney's Division. Pre-registrations must be post marked TODAY. Walk-ons are permitted. Click the link below for all of the event information including registration details.
http://www.wrhs.org/Properties/Civil_War_Reenactment_Encampment
At this time, we are asking for a estimated count of Birney's Division members. Please send me BOTH numbers based on those who are registered and those who plan to walk-on.
1. Unit name.
2. How many MILITARY personnel?
3. How many CIVILIANS?
4. Number of tents and type.
Please EMAIL the above information to clsmith@5thohio.com as soon as possible.
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Final days for Hale Farm pre-reg
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
1st Battalion 150th Antietam
From 1st Battalion:
As you all saw in the posting from COL Smith, the 150th Antietam event is around the corner. This event is already approaching 10,000 registered participants. I advise getting your registration in as soon as possible in case there is a cut-off.
The 150th event website is http://www.150thantietamreenactment.com. Please get your folks registered. Any questions let me know.
Respectfully,
CPT M. Murphy
Adjutant, 1st Battalion, Birney's
ltmurph54th@yahoo.com
As you all saw in the posting from COL Smith, the 150th Antietam event is around the corner. This event is already approaching 10,000 registered participants. I advise getting your registration in as soon as possible in case there is a cut-off.
The 150th event website is http://www.150thantietamreenactment.com. Please get your folks registered. Any questions let me know.
Respectfully,
CPT M. Murphy
Adjutant, 1st Battalion, Birney's
ltmurph54th@yahoo.com
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
2nd Call for 2012 Events
All Birney's Company Commanders,
This is your second call for the following events:
August 18-19: Luray Caverns, Luray, VA
September 15-16: 150th Antietam, Sharspburg, MD
October 20-21: 148th Cedar Creek, Middletown, VA
Please get back to me as soon as possible for these events so we can get an idea of what kind of numbers we are looking at. If you have responded back to the 1st call disregard this email. Email me your responses at ltmurph54th@yahoo.com.
Respectfully,
CPT M. Murphy
Adjutant, Birney's Division
This is your second call for the following events:
August 18-19: Luray Caverns, Luray, VA
September 15-16: 150th Antietam, Sharspburg, MD
October 20-21: 148th Cedar Creek, Middletown, VA
Please get back to me as soon as possible for these events so we can get an idea of what kind of numbers we are looking at. If you have responded back to the 1st call disregard this email. Email me your responses at ltmurph54th@yahoo.com.
Respectfully,
CPT M. Murphy
Adjutant, Birney's Division
Luray Virginia event registration extended
August 18, 2012 - Battle of Orange Courthouse
August 19, 2012 - Battle of Cedar Mountain
Luray Caverns, VA
Birney's Division's Colonel Rohrbaugh will be the over-all Federal Commander for this event located at the new Luray Valley Museum located at Luray Caverns, Virginia on 200 acres of land.
The event is open to all branches of service. There will be a bounty for the first 4 full scale artillery pieces and the first 30 mounted cavalry per side.
August 19, 2012 - Battle of Cedar Mountain
Luray Caverns, VA
Birney's Division's Colonel Rohrbaugh will be the over-all Federal Commander for this event located at the new Luray Valley Museum located at Luray Caverns, Virginia on 200 acres of land.
The event is open to all branches of service. There will be a bounty for the first 4 full scale artillery pieces and the first 30 mounted cavalry per side.
Provided will be hay, water, firewood, port-a-johns and a Saturday military ball. All participants in period attire will receive a 50% discount on admission to the Caverns. Registration fee $10.00 till July 30th which is an extension to what is on the online registration form. Please note "as per Col. Wilt" when registering before July 30th. The site will open at noon on Friday, August 17th.
Birney's events this weekend
Birney's Division battalions will be doing two regional events this weekend, July 21-22. Walk-on registration is still available for both events. So grab your musket and come fight for the Union!
1st Battalion: The Battle of Funkstown - Lee's Retreat from Gettysburg
Funkstown, MD - http://www.battle-of-funkstown.com/
2d Battalion: Argus Park
Canfield, OH - www.facebook.com/ArgusCivilWar
1st Battalion: The Battle of Funkstown - Lee's Retreat from Gettysburg
Funkstown, MD - http://www.battle-of-funkstown.com/
2d Battalion: Argus Park
Canfield, OH - www.facebook.com/ArgusCivilWar
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Union and Confederate Soldiers, Civilians, Cavalry, and Merchants bring the American Civil War to life
BATH, OHIO — Hale Farm & Village, a museum of Western Reserve Historical Society, brings the Civil War to life at the annual Civil War Reenactment, August 11-12, 2012, with a preview of the encampment on Friday, August 10th. More than 500 re-enactors are expected to participate, making this one of the largest annual Civil War events in Ohio. Guests will meet soldiers and civilians, hear the sounds of battle, smell the gunpowder, shake hands with President Lincoln, and shop for a hoopskirt.
“The Civil War Reenactment at Hale Farm & Village is Ohio’s largest reenactment in 2012,” says Colonel Bob Minton, Army of the Ohio Civil War Reenactors. “More than 50 mounted cavalry, new camp locations, the addition of a central performance area, earthworks, trenches, and redoubts, make the 2012 event the most exciting to date.” The registration for re-enactors to participate has been extended to July 31, 2012.
“We are now entering the 150th of the second year of the War. The scenarios we have planned this year are going to reflect the larger scale of what was going on in 1862. Hale Farm & Village is a perfect location to recreate engagements during the Peninsula Campaign and an early form of trench warfare,” says Colonel Chris Smith, 2nd Battalion Commander for Birney's Division, a national organization of Civil War Reenactors.
New in 2012! 1st Ohio Light Artillery, Battery A will fire the Ohio Statehouse Cannons!
Battery A, modelled after a Civil War-era Union Army artillery unit, was commissioned by the State of Ohio. The soldiers of Battery A are not only trained to demonstrate the Statehouse’s restored, Civil War-era guns, but also to talk about the everyday life of a soldier, including work, clothing, diet, medical care, battle and recreation. Meet and talk with the soldiers of the 1st Ohio Light Artillery, Battery A throughout the day.
Also, new this year is an evening Candlelight Tour of Camps. Guests are invited on a candlelit walk throughout the Hale Farm & Village grounds, Friday, August 10, 2012 at 6:00 pm. The lantern-lit tour will lead visitors through Union and Confederate Camps where they will get a behind the scenes look at the men, women, and children whose passion for history makes the Civil War come to life.
From 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Saturday, August 11, and Sunday, August 12, 2012, guests will relive the American Civil War experience. At 2:00 pm daily, the recreation of Civil War battles in the museum’s North Pasture is just one feature of the event. Cannons will roar across the re-created battlefield amidst the soldiers, smoke, and gunfire. Cavalry will charge as the battle unfolds just yards away.
Guests experience the entire flavor and ambience of the Civil War era: soldier skirmishes, appearances by “President Lincoln”, Civil War era music and entertainment, a fashion show of Civil War military and civilian dress, the US Cavalry, and the 4th annual Civil War Ball. They will meet the men and women who reenact this seminal event in the nation’s history when visiting Union and Confederate soldier and civilian camps, witness the medical practices of the era, and shop along Sutler’s Row for unique items such as shoes, corsets, dresses, foods, and other fine goods from the period.
