February 2002 Weekly Firesides

The Weekly Fireside - February 03, 2002

Submitted by HOST GFS Jim, HOST GFS Jayne, HOST GFS TEG and HOST GFS Amy

Hear Ye .... Hear Ye
"The Weekly Fireside"
of the American Civil War History
Special Interest Group;
Distribution Coast to Coast
Week ending 03 February 2002

Our Mission: To serve all genealogists by providing an enjoyable online environment with as many helpful and reliable resources as possible.

Thursday was the third and final part of the Armistead story. If you weren't there, you sure missed a great finale!!!!

Regimental History Website collection:
I really want to indicate that I appreciate the response to the "Call for Regimental Histories" last week in the Fireside. It was a small trickle that started but it's a good beginning. I'll be on the road (Fort Walton Beach, Florida area) for about 4 weeks on my paying job (even though I'll still be dialing in to the SIGs) so after that we'll work out some method of informing you of what is recorded and where to go find it for both AOL and non AOL Members. So keep the information coming in and we'll collect it up. We are also getting notes from folks that have "lookup" capability to certain regimental histories and we'll figure out a way to compile an experts list. Wish us well :D

This coming Thursday is Open Chat... Come on out and spend some time with us. Bring those questions you need to have answered.

Civil War History & Genealogy Forum Related Announcements
War Between the States (Tracing your Civil War Ancestors)
With HOST GFS Amy and HOST GFS Wolford on
Friday evenings at 9:00 PM EDT in the Golden Gates Chat Room
of the Genealogy Forum (ONLY ON AOL) at KEYWORD: ROOTS

"Genealogy Forum's Military Resources" Website
devoted to Civil War History and the material presented in
the American Civil War History Special Interest Group
in the Genealogy Forum of America On-Line.
The address is:
http://www.genealogyforum.rootsweb.com/gfaol/resource/Military/

The Weekly Fireside Archives
http://www.genealogyforum.rootsweb.com/gfaol/resource/Military/Fireside.htm

The Genealogy Forum Mailing List Signup
You may subscribe by sending an email to:
[email protected]
Title the subject of the email SUBSCRIPTION and type "Subscribe"
in the body of the email message.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *  

Editor's Note: I sincerely encourage you to feel entirely free to post any Civil War Letters, Stories or articles that you have in our Civil War History Files through the new Military Resources Website. We are trying "beef up" our Library and now those of you who have patiently stuck with us who aren't AOL Members can now participate. There is also an area for you to upload photos, if you would desire to share those with the Civil War History community. On the Web Site, there are links to our Civil War Library (Files, Firesides, and Photo's).

FOR ALL YOU 1ST TIMERS ON THURSDAY - "WE REALLY WELCOME YOU TO OUR MERRY BAND" WE ENJOYED HAVING YOU, TRADING QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS AND ESPECIALLY YOUR CAMARADERIE!!! :-)... COME AGAIN OFTEN, WE DO INDEED "RELISH" YOUR COMPANY..

Every first-timer to the American Civil War History SIG gets put on the newsletter distribution automatically, because we like to send you a "Thank You Card" for coming to visit and this is our way of doing so. We hope to give you an opportunity to jump right in with us. If you desire NOT to receive the newsletter, then just drop us an email saying UNSUBSCRIBE and we will quickly remove your screen name from distribution. We certainly don't want to clog your mailbox with unwanted material. Also many of you pass on the newsletter to others that don't subscribe to AOL. We really want to thank you for spreading the word. I would also like to let you know that we would be happy to add them to our list if they have email of any sort. We distribute everywhere to those that have requested it. AOL membership is not a requirement although we'd love to see you in the Chat Room :D

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 

Did you know...............
From: [email protected]

General Winfield Scott, hero in the Mexican War and Commander in Chief at the start of the Civil War was given the nickname "Great Scott" due to his rotund size. Because of the many Washington banquets he attended he could no longer find a horse which could support his weight. He retired shortly after the war started.

............. and there you have it!

THE HELP DESK
This segment is to address specific questions that hit our plate on Thursday night that we didn't have a chance to answer or needed a bit of time to check it out. Hope these answer the mail :D

Editor's Note: The new Military Resouces Website (Website is listed above in the Fireside) has a myriad of options for you. Here are some the choices: US Military Records, Conscription/Draft Records, Civil War Battle Names, Secession of the Confederate States, Your Civil War Ancestors - Where to Begin, Military Resources on the Internet, links to the Stories, Files and Talks of the American Civil War History Chat on AOL, message boards and many, many others. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome.

Additional Note from the Webmaster: Although we are thrilled to provide this area for you now, we want you to know that we are still building it and MORE files, Regimental Histories, etc., will be available in the near future. Stay Tuned!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Weekly Web Sites We've Received


From: [email protected]
From: [email protected]
From the [email protected]
[email protected]
From: Cyndi's list of new sites
From: ZOOM [email protected]

MEMBERS HELPING MEMBERS!!..


Here's how it works... If you are trying to get photographs of a gravesite or battlefield, to collect for your Civil War ancestor research and records, then send us a request and we will post it here... Other members see your request, some being in the near vicinity, are willing to assist, and can email you directly (This protects your privacy) to work out the details. We HIGHLY recommend the "Requester" pay for all film costs and any postage involved for a helping member. This is intended to be a "Free" assistance between members (with the exception of defraying film and postage costs). Do unto others as.... you know
:-) Keep us posted on how this is working, so we can share them in the "Fireside"!!
HOST GFS Jim

IF YOU HAVE RECEIVED ANSWER(S) TO YOUR QUESTIONS, PLEASE BE SURE TO LET US KNOW!!!!!
Thanks!! - The Editors

We have had some gracious members offer their assistance in this area. Their screen names and areas they have offered to help in are listed.... Please honor their "goodness" and don't abuse them :-)....
We ask that you do follow the guidelines indicated above....

From: [email protected]
Would you happen to have any info on the Union Civil War Navy? In particular the ships the USS Housatonic & the USS Harvest Moon? The Housatonic was sunk by the USS Hunley, an early submarine. I'm interested in a person who served on both these ships & interested in knowing how he survived after being sunk. Were survivors taken as Confederate Prisoners etc? His name was Louis A. CORNTHWAIT{E}
Thank you for any help or direction you can give.

(((((Helen))))) As I told you in an email, I would post your need for help in here to see if some of the faithful out there may be able to help. Ok, folks, let's try to give Helen a hand.

And here's an answer from [email protected]....

HI
I may have a site that will help [email protected] (Helen) with her search for info about the Union Navy in the CW....here is a link Navy Civil War chronology < http://www.history.navy.mil/wars/civilwar.htm > I don't know how much will be there that will answer her specific questions, but it might help. She might also want to contact the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum in Portsmouth, VA (phone (804) 393-8591), The Hampton Roads Naval Museum in Norfolk, VA (phone (804) 444-8971). I have the addresses if she would rather write...... The American Civil War Naval War < http://www.civilwarhome.com/navalwar.htm > here's another site that might help too.... I might be able to come up with other ideas if these don't work!!
Robin

From: [email protected]
My gt grandfaather, William Edward Short, was born 11 April 1840 and died June 1 1900 in Dracut, Mass. His parents were William Short and Sarah Dane, marr Dec 1830, in Lyndeborough, NH. William Edward Short's Civil War service included the 6th Mass. Regiment; the 29th Mass Regiment; the 36th Mass Infantry Regiment; and the 15th Battery Mass Volunteer Light Artillery. His total service was 4 years and 4 months. On 13 Sept 1865, he fell down an elevator shaft in Lowell, Mass and sustained a compound fracture of his left leg. On 11 June1867, he married Clara A. Hovey. They had 2 children, Laura, born 1868 and Helen Francis, my grandmother, born 1882. I have 15 Civil War letters written by William Edward Short to his sister Ann. I assume that Ann was living in Lowell, Mass at the time of the correspondence. Also, a younger brother, George, was attending school in Dracut, Mass in early 1862. It is possible there were 2 additional brothers, Charles and Willis. I believe George marr Rose Anne Gerow on 23 Nov 1876. I seek any information about my gt grandfather, his sister and brothers. Send e-mail to me or write to
Larry Boynton, P.O. Box 153, Lyndonville, VT 05861

From: [email protected]
I have a history of the 148th Volunteer Regiment of Pennsylvania. This lists all companies with pages of pictures of the leaders of each company. It is a two inch thick volumn with numerous letters from participants of each company. It was compiled at the beginning of the 1900's by members who did not want to lose the history of the conflict from their prospective.
Very good and I would be glad to research and share any information about this regiment.
Dave

"Dave" We're going to leave you generous offer in for another week

From: [email protected]
I'm interested in corresponding with descendants of any of the men in Cobb's Georgia Legion, CSA. I have been working on a book about these men for a couple of years and may have information to share with you, and would like to hear from you in return.
Carol Purdy

Carol and readers - I took this from the Genealogy Forum Message Board as it was in the Civil War History area and Carol gave permission to distribute this with her return emaill If any of you are researching Cobb's Georgia Legion, CSA, drop Carol a line and trade information. Having a compiled set of information on the regiment definitely benefits us all and helps Carol in her quest.....

From: [email protected]
Mark T. Alexander, son of the Honorable Mark Alexander Jr., U.S. Congress 1819-1833, son of Mark Alexander Sr., who fought at Brandywine, Germantown and Mommouth in the Rev. War, born in Mecklenburg County, near Boydton, in 1842, enlisted at age 19, in Co. A, 3rd Virginia Cavalry, "Rosser's Cav." on May 14, 1861, at Boydton, VA. He was captured by Union troops or surrenderd at Appomattox, and was paroled on May 29, 1865. He later lived in Baltimore MD. around 1900 and had five grandaughters, four of them were married about 1900. He died on October 30,1927 at Norfolk, VA. and was buried near his father in Scotland Neck, N.C. I am interested in talking to some of his descendents.
Lloyd Smith.

Kvet and readers - I took this from the Genealogy Forum Message Board as it was in the Civil War History area and Kvet gave permission to distribute this with her return email. If any of you are researching Company A, 3rd VA Cavalry, drop Kvet a line and trade information.

From: [email protected]
Jim - can you put in your newsletter.
Susi 

"From: [email protected] (dlheller)
Need assistance in finding this gentleman and or his family. His name is Gilbert Stephan/Stephen. He was born in or approx. 1923. He was in the US Army 58th Quartermaster and stationed in Belgium. He is of African-American descent. When in Belgium he assisted a family thru the very rough times and they wish to thank he and or his survivors. They do not know much more of this gentleman but did send a picture and their home address. If anyone can help in this, please contact me. My father-in-law was contacted by this Belgium family and he asked me to assist.
Can anyone help?? I am sending this to each county that has this surname in the phonebook in hopes of someone recognizing the name. Thanks.
David Heller
Cincinnati, Ohio
[email protected]"

This request was passed on by SusiCP to aid a family search. If anyone has any information regarding this WWII Vet please pass to "David Heller".....

