Journal of the Ninth Texas

The season was a great success as the 9th inaugurated the sesquicentennial (i.e. 150th anniversary), brought new men into the ranks, brought veterans back into the ranks, got into some mischief, fought hard battles and overall had some great fun. Our only regret, perhaps, the Battalion schedule prematurely ended in September with Lexington.

We began the season with Cowtown, in Wichita KS, in April and fought the 8th Kansas and saw huge crowds. Next up was the first 150th for us at Carthage MO in May where we fought through the town square including some hand-to-hand with the Yanks. Next up was another 150th at Boonville MO (for the “Boonville Races”) in June. Our “national” event for the year was in August at Wilson’s Creek/Oak Hills, near Springfield MO, where we fought battles over several days, and the heat. Of note, the 9th was sent on a special mission on Sunday morning by Col. Amend resulting in the capture of several federal officers. We capped the season with the “Battle of the Hemp Bales” in September at Lexington MO.

Our high turnout of the season was twenty-three men (including officers) at Wilson’s Creek, a fine effort!

The battalion continues to be capably led by Col. Brad Amend a 9th alum, along with other 9th alumni, Sgt. Major Gary Sutton and Color Sgt. Shawn Bell.

We saw the retirement from his longstanding role as First Sgt. of Brian Shively, and the promotion of veteran 1st Cpl. Randy Downey into his shoes. Pvt. Shemwell received a well-deserved promotion to 3d Cpl. and Cpl’s Albert and R. Matlack moved up a notch. Also of note during the year: some of the lads participated in the filming of a “vampire” Civil War movie in New Orleans, Mr. Gianelloni’s sutlery continues to grow, and the 9th newsletter has been resurrected.

That said, on to 2012. Never forget - “There is none finer!”

I remain, your most humble and obedient servant,

Brian Cox
Captain, commanding
9th Texas Reg’t of Infantry
1st Mo. Battalion

2011 Honor Roll:

Pvt. (Col.) Brad Amend
Pvt. Brad Anspach
Pvt. Jason Gibbens
Pvt. Nathan Edwards
Pvt. Morris Floyd
Pvt. Mark Gianelloni,Pvt. VJ Gianelloni
Pvt. Mike Haberkorn
Pvt. Mike Hall (from California)
Pvt. Chris Hayhurst
Pvt. Rob Hayhurst
Pvt. Jon Knudsen
Pvt. Matthew Lafferty
Pvt. Tony Mattia
Pvt. Jon Matlack
Pvt. Tripp McMillan
Pvt. Jim Pettus
Pvt. Jamison Price
Pvt. Jamie Ralph
Pvt. Joshua Ralph
Pvt. Justin Ralph
Pvt. Aaron Staab
Pvt. David Stickelman
Pvt. Brett Sutton
Pvt. Chris Visser
Pvt. Jamie Waters
Captain Brian Cox
1st Sgt. Randy Downey
1st Cpl. Bob Albert
2nd Cpl. Rob Matlack
3d Corporal Herb Shemwell
Pvt. John Poitevin
Pvt. Gene Hainstock

The Ninth Texas attended the fourth and final 150th anniversary event of the 2011 season at Lexington MO, the weekend of September 16-18, 2011. This was, of course, the celebrated “Battle of the Hemp Bales,” and the reenactment, with its necessary props, was pulled off on Sunday, almost without a hitch. Read on faithful reader, and hear the tale of Lexington 2011(with apologies, somewhat belatedly).

There were no pests, no injuries, but rain. Indeed, it rained most of the weekend, generally to no harm, and only a real downpour on Saturday night. And it was misting on us when we were breaking down on Sunday afternoon, so that necessitated the airing out of equipment at home (I hope everyone did that). But of course, rain is nothing that the Battalion is not used to and ready for.

Present for duty for the 9th Texas were the following true soldier of Texas:

Nathan Edwards (“saw the Elephant” at Lexington!)
Morris Floyd, Mark Gianelloni, VJ Gianelloni, Chris Hayhurst, Rob Hayhurst, Jon Matlack, Jamie Ralph, Joshua Ralph, Justin Ralph, Aaron Staab, David Stickelman, Brett Sutton, Capt. Brian Cox
1st Sgt. Randy Downey, 1st Cpl. Bob Albert, 2nd Cpl. Rob Matlack.