On Friday, August 10th visitors can get a behind-the-scenes look at the move-in and preparation that takes place for the weekend events. They can watch the reenactors set up and prepare for the weekend, the cavalry arrival, the northern and southern camps being built, and the bustle of staff preparing for the Farm’s biggest event of the year. This day is also perfect for media to capture the magic that goes into the creation of this event. Please contact Angie Lowrie to arrange a visit. alowrie@wrhs.org.
Guests can stay longer Saturday, August 11 for evening events.
Civil War Reenactment Ball, August 11 8:00 – 10:30 pm
Guests dance the Virginia Reel and spin back to the Civil War era at the Hale Farm & Village Civil War Ball. Reenactors and Hale Farm & Village costumed staff will join the festivities. 8:00-10:30pm. $5 Admission and reservations required. Call 330-666-3711 for more information and to purchase tickets.
Advance general admission tickets are available for purchase at www.halefarm.org. General admission will also be at the gate. Tickets are $10 per adult and $5 per child age 3-12. Children 2 & under and WRHS members are FREE. A 2-day Civil War Pass is available for $15 per adult and $7.50 per child age 3-12. Group rates for parties of 15 people or more are available. Call 330-666-3711.
Reservations required for the August 10, 2012, Candlelight Tour Preview. 330-666-3711 x1720. Admission: WRHS members: $15; non-members: $25.
All Western Reserve Historical Society Civil War programming is part of the statewide initiative to honor the Civil War Sesquicentennial. Information on events is posted at http://www.halefarm.org/.
“The Civil War Reenactment at Hale Farm & Village is Ohio’s largest reenactment in 2012,” says Colonel Bob Minton, Army of the Ohio Civil War Reenactors. “More than 50 mounted cavalry, new camp locations, the addition of a central performance area, earthworks, trenches, and redoubts, make the 2012 event the most exciting to date.” The registration for re-enactors to participate has been extended to July 31, 2012.
“We are now entering the 150th of the second year of the War. The scenarios we have planned this year are going to reflect the larger scale of what was going on in 1862. Hale Farm & Village is a perfect location to recreate engagements during the Peninsula Campaign and an early form of trench warfare,” says Colonel Chris Smith, 2nd Battalion Commander for Birney's Division, a national organization of Civil War Reenactors.
New in 2012! 1st Ohio Light Artillery, Battery A will fire the Ohio Statehouse Cannons!
Battery A, modelled after a Civil War-era Union Army artillery unit, was commissioned by the State of Ohio. The soldiers of Battery A are not only trained to demonstrate the Statehouse’s restored, Civil War-era guns, but also to talk about the everyday life of a soldier, including work, clothing, diet, medical care, battle and recreation. Meet and talk with the soldiers of the 1st Ohio Light Artillery, Battery A throughout the day.
Also, new this year is an evening Candlelight Tour of Camps. Guests are invited on a candlelit walk throughout the Hale Farm & Village grounds, Friday, August 10, 2012 at 6:00 pm. The lantern-lit tour will lead visitors through Union and Confederate Camps where they will get a behind the scenes look at the men, women, and children whose passion for history makes the Civil War come to life.
From 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Saturday, August 11, and Sunday, August 12, 2012, guests will relive the American Civil War experience. At 2:00 pm daily, the recreation of Civil War battles in the museum’s North Pasture is just one feature of the event. Cannons will roar across the re-created battlefield amidst the soldiers, smoke, and gunfire. Cavalry will charge as the battle unfolds just yards away.
Guests experience the entire flavor and ambience of the Civil War era: soldier skirmishes, appearances by “President Lincoln”, Civil War era music and entertainment, a fashion show of Civil War military and civilian dress, the US Cavalry, and the 4th annual Civil War Ball. They will meet the men and women who reenact this seminal event in the nation’s history when visiting Union and Confederate soldier and civilian camps, witness the medical practices of the era, and shop along Sutler’s Row for unique items such as shoes, corsets, dresses, foods, and other fine goods from the period.
On Friday, August 10th visitors can get a behind-the-scenes look at the move-in and preparation that takes place for the weekend events. They can watch the reenactors set up and prepare for the weekend, the cavalry arrival, the northern and southern camps being built, and the bustle of staff preparing for the Farm’s biggest event of the year. This day is also perfect for media to capture the magic that goes into the creation of this event. Please contact Angie Lowrie to arrange a visit. alowrie@wrhs.org.
Guests can stay longer Saturday, August 11 for evening events.
Civil War Reenactment Ball, August 11 8:00 – 10:30 pm
Guests dance the Virginia Reel and spin back to the Civil War era at the Hale Farm & Village Civil War Ball. Reenactors and Hale Farm & Village costumed staff will join the festivities. 8:00-10:30pm. $5 Admission and reservations required. Call 330-666-3711 for more information and to purchase tickets.
Advance general admission tickets are available for purchase at www.halefarm.org. General admission will also be at the gate. Tickets are $10 per adult and $5 per child age 3-12. Children 2 & under and WRHS members are FREE. A 2-day Civil War Pass is available for $15 per adult and $7.50 per child age 3-12. Group rates for parties of 15 people or more are available. Call 330-666-3711.
Reservations required for the August 10, 2012, Candlelight Tour Preview. 330-666-3711 x1720. Admission: WRHS members: $15; non-members: $25.
All Western Reserve Historical Society Civil War programming is part of the statewide initiative to honor the Civil War Sesquicentennial. Information on events is posted at http://www.halefarm.org/.
Monday, July 09, 2012
1st Call for upcoming Events
All Commanders,
This is an early 1st Call for the following events:
Aug 4-5: 150th 2nd Bull Runn @ Cedar Creek
Aug 18-19: 150th Cedar Mountain, Luray Caverns, VA
Sep 15-16: 150th Antietam
All these events are needed for rough numbers to know what kind of staffing we need to provide at these events. We ask that all company commanders from 1st and 2nd Battalions please contact the Brigade Adjutant, CPT Murphy, ltmurph54th@yahoo.com. Any questions can be directed to that address as well.
Respectfully,
CPT M. Murphy
Adjutant, Birney's Division
This is an early 1st Call for the following events:
Aug 4-5: 150th 2nd Bull Runn @ Cedar Creek
Aug 18-19: 150th Cedar Mountain, Luray Caverns, VA
Sep 15-16: 150th Antietam
All these events are needed for rough numbers to know what kind of staffing we need to provide at these events. We ask that all company commanders from 1st and 2nd Battalions please contact the Brigade Adjutant, CPT Murphy, ltmurph54th@yahoo.com. Any questions can be directed to that address as well.
Respectfully,
CPT M. Murphy
Adjutant, Birney's Division
Painesville event this weekend
July 14-15, 2012
"Trouble in Bordertown", Lake County Civil War Reenactment
Lake County Historical Society
415 Riverside Dr.
Painesville Twp., OH
http://www.lakehistory.org/
Now that the cooler weather is here, Birney's 2d Battalion and other area units will be heading to Painesville this weekend for the Lake County Civil War Reenactment. In addition to the Bordertown scenario and skirmishes, there will also be a raffle for a reproduction 1860 Colt for all pre-registered reenactors and a reenactor drawing for a number of $25 gas cards. Music provided by the 97th Regimental String Band and The Black River Boys.