OUR WEEKLY READING
 (These items are extracts from our Letters, Songs, and Poems evenings)

COME UP FROM THE FIELDS FATHER
 by Walt Whitman

Come up from the fields father, here's a letter from our Pete,
And come to the front door mother, here's a letter
from they dear son.

Lo, 'tis autumn,
Lo, where the trees, deeper green, yellower and redder,
Cool and sweeten Ohio's villages with leaves fluttering
in the moderate wind,
Where apples ripe in the orchards hang and grapes
on the trellis'd vines,
(Smell you the smell of the grapes on the vines?
Smell you the buckwheat were the bees were lately buzzing?)
Above all, lo, the sky so calm, so transparent after the rain,
and with wondrous clouds,
Below too, all calm, all vital and beautiful,
and the farm prospers well.

Down in the fields all prospers well,
But now from the fields come father, come at the daughter's call,
And come to the entry mother, to the front door come right away.

Fast as she can she hurries, something ominous, her step trembling,
She does not tarry to smooth her hair nor adjust her cap.

Open the envelope quickly,
O this is not our son's writing, yet his name is sign'd,
O a strange hand writes for our dear son, O stricken mother's soul!
All swims before her eyes, flashes with black, she catches the
main words only,
Sentences broken, gunshot wound in the breast,
cavalry skirmish, taken to hospital,
At present low, but will soon be better.

Ah now the single figure to me,
Amid all teeming and wealthy Ohio with all its cities and farms,
Sickly white in the face and dull in the head, very faint,
By the jamb of a door leans.

Grieve not so, dear mother, (the just-grown daughter
speaks through her sobs,
The little sisters huddle around speechless and dismay'd,)
See, dearest mother, the letter says Pete will soon be better.

Alas poor boy, he will never be better, (nor may-be needs to
be better, that brave and simple soul,)
While they stand at home at the door he is dead already,
The only son is dead.

But the mother needs to be better,
She with thin form presently drest in black,
By day her meals untouch'd, then at night fitfully sleeping,
often waking,
In the midnight waking, weeping, longing with one deep longing,
O that she might withdraw unnoticed, silent from life escape
and withdraw,
To follow, to seek, to be with her dear dead son.

A BIT OF COMMUNITY...

 Check out the following member inputs for comments and requests for information, Feedback's, Items of Interest and Plea's for HELP...

From: [email protected]
I was in the room tonight when you "read" the final Armistead piece. It was wonderful. You had sent me the first two installments (remember?) and I thank you again for them. I forwarded them to a friend that lives in Ohio. He only has 8% of his heart working for him and is pretty much a prisoner of his home. He LOVED the first two installments and I would dearly love to send him the final part. May I please have a copy of it?

The room is a wonderful place and I am enjoying meeting all of you very much. The friendship among the Hosts is fun for me to see and I am constantly astounded at how kind and helpful you all are.

Thank you sincerely,
Glenda in California

(((((Glenda)))) Oh my!! what's a person to say... It's mail like this that truly warms the heart. We sure hope your friend enjoys part 3 as much as he did the others. For all of us hosts, I thank you for the nice words, we truly are friends and we enjoy each others company which makes it really easy to enjoy the company of the "Faithful"

From: [email protected]
I have a stories that my uncle told of my great grandfather's service in the Civil War. They were transcribed by a family member exactly as the uncle told them. Is there a forum for me to share something like this, even though it is "2nd" hand?

Diane

Diane - by all means. That fits our 2nd Thursday of the month evening where we focus on Letters, Songs and Poems of the Civil War. If you want to send them to Host GFS Jayne we'll read them into the Chat Room while you watch ....

Thanks for letting us know.
Jim

From: [email protected]
Jim, in thanking you for the current help on my 14th AL Cav. question, I believe I have been very remiss in advising you on the final outcome of a search we made a couple of years ago related to a Union veteran.

I was trying to locate the burial site of a grgrandfather who served in the Union Army in a PA unit. All I had from an old letter was that he "died ca 1895, his burial was handled by the Grand Army and he was buried in the Portland, OR area."

There was no GAR web page at that time and Sons of Union Veterans were of no help. From a query posted in the Portland area, we received a response from the sexton of a cemetery which adjoined the GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC CEMETERY! That was the first clue that the GAR had established cemeteries. Sure enough, our vet was there, we received location of cemetery, grave number, etc. A cousin was in the Portland area recently, visited the cemetery and made pictures for our family file.

Just wanted to share the story of the happy ending of our search and maybe it will be of help to others facing that brick wall!. . .

Regards,
Rose Dennis Adams

From: [email protected]
I understand that AOL has a genealogical section and a Civil War section. Is it possible to post a message? Gt grandfather wrote letters to his sister while he was in the war. I have 15 of these letters and am trying to locate descendents of his sister who might have an interest in them. Thank you very much for your help or any suggestions you may have.
Sincerely, Diane

(((((Diane)))))) I'm putting your note in the Weekly Fireside in hopes that we may find some descendents to go along with those letters.

From: [email protected]
... I would like to receive your newletter. I have the pension records for John E Stewart, died of wounds at Fort Donnalson TN and am hoping to learn more about his family and life in the Civil War.

(((((Deanna))))) You're name has been added to our Weekly Fireside distribution. Maybe, too, we'll find someonne who know something about your John Stewart.

WHAT WE ARE ABOUT

OUR FOCUS: the "History of the American (United States) Civil War", with byproducts of laughter, and comraderie!

OUR GOAL: to enhance your Genealogy activity, knowledge, and "wisdom" by talking about the history surrounding their lives and actions; specifically the "Civil War" that our ancestors lived through and died because of.

Captain Oliver Wendell Holmes of the 20th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment, said it so well.

 OUR PROMISE: to provide an "online" environment that is NOT judgmental and to address ALL aspects of this "Pivotal Period" in our History, with honesty and truth (as we know it).

We do "Fireside Stories" about the battles, the people and the social happenings. In addition we dedicate one Thursday a month to the sharing of Songs, Poems and Letters from that era. So come back and visit; we'll save you a seat at the Fireside, and keep the Cider warm..... For a full listing of upcoming events, either look on the Schedule at the end of this Notice or in the Upcoming Events of the Genealogy Forum.

As we review the logs, and we find new visitors who show an interest or have entered into discussions on this topic in our Thursday sessions, we automatically add you to the distribution for this "Weekly Fireside."

AND Hey! TO YOU "FIRST-TIMERS" THIS WEEK, "Welcome"... :)

We heartily enjoyed your visit and participation. We really "fire up" with what members bring to the discussions, and we hope to see more of you.... Note that for any reason, should you desire to be removed from distribution of this "Weekly Missif," just drop us a line and we will comply with your wishes "post-haste".

Schedule of Upcoming Topics/Events*****

Time: Every Thursday Night at 11pm ET in the Golden Gates Chat Room (On AOL Only) with hosts HOST GFS Amy, HOST GFS Jayne, HOST GFS TEG and HOST GFS Jim and our many faithful friends :)

2/7/02 - OPEN CHAT

2/14/02 - Letters, Songs and Poems Night.

2/21/02 - OPEN CHAT

2/28/02 - William Barker Cushing and the North Carolina Sounds - Part 1 by HOST GFS Jim

3/7/02 - OPEN CHAT

3/14/02 - Letters, Songs and Poems Night.

3/21/02 - OPEN CHAT

3/28/02 - William Barker Cushing and the North Carolina Sound - Part 2 by HOST GFS Jim

We'll See You Thursday Night..!
Your Joyful, Intelligent and Fun-lovin' Host's & Hostess's :-)
HOST GFS Jim, HOST GFS Jayne, HOST GFS TEG and HOST GFS Amy

The Weekly Fireside - February 10, 2002

Submitted by HOST GFS Jim, HOST GFS Jayne, HOST GFS TEG and HOST FM

Hear Ye .... Hear Ye
"The Weekly Fireside"
of the American Civil War History
Special Interest Group;
Distribution Coast to Coast
Week ending 10 February 2002

Our Mission: To serve all genealogists by providing an enjoyable online environment with as many helpful and reliable resources as possible.

Last Thursday night was open chat and we had a rousing good time. Great all around conversation and questions! Thanks to those who joined us. Our "Sr." partner is down in the FL panhandle on his paying job and joins us when time and connections allow.

Regimental History Website collection:
I really want to indicate that I appreciate the response to the "Call for Regimental Histories" last week in the Fireside. It was a small trickle that started but it's a good beginning. I'll be on the road (Fort Walton Beach, Florida area) for about 4 weeks on my paying job (even though I'll still be dialing in to the SIGs) so after that we'll work out some method of informing you of what is recorded and where to go find it for both AOL and non AOL Members. So keep the information coming in and we'll collect it up. We are also getting notes from folks that have "lookup" capability to certain regimental histories and we'll figure out a way to compile an experts list. Wish us well :D

This coming Thursday is our Special Letters, Songs and Poems night. I don't know about any of the other hosts, but I have a couple of really great letters to share with you all that I received via snail mail (provided I get busy and get them typed.) Please join us, you won't be sorry you did.

Civil War History & Genealogy Forum Related Activities and Sites
Available for your Enjoyment and Research

War Between the States (Tracing your Civil War Ancestors)
With HOST GFS Amy and HOST GFS Wolford on
Friday evenings at 9:00 PM EDT in the Golden Gates Chat Room
of the Genealogy Forum (ONLY ON AOL) at KEYWORD: ROOTS

"Genealogy Forum's Military Resources" Website
devoted to Civil War History and the material presented in
the American Civil War History Special Interest Group
in the Genealogy Forum of America On-Line.
The address is:
http://www.genealogyforum.rootsweb.com/gfaol/resource/Military/

The Weekly Fireside Archives
 http://www.genealogyforum.rootsweb.com/gfaol/resource/Military/Fireside.htm

The Genealogy Forum Mailing List Signup
You may subscribe by sending an email to:
[email protected]
Title the subject of the email SUBSCRIPTION and type "Subscribe"
in the body of the email message.