There is a picture of this crew on the 9th’s Facebook page.

Unfortunately, Messrs. (and new 3d Cpl.) Shemwell and Visser were unable to make the trip. And Mr. McMillan received bad instructions to the camp, and so was forced to turn back (I will take some of the bad on that).

This was our second biggest turnout of the year (behind Wilson’s Creek), and something to be proud of. Those in the 9th who did not attend, indeed, those who did not attend at all this year, or in recent years, are missing really great times and camaraderie.

Mr. Jon Matlack, an old 9th man, came along with his lovely wife Judy. As he is relocating to points west, it could be some time before we see him again. Cpl. Rob Matlack and his family came and they are always good to see in force. And a special treat, former 9th captain John Heath, was also in attendance and he promises to fall in with us in the future as the opportunity arises. Mr. Brett Sutton also fell in with us and he is a good soldier, and has been away for too long.

I extend my thanks to Mr. Ralph who has brought two new men into the ranks, his son Justin, and cousin Joshua, both of whom are good soldiers. And also to Mr. Visser, who sent us a new man, Mr. Nathan Edwards, who saw the elephant at Lexington and plans to join up. The latter arrived literally with only a rifle and the eagerness of a new recruit. I couldn’t be prouder of him. Later, on Sunday, I spoke with his father who also expressed an interest, possibly, in joining us. And thanks also to Cpl. Albert who succeeded in getting Morris Floyd, an old 9th man, to fall in with us, and he is also working on several others. Men, these are efforts which we should all be working on.

Kudos as well to 1st Sgt. Randy Downey who always challenges us on authenticity and attention to detail. And don’t try to challenge the man on the authenticity of the wooden clogs he sported through much of the weekend (see the picture posted on the 9th’s Facebook page).

Present for Battalion staff were:

Col. Brad Amend
Major Sam Looney
Lt. Col. Mike (“Mississippi”) Williams
Sgt. Major Gary Sutton
Color Sgt. Shawn Bell

Other companies present:

1st MO under Capt. Steve Montgomery
2nd MO under Capt. Ron Ulrich
3rd MO under Capt. Chris Shuster
3rd MO Dismounted under Capt. Tim Ritter
4th MO under Capt. Daniel Keith
5th MO under Capt. Bill Wayne
16th MO under Capt. Todd Conner

Hard-fighting units, everyone!

Permit me to note that Capt. Shuster’s boys from the 3rd MO. held a reunion of new and old members on Saturday night, and their singing and rejoicing filled the Battalion streets. And yes, I heard a tambourine as well. A good idea for the 9th to consider - hmmm, Cowtown 2012?

Sutlers of note at the event - James Country, Fall Creek, and Coon River, to name just a few. I was sorry that I did not partake of the food court which apparently had some variety. I got a new vest, and Mr. Stickleman began to buy more gear. A note to new recruits - as a general rule, “always consult a veteran” before buying any gear as it will save you some money, and perhaps some embarrassment down the line. Check the website for our standard uniform and gear. ninthtexas.com/recruitment.htm (clink on the link under “New Soldiers Handbook”).

Col. Amend said that the infantry numbers were - MSG 101, and Yanks 75.

Getting in and setting up -

Finding the camp and getting through registration was quick and easy. Some of the 9th were already present on-site when Mr. Stickleman and I arrived, after dark. The Battalion location was set and we set up the 9th’s camp on the far end, just touching an electrical wire set up for the livestock - I was reliably informed that the current was running. An imposing barn lay a stone’s throw from us and as such, it was a little difficult getting away from the 21st century and into “the moment.” Given our proximity to the farm, a rooster, in addition to Sgt. Major Sutton, awakened us in the early am both days.