Our own Capt Paul Baltzer will be leading the Federal forces this weekend as I am still on medical leave (hope to be released by my doc in time for Argus Park). Union camps will start setting up Friday afternoon. Please see Capt. Baltzer or Col. Tim Perry to get placed.
Thank you all for your support of this event and Lake County's Civil War museum. I will still be distributing information to assist Capt. Baltzer. Please do not hesitate to email questions to clsmith@5thohio.com
"Trouble in Bordertown", Lake County Civil War Reenactment
Lake County Historical Society
415 Riverside Dr.
Painesville Twp., OH
http://www.lakehistory.org/
Now that the cooler weather is here, Birney's 2d Battalion and other area units will be heading to Painesville this weekend for the Lake County Civil War Reenactment. In addition to the Bordertown scenario and skirmishes, there will also be a raffle for a reproduction 1860 Colt for all pre-registered reenactors and a reenactor drawing for a number of $25 gas cards. Music provided by the 97th Regimental String Band and The Black River Boys.
Our own Capt Paul Baltzer will be leading the Federal forces this weekend as I am still on medical leave (hope to be released by my doc in time for Argus Park). Union camps will start setting up Friday afternoon. Please see Capt. Baltzer or Col. Tim Perry to get placed.
Thank you all for your support of this event and Lake County's Civil War museum. I will still be distributing information to assist Capt. Baltzer. Please do not hesitate to email questions to clsmith@5thohio.com
Tuesday, July 03, 2012
Hale Farm details and registration extension
After this past weekend's planning meeting, more details are being released about this year's Civil War event at Hale Farm & Village (August 11-12). Here are a few things you can expect!
- Ohio's largest reenactment in 2012
- 50+ mounted cavalry (by far the most you'll see in Ohio this year)
- Saturday morning battle just for the reenactors
- New camp locations
- Earthworks and redoubts!!!!!!!!
- Expanded speakers in the activities area
- Scenario is the 1862 Battle of Williamsburg
Other good news is that the pre-registration cut-off date has been extended to July 31st! Pre-registration and walk-on fees are BOTH $10.00. You MUST pre-register to receive the Sunday morning breakfast and a firewood chit. Firewood cannot be guaranteed for those who register on-site. Click on the link below to download the form.
http://www.wrhs.org/Properties/Civil_War_Reenactment_Encampment#registration
- Ohio's largest reenactment in 2012
- 50+ mounted cavalry (by far the most you'll see in Ohio this year)
- Saturday morning battle just for the reenactors
- New camp locations
- Earthworks and redoubts!!!!!!!!
- Expanded speakers in the activities area
- Scenario is the 1862 Battle of Williamsburg
Other good news is that the pre-registration cut-off date has been extended to July 31st! Pre-registration and walk-on fees are BOTH $10.00. You MUST pre-register to receive the Sunday morning breakfast and a firewood chit. Firewood cannot be guaranteed for those who register on-site. Click on the link below to download the form.
http://www.wrhs.org/Properties/Civil_War_Reenactment_Encampment#registration
Monday, June 25, 2012
Final reenactor insurance notice
Greetings Birney's Division member units,
We are pleased to again offer Commercial General Liability Insurance to protect members for the rest of 2012 into the 2013 season. We have received the renewal notice and I am happy to report that coverages and costs remain the same as the current coverage.
We are asking that you get your head counts and submit the premium before June 30th, 2012 along with a list of all events your company will be attending for the rest of the season from June until next season.
The cost per member per year remains at $8 each. Please make check or money order out to Dennis Rohrbaugh and mail to:
5300 Greenvillage Road
Chambersburg, PA 17202-7311
Any questions; please contact Col. Rohrbaugh at cpldlr160@comcast.net
We are pleased to again offer Commercial General Liability Insurance to protect members for the rest of 2012 into the 2013 season. We have received the renewal notice and I am happy to report that coverages and costs remain the same as the current coverage.
We are asking that you get your head counts and submit the premium before June 30th, 2012 along with a list of all events your company will be attending for the rest of the season from June until next season.
The cost per member per year remains at $8 each. Please make check or money order out to Dennis Rohrbaugh and mail to:
5300 Greenvillage Road
Chambersburg, PA 17202-7311
Any questions; please contact Col. Rohrbaugh at cpldlr160@comcast.net
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
March to Destiny this weekend
March to Destiny
June 22-24, 2012
Shippensburg, PA
This annual Civil War reenactment is actually held in historic Shippensburg, PA. Though not a recognized battlefield, Shippensburg became a staging area for Confederate troops prior to the Battle of Gettysburg. Residents endured a skirmish and the occupation of the town by 20,000 Confederate troops from June 23-30, 1863 The annual March to Destiny relives these events.
Col. Rohrbaugh will be commanding so you know you will be in for a hot fight! At this time you will only be able to register at the event. Make sure to go to the website for complete details. http://www.marchtodestiny.org
June 22-24, 2012
Shippensburg, PA
This annual Civil War reenactment is actually held in historic Shippensburg, PA. Though not a recognized battlefield, Shippensburg became a staging area for Confederate troops prior to the Battle of Gettysburg. Residents endured a skirmish and the occupation of the town by 20,000 Confederate troops from June 23-30, 1863 The annual March to Destiny relives these events.
Col. Rohrbaugh will be commanding so you know you will be in for a hot fight! At this time you will only be able to register at the event. Make sure to go to the website for complete details. http://www.marchtodestiny.org
Monday, June 18, 2012
1st Call Gettysburg
To All Company Commanders,
This is your first call for Gettysburg July 6-8. Please inform CPT Murphy at ltmurph54th@yahoo.com of your units intentions if attending and also the number of personnel attending by the following format:
Number of officers:
Number of enlisted:
Number of civilians:
Any questions and concerns let me know.
Respecfully,
CPT M. Murphy
Adjutant, Birney's Division
This is your first call for Gettysburg July 6-8. Please inform CPT Murphy at ltmurph54th@yahoo.com of your units intentions if attending and also the number of personnel attending by the following format:
Number of officers:
Number of enlisted:
Number of civilians:
Any questions and concerns let me know.
Respecfully,
CPT M. Murphy
Adjutant, Birney's Division
Old Bedford Village AAR
From: Hqtrs, 1st Battalion Birney's Division
After Action Report from Old Bedford Village
15 June:
Troops began to filter into the village in the afternoon with the bulk of the army in camp by 10 PM. All the amenities were in place and the weather promised to be beautiful.
16 June:
Reveille was at 7 AM and morning reports were turned into headquarters promptly afterward. Morning reports showed 89 infantry, 6 artillery pieces, and 20 cavalry (mounted and dismounted). Dress parade was held with the aid of the 46th PVI Band and Battalion drill followed. The men were dismissed and given time to relax and rest up for the afternoon's action.