Editor's Note: I sincerely encourage you to feel entirely free to post any Civil War Letters, Stories or articles that you have in our Civil War History Files through the new Military Resources Website. We are trying "beef up" our Library and now those of you who have patiently stuck with us who aren't AOL Members can now participate. There is also an area for you to upload photos, if you would desire to share those with the Civil War History community. On the Web Site, there are links to our Civil War Library (Files, Firesides, and Photo's).

FOR ALL YOU 1ST TIMERS ON THURSDAY - "WE REALLY WELCOME YOU TO OUR MERRY BAND" WE ENJOYED HAVING YOU, TRADING QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS AND ESPECIALLY YOUR CAMARADERIE!!! :-)... COME AGAIN OFTEN, WE DO INDEED "RELISH" YOUR COMPANY..

Every first-timer to the American Civil War History SIG gets put on the newsletter distribution automatically, because we like to send you a "Thank You Card" for coming to visit and this is our way of doing so. We hope to give you an opportunity to jump right in with us. If you desire NOT to receive the newsletter, then just drop us an email saying UNSUBSCRIBE and we will quickly remove your screen name from distribution. We certainly don't want to clog your mailbox with unwanted material. Also many of you pass on the newsletter to others that don't subscribe to AOL. We really want to thank you for spreading the word. I would also like to let you know that we would be happy to add them to our list if they have email of any sort. We distribute everywhere to those that have requested it. AOL membership is not a requirement although we'd love to see you in the Chat Room :D

Did you know...............
From: [email protected]

Despite fighting on separate sides during the Civil War, West Point graduates kept on friendly terms even during the war. When Confed. Pickett's wife gave birth to a son, Federal Officers sent gifts (including a silver tea set) across the lines to the new parents. When Federal Gen Phil Kearny was killed at Chantilly, both Federal and Confed. officers sent letters of condolence to his wife. These are currently housed in the Newark N.J. Historical Society.

Also from [email protected]

The city of Liverpool, England gained the nickname of "The Liverpool Confederacy" during the Civil War because of the large number of Confederate agents transacting business there for ships, arms, munitions and other supplies there. For every confederate agent , the U.S. Ambassador Charles Adams had at least 2 Federal spies there to see what the Confederates were doing so he could complain about lack of British neutrality.

............. and there you have it

THE HELP DESK

This segment is to address specific questions that hit our plate on Thursday night that we didn't have a chance to answer or needed a bit of time to check it out. Hope these answer the mail :D

Editor's Note: The new Military Resouces Website (Website is listed above in the Fireside) has a myriad of options for you. Here are some the choices: US Military Records, Conscription/Draft Records, Civil War Battle Names, Secession of the Confederate States, Your Civil War Ancestors - Where to Begin, Military Resources on the Internet, links to the Stories, Files and Talks of the American Civil War History Chat on AOL, message boards and many, many others. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome.

Additional Note from the Webmaster: Although we are thrilled to provide this area for you now, we want you to know that we are still building it and MORE files, Regimental Histories, etc., will be available in the near future. Stay Tuned!

Weekly Web Sites We've Received

 From: [email protected]

There is a brand spanking new Message Board on the Bits of Blue and Gray site. You are free to post about any aspect of the Civil War. If someone asks a question, feel free to answer it. I ask that you keep to the topic and I also ask that you not refight the war, please.

* * * * * 

From: [email protected]

Mount Moriah Cemetery - Philadelphia and Delaware County, PA
http://fomm.topcities.com

NOTE from Jayne: The Mount Moriah site is growing with data by leaps and bounds AND you want to be sure to check out < http://www.thefinalwaltz.com > also. More and more Montgomery County, PA Civil War burials are being added all the time.

From the [email protected]
[email protected]

http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~tandnmca/civilwar/civilwar2.html
Looks like it is shaping up to be a really great PA/Allegheny County civil war site that will help researchers locate graves of Union Veterans.

* * * * * 

NOTE from Jayne: I'm going to leave this in another week in case you haven't had a chance to check it out yet.

From: ZOOM [email protected]

You may wish to add the following to your collection of Web sites of Regimental histories:

A fairly good history of the 5th U.S. Cavalry (Regiment) from its inception in 1855 can be found at http://www.metronet.com/~harryb/1st_team/5th_rgmt/ (History of the 5th Cavalry Regiment - Homepage) and the links for its successive eras found there. As you may recall, then LTC R.E. Lee was the second Regimental Commander of the 5th Cavalry after its organization in Tennessee and subsequent stationing in late 1855 at Fort Belknap in Texas (about 50 miles west of Fort Worth, Texas).

Histories of the 7th and 8th Cavalry Regiments can be found through the respective Battalion links located on the Master Internet Page of the 1st Cavalry Division at http://www.metronet.com/~harryb/ (1st Cavalry Division - Master Internet Link).

Gordon L. Jennings
Houston TX

P.S.: I will be at Fort Hood this Friday as one of the official guests of the Division Commander to again experience the thrill of a late afternoon formal retreat parade with all of the regimental colors participating. The parade always ends with a cavalry charge by the Horse Detachment, sabers drawn and guns blazing. Quite a show. Hope the weather is good

MEMBERS HELPING MEMBERS!!.. 

Here's how it works... If you are trying to get photographs of a gravesite or battlefield, to collect for your Civil War ancestor research and records, then send us a request and we will post it here... Other members see your request, some being in the near vicinity, are willing to assist, and can email you directly (This protects your privacy) to work out the details. We HIGHLY recommend the "Requester" pay for all film costs and any postage involved for a helping member. This is intended to be a "Free" assistance between members (with the exception of defraying film and postage costs). Do unto others as.... you know
:-) Keep us posted on how this is working, so we can share them in the "Fireside"!!
HOST GFS Jim

IF YOU HAVE RECEIVED ANSWER(S) TO YOUR QUESTIONS, PLEASE BE SURE TO LET US KNOW!!!!!
Thanks!! - The Editors

We have had some gracious members offer their assistance in this area. Their screen names and areas they have offered to help in are listed.... Please honor their "goodness" and don't abuse them :-)....
We ask that you do follow the guidelines indicated above....

* * * * * 

From: [email protected]
My gt grandfather, William Edward Short, was born 11 April 1840 and died June 1 1900 in Dracut, Mass. His parents were William Short and Sarah Dane, marr Dec 1830, in Lyndeborough, NH. William Edward Short's Civil War service included the 6th Mass. Regiment; the 29th Mass Regiment; the 36th Mass Infantry Regiment; and the 15th Battery Mass Volunteer Light Artillery. His total service was 4 years and 4 months. On 13 Sept 1865, he fell down an elevator shaft in Lowell, Mass and sustained a compound fracture of his left leg. On 11 June1867, he married Clara A. Hovey. They had 2 children, Laura, born 1868 and Helen Francis, my grandmother, born 1882. I have 15 Civil War letters written by William Edward Short to his sister Ann. I assume that Ann was living in Lowell, Mass at the time of the correspondence. Also, a younger brother, George, was attending school in Dracut, Mass in early 1862. It is possible there were 2 additional brothers, Charles and Willis. I believe George marr Rose Anne Gerow on 23 Nov 1876. I seek any information about my gt grandfather, his sister and brothers. Send e-mail to me or write to
Larry Boynton, P.O. Box 153, Lyndonville, VT 05861

NOTE from Jayne--I was able to locate a pension file for William Short and I've sent the information from it. AND Larry has sent me 11 of Mr. Short's letters! We all thank him so very much!!!!!! We'll be sharing them during Songs, letters and Poems nights in the coming months.

* * * * * 

From: [email protected]
I have a history of the 148th Volunteer Regiment of Pennsylvania. This lists all companies with pages of pictures of the leaders of each company. It is a two inch thick volumn with numerous letters from participants of each company. It was compiled at the beginning of the 1900's by members who did not want to lose the history of the conflict from their prospective.
Very good and I would be glad to research and share any information about this regiment.
Dave

"Dave" We're going to leave you generous offer in for another week

* * * * * 

From: [email protected]
I'm interested in corresponding with descendants of any of the men in Cobb's Georgia Legion, CSA. I have been working on a book about these men for a couple of years and may have information to share with you, and would like to hear from you in return.
Carol Purdy

Carol and readers - I took this from the Genealogy Forum Message Board as it was in the Civil War History area and Carol gave permission to distribute this with her return emaill If any of you are researching Cobb's Georgia Legion, CSA, drop Carol a line and trade information. Having a compiled set of information on the regiment definitely benefits us all and helps Carol in her quest.....

* * * * *

From: [email protected]
Mark T. Alexander, son of the Honorable Mark Alexander Jr., U.S. Congress 1819-1833, son of Mark Alexander Sr., who fought at Brandywine, Germantown and Mommouth in the Rev. War, born in Mecklenburg County, near Boydton, in 1842, enlisted at age 19, in Co. A, 3rd Virginia Cavalry, "Rosser's Cav." on May 14, 1861, at Boydton, VA. He was captured by Union troops or surrenderd at Appomattox, and was paroled on May 29, 1865. He later lived in Baltimore MD. around 1900 and had five grandaughters, four of them were married about 1900. He died on October 30,1927 at Norfolk, VA. and was buried near his father in Scotland Neck, N.C. I am interested in talking to some of his descendents.
Lloyd Smith.

Kvet and readers - I took this from the Genealogy Forum Message Board as it was in the Civil War History area and Kvet gave permission to distribute this with her return email. If any of you are researching Company A, 3rd VA Cavalry, drop Kvet a line and trade information

OUR WEEKLY READING
 (These items are extracts from our Letters, Songs, and Poems evenings)

LINES ON THE BACK OF A CONFEDERATE NOTE
 By: Major Samuel Alroy Jonas

REPRESENTING nothing on God's earth now,
And naught in the waters below it,
As the pledge of a nation that's dead and gone,
Keep it, dear friends, and show it

Show it to those who will lend an ear
To the tale that this trifle can tell,
Of a liberty born of a patriot's dream,
Of a storm-cradled nation that fell.

Too poor to possess the precious ores,
And too much of a stranger to borrow,
We issued today our promise to pay
And hoped to redeem on the morrow.

The days rolled by and the weeks became years,
But our coffers were empty still.
Coin was so rare that the treasury'd quake
If a dollar dropped into the till.

But the faith that was in us was strong indeed,
And our poverty well we discerned,
And this little note represented the pay
That our suffering veterans earned.

They knew it had hardly a value in gold,
Yet as gold each soldier received it.
It gazed in our eyes with a promise to pay,
And every true soldier believed it.

But our boys thought little of price or of pay,
Or of bills that were long past due;
We knew if it brought us our bread today,
'Twas the best our poor country could do.

Keep it; it tells all our history over,
From the birth of the dream to its last:
Modest and born of the Angel of Hope,
Like our hope of success it has passed.