Unfortunately, there was no effort to keep cars out of the camps, and this was far worse than Wilson’s Creek. Indeed, there were cars everywhere. You can complain about soup cans with labels on the fire, or modern cigarettes being smoked, or too much cutting up in the ranks, but this is something that reenactors should really police themselves. The boys in the 9th had some very unkind, and loud, things to say about the owners of those vehicles, one of which with trailer stayed most of the weekend at the very edge of our camp. Sorry, no excuse for that.

Moving on, kudos to Mr. Chris Hayhurst who lent his strong back to the digging of our fire pit which was bigger than most of our fire pits, and I think better suited to the purpose. And yes, the fire was started with one match.

There was plenty of firewood, although we did gather a great deal of deadfall to supplement our supply and it was a little smoky, and water was also close at hand. Portapotties were literally on the edge of our camp, and were kept relatively clean and supplied and had hand sanitizers in them - a good touch. But the proximity was just a little too close. Inexplicably, the folks who cleaned the portapotties apparently came in at 3 am Saturday morning - you can’t have a perfect world but man, what were they thinking?

Saturday -

Reveille per usual was at 6 am and even for those early to bed, this is a trial, perhaps, as it was for me, having spent a rough night in the sack with a bump in the ground under my back and slightly colder than usual temperatures.

We had our roll call under the auspices of 1st Sgt. Downey who is quickly warming to his new role and rank, and orderly call and breakfast.

The 9th’s event prank for Saturday morning parade was the small pirate “stick” flags which we all wore, conspicuously placed in the ribbon of our hats or in a buttonhole. Col. Amend had to laugh in spite of himself when he saw the feat. That was worth the effort. C’mon Battalion, join in the fun!

We had Battalion drill on Saturday morning, pretty basic stuff really: we right-faced (those following Scott’s apparently do not “double up”), then a march to the battlefield, thence by company into line, so that we had succeeding battle lines of the companies in line of battle. At that point, Col. Amend intended us to then form up to the left of the lead company, to form our battle line facing forward. His command was for each succeeding company to peel off by left half wheel with an eye on our spot in the Battalion battle line where we would be; at the last moment, the captains command right turn into line and there we would, hopefully be. Some companies, not ours, however, anticipated a battle line to our left, so it was a little of a cluster the first time we did it, but we did it again and had it down. Thereafter we did some work on wheeling by all clasping arms in an attempt to ensure that we neither bulged nor caved in the middle (that’s the line, not the belly). This worked well, and was something that the 9th has often done. I might note that, given the rain on Sunday, we had no drill.

We fell in with Capt. Connor’s 16th MO boys for the weekend, as we have before, and they are good men, all.

Saturday battle -

In a change of pace, 3 pm was the time set for the battle on Saturday. The battle was on rough ground - a corn field recently harvested but with plenty of cobs and stalks left behind, so it was necessary to watch your footing and watch where you took a hit.

The Federals were pretty well entrenched behind fortifications with head logs. I should have gone over there to take a picture or two of their work - did anyone get a shot of their handiwork that we can post? It was quite a sight to see the Yanks when they fired from their distance during the battle - you saw the little puffs of smoke, and you could almost imagine those balls coming your way. And they had some pesky cannon firing us as well.

The plan was three frontal charges against the Yanks, then call it good. After the second assault was beaten back, I pleaded with Col. Amend to “let us hit them again,” and he did, but by the end of the third assault, the 16th/9th was down to four rifles and two useless captains. The rest of the Battalion had suffered greatly as well, the field strewn with the wounded and dead. We drew off; the day was not to be ours. Of course, as we marched off to the cheers of the spectators, it was very much like we had won the entire War on that field! God bless you, Missourians!

Of note, word spread of a federal cavalryman who took a hit during Saturday’s battle, and fell from his horse. Some might suggest that a cavalryman taking a hit, and falling from his horse, is a momentous event in and of itself. What happened next, however, cements that conclusion. As the story is told, after his master’s wounding and fall, the horse dutifully remained near him, and then apparently thought the time and place appropriate to urinate. And so it did -- all over the cavalryman! The latter deserves the highest commendation for observance of duty above and beyond the call by not stirring during the unexpected equine shower!