Formation for battle took place at 12:30 and the battalion moved out with 6 companies to a staging position covering the artillery battery on the north end of the field outside the village. 6th Company under CPT Felice moved forward of the lines to occupy the fortifications near the woods. Rebel artillery opened up around 1:00, the main confederate force came out of the woods using the Swamp Road, and after a stiff resistance, forced out the 6th Company. The 1st Division, under CPT Murphy with the 1st Company, under CPT MacGregor, and the 2nd Company, under CPT Towarnicki, moved forward to assist the 6th company and hold the confederate infantry at bay. After exchanging volleys, the 2nd and 3rd Division with COL Rohrbaugh leading, moved forward and pushed the remaning rebels back into the fortifications. The dismounted cavalry under CPT Brindle moved on the right flank and began to silence the enemy guns. A two prong assault of the fortifications began with the 1st Division making a frontal assault and the remainder of the Battalion sweeping the enemies right flank forcing the rebels to flee. Not wanting to be in an exposed position the battalion withdrew back to the town of Bedford for the night. After an almost wedding of 1LT Bowling to a "southern belle", all was quiet with the sounds of music from banjos, and singing was heard throughout camp.
17 June:
Reveille was held at the same time and after reports were turned in the battalion numbers showed 80 infantry ready for duty and the same amount of artillery and cavalry from the prior day. Church services were held and the men were given the morning to rest and spend time with their families.
Formation was at 1:00; dress parade was conducted with no change to the battalion order of battle from the 16th. The battalion stepped off at 1:40 and was in place by 1:50. The 1st Division was held at the western end of the line covering the artillery's right flank with dismounted cavalry covering the infantries right flank. The 5th company under CPT Dolbin was ordered to move out and occupy the fortifications vacated the prior day, and 4th Company under CPT Morgan was tasked with covering the Swamp Road. Rebel cavalry sweeped down the road and were heavily engaged by the 4th and 5th Companies. 4th Company linked up with 5th Company and were eventually pushed back by the supporting rebel infantry and artillery brought up. 1st Division moved out to push the rebel front and cover the withdrawal of the 4th and 5th Companies. The Left Wing moved out and linked up with the 4th and 5th companies. The 1st Division pushed forward to within 50 yards of the enemy fortifications, after heavy casuaulties, they were forced to withdrawal. The rebels began to push forward and began inflicting heavy casualties on the entire battalion. A fighting withdrawal took place making the rebels pay dearly, with the line holding at the hubs of the artillery with the artillery gunners ready to fight with their implements. A cease fire was arranged with the rebels holding the ground.
I would like to thank all the company commanders; CPT MacGregor, 1LT Bowling, CPT Towarnicki, CPT Wolgemuth, CPT Morgan, CPT Dolbin, and CPT Felice for all their hard work during the weekend, as well as the Battalion Staff, SGM Donahue, SGM Hicks, MAJ Doyle, MAJ Guilliams, LTC Wagner, MAJ Gallaher, and of course our commander COL Rohrbaugh, as well as our Chief of Staff BG Maffei.
Your Obediant Servant,
CPT M. Murphy
Adjutant, 1st Battalion, Birney's Division
After Action Report from Old Bedford Village
15 June:
Troops began to filter into the village in the afternoon with the bulk of the army in camp by 10 PM. All the amenities were in place and the weather promised to be beautiful.
16 June:
Reveille was at 7 AM and morning reports were turned into headquarters promptly afterward. Morning reports showed 89 infantry, 6 artillery pieces, and 20 cavalry (mounted and dismounted). Dress parade was held with the aid of the 46th PVI Band and Battalion drill followed. The men were dismissed and given time to relax and rest up for the afternoon's action.
Formation for battle took place at 12:30 and the battalion moved out with 6 companies to a staging position covering the artillery battery on the north end of the field outside the village. 6th Company under CPT Felice moved forward of the lines to occupy the fortifications near the woods. Rebel artillery opened up around 1:00, the main confederate force came out of the woods using the Swamp Road, and after a stiff resistance, forced out the 6th Company. The 1st Division, under CPT Murphy with the 1st Company, under CPT MacGregor, and the 2nd Company, under CPT Towarnicki, moved forward to assist the 6th company and hold the confederate infantry at bay. After exchanging volleys, the 2nd and 3rd Division with COL Rohrbaugh leading, moved forward and pushed the remaning rebels back into the fortifications. The dismounted cavalry under CPT Brindle moved on the right flank and began to silence the enemy guns. A two prong assault of the fortifications began with the 1st Division making a frontal assault and the remainder of the Battalion sweeping the enemies right flank forcing the rebels to flee. Not wanting to be in an exposed position the battalion withdrew back to the town of Bedford for the night. After an almost wedding of 1LT Bowling to a "southern belle", all was quiet with the sounds of music from banjos, and singing was heard throughout camp.
17 June:
Reveille was held at the same time and after reports were turned in the battalion numbers showed 80 infantry ready for duty and the same amount of artillery and cavalry from the prior day. Church services were held and the men were given the morning to rest and spend time with their families.
Formation was at 1:00; dress parade was conducted with no change to the battalion order of battle from the 16th. The battalion stepped off at 1:40 and was in place by 1:50. The 1st Division was held at the western end of the line covering the artillery's right flank with dismounted cavalry covering the infantries right flank. The 5th company under CPT Dolbin was ordered to move out and occupy the fortifications vacated the prior day, and 4th Company under CPT Morgan was tasked with covering the Swamp Road. Rebel cavalry sweeped down the road and were heavily engaged by the 4th and 5th Companies. 4th Company linked up with 5th Company and were eventually pushed back by the supporting rebel infantry and artillery brought up. 1st Division moved out to push the rebel front and cover the withdrawal of the 4th and 5th Companies. The Left Wing moved out and linked up with the 4th and 5th companies. The 1st Division pushed forward to within 50 yards of the enemy fortifications, after heavy casuaulties, they were forced to withdrawal. The rebels began to push forward and began inflicting heavy casualties on the entire battalion. A fighting withdrawal took place making the rebels pay dearly, with the line holding at the hubs of the artillery with the artillery gunners ready to fight with their implements. A cease fire was arranged with the rebels holding the ground.
I would like to thank all the company commanders; CPT MacGregor, 1LT Bowling, CPT Towarnicki, CPT Wolgemuth, CPT Morgan, CPT Dolbin, and CPT Felice for all their hard work during the weekend, as well as the Battalion Staff, SGM Donahue, SGM Hicks, MAJ Doyle, MAJ Guilliams, LTC Wagner, MAJ Gallaher, and of course our commander COL Rohrbaugh, as well as our Chief of Staff BG Maffei.
Your Obediant Servant,
CPT M. Murphy
Adjutant, 1st Battalion, Birney's Division
Argus Park information online
A big thanks to all of the reenactors who turned out to Old Bedford Village this past weekend!! The action doesn't stop there. Check out the Argus Park Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/ArgusCivilWar
Friday, June 15, 2012
After Action Report - Beaver Creek
A big HUZZAH! to Maj. Penix and staff (including Capt. Gaynor and Sgt. Maj. Muehlenbein from the Army of the Ohio) for such a great job at Beaver Creek. Work duties may have called me away but my heart was with all of you. Sounds like everyone had a great experience.
Cheers to Mike Lawson and Chris Jones for all of the work they did to organize the weekend.