A BIT OF COMMUNITY...

Check out the following member inputs for comments and requests for information, Feedback's, Items of Interest and Plea's for HELP...

From: [email protected]
My question:
Does anyone have any information about a Civil War reunion that might include both Union and Confederate soldiers camping side-by-side? I have a photograph of my great-grandfather at what must have been some sort of reunion. He's out in front of his tent doing his laundry in a washbowl and there are both flags hanging in front of the tents. Just wondering if there were many reunions like this and where they might have taken place. He fought for the 9th NY Cavalry.
Susan
[email protected]

Susan.. I'll put this out for the "faithful" Maybe they can help.

* * * * * 

From: [email protected]
Jim, in thanking you for the current help on my 14th AL Cav. question, I believe I have been very remiss in advising you on the final outcome of a search we made a couple of years ago related to a Union veteran.

I was trying to locate the burial site of a grgrandfather who served in the Union Army in a PA unit. All I had from an old letter was that he "died ca 1895, his burial was handled by the Grand Army and he was buried in the Portland, OR area."

There was no GAR web page at that time and Sons of Union Veterans were of no help.From a query posted in the Portland area, we received a response from the sexton of a cemetery which adjoined the GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC CEMETERY! That was the first clue that the GAR had established cemeteries. Sure enough, our vet was there, we received location of cemetery, grave number, etc. A cousin was in the Portland area recently, visited the cemetery and made pictures for our family file.

Just wanted to share the story of the happy ending of our search and maybe it will be of help to others facing that brick wall!. . .

Regards,
Rose Dennis Adams

* * * * * 

From: [email protected]
... I would like to receive your newsletter. I have the pension records for John E Stewart, died of wounds at Fort Donnalson TN and am hoping to learn more about his family and life in the Civil War.

(((((Deanna))))) You're name has been added to our Weekly Fireside distribution. Maybe, too, we'll find someonne who know something about your John Stewart.

WHAT WE ARE ABOUT

 OUR FOCUS: the "History of the American (United States) Civil War", with byproducts of laughter, and comraderie!

OUR GOAL: to enhance your Genealogy activity, knowledge, and "wisdom" by talking about the history surrounding their lives and actions; specifically the "Civil War" that our ancestors lived through and died because of.

Captain Oliver Wendell Holmes of the 20th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment, said it so well.

"I think it is a noble and pious thing
To do whatever we may by written
Word or molded bronze and sculpted
Stone to keep our memories, our
Reverence and our love alive and
To hand them on to new generations
All too ready to forget."

OUR PROMISE: to provide an "online" environment that is NOT judgmental and to address ALL aspects of this "Pivotal Period" in our History, with honesty and truth (as we know it).

We do "Fireside Stories" about the battles, the people and the social happenings. In addition we dedicate one Thursday a month to the sharing of Songs, Poems and Letters from that era. So come back and visit; we'll save you a seat at the Fireside, and keep the Cider warm..... For a full listing of upcoming events, either look on the Schedule at the end of this Notice or in the Upcoming Events of the Genealogy Forum.

As we review the logs, and we find new visitors who show an interest or have entered into discussions on this topic in our Thursday sessions, we automatically add you to the distribution for this "Weekly Fireside."

AND Hey! TO YOU "FIRST-TIMERS" THIS WEEK, "Welcome"... :)

We heartily enjoyed your visit and participation. We really "fire up" with what members bring to the discussions, and we hope to see more of you.... Note that for any reason, should you desire to be removed from distribution of this "Weekly Missif," just drop us a line and we will comply with your wishes "post-haste".

Schedule of Upcoming Topics/Events*****

Time: Every Thursday Night at 11pm ET in the Golden Gates Chat Room (On AOL Only) with hosts HOST GFS Amy, HOST GFS Jayne, HOST GFS TEG and HOST GFS Jim and our many faithful friends :)

2/14/02 - Letters, Songs and Poems Night.

2/21/02 - OPEN CHAT

2/28/02 - William Barker Cushing and the North Carolina Sounds - Part 1 by HOST GFS Jim

3/7/02 - OPEN CHAT

3/14/02 - Letters, Songs and Poems Night.

3/21/02 - OPEN CHAT

3/28/02 - William Barker Cushing and the North Carolina Sound - Part 2 by HOST GFS Jim

We'll See You Thursday Night..!
Your Joyful, Intelligent and Fun-lovin' Host's & Hostess's :-)
HOST GFS Jim, HOST GFS Jayne, HOST GFS TEG and HOST GFS Amy

The Weekly Fireside - February 17, 2002

Submitted by HOST GFS Jim, HOST GFS Jayne, HOST GFS TEG and HOST GFS Amy

Hear Ye .... Hear Ye
"The Weekly Fireside"
of the American Civil War History
Special Interest Group;
Distribution Coast to Coast
Week ending 17 February 2002
Our Mission: To serve all genealogists by providing an enjoyable online environment with as many helpful and reliable resources as possible.

Oh boy!!!!!! What a GREAT night we had Thursday with Songs, letters and poems! Jayne read a "last letter home" that was probably a "made up" letter that was included in a book along with several others. One of our members did extensive research trying to find the soldier who wrote the letters... only to hit a brick wall each time. He had told me that I always needed to remember that everything I read about the war is not always the truth. The letter was a good example.

This coming Thursday will be open chat. Please come and join us. It's hard to tell just what you might learn.

Regimental History Website collection:

I really want to indicate that I appreciate the response to the "Call for Regimental Histories" in the Fireside. It was a small trickle that started but it's a good beginning. I'll be on the road (Fort Walton Beach, Florida area) for about 4 weeks on my paying job (even though I'll still be dialing in to the SIGs) so after that we'll work out some method of informing you of what is recorded and where to go to find it for both AOL and non AOL Members. So keep the information coming in and we'll collect it up. We are also getting notes from folks that have "lookup" capability to certain regimental histories and we'll figure out a way to compile an experts list. Wish us well :D


Civil War History & Genealogy Forum Related Activities and Sites
 Available for your Enjoyment and Research


War Between the States (Tracing your Civil War Ancestors)
With HOST GFS Amy and HOST GFS Wolford on
Friday evenings at 9:00 PM EDT in the Golden Gates Chat Room
of the Genealogy Forum (ONLY ON AOL) at KEYWORD: ROOTS

"Genealogy Forum's Military Resources" Website
devoted to Civil War History and the material presented in
the American Civil War History Special Interest Group
in the Genealogy Forum of America On-Line.
The address is:
http://www.genealogyforum.rootsweb.com/gfaol/resource/Military/

The Weekly Fireside Archives
 http://www.genealogyforum.rootsweb.com/gfaol/resource/Military/Fireside.htm

The Genealogy Forum Mailing List Signup
You may subscribe by sending an email to:
[email protected]
Title the subject of the email SUBSCRIPTION and type "Subscribe"
in the body of the email message.

Editor's Note: I sincerely encourage you to feel entirely free to post any Civil War Letters, Stories or articles that you have in our Civil War History Files through the new Military Resources Website. We are trying "beef up" our Library and now those of you who have patiently stuck with us who aren't AOL Members can now participate. There is also an area for you to upload photos, if you would desire to share those with the Civil War History community. On the Web Site, there are links to our Civil War Library (Files, Firesides, and Photo's).

FOR ALL YOU 1ST TIMERS ON THURSDAY - "WE REALLY WELCOME YOU TO OUR MERRY BAND" WE ENJOYED HAVING YOU, TRADING QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS AND ESPECIALLY YOUR CAMARADERIE!!! :-)... COME AGAIN OFTEN, WE DO INDEED "RELISH" YOUR COMPANY..

Every first-timer to the American Civil War History SIG gets put on the newsletter distribution automatically, because we like to send you a "Thank You Card" for coming to visit and this is our way of doing so. We hope to give you an opportunity to jump right in with us. If you desire NOT to receive the newsletter, then just drop us an email saying UNSUBSCRIBE and we will quickly remove your screen name from distribution. We certainly don't want to clog your mailbox with unwanted material. Also many of you pass on the newsletter to others that don't subscribe to AOL. We really want to thank you for spreading the word. I would also like to let you know that we would be happy to add them to our list if they have email of any sort. We distribute everywhere to those that have requested it. AOL membership is not a requirement although we'd love to see you in the Chat Room :D

Did you know...............
From: [email protected]

Civil War regiments / troops usually adopted nicknames for their units based on their ethnic, religious or civilian occupations. Occasionally the nickname would be "out of left field." Five Illinois volunteer infantry regiments come to mind: the 10th and 16th regiments were nicknamed "The Twins" because they always campaigned together, the 23rd regiment was nicknamed "The Chicago Irish", the 33rd regiment was nicknamed "The Brains Regiment" and also "The Normal" or "Teachers Regiment." The 50th Illinois with tongue in cheek called themselves "The Blind Half Hundred."

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NOTE from Jayne: This is NOT Civil War related but oh so timely and interesting!!!
From [email protected] - historic 60 seconds

Believe it or not but 8:02 p.m. on February 20 this year will be an historic moment in time.

It will not be marked by the chiming of any clocks or the ringing of bells, but at that precise time, on that specific date, something will happen which has not occurred for 1,001 years and will never happen again.

As the clock ticks over from 8:01 p.m. on Wednesday, February 20, time will, for sixty seconds only, read in perfect symmetry 2002, 2002, 2002, or to be more precise - 20:02 (time), 20/02 (day/month), 2002. (20:02 is 8:02 p.m. on a 24 hour, or military, clock)

This historic event will never have the same poignancy as the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month which marks Armistice Day, but it is an event which has only ever happened once before, and is something which will never be repeated.

The last occasion that time read in such a symmetrical pattern was long before the days of the digital watch and the 24-hour clock - at 10:01 a.m. on January 10, 1001.

And because the clock only goes up to 23.59, it is something that will never happen again.

As you celebrate or ponder on 20/02 2002 at 20:02 utter a prayer for me as I reach the biblical lifespan of three score and ten on that day.

You would think that should be a good reason for a big party, wouldn't you?

............. and there you have it!

THE HELP DESK

This segment is to address specific questions that hit our plate on Thursday night that we didn't have a chance to answer or needed a bit of time to check it out. Hope these answer the mail :D

Editor's Note: The new Military Resouces Website (Website is listed above in the Fireside) has a myriad of options for you. Here are some the choices: US Military Records, Conscription/Draft Records, Civil War Battle Names, Secession of the Confederate States, Your Civil War Ancestors - Where to Begin, Military Resources on the Internet, links to the Stories, Files and Talks of the American Civil War History Chat on AOL, message boards and many, many others. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome.