On a different note, a poison ivy concern was raised by a 4th MO Soldier after the battle on Saturday, he offering soap and towels to wipe off any residue from exposure. No one from the 9th complained of ill effects until Mr. Ralph posted after the event that he was feeling “itchy” (rude comments followed).

We did have a scenario of tent inspections after the battle, and not-unpredictably, some contraband was found in the tents, and I had to mete out some discipline on the spot. Mr. Joshua Ralph and Mr. Stickelman endured that well.

Saturday night -

We had a makeshift stew with the main cook Chef Albert and his Sous Chef Pvt. Stickleman - sausage, bacon, beef, vegetables, whatever we could find or scrounge and we had to do a little of the latter. Poker and some refreshment was in the offing after that.

After the poker game got rolling, we had a couple of groups come through on the candlelight tour, but the game rolled on. Your humble correspondent prudently stayed out of the game, having taking a beating before at the hands of Cpl. Albert previously, and he was again the big winner; he later said, he had to work for it this time.

And we had some spirited conversations that night about the fighting motivation of the common Civil War soldier, and the meaning of individual rights in modern society. Mr. Gianelloni and I did not see eye-to-eye on a thing or two, but all had mellowed out by the end of the conversation. Sgt. Bell and I also caught up on things, and I had the chance to see his latest sartorial acquisition - a scarlet red smoking jacket. Quite a sight!

Later, the word went out to “batten down the hatches” as stormy weather was coming in, and true enough the rain did come and lasted for several hours although no one got too wet.

Sunday and battle -

Sunday morning came soon enough and we were in a constant light drizzle. A church service was held, and Messers. Gianelloni, Mark and VJ, and Staab, went into town to Mass. After a bit, the rain came more steadily and drove all under canvas.

We had officer’s meeting in the rain in the Colonel’s tent and we talked about possibly having yet one more event this season. Sad to say, no such battalion-wide ever materialized and the 2011 season, although a good one, ended prematurely, at least at the Battalion level. (I note here, patient reader, that as of this writing, the Battalion planning meeting for 2012 has been held and the schedule set and it looks to be a great season.)

And then, the time for the eagerly-anticipated Battle of the Hemp Bales was on us. The battle was slated to start at 1:30 and we dutifully formed up at 12:30 and marched in our same formation for the assault on the federal line, in the same place as Saturday. Well, there was a bit of waiting (40 minutes or so) prior to the battle, and Sundays are not the time to keep the boys waiting as there is still the matter of breaking camp and driving home, with the prospect of going back to work on Monday morning. During the downtime, I did share some stories of the road with Capt. Conner and Sgt. Major Sutton. And the delay gave us the chance to have our own “pre-battle” in the cornfield, where the numerous unharvested corn cobs proved too inviting and many a soldier, among them Col. Amend and LC Williams, were showered with kernels.

The Battalion color line was dutifully set up while we waited for the battle; Cpl. Matlack guarded it from our end. Some dared to cross it, some were tricked into crossing it (sorry, I could not resist!) Faithful reader, “crossing the color line” is a no-no; you must go to the end of the line to cross.

Well, in the event, the plan was to roll the “hemp” bales (which had been provided for us on the field) closer and closer to the Yanks to force their surrender, as in the actual battle. How those bales were to be moved was the trick. Col. Amend suggested, and this actually proved workable, that a couple of men would hand off their rifles to a third and the two would then roll the bales for a short distance, thence to advance again on the wing commander’s orders. This worked out quite well. The only - fairly minor - problem was the large ravine in our front, which we encountered shortly after our advance. But it proved not much of an obstacle and we rolled over it quite easily.

You know, faithful reader, at reenactments, sometimes you don’t know how something is going to turn out, whether it will work or stink up the place, but I have to tell you, after this one finally got going, it worked without a hitch, and the lads had, by all accounts, a great time of it.

Victory was won a little too easily, the Yanks giving up while there was still seemingly some battle to be fought. The deal was done, however, and the Yanks had some kind of ceremony inside their fortifications, then came out to surrender. And that was it, but it was a great battle, and something we don’t get to do but once in a decade.