The following is Maj. Penix's AAR.
Your Servant,
Col. Christopher L. Smith
Birney's Division, 2d Battalion
After Action Report of 9-10 June 1862, Birney's Division
Near the Village of Beaver Creek, Ohio
Saturday, 9 June - We camped on Beaver Creek in a pine grove. Good ground and plenty of water and shade for the men. We took out an advanced force of 5 companies in the afternoon to sweep the village for supplies. Columbiana County is full of Rebel sympathizers.
I split our Battalion in two in order to approach the village from both ends. The Rebs had pickets posted at a foot bridge on the North end of town and in a covered bridge on the South. Their pickets opened fire on us at both ends of town at about the same time. Luckily I had artillery support on the north end of town and they were able to sweep the village at will.
Capt. Slattery was able to push the Reb pickets in from the South and I, with the other half of our force, was able to push into town from the north. The main body of Rebs pushed on our flank forcing me to pull back in order to recover our wounded and reform for another push. We gained the high ground in town taking a Reb cannon in the process but only after some close in hand to hand combat. The Rebs pulled back behind a large farm house I assumed to reform and charge us again. To my surprise, General "Stonewall" Jackson came out to surrender the town. We struck a truce to care for our dead and wounded.
Sunday 10 June - We were camped in town now but I put out pickets as I expected Jackson to attempt to retake the town. Our pickets at the foot bridge and at the trail in rear of the farm house were hit hard and pushed back quickly barely giving us time to un-stack arms and get on line.
Capt. Baltzer took two companies to the defense quickly but was only able to slow the Rebs down but not stop them. The other three companies went to defend the covered bridge but struggled to get on line as the Rebs were pushing and would not be denied. If not for the 110th OVI and their Henry Rifles, we would have been overwhelmed immediately.
Wiedrich's Battery did all they could and stood to their gun as long as possible until they were overrun by screaming Rebs. I pulled the wings back as slowly as possible while sending squads to weak points as needed. We fought our way back to and through a barn to the road where we reformed along a fence line enabling a squad to cross the covered bridge and push the Rebs out of a cluster of buildings. The troops used what cover they could but the Rebs flanked them out of the fence line sending us all across the covered bridge where we fought until all was lost.
General Jackson stopped the bloodshed and paroled us to tend our dead and wounded.
I want to send a special thanks to Mike Lawson and Chris Jones for two incredible battles and to the EMT ladies that tended our every need as well as our civilians that had health and heat issues. They did an outstanding job and we can't thank them enough!
Faithfully submitted 14 June.
Maj. Bob Penix, commanding
Cheers to Mike Lawson and Chris Jones for all of the work they did to organize the weekend.
The following is Maj. Penix's AAR.
Your Servant,
Col. Christopher L. Smith
Birney's Division, 2d Battalion
After Action Report of 9-10 June 1862, Birney's Division
Near the Village of Beaver Creek, Ohio
Saturday, 9 June - We camped on Beaver Creek in a pine grove. Good ground and plenty of water and shade for the men. We took out an advanced force of 5 companies in the afternoon to sweep the village for supplies. Columbiana County is full of Rebel sympathizers.
I split our Battalion in two in order to approach the village from both ends. The Rebs had pickets posted at a foot bridge on the North end of town and in a covered bridge on the South. Their pickets opened fire on us at both ends of town at about the same time. Luckily I had artillery support on the north end of town and they were able to sweep the village at will.
Capt. Slattery was able to push the Reb pickets in from the South and I, with the other half of our force, was able to push into town from the north. The main body of Rebs pushed on our flank forcing me to pull back in order to recover our wounded and reform for another push. We gained the high ground in town taking a Reb cannon in the process but only after some close in hand to hand combat. The Rebs pulled back behind a large farm house I assumed to reform and charge us again. To my surprise, General "Stonewall" Jackson came out to surrender the town. We struck a truce to care for our dead and wounded.
Sunday 10 June - We were camped in town now but I put out pickets as I expected Jackson to attempt to retake the town. Our pickets at the foot bridge and at the trail in rear of the farm house were hit hard and pushed back quickly barely giving us time to un-stack arms and get on line.
Capt. Baltzer took two companies to the defense quickly but was only able to slow the Rebs down but not stop them. The other three companies went to defend the covered bridge but struggled to get on line as the Rebs were pushing and would not be denied. If not for the 110th OVI and their Henry Rifles, we would have been overwhelmed immediately.
Wiedrich's Battery did all they could and stood to their gun as long as possible until they were overrun by screaming Rebs. I pulled the wings back as slowly as possible while sending squads to weak points as needed. We fought our way back to and through a barn to the road where we reformed along a fence line enabling a squad to cross the covered bridge and push the Rebs out of a cluster of buildings. The troops used what cover they could but the Rebs flanked them out of the fence line sending us all across the covered bridge where we fought until all was lost.
General Jackson stopped the bloodshed and paroled us to tend our dead and wounded.
I want to send a special thanks to Mike Lawson and Chris Jones for two incredible battles and to the EMT ladies that tended our every need as well as our civilians that had health and heat issues. They did an outstanding job and we can't thank them enough!
Faithfully submitted 14 June.
Maj. Bob Penix, commanding
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Maryland, My Maryland registration update
From Birney's Division, 2d Battalion Headquarters:
September may seem like a long way off, but the Antietam 150th anniversary will be here before you know it!
Maryland, My Maryland (the 150th battles of Antietam and South Mountain) will be September 8-9, 2012. If your unit plans to attend this event, please register as soon as possible. The event is limiting the numbers to 4000!
Col. Christopher Smith and staff from Birney's Division will be providing leadership for our members at this event. MAKE SURE to list "Birney's Division" under "Organization Affiliation" on the registration. You can register online at the following link: https://www.brittanyshope.org/mmm/registration
IMPORTANT!!!
As you know, there is a different Antietam event the following weekend. Other members of Birney's Division will be attending this event. MAKE SURE you know which Antietam your unit is attending!!! For the most part (but not exclusively), if you are a Birney's 2d Battalion unit, you are attending Maryland, My Maryland September 8-9.
For those of you attending the other Antietam event on September 14-16, Capt. Murphy will be posting registration information on the Division News page as well.
Let's have a great showing at Maryland, My Maryland! Here is the registration link again: https://www.brittanyshope.org/mmm/registration
September may seem like a long way off, but the Antietam 150th anniversary will be here before you know it!
Maryland, My Maryland (the 150th battles of Antietam and South Mountain) will be September 8-9, 2012. If your unit plans to attend this event, please register as soon as possible. The event is limiting the numbers to 4000!
Col. Christopher Smith and staff from Birney's Division will be providing leadership for our members at this event. MAKE SURE to list "Birney's Division" under "Organization Affiliation" on the registration. You can register online at the following link: https://www.brittanyshope.org/mmm/registration
IMPORTANT!!!
As you know, there is a different Antietam event the following weekend. Other members of Birney's Division will be attending this event. MAKE SURE you know which Antietam your unit is attending!!! For the most part (but not exclusively), if you are a Birney's 2d Battalion unit, you are attending Maryland, My Maryland September 8-9.