Additional Note from the Webmaster: Although we are thrilled to provide this area for you now, we want you to know that we are still building it and MORE files, Regimental Histories, etc., will be available in the near future. Stay Tuned!!

Weekly Web Sites We've Received

From: [email protected]

FINALLY!!!!!! it's back online :)
Civil War Soldiers and Sailors System
http://www.civilwar.nps.gov/cwss/

* * * * * 

From: [email protected]

You may be able to use this somewhere although it is not Civil War. The song - Green Fields of France is probably my favorite of all military somgs.
http://www.aftermathww1.com/mcbride.asp

(((((Frank))))) I just HAD to share this with everybody. I went to the site and just above the words to the song, there are a couple of choices you can make if you'd like to listen to it. I chose the Real Audio version by the Furey's... Oh my!! :( You all just gotta hear it.

* * * * * 

From Cyndi's What's New list.

URL: http://www.rootsweb.com/~ialcgs/mifflinj.htm
TITLE: 11th Iowa Civil War diary
DESCRIPTION: Civil War diary of First Sgt. Mifflin Jennings, Co. C, 11th Iowa Volunteer Infantry regiment, of the famed Iowa Brigade.

URL: http://www.geocities.com/friarluke/RoseHillConfederateCemetery.html
TITLE: Rose Hill Confederate Cemetery
DESCRIPTION: Confederate cemetery located in Macon, Georgia containing the grave roster of some 600 Confederate soldiers.

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From the [email protected]

I was just browsing a new site I just found
http://www.phmc.state.pa.us
It is a wonderful site and will become even more wonderful in the future so I suggest you all find it and bookmark it if you have any family ties in PA. So far it does not have Civil war info on it but it has a ton of Rev. War info but today I got this new flash from them so be on the alert. STATE ARCHIVES RECEIVES SONS OF UNION VETERANS RECORDS The Pennsylvania State Archives has received nine cubic feet of records dating between about 1890 and the present relating to the Pennsylvania Department, Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUV). The SUV, whose motto is "Keeping green the memory of the boys in blue," is the legal successor to the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization of union veterans created after the Civil War. The records include chapter rosters, annual reports, membership lists, and military service information about members. This is valuable information for historians and genealogists, anyone who is seeking material about Pennsylvania's involvement in the Civil War, especially about a particular veteran or a regiment.

The records will be arranged and placed into acid free housing and stored in the environmentally controlled Archives tower in Harrisburg. They will be available to the public for research at some point in the near future.

In addition, two historic flags of the SUV have been donated to The State Museum of Pennsylvania. For more information, phone archivist Linda Ries at (717) 787-3023.

PENNSYLVANIA MILITARY MUSEUM ARCHITECT WINS AWARD Purdy O'Gwynn Barnhart Architects, Inc., has won an Award for Design Excellence from the Philadelphia Chapter of the American Institute of Architects for its design of renovations to the Pennsylvania Military Museum at Boalsburg, Centre County. The project involves renovation of the existing museum to update galleries and support spaces. An addition to the front of the existing structure will add an array of visitor services, including a lobby, museum store and community meeting room. For more information on the Pennsylvania Military Museum, phone (814) 466-6263. 

* * * * * 

From: [email protected] 

Images of "actual pension applications for Confederate veterans or their widows" of Virginia are online at the following URLs. The instructions to get to the proper page to find them--the second of these two URLs--was a little confusing at first. Instructions are:

"Go first to The Library of Virginia's Web site... Then log onto Collections, then Images..." That second part is confusing because a different, longer name is really there that *includes* the word "images" within it, near the bottom of the page, in blue.

It appears that many other images are online, too, including Bible pages, land records and lots of other things. I haven't had time to really look at it yet this morning but I wanted to send this on.

http://www.lva.lib.va.us/

http://www.lva.lib.va.us/dlp/military/

http://www.lva.lib.va.us/dlp/index.htm

MEMBERS HELPING MEMBERS!!..

Here's how it works... If you are trying to get photographs of a gravesite or battlefield, to collect for your Civil War ancestor research and records, then send us a request and we will post it here... Other members see your request, some being in the near vicinity, are willing to assist, and can email you directly (This protects your privacy) to work out the details. We HIGHLY recommend the "Requester" pay for all film costs and any postage involved for a helping member. This is intended to be a "Free" assistance between members (with the exception of defraying film and postage costs). Do unto others as.... you know
:-) Keep us posted on how this is working, so we can share them in the "Fireside"!!
HOST GFS Jim

IF YOU HAVE RECEIVED ANSWER(S) TO YOUR QUESTIONS, PLEASE BE SURE TO LET US KNOW!!!!!
Thanks!! - The Editors

We have had some gracious members offer their assistance in this area. Their screen names and areas they have offered to help in are listed.... Please honor their "goodness" and don't abuse them :-)....
We ask that you do follow the guidelines indicated above....

* * * * * 

From: [email protected]
I have a Civil War book "Frank Leslie's Illustrated History of the Civil War" I was trying to sell it but no good offers so I just dismantled it to frame some of the pictures (Great lithographs) But there are over one hundred portraits of Civil War officers. and about 500 Battle scenes, There maybe some relative who may like to have one, I could scan a list if any one interested. contact me directly
Wilbert R Brown
375 Water St.
Skowhegan, ME. 04976
e-mail [email protected]
Web Site http://www2.skow.net/~wbrown

* * * * * 

From: [email protected]
My gt grandfaather, William Edward Short, was born 11 April 1840 and died June 1 1900 in Dracut, Mass. His parents were William Short and Sarah Dane, marr Dec 1830, in Lyndeborough, NH. William Edward Short's Civil War service included the 6th Mass. Regiment; the 29th Mass Regiment; the 36th Mass Infantry Regiment; and the 15th Battery Mass Volunteer Light Artillery. His total service was 4 years and 4 months. On 13 Sept 1865, he fell down an elevator shaft in Lowell, Mass and sustained a compound fracture of his left leg. On 11 June1867, he married Clara A. Hovey. They had 2 children, Laura, born 1868 and Helen Francis, my grandmother, born 1882. I have 15 Civil War letters written by William Edward Short to his sister Ann. I assume that Ann was living in Lowell, Mass at the time of the correspondence. Also, a younger brother, George, was attending school in Dracut, Mass in early 1862. It is possible there were 2 additional brothers, Charles and Willis. I believe George marr Rose Anne Gerow on 23 Nov 1876. I seek any information about my gt grandfather, his sister and brothers. Send e-mail to me or write to
Larry Boynton, P.O. Box 153, Lyndonville, VT 05861

NOTE from Jayne--I was able to locate a pension file for William Short and I've sent the information from it. AND Larry has sent me 11 of Mr. Short's letters! We all thank him so very much!!!!!! We'll be sharing them during Songs, letters and Poems nights in the coming months.

* * * * * 

From: [email protected]
I have a history of the 148th Volunteer Regiment of Pennsylvania. This lists all companies with pages of pictures of the leaders of each company. It is a two inch thick volumn with numerous letters from participants of each company. It was compiled at the beginning of the 1900's by members who did not want to lose the history of the conflict from their prospective.
Very good and I would be glad to research and share any information about this regiment.
Dave

"Dave" We're going to leave you generous offer in for another week

OUR WEEKLY READING
 (These items are extracts from our Letters, Songs, and Poems evenings)

The Picket-Guard
 by Ethel Lynn Beers

"All quiet along the Potomac," they say,
"Except now and then a stray picket
Is shot, as he walks on his beat to and fro,
By a rifleman hid in the thicket.
"Tis nothing; a private or two now and then
Will not count in the news of the battle;
Not an officer lost - only one of the men,
Moaning out, all alone, the death-rattle."

All quiet along the Potomac to-night,
Where soldiers lie peacefully dreaming;
Their tents in the rays of the clear autumn moon,
Or the light of the watch-fire, are gleaming.
A tremulous sigh of the gentle night-wind
Through the forest leaves softly is creeping;
While the stars up above, with their glittering eyes,
Keep guard, for the army is sleeping.

There's only the sound of the lone sentry's tread,
As he tramps from the rock to the fountain,
And thinks of the two in the low trundle-bed
Far away in the cot in the mountain.
His musket falls slack; his facer, dark and grim,
Grows gentle with memories tender,
As he mutters a prayer for the children asleep --
For their mother -- may Heaven defend her!

The moon seems to shine just as brightly as then,
That night, when the love yet unspoken
Leaped up to his lips -- when low-murmured vows
Were pledged to be ever unbroken.
Then drawing his sleeve roughly over his eyes,
He dashes off tears that are welling,
And gathers his gun ever closer up to its place
As if to keep down the heart-swelling.

He passes the fountain, the blasted pine-tree;
The footstep is lagging and weary;
Yet onward he goes, through the broad belt of light
Towards the shade of the foreast so dreary.
Hark! was it the night-wind that rustled the leaves?
Was it the moonlight so wondrously flashing?
It looked like a rifle . . . "Ha! Mary, good-by!"
The red life-blood is ebbing and plashing.

All quiet along the Potomac to-night --
No sound save the rush of the river,
While soft falls the dew on the face of the dead --
The picket's off duty forever!

A BIT OF COMMUNITY...

 Check out the following member inputs for comments and requests for information, Feedback's, Items of Interest and Plea's for HELP...

From: [email protected]
This list comes from an old Photo Diary that came into my hands by chance. I did my best to try and interpret the hand writing. If you like, I could send as a jpg to you, then you could check out how I did. Can you please let me know. Thank you for listening. Hope it's alright for the Weekly Fireside.
1. G. A. HALL Co L 10th NY. Vol.
2. Levi Bristol Co A 5th Conn. Vol.
3. Cyrus Brown Co K 12th Mass. Vol.
4. R. C. Hatchings Co A 76th NY. Vol.
5. F. B. Croll Co E 95th NY. Vol.
6. William D. Freman Co A 157th NY. Vol.
7. Frank Prestly Co H 111th NY. Vol.
8. John Croll Co C 142nd PA. Vol.
9. Josiah Hickernell Co B 89th NY. PA. Vol.
10. Patrick Diner Co B 17th Mich. Vol.
11. William Whitcome Co H 17th Mich. Vol.
12. G. Liberman Co C 76th Mich Vol.
13. C. H. Finch Co B 149th PA. Vol.
14. William Lawyer Co B 122nd Ohio. Vol.
15. S. B. Grant Co B 5th Maine. Vol.
16. William Gouch Co D 2nd D.C. Vol.
17. William Boyer Co B 106th PA. Vol.
18. William Edwards Co G 121st NY. Vol.

