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CARPENTER’S BATTERY To all, As I drove past what used to be the campground and battlefield for the Perryopolis reenactment, I thought back to my first event here. Things were different then- - - no houses crowding the field, a single row of tents comprising the Confederate camp and barely enough soldiers on both sides to form a skirmish line. Turn the clock ahead to 2007, and it’s a different scene. The wooded area we used for parking is now the battlefield, complete with breastworks. Additional areas were cleared for camps and a barracks constructed on the Federal side, with one planned for the “Rebel” camp. Thanks to our good friends Harry & Russell Fisher, and to all the folks who pitched in to help make this site what it is today! You people are amazing. Upon our arrival, we were directed to the Artillery area and our camp was soon taking shape. We were joined by our old friends from the Baltimore Battery and everyone settled in for a pleasant evening. Saturday morning began with reveille at 7:00 a.m. and a meeting of unit Commanders with General Kelley at 9:30 a.m. Plans were laid out for the day’s battle, with the Confederates defending the works and defeating the attacking Federals. Soon we were heading to town in preparation for the parade through the streets of Historic Perryopolis. We and our fellow reenactors were greeted with cheers and applause along the parade route and we were made to feel welcome. Following the parade, it was time to place the gun and grab a bite to eat before the 1:30 battle. With all in readiness, and the many spectators gathered, the battle began with a spirited exchange of cannon fire. One of the highlights of the battles at Perryopolis has always been the dramatic use of pyrotechnics. The crew from Old Glory Powder Company made this year’s show bigger and better than ever. Whistling shells, sparks high in the air, and thunderous explosions. This stuff is great for spectators, but even more exciting for the reenactors, sometimes just yards away from the charges. Following the battle we all had some time to relax or enjoy festival activities. A delicious dinner of rigatoni, salad, Italian bread, and brownies was served by The Sons of Italy of Perryopolis. A skirmish was planned for 7:00 p.m. Saturday evening, giving anyone who didn’t get enough fighting during the battle a chance to burn some more powder. For those of us in the Artillery, we love the chance to join in for night battles, as cannon fire can be quite spectacular. A Civil War Ball was also held with the Acoustic Shadows of the Blue and Gray performing. We are sad to report the loss of a valued Confederate facility- - - not a bridge or a railroad - - - but our camp Porta-Johns! Some say the fire was an accident caused by a Tiki Torch, but we are sure it was an act of Yankee treachery!!!! Sunday morning brought a chance to sleep in and for some of us to visit the local flea market and yard sales. A period church service was held, allowing some to ask forgiveness for the activities of the night before. 1:30 marked the beginning of Sunday’s battle, with both sides of the field and the victorious army reversed. With lots of casualties on the field the Army Surgeon, General Mike Maffie, and his nurses had their hands full tending to the wounded. This activity is always a favorite of the crowd. With the smoke lifting from the battlefield, sadly it was time to start thinking about packing up and heading home after a really special weekend. One highlight of this weekend was being involved with Wombat Productions filming of a Travel Channel series called “Lawrence of America” to begin in January 2008. The premise of the show is that British born Lawrence moves across the United States learning about NASCAR drivers, Cowboys, and, yes, Civil War reenactors. It was interesting to watch a program like this being filmed, and we are all anxious to see the finished product. Thanks to the Officers and troops on both sides for working together to make this event enjoyable for all. Special thanks to Col. Bob Baily of the 4th US Light Artillery, and the cannoneers from Knapp’s Battery, and the Baltimore Battery for helping us all have a safe, enjoyable weekend. Thanks to the members of the Perryopolis Historical Society and to everyone who worked so hard in putting this event together. I shall remain at every hazard, P.S. Check out the pictures on our website at http://www.carpentersbattery.org |
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