During the Saturday battle, as file closer, I was looking for a man among the 9th/16th to “run,” and I picked one of the latter who seemed hesitant. Then, my eyes fell on another. I exhorted him to run, to throw down his rifle and tear off his leathers, and howl in fear. He too seemed hesitant. I caught his eye again and said now is the time, do it. Again, hesitant. Again, I said, “Run!” And so he did - straight for the federal line where he was immediately shot down (good hit tho)! But the lad was a good sport about the ribbing, and a good solider all around.

Getting out -

Much satisfied with the weekend’s activities and battles, we made our way back to camp and broke down in the misting rain.

Epilogue -

A story on the event can still be found at http://www.columbiamissourian.com/stories/2011/09/18/battle-hemp-bales-reenactment/

We had a great season, and ended it with good numbers at Wilson’s Creek and Lexington and brought some old and new men into the ranks. I applaud you, worthy foe men of the 9th - “There is none finer!”

Sorry to you, faithful reader, for the great delay in churning out this AAR of 2011.

And now, on to the 2012’s!! Schedules are up on our Facebook page, at ninthtexas.com, and on the Battalion website.

I remain, your most humble and obedient servant,

Brian Cox
Captain, commanding
9th Texas Reg’t of Infantry
1st Mo. Battalion

The event -

With high expectations, the 9th Texas and the 1st Missouri Battalion attended the third “maximum battalion” event of the season, a so-called “national” event, at Wilson’s Creek MO (aka Oak Hills) the weekend of August 12-14, 2011. The actual battle was a confederate victory of forces under Gen. Ben McCulloch, including the Missouri State Guard, over federal forces under Gen. Nathaniel Lyon, who was killed in the battle leading a counter-attack. The Yanks were outnumbered by better than two to one but inflicted on their opposites an almost equal number of casualties. The rebel forces were left in command of the field.

Read on, faithful reader, for the tale of Wilson’s Creek 2011.

Present for duty for the 9th Texas:

BRAD ANSPACH
MARK GIANELLONI
VJ GIANELLONI
JASON GIBBENS
MIKE HABERKORN
MIKE HALL
CHRIS HAYHURST
ROBERT HAYHURST
JON KNUDSEN
MATTHEW LAFFERTY
TONY MATTIA
TRIPP MCMILLAN
JAMISON PRICE
JAMIE RALPH
JUSTIN RALPH
AARON STAAB
DAVID STICKELMAN
CHRIS VISSER
BRIAN COX
RANDY DOWNEY
BOB ALBERT
ROB MATLACK
HERB SHEMWELL

This is the biggest regiment we have been in several years, and I applaud the effort of the rank and file to attend this event.

Our newest recruit, David Stickelman “saw the elephant” at Wilson’s Creek and acquitted himself well, and he appears to be a quick study and ready to join the ranks. Second Sgt. (ret.) Mike Haberkorn, with his ready smile, also joined us, and I hope that he will make the 9th his home again. Also, Chris Hayhurst, son of old 9th veteran Rob Hayhurst, also re-joined the ranks and promises to attend future campaigns (just keep potatoes away from him!). Pvt. Ralph brought along his son, Justin, and he proved a good soldier like his father. Sgt. Downey brought along new man Matthew Lafferty and he also proved a solider eager for the fight. Mr. Visser brought along a new recruit for company G, Mr. Jon Knudson, who was a good soldier and steady wit. Mr. Gibbens brought us Mr. Jamison Price, son of a friend, who joined us for part of the fight, and he was a dutiful private. Mike Hall motorcycled in from California and joined us for the event and may also attend future events with us. Tony Mattia and Tripp McMillan - we don’t see enough of you! We had looked forward to seeing Pvt. Brett Sutton, son of our Sgt. Major, Gary Sutton, however, a family commitment kept them away. We also briefly said hello to West Summers, an old 9th man, who was fighting with his Louisiana boys. Pvt. Mark Gianelloni again brought along son VJ, and they are both good soldiers, the latter having seen the elephant at Cowtown earlier in the year. Old veterans Chris Visser and Jason Gibbens were also on board and one can never have too many veterans for helpful guidance. My apologies if I missed anyone.