These names come from a photo diary that was presented to Keen(e).

(((((Karen)))))) It's just purrrrrrrfect for the Weekly Fireside :) Maybe some folks will recognize a name or two.

* * * * * 

From: [email protected]
My question:
Does anyone have any information about a Civil War reunion that might include both Union and Confederate soldiers camping side-by-side? I have a photograph of my great-grandfather at what must have been some sort of reunion. He's out in front of his tent doing his laundry in a washbowl and there are both flags hanging in front of the tents. Just wondering if there were many reunions like this and where they might have taken place. He fought for the 9th NY Cavalry.
Susan
[email protected]

Susan.. I'll put this out for the "faithful" Maybe they can help.

Here's a reply From [email protected]
NOT something that I would have ever, ever attended, but I am guessing it to be the 1938 gathering at Gettysburg. It was filmed, had sound, and President Roosevelt was in attendance. I recall seeing a picture like above-described, and I believe it to be from the 1938 gathering.

Miss Désirée de Nantes
[email protected]

Anyone else have any ideas???

* * * * * 

From: HOST GFS [email protected]
I have an Old Book, written in 1889 that I got at an old Book store, hard Leather Bound. It is Songs, poems and stories of those who fought and survived the Civil War. (The Civil War in Song and Story, By Frank Moore, published in 1889, by P.F. Collier, Publisher.) This author interviewed many soldiers for his books. I do have a website on one of my distant relatives Gen. W. T. Sherman, where there is much written on him in this book. One of these days I want to type the whole thing, but it will take a very long time to do so for it is a thick book. Here is the website on W.T Sherman and what the book has to say on him:
http://homepages.rootsweb.com/~bowers/wtsherm.htm

Thanks (((((Heather))))) Posting this for all the Faithful to see.

WHAT WE ARE ABOUT

OUR FOCUS: the "History of the American (United States) Civil War", with byproducts of laughter, and camaraderie!

OUR GOAL: to enhance your Genealogy activity, knowledge, and "wisdom" by talking about the history surrounding their lives and actions; specifically the "Civil War" that our ancestors lived through and died because of.

Captain Oliver Wendell Holmes of the 20th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment, said it so well.

"I think it is a noble and pious thing
To do whatever we may by written
Word or molded bronze and sculpted
Stone to keep our memories, our
Reverence and our love alive and
To hand them on to new generations
All too ready to forget."

OUR PROMISE: to provide an "online" environment that is NOT judgmental and to address ALL aspects of this "Pivotal Period" in our History, with honesty and truth (as we know it).

We do "Fireside Stories" about the battles, the people and the social happenings. In addition we dedicate one Thursday a month to the sharing of Songs, Poems and Letters from that era. So come back and visit; we'll save you a seat at the Fireside, and keep the Cider warm..... For a full listing of upcoming events, either look on the Schedule at the end of this Notice or in the Upcoming Events of the Genealogy Forum.

As we review the logs, and we find new visitors who show an interest or have entered into discussions on this topic in our Thursday sessions, we automatically add you to the distribution for this "Weekly Fireside."

AND Hey! TO YOU "FIRST-TIMERS" THIS WEEK, "Welcome"... :)

We heartily enjoyed your visit and participation. We really "fire up" with what members bring to the discussions, and we hope to see more of you.... Note that for any reason, should you desire to be removed from distribution of this "Weekly Missif," just drop us a line and we will comply with your wishes "post-haste".

Schedule of Upcoming Topics/Events*****

Time: Every Thursday Night at 11pm ET in the Golden Gates Chat Room (On AOL Only) with hosts HOST GFS Amy, HOST GFS Jayne, HOST GFS TEG and HOST GFS Jim and our many faithful friends :)

2/21/02 - OPEN CHAT

2/28/02 - William Barker Cushing and the North Carolina Sounds - Part 1 by HOST GFS Jim

3/7/02 - OPEN CHAT

3/14/02 - Letters, Songs and Poems Night.

3/21/02 - OPEN CHAT

3/28/02 - William Barker Cushing and the North Carolina Sound - Part 2 by HOST GFS Jim

We'll See You Thursday Night..!
Your Joyful, Intelligent and Fun-lovin' Host's & Hostess's :-)
HOST GFS Jim, HOST GFS Jayne, HOST GFS TEG and HOST GFS Amy

The Weekly Fireside - February 24, 2002

Submitted by HOST GFS Jim, HOST GFS Jayne, HOST GFS TEG and HOST GFS Amy

Hear Ye .... Hear Ye
"The Weekly Fireside"
of the American Civil War History
Special Interest Group;
Distribution Coast to Coast
Week ending 24 February 2002

Our Mission: To serve all genealogists by providing an enjoyable online environment with as many helpful and reliable resources as possible.

We had a great open chat last week. GFS Jim had gotten home from the four weeks in FL with his paying job. It was good to have the "gang" there together again.

This coming Thursday, Feb 28, 11 PM ET in the Golden Gates room, Jim will be doing Part 1 of William Barker Cushing and the North Carolina Sounds. Please come and join us.

Regimental History Website collection:
I really want to indicate that I appreciate the response to the "Call for Regimental Histories" in the Fireside. It was a small trickle that started but it's a good beginning. I've been on the road (Fort Walton Beach, Florida area) for about 4 weeks on my paying job. Now we can work out some method of informing you of what is recorded and where to go to find it for both AOL and non AOL Members. So keep the information coming in and we'll collect it up. We are also getting notes from folks that have "lookup" capability to certain regimental histories and we'll figure out a way to compile an experts list. Wish us well :D

Civil War History & Genealogy Forum Related Activities and Sites
 Available for your Enjoyment and Research


War Between the States (Tracing your Civil War Ancestors)
With HOST GFS Amy and HOST GFS Wolford on
Friday evenings at 9:00 PM EDT in the Golden Gates Chat Room
of the Genealogy Forum (ONLY ON AOL) at KEYWORD: ROOTS

"Genealogy Forum's Military Resources" Website
devoted to Civil War History and the material presented in
the American Civil War History Special Interest Group
in the Genealogy Forum of America On-Line.
The address is:
http://www.genealogyforum.rootsweb.com/gfaol/resource/Military/

The Weekly Fireside Archives
http://www.genealogyforum.rootsweb.com/gfaol/resource/Military/Fireside.htm

The Genealogy Forum Mailing List Signup
You may subscribe by sending an email to:
[email protected]
Title the subject of the email SUBSCRIPTION and type "Subscribe"
in the body of the email message.

Editor's Note: I sincerely encourage you to feel entirely free to post any Civil War Letters, Stories or articles that you have in our Civil War History Files through the new Military Resources Website. We are trying "beef up" our Library and now those of you who have patiently stuck with us who aren't AOL Members can now participate. There is also an area for you to upload photos, if you would desire to share those with the Civil War History community. On the Web Site, there are links to our Civil War Library (Files, Firesides, and Photo's).

FOR ALL YOU 1ST TIMERS ON THURSDAY - "WE REALLY WELCOME YOU TO OUR MERRY BAND" WE ENJOYED HAVING YOU, TRADING QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS AND ESPECIALLY YOUR CAMARADERIE!!! :-)... COME AGAIN OFTEN, WE DO INDEED "RELISH" YOUR COMPANY..

Every first-timer to the American Civil War History SIG gets put on the newsletter distribution automatically, because we like to send you a "Thank You Card" for coming to visit and this is our way of doing so. We hope to give you an opportunity to jump right in with us. If you desire NOT to receive the newsletter, then just drop us an email saying UNSUBSCRIBE and we will quickly remove your screen name from distribution. We certainly don't want to clog your mailbox with unwanted material. Also many of you pass on the newsletter to others that don't subscribe to AOL. We really want to thank you for spreading the word. I would also like to let you know that we would be happy to add them to our list if they have email of any sort. We distribute everywhere to those that have requested it. AOL membership is not a requirement although we'd love to see you in the Chat Room :D

Did you know...............
From: [email protected]

Sickles had a career (less than illustrious) as a politician, Civil War General and US Ambassador- here are some of his deeds: 

Shot and killed Phillip Barton Keys, his wife's lover and son of the author of the national anthem. Sickles was charged with murder, but with the help of his Attorney Edwin M. Stanton (later in Lincoln's cabinet) was acquitted after the 1st successful plea of temporary insanity in American Jurisprudence.

Political General in Civil War Union army - Almost lost the Battle of Gettysburg for the Union by advancing his troops (Excelsior Brigade) to the peach orchard against direct orders on July 2. Lost a leg in that battle and donated it to the Army Medical Museum where he frequently visited it in later years. For his Civil War service, awarded the Medal of Honor in 1897.

As Ambassador to Spain, embarked on an affair with the Spanish Queen that led to his recall.

* * * * * 

Also From: [email protected]
(not exactly Civil War related but of the same basic time period and very interesting indeed)

I previously told you about the original postage stamps issued by the U.S. in 1847. All stamps issued up until 1857 were issued in unperforated sheets because perforations had not yet been invented. Post office employees had use a scissors to cut out any stamps you wanted from the sheet. Further, cancellation of stamps was done by hand with pen and ink, or by whittled bottle corks with individualized designs( shamrocks, crosses, etc) in various colors until 1860, when the larger post offices got machine cancellation machines. By 1865, even the smallest post offices had been issued machine cancellation machines and individualized P.O. employee cancellations had been phased out.

............. and there you have it!

THE HELP DESK 

This segment is to address specific questions that hit our plate on Thursday night that we didn't have a chance to answer or needed a bit of time to check it out. Hope these answer the mail :D

Editor's Note: The new Military Resouces Website (Website is listed above in the Fireside) has a myriad of options for you. Here are some the choices: US Military Records, Conscription/Draft Records, Civil War Battle Names, Secession of the Confederate States, Your Civil War Ancestors - Where to Begin, Military Resources on the Internet, links to the Stories, Files and Talks of the American Civil War History Chat on AOL, message boards and many, many others. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome.

Additional Note from the Webmaster: Although we are thrilled to provide this area for you now, we want you to know that we are still building it and MORE files, Regimental Histories, etc., will be available in the near future. Stay Tuned!

Weekly Web Sites We've Received 

From: [email protected]

This is a subscription ($59.00/year but it looks *wonderful!*)
http://www.accessible.com/

((((( Diane ))))) Thanks for the site. I remember waaaaay back when it wasn't a subscription site, and it really was wonderful.

