Living History: A Weekend From the Past

October 9, 2009

Dreams really do come true. At least, this one did. :-) Ever since I was a little girl, I have dreamed of being a Civil War Reenactor. I was convinced that Dad would enjoy it, and pleaded with him every year to join - all to no avail. Until this year that is. Thanks to friends, we were recruited into the 3rd Arkansas regiment. October 2-3, 2009 was our first reenactment as participants. It was a blast! Reenacting is about the closest one can be to truly experiencing the 1860's. This is both sobering and exhilerating. Something within me longed to truly 'get into character' and imagine that I truly was in the 1860's, to truly portray someone of the period, and stay 'in character' througout the weekend. Something just felt wrong to be chatting of everyday things when living in that atmosphere, wearing those clothes. However, another part of me rejoiced that my brothers 'deaths' on the field was all an act, and not a reality as they could have been back then.
All in all, reenacting was wonderful fun, and a great family hobby! Now for more research and sewing . . . :-)

Blessings to you,
~Sally

P.S. I was right . . . Dad loved it!


The 3rd Arkansas. Yay boys!!

Cavalry doing their best to flank the Federals.

All of our soldier brothers were gallant: dancing with us, offering us their arms, tucking their coats around our shoulders during the chilly evening, doing all those things that make a girl feel like a lady. Thanks for the special memories guys.

A courageous brother and sister.



The Stars and Bars

When Eden fell on the field, her fellow nurse uttered a piercing scream. It was a painful reminder of the many innocent lives taken during this bloody struggle.

The men of the 3rd Arkansas regiment drilled, marched, and fought with great discipline and precision. In fact, on a training day before the reenactment, our men were told that the regiment they were joining had a reputation for being this way, so they had better contribute and not mess it up!

The grace of this sidesaddle rider was a beautiful sight.

Little girls . . .

are so precious!

Daniel and Kendra arrived on Sunday. It was special to see them, and share the fun of the event.

Grampa lovin' on his Emmy!

Kettle Corn was quite popular for all ages.

Cuddles for sweet Charity Rose

The 3rd Arkansas marching down Main Street.

Spectators.

Here, a battle worn soldier is pushed back into line.

While another (Mr. Smith) though wounded, bravely stayed in the ranks.

There's our boys!!

These bright trousers on a Zuave soldier weren't the best camoflauge, but made for impressive uniforms.

Who is that handsome man tipping his hat so gallantly? :-) I love you Dad!

Mom, getting her cuddles in before a battle.

Sweet smiles

Beautiful curls

An angel of mercy tending to the wounded.

Our boys advancing.

A group 'smilie'.

And a group 'frowny'. In other words, 'authentic'. :-)

Mr. Smith is a fabulous cook! He served a delicious meal of roasted sweet corn, white potatoes, sweet potatoes, and steak, grilled over the fire. Everything tastes better when cooked over a fire, and this meal was no exception. Thank-you Mr. Smith!
The boys are here 'authenticating' Eden's apron. :-P

Confederate Privates Smith and McCracken.

Kaylee and I by the beautiful cavalry horses.

I fell in love with this camera. Isn't it wonderful?

Kayla is here helping the confederate field doctor preform an amputation. Whew! She has nerve!

Waiting to be called on the field.

Kayla, getting to know her fellow nurses and doctor.

'Behind the scenes'.
Joining the Confederate medical group.

Fellowshipping with family and friends was special.

While the men drilled, the ladies spruced up for the day. :-)

Breakfast in camp.