Cpl. Matlack again brought his family - he has a whole squad now! The missus, Leilanie, brought around cookies and lemonade on Saturday, I think, and that was much appreciated.

Mr. Stickelman also brought by his wife and 2/3’s of his brood, and they seem ready to join up in the whole Civil War experience. Young Mr. Tanner expressed an interest in being our drummer boy.

It was also good to see Mr. Anspach back in the field after the birth of his son earlier in the year. And he brought two large burlap bags at my request for trash - those plastic bags will just not hold. The burlap bags were filled to the brim by the end of the weekend; indeed, we had to turn away trash from other companies as we just ran out of room.

And last, but certainly not least, the best non-coms in the Battalion, 1st Sgt. Randy Downey, 1st Cpl. Bob Albert, and Corporals Rob Matlack and Herb Shemwell, were all present at the event and helped break in the new men and keep good order and discipline on and off the field.

We reacquainted with Mr. Pettus, recruited as infantry last year, but who has found his true home in the cavalry.

We were also glad to see Mr. Jepsen, an old friend of the 9th, who is and has been part of the Battalion color guard. Dave appears to be back in the field after his marriage earlier in the year and a painful achilles tendon tear which slowed him somewhat.

The 9th’s campfires for one reason or anther were quite subdued by 9th standards over the course of the event; perhaps the lads got a little tired from the heat and humidity, and the two battles per day. There was no 9th “forge” this time and no great mischief.

Present for Battalion staff:

Col. Brad Amend
Lt. Col. Mike (“Mississippi”) Williams
Major Sam Looney
Major Dave Burnos
Color Sgt. Shawn Bell

Other companies in the Battalion:

1st Missouri
2nd Missouri under Captain Ron Ulrich
3rd Missouri under Captain Chris Shuster
3rd Missouri Dismounted under Captain Tim Ritter
4th Missouri under Captain Daniel Keith
5th Missouri under Captain Bill Wayne
9th Missouri Sharpshooters under Captain Dime Hollingsworth
16th Missouri under Captain Tod Connor

I also saw Captain Joe Broski of the 10th but did not have a chance to catch up. Mr. Mike Girdner of the 3rd was also present and I tried to cajole him into giving the 9th a command performance of his “nautical discourse” (not to be missed), as in year’s past, to no avail

Kudos to the Capt. Keith’s 4th Missouri and Capt. Shuster’s 3rd for pulling in very large companies - these guys do a tremendous job on and off the field! The Battalion was also huge with 223 men at its high point.

The good, the bad -

The event site was near Republic MO, a small burg southwest of Springfield MO, about 4 1/2 hours out of Topeka as a point of reference and close to the actual battlefield which is preserved by the National Park Service - see their website at http://www.nps.gov/wicr/index.htm. I made the trip down with our newest recruit, Mr. David Stickelman of Valley Falls, recruited last year from the RK Gun Show in Topeka. Mr. Stickelman and I soon found common ground and talked almost the entire time down and back. The trip down was uneventful on good roads the entire way. We did make a stop at Osceola Cheese, about 60 miles north of Springfield which has a variety of cheeses and processed meats and snacks, and picked up some provisions (check them out at http://www.osceolacheese.com/).

We had all paid a $20 pre-registration fee. Registration on-site was quick and easy for Mr. Stickelman and me, others a little more sticky. No event t-shirts or medals were in the offing, nor any powder ration, nor any coupons for local merchants, nor any issued or prepared rations. We got a parking pass for our vehicle (likely never checked), a wooden nickel which we were cautioned to keep on our persons (which were never checked), and some very good directions to a local grocery store, and to the reb camp. We also got plenty of water in water buffalos on-site, and plenty of straw. And we also got to pay for much-needed ice at $3 per bag, portapotties which, although close to our camp, were not always kept clean by my observation (and none had the nice touch of a portable water basin), and not enough supplied firewood until late in the event (we had to scrounge some deadfall twice during the event to supplement our supply).

The ground was good, if you could find some shade and except for those ubiquitous vines growing out of the ground which seemed to reach up and trip the unwary soldier.