* * * * * 

From: [email protected] 

The March Column is now up live... "Honoring the Dead"
http://www.bitsofblueandgray.com/March2002

American Civil War at eHistory
http://www.ehistory.com/uscw/index.cfm
There is a newsletter there you may subscribe too, letters and diaries and also the Official Records plus more

* * * * * 

From: [email protected]

http://www.angelfire.com/ga3/ANDERSONVILLE/PRISON.html

* * * * *

From: [email protected]
Be sure to check out all the new and updated names in the cemetery listing at http://www.thefinalwaltz.com

Also check out the Friends of Mt. Moriah Cemetery (Philadelphia and Delaware Co. PA area) website.
http://fomm.topcities.com

MEMBERS HELPING MEMBERS!!.. 

Here's how it works... If you are trying to get photographs of a gravesite or battlefield, to collect for your Civil War ancestor research and records, then send us a request and we will post it here... Other members see your request, some being in the near vicinity, are willing to assist, and can email you directly (This protects your privacy) to work out the details. We HIGHLY recommend the "Requester" pay for all film costs and any postage involved for a helping member. This is intended to be a "Free" assistance between members (with the exception of defraying film and postage costs). Do unto others as.... you know
:-) Keep us posted on how this is working, so we can share them in the "Fireside"!!
HOST GFS Jim

IF YOU HAVE RECEIVED ANSWER(S) TO YOUR QUESTIONS, PLEASE BE SURE TO LET US KNOW!!!!!
Thanks!! - The Editors

We have had some gracious members offer their assistance in this area. Their screen names and areas they have offered to help in are listed.... Please honor their "goodness" and don't abuse them :-)....
We ask that you do follow the guidelines indicated above....

NOTE from Jayne... I'm going to leave this in another week in case someone didn't see it last week.

From: [email protected]
I have a Civil War book "Frank Leslie's Illustrated History of the Civil War" I was trying to sell it but no good offers so I just dismantled it to frame some of the pictures (Great lithographs) But there are over one hundred portraits of Civil War officers. and about 500 Battle scenes, There maybe some relative who may like to have one, I could scan a list if any one interested. contact me directly
Wilbert R Brown
375 Water St.
Skowhegan, ME. 04976
e-mail [email protected]
Web Site http://www2.skow.net/~wbrown

* * * * * 

From: [email protected]
I have a history of the 148th Volunteer Regiment of Pennsylvania. This lists all companies with pages of pictures of the leaders of each company. It is a two inch thick volumn with numerous letters from participants of each company. It was compiled at the beginning of the 1900's by members who did not want to lose the history of the conflict from their prospective.
Very good and I would be glad to research and share any information about this regiment.
Dave

"Dave" We're going to leave you generous offer in for another week

from our Letters, Songs, and Poems evenings

[email protected] had sent this poem, written by her Great grandfather Joseph A. Lumbard about his Captain.

Captain Davis headed Co. G. of the 147th Pa Volunteers from Snyder County, Pennsylvania, he was mortally wounded during the battle of Lookout Mountain and died on November 30.

A Tribute to Captain Charles S. Davis
by Joseph A. Lumbard

The hills of Chattanooga
Were sinking into night,
The fading campfires glimmered
With a weird and fitful light.
Within the crowded hospital
Our wounded captain lay
He spoke in painful whispers,
His thoughts were far away.

I am dying, comrades, dying.
The sweat is on my brow,
My limbs are cold and pulseless,
Come listen to me now.
Come nearer, comrades, nearer
My voice is very weak
Don't lose a single sentence
Or word of what I speak.

Far off in Pennsylvania
Loved ones each ever bow,
To pray for my protection
They are thinking of me now.
To one of that loving number,
A loving faithful one,
To her send the sad message
To tell her I am gone.

Tell her I fondly cherished
The hope to meet again.
But God, the loving Father
Did otherwise ordain.
That oft in dreams I wandered
To where we used to roam,
Amidst the fragrant flowers
With the loving ones at home.

Tell her I died most calmly,
A noble soldier's death,
With thoughts of home and country
Upon my latest breath.
That I had kindly comrades
To watch my dying breath,
That oft I felt, in fancy
Her soft hands upon my head.

Nearby our lovely cottage,
That she may often weep,
Her warm tears on my bosom,
Tell her I wish to sleep.
There is a spot most charming
Where oft at close of day,
We passed the happy moments,
There too my children play.

Tis here she'll want to lay me,
Tis here I'll want to lie,
That when my children come here,
They'll feel that I am by.
When winter's frosts are ended
And trees with foliage wave,
My loved ones then will gather
each eve around my grave.

Upon each balmy zephyr,
I'll come and kiss each brow.
Oh! How I'll guard and love them-
The fancy cheers me now.
Our noble Captain ended,
A prayer upheaved his breast
He lisped a name so softly
Then passed away to rest.

A BIT OF COMMUNITY...

Check out the following member inputs for comments and requests for information, Feedback's, Items of Interest and Plea's for HELP...

I'll leave this in another week, just in case someone didn't see it last week.

From: [email protected]
This list comes from an old Photo Diary that came into my hands by chance. I did my best to try and interpret the hand writing. If you like, I could send as a jpg to you, then you could check out how I did. Can you please let me know. Thank you for listening. Hope it's alright for the Weekly Fireside.

1. G. A. HALL Co L 10th NY. Vol.
2. Levi Bristol Co A 5th Conn. Vol.
3. Cyrus Brown Co K 12th Mass. Vol.
4. R. C. Hatchings Co A 76th NY. Vol.
5. F. B. Croll Co E 95th NY. Vol.
6. William D. Freman Co A 157th NY. Vol.
7. Frank Prestly Co H 111th NY. Vol.
8. John Croll Co C 142nd PA. Vol.
9. Josiah Hickernell Co B 89th NY. PA. Vol.
10. Patrick Diner Co B 17th Mich. Vol.
11. William Whitcome Co H 17th Mich. Vol.
12. G. Liberman Co C 76th Mich Vol.
13. C. H. Finch Co B 149th PA. Vol.
14. William Lawyer Co B 122nd Ohio. Vol.
15. S. B. Grant Co B 5th Maine. Vol.
16. William Gouch Co D 2nd D.C. Vol.
17. William Boyer Co B 106th PA. Vol.
18. William Edwards Co G 121st NY. Vol.

These names come from a photo diary that was presented to Keen(e).

(((((Karen)))))) It's just purrrrrrrfect for the Weekly Fireside :) Maybe some folks will recognize a name or two.

* * * * * 

From: [email protected]
To: [email protected]

I went and read the poem that Jayne shared from you Frank... powerful it was. I could not figure out how to play it as a song... but I read it and it is a powerful powerful piece. The last two lines kinda say it all...

Thank you both very much for sharing it with all of us. I truly did enjoy it.

(((((((Glenda))))))) Thank you so much for the note..

* * * * * 

From: [email protected]
My question:
Does anyone have any information about a Civil War reunion that might include both Union and Confederate soldiers camping side-by-side? I have a photograph of my great-grandfather at what must have been some sort of reunion. He's out in front of his tent doing his laundry in a washbowl and there are both flags hanging in front of the tents. Just wondering if there were many reunions like this and where they might have taken place. He fought for the 9th NY Cavalry.
Susan
[email protected]

Susan found her own answer to the questions above...

From: [email protected]

Jayne and all that replied to my Civil War reunion photograph,

Thank you all for your input! I have identified this photograph as the Battle of Gettysburg 50th Anniversary Reunion in 1, 2, 3, and 4 July 1913. An unusual reunion where old enemies came together in "brotherly love and affection." This photo is part of a massive tent city housing the approximate 60,000 veterans that were in attendance, bivouacked on the old battlefield, retraced steps, looked up old comrades and swapped stories.

Included in the formal ceremonies was a speech by President Woodrow Wilson. He was heard as saying, "We have found one another again as brothers and comrades in arms, enemies no longer, generous friends rather, our battles long past, the quarrel forgotten, except that we shall not forget the splendid valor, the manly devotion of the men arranged against one another, now grasping hands and smiling into each other's eyes."

An interesting note - each state who had soldiers at the Battle of Gettysburg were represented with not surprisingly, the largest being PA with 21,800 veterans, the smallest being NM with 1 veteran. Train fare within PA was free to all the veterans. The numbers far exceeded the attendance estimates and the U.S. Army scrambled to feed them all.

* * * * * 

NOTE from Jayne: The following came to me thru my [email protected] mail. Perhaps some of you might have some ideas for Debra on how she can deal with this.

Seeking information concerning the following:

A Bundle of 40 Civil War letters written by the Hodnett Brothers of the GA 13th Company K, Evans Guards were auctioned 2-16-2002 from the Robert Jackson Tatum collection by Golden Memories for $11,500.00. The collection of letters offers invaluable insight to war time conditions and collectively a great insight into the social lives of a Southern family.

I am interested as a direct Hodnett descendent, in obtaining certified copies of this collection . I am also willing to help with any personal research that may be needed to add value to the letters. I am hoping that your group may be able to help me make contact with this collector, especially since the purchase was made by a collector in Houston.

Below I have included an article about the auction appearing in a GA newspaper. I have requested this information from Golden Memories, but have been unsuccessful in obtaining the name.

Also auctioned were a collection of 24 letters written between Susan Hodnett and her husband W.A Stephens.

I am also interested in attending a meeting, I would appreciate a current calendar of events. My specific interest is in the battle at Antietim (The Battle of Sharpsburg)----the involvement of 13th GA, and The Battle of Gettsyburg, July 3, Picketts Charge---the involvement of the 14th AL.

Thank you,
Debra Buster

[email protected]
The Road to East Texas Our Family Reunion
http://www.geocities.com/dlbuster.geo

* * * * * 

METRO SUNDAY . February 17, 2002

A bit of history on the block
Civil War artifacts: Collection of letters fetches $11,500 in Rabun County
auction.
Bill Hendrick - Staff
Sunday, February 17, 2002

Mountain City --- On Oct. 7, 1861, Pvt. John W. Hodnutt of the 13th Georgia Volunteers wrote home from a Virginia battlefield to his sister Mary in Troup County, thanking her for sending "leggings & gloves."

His letter and 39 others penned by him and his three brothers, all in the Confederate Army, fetched $11,500 --- the highest bid Saturday in one of the biggest auctions of 19th century artifacts in years.

More than 800 letters, slave documents, rare legal papers, swords, guns and books sold for a total of more than $100,000.

The articles had been owned by Jack Tatum, 85, of nearby Clarksville, who had been collecting them for 60 years and said he was "very sad" to see them go.

Sitting in the back row of a huge auction house with his wife, Edna, Tatum dabbed at his eyes as many of the items were purchased by strangers who identified themselves only by numbers.

