Hello Friends,
I am going to be starting a new little
series for the Yesteryear category which was encouraged by a fellow NCWV
civilian. I have been wanting to share more than just pictures of each event
with those of you who read the blog. At first, I wasn't sure how to do it. At
the event last weekend, the dear Mrs. Giurlani suggested keeping a journal of
sorts during our reenacting season. Her suggestion was more as a historic
marker for the club, but it encouraged me to do it for myself. The entries are
dated during the years of the war, but the events mentioned are purely modern
(e.g. incidents that happen during the reenactments we attend.) I hope you
enjoy this little step back in time.
April
30. 1861
Our encampment at
Mormon Station has been successful. Our contingent, though small in number, has
had a grand impact. It seems as though those who dwell here enjoy our company.
Mrs. Giurlani, Mrs. Quinlan, Mrs. Smith and Mrs. Sullivan acted as gracious
hostesses, showing passersby their dwellings. And answering any questions put
forth for their consideration.
While working on my
mending, I encountered a gentleman and his lady who were taken ill after
listening to Dr, Bechard make his lecture about his medical practices. I myself
have never had the pleasure of listening to the gentleman make his lecture.
After this encounter, I am reserved in my judgement to do so.
Mrs. Sullivan, though
she is not the camp cook, made an exquisite peach cobbler for after our supper
the night before. It was agreed upon by all that her methods were well worth
the effort.
Our numbers have included
many a gentleman sympathetic to the Union cause. While examining our camp, I
noticed one gentleman, not so sympathetic, who made his stance quite clear. I
know not why he was in camp, but his gray jacket made him to stand out. While
our compassion has gained the better of us in our hospitality, we are still
wary that he may cause trouble if so provoked. Mr. Reed, our humble chaplain
seems to have befriended the gentleman in a right manner as he has sought sanctuary
with in the walls of the chapel.
When not attending to
those in need within his flock, Mr. Reed often graces us with the presence of his
musical talents. He entertains his audience with delightful melodies. I am
blessed to know some of the words and oft find myself singing alongside Mr.
Reed. Upon occasion, he can be seen giving a short lesson to willing students,
who oft leave with an expression of joy upon their face.
Included in our
numbers are Mr. P. Aylworth and Mr. R. Sewell. These gentlemen perform a great
service when presenting their knowledge to all who are willing to lend an ear.
I will oft lift my eyes from my work to see their tent surrounded by persons
who seem to be intent upon their every word. There are few who leave their
audience less than satisfied with their experience.
Mr.
Aylworth and Mr. Sewell invited Mrs. Sullivan and myself to participate in a
croquet match this morning. As we set upon our game, the company was pleasant,
until Mr. Aylworth deemed himself far removed and commenced to cheat the
company. When his indecency had been discovered by Mrs. Sullivan and myself, it
was brought to the attention of Dr. Bechard. After having examined the
situation, the good sir prescribed that Mr. Aylworth receive a total of three
lashings for his misconduct. Mr. Sewell was instructed to carry out the
punishment. Though a bit harsh, the punishment was given for the indiscretion
and no more was said on the matter.
As
it has become customary when we are encamped together, the ladies put on a
spectacular afternoon tea. We were graced with the presence of several young
ladies, many of whose names I regrettably cannot recall. Several presented
their knowledge about historical figures to the company assembled. Each lady
stood before us with elegance and poise while becoming another. I quite enjoyed
it. Once they had completed their presentations, we were honored to hear Mrs.
Smith present several poems to be read aloud in a dramatic fashion. It seemed
to please the company assembled.
After
our tea had come to a close and our company departed, it was time to break
camp. As we packed our trunks, we wished a fond farewell to one another and
sent wishes of goodwill until we met once again.
Which part is your favorite? Let me know in the comments below.