For those of you attending the other Antietam event on September 14-16, Capt. Murphy will be posting registration information on the Division News page as well.
Let's have a great showing at Maryland, My Maryland! Here is the registration link again: https://www.brittanyshope.org/mmm/registration
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Urgent second notice on Reenactor Insurance
Greetings Birney's Division member units,
We are pleased to again offer Commercial General Liability Insurance to protect members for the rest of 2012 into the 2013 season. We have received the renewal notice and I am happy to report that coverages and costs remain the same as the current coverage.
We are asking that you get your head counts and submit the premium before June 30th, 2012 along with a list of all events your company will be attending for the rest of the season from June until next season.
The cost per member per year remains at $8 each. Please make check or money order out to Dennis Rohrbaugh and mail to:
5300 Greenvillage Road
Chambersburg, PA 17202-7311
Any questions; please contact Col. Rohrbaugh at cpldlr160@comcast.net
We are pleased to again offer Commercial General Liability Insurance to protect members for the rest of 2012 into the 2013 season. We have received the renewal notice and I am happy to report that coverages and costs remain the same as the current coverage.
We are asking that you get your head counts and submit the premium before June 30th, 2012 along with a list of all events your company will be attending for the rest of the season from June until next season.
The cost per member per year remains at $8 each. Please make check or money order out to Dennis Rohrbaugh and mail to:
5300 Greenvillage Road
Chambersburg, PA 17202-7311
Any questions; please contact Col. Rohrbaugh at cpldlr160@comcast.net
Thursday, June 07, 2012
Head-count for Old Bedford Village
BIRNEY'S DIVISION MAX EFFORT EVENT
June 15-17, 2012
Old Bedford Village
Bedford, PA
http://www.oldbedfordvillage.com/
The annual Division event at Old Bedford Village in Pennsylvania is only one week away. Hard to believe a year has already flown by. We are still looking to get a rough count of numbers for each Battalion, Cav and Artillery. Please read and report the information below.
1. Unit Name
2. Number of Military Personnel
3. Number of Civilians
4. Type and Number of Tentage
5. Parent Organization (if not a unit within Birney's Division)
Please send your information ASAP to clsmith@5thohio.com
$6.00 pre-registrations are still being accepted. If you do NOT mail your registration by THIS weekend, please register as a walk-on. Here is the link to the registration form: http://www.oldbedfordvillage.com/reenactorRegistration.pdf
All COMBATANTS must have liability insurance and provide a copy of the policy at time of registration. If you are a Birney's Division unit, you already have a copy of this policy. If not, please email Denny Rohrbaugh (cpldlr160@comcast.net) for more information.
Looking forward to seeing all of you there!
June 15-17, 2012
Old Bedford Village
Bedford, PA
http://www.oldbedfordvillage.com/
The annual Division event at Old Bedford Village in Pennsylvania is only one week away. Hard to believe a year has already flown by. We are still looking to get a rough count of numbers for each Battalion, Cav and Artillery. Please read and report the information below.
1. Unit Name
2. Number of Military Personnel
3. Number of Civilians
4. Type and Number of Tentage
5. Parent Organization (if not a unit within Birney's Division)
Please send your information ASAP to clsmith@5thohio.com
$6.00 pre-registrations are still being accepted. If you do NOT mail your registration by THIS weekend, please register as a walk-on. Here is the link to the registration form: http://www.oldbedfordvillage.com/reenactorRegistration.pdf
All COMBATANTS must have liability insurance and provide a copy of the policy at time of registration. If you are a Birney's Division unit, you already have a copy of this policy. If not, please email Denny Rohrbaugh (cpldlr160@comcast.net) for more information.
Looking forward to seeing all of you there!
Wednesday, June 06, 2012
Beaver Creek this weekend!
This weekend is the annual Civil War reenactment at Beaver Creek State Park near East Liverpool, Ohio. One of the NICEST locations you will ever find for an event (fight and camp in the shade)!
Major Penix from Birney's Division will be commanding the Federal troops and we currently have 74 military personnel and 35 or so civilians pre-registered on the "Blue Team". For those of you who did not send in your registration by yesterday (June 5th), please pay your registration fee at the gate.
If you have any questions, contact Major Bob Penix at nubbin54@yahoo.com
For more information, click the following link:
http://www.1stbrigade.com/jackson-in-the-valley-reenactment.php
Major Penix from Birney's Division will be commanding the Federal troops and we currently have 74 military personnel and 35 or so civilians pre-registered on the "Blue Team". For those of you who did not send in your registration by yesterday (June 5th), please pay your registration fee at the gate.
If you have any questions, contact Major Bob Penix at nubbin54@yahoo.com
For more information, click the following link:
http://www.1stbrigade.com/jackson-in-the-valley-reenactment.php
Friday, June 01, 2012
Coming to you with my Dirty Billy hat in hand...
Greeting all,
There are days when you are on the "hamster wheel" so long you just loose track of where you are and where you are going. Since last Fall, we have reported the dates for the reenactment in Painesville, OH (Trouble in Bordertown) as the last weekend of July (28-29). Thankfully, I just learned that we did indeed have a communications mix-up that was on my part. In our discussions with the event, I believed that the date I gave them as "good one for us" was that last weekend. I didn't not realize that the final confirmed date is July 14-15.
I know a lot of you are committed to the event at Argus Park the weekend of the 21st. That is good as we need a strong turn out. For those of you in the area local to Painesville, please consider participation at this event as well. For more information and registration, visit www.lakehistory.org
Again, my apologies for the mix up on the date. I can't believe we have gone this long without somebody catching this one!
There are days when you are on the "hamster wheel" so long you just loose track of where you are and where you are going. Since last Fall, we have reported the dates for the reenactment in Painesville, OH (Trouble in Bordertown) as the last weekend of July (28-29). Thankfully, I just learned that we did indeed have a communications mix-up that was on my part. In our discussions with the event, I believed that the date I gave them as "good one for us" was that last weekend. I didn't not realize that the final confirmed date is July 14-15.
I know a lot of you are committed to the event at Argus Park the weekend of the 21st. That is good as we need a strong turn out. For those of you in the area local to Painesville, please consider participation at this event as well. For more information and registration, visit www.lakehistory.org
Again, my apologies for the mix up on the date. I can't believe we have gone this long without somebody catching this one!
Registration cut-off for Beaver Creek
The Beaver Creek event coordinator Mike Lawson has asked that he would like to have all mailed registrations by Tuesday June 5th. After that you can just go as a walk-on. The park wants a headcount for breakfast and Mike is going to be there Thursday 7th. If he has not received your registration before being on-site, you will have to pay as a walk on and he will mail your check back to you after the event.
For more information, click the following link:
http://www.1stbrigade.com/jackson-in-the-valley-reenactment.php
For more information, click the following link:
http://www.1stbrigade.com/jackson-in-the-valley-reenactment.php
Registration for Argus Park
Reenactors! You can now download the registration form for Argus Park (July 21-22, 2012) at the link below. Pre-Registration and Walk-On Registration is $9.00. No dinner or breakfast for those who DO NOT pre-register!