Greg Peters, owner of the Golden Memories Auction Co. in this tiny northeast Georgia town, said most of the buyers were professional collectors. But some were from museums and research institutions, such as the Auburn Avenue Research Library of African American Culture and History in Atlanta.

The library's representatives engaged in fevered bidding for 19th century slave documents, shelling out several thousand dollars for brown, brittle papers. The documents included bills of sale for slaves, marriage licenses marked "colored" issued just after the Civil War, and a handwritten will in which slaves owned by BenjamineManning of Florida were disbursed after his death in 1831.

"These things are important because the library exists to interpret the African-American experience, and these articles tell quite a story," said senior researcher Janice White Sikes. "They can help us interpret the southern African-American experience, the totality of it. It's not just slave documents. We want things that will tell us how African-Americans saw themselves and were seen by others, back then and now."

One document, for example, referred to the "hiring out" of a slave. "That tells us that bondsmen were hired, and they wouldn't have been hired unless they were skilled people."

University of Georgia history professor James Cobb said many of the documents "clearly show the economic aspect of slavery, as well as the coldness of just looking at human beings as commodities, to be bought and sold and hired out without consulting them. It's very sad."

One bill of sale listed five slaves between a moonshine still and hogs. The slaves sold for $2,372.75, compared to $40.25 for the still and $541 for the hogs.

Cobb wasn't surprised that the Hodnutt letters, the diary of Elisha D. Holcombe, another Georgia soldier, or other packets of epistles from the front were the hottest items at the sale.

"They are significant for scholars in terms of what they might reveal that we didn't know," Cobb said. "To the average person, they show these men were real people, and went through what all soldiers go through. They got homesick, scared, hungry, lonely."

The Hodnutt letters were purchased by a private collector in Houston who bid by phone. The Holcombe diary sold for $6,000, but auctioneer Greg Peters would not reveal the buyer's name. Another set of 24 letters, written by W.A. Stephens of the 46th Alabama Volunteers to his wife, Susan, sister of the Hodnutt brothers, fetched $3,750.

All of the Hodnutt brothers, and Stephens, too, were good at making their points, but not very good at spelling. One spelled hospital "horse splittle," for example.

After the documents, a "whirligig" spinning toy that looked like a Union soldier brought top dollar, or $6,500.

Bidders also scrapped to snap up vintage books, many signed by Confederate Vice President Alexander H. Stephens of Georgia. An original edition of "Uncle Tom's Cabin," which turned world opinion against slavery in the mid-1900s, sold for $1,550; a photo album of Union officers brought $1,250; and a 110-set of what Civil War buffs know as the "Ors" --- the Official Records of the War of the Rebellion, went for $650.

Overall, Tatum was satisfied.

A retired minister who no heirs, he said he "just might take the money and start collecting all over again. I'm going to miss this, miss it all. I was here all day yesterday, just looking at it, loving it. It's hard to part with, but it's somebody else's turn now."

* * * * * 

from Jayne: I received this a couple of years ago from another host here in the Forum and thought you might like to read it. (again for some of you <g>)

From HOST GFS [email protected]

Almost all of my ancestors had fought in these two battles. My mother's birthplace and home is on the Tu-Pond Farm which borders next to the Henry Patterson Farm between these two battlegrounds. I can remember when I was a child living there, I would stumbled upon fragments of metal from the cannon balls and bullets while hiking in the wooded area around the battleground. Ms Vaughn, whom I've mentioned in the story below was a grand old lady and a great friend of mine and my grandparents' that I've spent many days there in that old house and it was so full of history that you can only imagine that you were in a real museum.

Well, I better close before I ended up writing a book, ;)

If you feel that it's worth it, you have my permission to use it in the newsletter.

As I am,

William

* * * * * 

The Civil War in Nicholas County, (West) Virginia

The American Civil War was the most destructive of life and property as its ravages came to the homes of Nicholas County. In the contest for the territory that is now in West Virginia, two battles were fought by the regular armies.

The Battle of Cross Lanes.

Location: Keslers Cross Lanes, WV

This battle was fought on Monday August 26, 1861, between the Federals under Colonel E. B. Tyler, in command of the 7th Regiment of Ohio Volunteer Infantry, and Brigadier General John B. Floyd, in command of the Confederates, consisting of an estimated force of at least three regiments of infantry, a company of Calvary and three pieces of artillery. The Confederates attacked about 5 o'clock in the morning, while the Federals were preparing breakfast. The battle lasted about one hour and the forces of Colonel Tyler were completely routed. The Federal loss was 15 killed and 20 wounded and 38 soldiers were taken as prisoner. The Confederate loss was 5 killed and 6 wounded.

Captain Dyer, of Company D, was mortally wounded while heading his company. He fell in the Hamilton Meadow opposite the Vaughn residence, and was taken by Major Thornburg to the porch of Vaughn's house, where he died. (This house was the home of Ms. Gladys Vaughn who was the columnist for Nicholas County for many years and a pianist for the Zoar Baptist Church.)

The Confederate officer and Captain Dyer had served together in the Mexican War. Captain Shurtleff was taken prisoner. Colonel Tyler and about 200 of his men escaped to Gauley Bridge, and Major Casement with 404 of his men returned through the mountains to Elk River and then to Charleston and Gauley Bridge.

The dead were buried by General Floyd's troops, and the wounded cared for, and in his report to General Robert E. Lee he wrote: "Tyler's command is said to be of their best troops. They were certainly brave men."

The Battle of Carnefix Ferry

Location: Henry Patterson Farm near Keslers Cross Lanes, WV. Now a part of Carnefix Ferry Battlefield State Park.

This battle was fought on Tuesday, September 10, 1861, on the Henry Patterson farm, two and a half miles from Keslers Cross Lane and one and half miles from Carnefix Ferry.

The Federal army consisted of six and one half Ohio regiments under General W. S. Rosecrans, and General John B. Floyd commanded the Confederate force of 1800 Virginia and Kanawha County volunteers.

General Rosecrans had marched his troops from Clarksburg, over the Gauley Bridge and Weston Turnpike and had encamped the night before the battle on the Anderson Herold farm near Muddlety. On the day of the battle, he had dispersed a small Confederate force at Summersville, and in going over Samsons Creek and McKees Creek Road, his troops encountered a Confederate picket at Keslers Cross Lanes. The Confederates were massed behind a log barricade across the road leading to Gauley River. Ignorant of the entrenched position of the Confederates, the Federal troops, in irregular formation, came in contact with the Confederates about three o'clock in the afternoon. Fighting in dense woods, they could not see the enemy, and their disorganized attack was repulsed. By the time General Rosecrans had organized a storming party, night brought an end to the fighting.

During the night, General Floyd abandoned his fortification, crossed the river and retreated over the Sunday Road to Sewell Mountain. Pursuit by General Rosecrans was prevented by Floyd's destruction of his temporary bridge and all boats and by a flood in the river. Ten days after the battle the Federal army joined the forces of General Jacob D. Cox at Gauley Bridge.

The Federal army had seventeen killed and one hundred forty-one wounded. Colonel J. W. Lowe, of the 12th Ohio regiment, was killed and Colonel W. H. Lytle, wounded. The Confederates reported none killed and twenty wounded. General Floyd had a slight wound in his right forearm.

Two future presidents of the United States, Rutherford B. Hayes and William McKinley, were privates in the 23rd Ohio Regiment in this battle. Others, who became notable in our history, were:
Stanley Mathews, who became a justice of the Supreme Court. Whitelaw Reid, became the vice president of the United States. Six Colonels: Robert L. McCook, W.H. Lytle, W. S. Smith, Jacob Scammon, Augustus Moore and Hugh Ewing became generals in the Civil War. General Floyd, the Confederate commander, had been a governor of Virginia and served as Secretary of War in the cabinet of President Buchanan.

The Battle of Carnefix Ferry was of the longest duration, closest combat and heaviest firing of any battle in this part of the State. Historian generally regards it as the most important battle of the Civil War in the State. It virtually decided the separate statehood of West Virginia.

WHAT WE ARE ABOUT 

OUR FOCUS: the "History of the American (United States) Civil War", with byproducts of laughter, and camaraderie!

OUR GOAL: to enhance your Genealogy activity, knowledge, and "wisdom" by talking about the history surrounding their lives and actions; specifically the "Civil War" that our ancestors lived through and died because of.

Captain Oliver Wendell Holmes of the 20th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment, said it so well.

I think it is a noble and pious thing
To do whatever we may by written
Word or molded bronze and sculpted
Stone to keep our memories, our
Reverence and our love alive and
To hand them on to new generations
All too ready to forget." 

OUR PROMISE: to provide an "online" environment that is NOT judgmental and to address ALL aspects of this "Pivotal Period" in our History, with honesty and truth (as we know it).

We do "Fireside Stories" about the battles, the people and the social happenings. In addition we dedicate one Thursday a month to the sharing of Songs, Poems and Letters from that era. So come back and visit; we'll save you a seat at the Fireside, and keep the Cider warm..... For a full listing of upcoming events, either look on the Schedule at the end of this Notice or in the Upcoming Events of the Genealogy Forum.

As we review the logs, and we find new visitors who show an interest or have entered into discussions on this topic in our Thursday sessions, we automatically add you to the distribution for this "Weekly Fireside."

AND Hey! TO YOU "FIRST-TIMERS" THIS WEEK, "Welcome"... :)

We heartily enjoyed your visit and participation. We really "fire up" with what members bring to the discussions, and we hope to see more of you.... Note that for any reason, should you desire to be removed from distribution of this "Weekly Missif," just drop us a line and we will comply with your wishes "post-haste".

Schedule of Upcoming Topics/Events*****

Time: Every Thursday Night at 11pm ET in the Golden Gates Chat Room (On AOL Only) with hosts HOST GFS Amy, HOST GFS Jayne, HOST GFS Jim, HOST GFS TEG and our many faithful friends :)

2/28/02 - William Barker Cushing and the North Carolina Sounds - Part 1 by HOST GFS Jim

3/7/02 - OPEN CHAT

3/14/02 - Letters, Songs and Poems Night.

3/21/02 - OPEN CHAT

3/28/02 - William Barker Cushing and the North Carolina Sound - Part 2 by HOST GFS Jim

4/4/02 - OPEN CHAT

4/11/02 - Letters, Songs and Poems Night.

4/18/02 - OPEN CHAT

We'll See You Thursday Night..!
Your Joyful, Intelligent and Fun-lovin' Host's & Hostess's :-)

HOST GFS Jim, HOST GFS Jayne, HOST GFS TEG and HOST GFS Amy

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