In Which Pierce Accepts The Oscar

Not to brag, but Pierce is quite well known in our area for his knowledge about the Civil War.  He has worked at the State Archives helping to write highway marker signs, has been interviewed for research papers and is considered to be a "noted historian" by those who write books on the subject.

He received a telephone call a few months ago requesting that he appear in a short documentary film about Captain Philip Thurmond, the leader of independent Civil War Rangers in our area. Of course, he jumped at the chance to participate.

His role was that of a soldier guarding the house of Capt. Thurmond.  Not a large part, but, hey, it's a start. He is currently working on his acceptance speech for "Best Actor"  at next year's Oscar awards ceremony.

A Living History

Ebenezer Chapel

Pierce spent last weekend participating in a Living History event.  Basically, he and his fellow Civil War reenactors choose a historical site, get the necessary permits and permissions and set up camp on the grounds.  The purpose of all this is to "teach" the public about the everyday life of Civil War soldiers.  How the camps were set up, what kind of clothes they wore, the foods they ate, etc.

This event took place in my Daddy's hometown and was the first time Pierce has conceived, organized and "commanded" an event.  I am happy to say that it was well received and the reenactors have been asked to return again next year.  City Council has requested that Pierce provide them with a scenario for a battle next year and has asked that he supply them with a list of vendors that can be invited to attend as well.

While I was visiting the camp, the town's Mayor pulled me aside to inform me that the entire town was impressed with my son - his capabilities, his knowledge and, most importantly, his politeness in dealing with others.  I was told that my son "is a very special young man and the entire town has fallen in love with him".  The Mayor also told me that Pierce "reminds me very much of your daddy, who was one of the finest men I ever had the pleasure of knowing".

Pierce arrived home exhausted but with the glow of accomplishment on his face.  I am very proud of the man he has become.

The Battle of Scary Creek

Pierce praying a safe event

We took a day trip this past weekend to watch Pierce participate in The Battle of Scary Creek.  The event was a reenactment of a minor Civil War battle fought on July 17, 1861.

The battle occurred when Colonel John W. Lowe and several Union regiments advanced toward the Confederate camp. Captain George S. Patton, the grandfather of George S. Patton of World War II, commanded the Confederate line behind Scary Creek, several miles from the main Confederate camp.  After several Union attempts to charge across the bridge near the mouth of the creek were repulsed, the Federal forces withdrew and the Confederates claimed victory.

Readying the Gun Salute

 

After the Battle

The weather did not cooperate - the temperature hovered at right around 38 degrees and it  snowed!  We stayed for the battle and drove home, me worrying the entire time about Pierce freezing to death overnight.  This reenactment was a "campaigner" event, meaning the men did not sleep in tents but around the campfire.  In 30 degree weather.  Reenactors call it "authenticity".  I call it "madness".  Obviously, I was not cut out for reenacting.

Pierce arrived home Sunday evening - tired, wind burned, hungry and smelling of wood smoke.  And very thankful for a hot shower, a home cooked meal and a soft bed.