Also, please "Like" the event Facebook page and receive updates. www.facebook.com/ArgusCivilWar
http://birneysdivision.weebly.com/uploads/1/1/8/3/11838445/2012_argus_park_reenactors_registration_form.pdf
Also, please "Like" the event Facebook page and receive updates. www.facebook.com/ArgusCivilWar
http://birneysdivision.weebly.com/uploads/1/1/8/3/11838445/2012_argus_park_reenactors_registration_form.pdf
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Birney's Division insurance renewal for 2012/13
First Notice! Please get your headcounts done and premium
collected.
Greetings
Birney's Division Member units,
We are pleased
to again offer Commercial General Liability Insurance through Lockton Risk
Assoc. to protect members for rest of 2012 into 2013 season.
We have
received the renewal invoice and I am happy to report that coverage's and costs
remain the same as the current coverage.
We are asking
that you get your head counts and submit the premium before June 30th, 2012
along with a list of all events your company will be attending for the rest of
the season from June until next season.
I will provide
a copy of the binder to all companies.
The cost per
member per year remains at $8 each.
I remain, your
obedient servant,
D. Rohrbaugh,
Colonel
1st Battalion, Birney’s Division
1st Battalion, Birney’s Division
Please make
check or money order payable to : Dennis Rohrbaugh
Mail to : 5300
Greenvillage Road, Chambersburg, PA 17202-7311
Any questions
or concerns or difficulties; please contact me. cpldlr160@comcast.net or 717-262- 2336
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
1st Call Old Bedford Village
From: Hdqrs Birney's Division, Maj Gen Edward Kelley, Commanding
To: 1st and 2nd Battalion Company Commanders:
This is your official 1st call for Old Bedford Village on 16-17 June in Bedford, PA.
Company Commanders or Unit Secretaries if you have not done so already need to get me the numbers for your companies if attending. If your company is not attending please let me know so your are not factored in for the weekend. Please email me your units intentions at ltmurph54th@yahoo.com
Numbers should be broken down by number of officers, NCO's, PVTS, and civilians.
Housing for this event will be taken care of on a case-by-case basis. Cabin space is limited.
Your Obediant Servant,
CPT M. Murphy
Adjutant, Birney's Division
Adjutant, 1st Battalion
To: 1st and 2nd Battalion Company Commanders:
This is your official 1st call for Old Bedford Village on 16-17 June in Bedford, PA.
Company Commanders or Unit Secretaries if you have not done so already need to get me the numbers for your companies if attending. If your company is not attending please let me know so your are not factored in for the weekend. Please email me your units intentions at ltmurph54th@yahoo.com
Numbers should be broken down by number of officers, NCO's, PVTS, and civilians.
Housing for this event will be taken care of on a case-by-case basis. Cabin space is limited.
Your Obediant Servant,
CPT M. Murphy
Adjutant, Birney's Division
Adjutant, 1st Battalion
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
First Call for Beaver Creek!
"Jackson in the Valley"
June 9-10, 2012
Beaver Creek State Park - East Liverpool, OH
This is the next event on the Birney's Division 2d Battalion schedule. Colonel Smith has work obligations. Major Bob Penix will be commanding the Federal forces for this one so you know you are going to see some hot fighting!!
Walk-ons are permitted. Click the link below for all of the event information including registration details.
http://www.1stbrigade.com/jackson-in-the-valley-reenactment.php
At this time, we are asking for a estimated count of Federal reenactors.
1. Unit name.
2. How many MILITARY personnel?
3. How many CIVILIANS?
4. Number of tents and type.
Please EMAIL the above information to clsmith@5thohio.com as soon as possible.
June 9-10, 2012
Beaver Creek State Park - East Liverpool, OH
This is the next event on the Birney's Division 2d Battalion schedule. Colonel Smith has work obligations. Major Bob Penix will be commanding the Federal forces for this one so you know you are going to see some hot fighting!!
Walk-ons are permitted. Click the link below for all of the event information including registration details.
http://www.1stbrigade.com/jackson-in-the-valley-reenactment.php
At this time, we are asking for a estimated count of Federal reenactors.
1. Unit name.
2. How many MILITARY personnel?
3. How many CIVILIANS?
4. Number of tents and type.
Please EMAIL the above information to clsmith@5thohio.com as soon as possible.
Help needed at Hale Farm this weekend
The Wood Chopper's Ball
Saturday, June 6 - 8:30 am to 1 pm
Hale Farm & Village
2686 Oak Hill Road, Peninsula, OH 44264
Union and Confederate reenactors are needed to help cut fire wood for the 2012 Civil War reenactment at Hale Farm & Village coming up in August!
People will be needed to run chain saws and log splitters. Bring your own gloves and wear appropriate work clothing. Hale Farm will be providing drinks and lunch!
You must be 18 to run equipment. If you have any questions, please post them here.
PLEASE email Chris Smith at clsmith@5thohio.com no later than MAY 31st if you are able to participate so you can be added to the list. Thank you!
Saturday, June 6 - 8:30 am to 1 pm
Hale Farm & Village
2686 Oak Hill Road, Peninsula, OH 44264
Union and Confederate reenactors are needed to help cut fire wood for the 2012 Civil War reenactment at Hale Farm & Village coming up in August!
People will be needed to run chain saws and log splitters. Bring your own gloves and wear appropriate work clothing. Hale Farm will be providing drinks and lunch!
You must be 18 to run equipment. If you have any questions, please post them here.
PLEASE email Chris Smith at clsmith@5thohio.com no later than MAY 31st if you are able to participate so you can be added to the list. Thank you!
A quick thanks on Burton
Just a brief note to thank all of the reenactors who came Burton Memorial Day weekend. In spite of the heat, we had a record number of participants turn out on both the Federal and Confederate side!
A special thanks to the folks at Century Village, especial Elizabeth Wantz who, as many reenactors mentioned, "was everywhere, all the time." Hopefully she is sleeping today.
I will be working on a full After Action Report this week as soon as I catch up with email. Also, keep an eye out for a flood on email on this weekend's Hale Farm work detail and events in June.
Colonel Chris
A special thanks to the folks at Century Village, especial Elizabeth Wantz who, as many reenactors mentioned, "was everywhere, all the time." Hopefully she is sleeping today.
I will be working on a full After Action Report this week as soon as I catch up with email. Also, keep an eye out for a flood on email on this weekend's Hale Farm work detail and events in June.
Colonel Chris
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
A message from the Federal Commander at Century Village
Good evening to everyone. I am sure many of you are getting
ready for the traditional Memorial Day Civil War reenactment at Century Village
in Burton Ohio. For many of us this is the first event of each year. For me
this will also be the first year that I will serve as the overall Federal
commander for our troops at this event. Over the course of the last nine months,
along with my Confederate counterpart Col. Tim Perry, we have been working to
redesign this event and take a fresh approach to a reenactment that has been
part of the Ohio schedule for many, many years. In an effort to do so, we will
be trying a number of new things this weekend both from an organizational
standpoint and a presentation standpoint. Some of these things will undoubtedly
be very well received by our fellow reenactors, and other things may not work
as well as we might hope. All I am asking is for those of you attending to
please keep an open mind and help us refine the ideas that will be useful in
creating a much better event for years to come.
Friday
9:00 pm - NCOs meeting (Federal HQ)
9:30 pm - All officers meeting (Federal HQ)
Saturday
5:45 am - Silent reveille
6:30 - 7:15 am - Tactical
7:00 am - Reveille for those not participating in the Tactical
7:30 am - Morning reports due at Battalion HQs
7:45 am - Consolidated reports due at Federal HQ
9:00 am - NCOs inspect camps
9:30 am - Dress Parade
9:45 am - Company drill
10:15 am - Battalion drill
10:45 am - Mail call
1:00 pm - Form up/inspection arms
1:15 pm - March to the staging area
1:40 pm - One company deployed on patrol
1:45 pm - Skirmish in the Green
2:00 pm - Main battle scenario
5:30 pm - Event dinner (for pre-reg only)
8:00pm - Ball
Sunday
7:00 am - Reveille
7:30 am - Morning reports due at Battalion HQs
7:45 am - Consolidated reports due at Federal HQ
8:45 am - NCO inspect camps
9:15 am - Dress parade
10:00 am - Church
11:30 am - Form up/inspection arms
11:45 am - March to the school
12:00 pm - Stack arms, lunch in the field
12:45 pm - Skirmish on green, Federals parade in Burton
1:00 pm - Main battle scenario
1:45 pm - Back in camps, out of state troops may get vehicles
3:30 pm - Local troops may get vehicles
Lastly, I would like to thank the officers who are going to be serving on staff this weekend. The following is the Federal command structure:
Col. Christopher Smith, Brigade Commander
Lt. Col. Don Van Meter, Deputy Commander
Capt. Paul Baltzer, Brigade Adjutant
Maj. Bill Smith, Artillery
Maj. Mike Dallas, 1st Battalion Commander
Staff TBD
Maj Bob Penix, 2nd Battalion Commander
Staff TBD
I am very much looking forward to seeing all of you there and having a fun and safe weekend.
Your Servant,
Chris
Colonel Christopher Smith
Federal Commander, Century Village Civil War Reenactment
As part of this restructuring we have looked at two major
elements of this event that impact us as reenactors. The first being the layout
of our camps. We have designated specific areas for Confederate troops and
Union troops. Some of you may be in the same place that you have been for
years. Others may be in a new area. The main goal being a better organization
to our camps in general. That is why it is important for all units and all
family groups to check in with Federal headquarters prior to set up. As a
reminder, due to school programs during early in the day, reenactors are not
permitted to set up prior to 2 pm on Friday.
The other element of this event that we are striving to
redevelop is of course the battle scenarios. For those of you who've been
following the Century Village Facebook page, you know that the size of the
battlefield we have to work with has been greatly increased. The location of
the spectators will actually be transient. Their experience will start in the town
green and they will move to the battlefield area for the larger engagement.
With the number of troops we have attending this year (there are currently 116
Confederate INFANTRY pre-registered), we feel we will be able to more
accurately portray a Civil War skirmish with a broader “paint brush”, at the
same time creating a better experience for the reenactor on the field. With
this in mind we are going to need the participation of civilians as part of the
scenario in the town green as well, as a number of civilian reenactors who can
hold a rope line so that spectators have a designated perimeter during the
skirmish in the town. I will cover this in more detail with each of the company
commanders during our Friday night meeting.
One of the other things I would like to touch on before the
weekend arrives is the new registration process we put in place this year. As
with reenactments in Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland, and other states, many
Ohio events are going to require that each unit provide a certificate of
insurance as part of a national reenacting organization. Some of you may not
realize that as a leader within the reenacting community, the liability of
someone getting hurt at an event can be put directly on your shoulders. Be you
the Union commander or a company commander. That is why so many large
reenacting organizations now require their members to participate in a group
insurance program. It protects ALL of us. Sorry guys, but I am not willing to
risk my home and my business because someone was being stupid with a musket.
Certificates of insurance from all of the large organizations participating
have been provided to the event organizers. If you are planning to register as
a walk on, and you are a Union reenactor, please be aware that the folks at
registration have a list that will help them verify you are indeed covered
under your national organization’s insurance policy. When you sign your waiver
at registration you are also verifying that you are part of one of those
registered companies covered by a national insurance program. If you plan on
walking in and making that claim without it being true, better think again!
Okay, enough of the legal bull. For those of you not already
registered, please be aware that you will not be provided a meal Saturday
evening. You must have pre-registered to receive a meal ticket. Importantly for
everyone who registers as a pre or walk
on, make sure to keep your registration token on you at all times. Both Col.
Perry and I negotiated long and hard for a lower registration fee, and the same
registration fee for walk on participants, with the promise that every
reenactor would pay their registration. A representative from the Confederate
Army will be checking all Union troops for their tokens prior to the battle. We
will be sending a representative to inspect the Confederate troops at the same
time. If you do not have a registration token you will not be taking the field
for the battle. END OF STORY. That was the agreement we made with the event in
order to cut the registration fee in half as well as a lesser fee for children
reenactors.
All right all right! My head is spinning already from all of
these things we have to remember!
For everyone's benefit, below is a copy of the Federal
schedule. As you can see we have a lot
going on. It will be important for company NCOs and officers to be at the
Friday evening meeting to discuss the details of the weekend.
Friday
9:00 pm - NCOs meeting (Federal HQ)
9:30 pm - All officers meeting (Federal HQ)
Saturday
5:45 am - Silent reveille
6:30 - 7:15 am - Tactical
7:00 am - Reveille for those not participating in the Tactical
7:30 am - Morning reports due at Battalion HQs
7:45 am - Consolidated reports due at Federal HQ
9:00 am - NCOs inspect camps
9:30 am - Dress Parade
9:45 am - Company drill
10:15 am - Battalion drill
10:45 am - Mail call
1:00 pm - Form up/inspection arms
1:15 pm - March to the staging area
1:40 pm - One company deployed on patrol
1:45 pm - Skirmish in the Green
2:00 pm - Main battle scenario
5:30 pm - Event dinner (for pre-reg only)
8:00pm - Ball
Sunday
7:00 am - Reveille
7:30 am - Morning reports due at Battalion HQs
7:45 am - Consolidated reports due at Federal HQ
8:45 am - NCO inspect camps
9:15 am - Dress parade
10:00 am - Church
11:30 am - Form up/inspection arms
11:45 am - March to the school
12:00 pm - Stack arms, lunch in the field
12:45 pm - Skirmish on green, Federals parade in Burton
1:00 pm - Main battle scenario
1:45 pm - Back in camps, out of state troops may get vehicles
3:30 pm - Local troops may get vehicles
Lastly, I would like to thank the officers who are going to be serving on staff this weekend. The following is the Federal command structure:
Col. Christopher Smith, Brigade Commander
Lt. Col. Don Van Meter, Deputy Commander
Capt. Paul Baltzer, Brigade Adjutant
Maj. Bill Smith, Artillery
Maj. Mike Dallas, 1st Battalion Commander
Staff TBD
Maj Bob Penix, 2nd Battalion Commander
Staff TBD
I am very much looking forward to seeing all of you there and having a fun and safe weekend.
Your Servant,
Chris
Colonel Christopher Smith
Federal Commander, Century Village Civil War Reenactment
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