The event pulled large, appreciative crowds (from the billboards I saw at two spots in town two weeks earlier, it looks like the event was heavily advertised) - yes, Missourians, you love your history. And we were able to talk to a number of folks about the Civil War and the business of reenacting. Some other folks made their way into the camps who were wearing VIP tags but I never caught why. And the battles, well, some good, some bad. Read on.

Thursday -

Mr. Stickelman and I made our way over to a local Walmart for more provisions and then went back to find our camp which was really quite easy to find (some of the roads having been carved into the area for the event). We soon hooked up with Messer’s Downey, Shemwell, Staab, and Mattia, and others, some of who were already on-site and had made the march to and from the actual battlefield. Mr. Downey’s report of that will be out soon. I could see the sweat on their brows and it was evidence of the heat and humidity to come, but satisfaction too for having made the effort.

We had just enough room to make a street for our expected 25+ man company. Mr. Gibbens was set up in a large wall tent with his gal at the end of our street, having been kicked out, apparently of the civilian camp for one reason or another. I heard some rumors that some of the land designated for the event had been pulled at the last minute. Nonetheless, we made our camp and set about the grim/fun business of soldiering. For future reference, I need to agitate to get a camp in the trees for much-needed shade as some of our brother units had.

The rest of the boys made their way in in bits and pieces over the next two days, to the point that we were at near full strength by Friday night. Boys, for those of you who did not come to this relatively close event, you missed the chance to hook up with your pards in the 9th with the largest strength we have had in several years.

There was plenty to do at the reenactment, faithful reader, as, in addition to catching up with our pards and attending to camp duties, we had two (2) battles on Friday and Saturday, with one on Sunday, regimental drill, and a couple of extra missions which Col. Amend sent us on, of which more later. And we also had to do a little shopping at sutler’s row - always a treat at a “national” event. I think that there were other activities going on in this area, talks and such, but I did not attend. And sutler’s row was fairly close to our camp, so no great hike there for your shopping. Mr. Visser and McMillan were excited about some new suspenders that they purchased. The non-coms and I also had our photo taken by Bob Szabo who set up shop at the event and kept busy from what I could tell. Some bought powder/caps/rolled cartridges from Jack’s Powder Keg which had set up at the event. Nice fellow that Jack, a Louisiana juvenile court judge. Mr. Chris Hayhurst and I went looking for him on Saturday afternoon and after several wrong turns and three large glasses of iced tea, found him and bought some supplies. The 9th has purchased powder from him before. See his website at http://www.jackspowderkeg.com/

Over the course of the weekend, I had a chance to have some good talks about regimental business with Sgt. Downey, Cpl. Albert, and Messr’s Visser, Gibbens and Haberkorn.

Mind you, faithful reader, one of the constants of the event was the heat and humidity which truly made you “wilt.” This was “sweat through your suspenders and vest” hot! At one point during the weekend, Captain Keith attempted to prove that it was not at all hot by doing some pushups in front of his men. At another point, Captain Ulrich addressed his troops sans jacket and shirt, bare-chested. Many dipped into the nearby creek, the one main feature of geography of note in the area, for a cool down and wash up. Plenty of young kids and some dogs made that trip as well. I note that some tempers flared on the battlefield after one battle, due no doubt to the sultry conditions, but all was forgiven thereafter.

We made an effort to bring extra coolers but ice simply does not last long in the heat, even in the coolers. Ice was offered for sale, as noted, at $3 per 20 lb. bag, brought in by some young ladies in golf carts, although somewhat sporadically. I note that Mr. Staab brought in a huge wooden box, big enough to hide a small man, and therefore big enough to hide several smaller coolers. We also brought and bought some extra bottled water and Gatorade or variant thereof. We were also provided two extra flats of Gatorade on Saturday. Whoever made that happen and paid for it, many thanks!

There was no, I repeat no, attempt to keep cars out of camp, and some brought theirs into camp prior to the battle on Sunday to get an early start on leaving. Frankly, parking was a mere 10 minute walk away over easy ground, and I witnessed no traffic jam of any sort on leaving so the reenactors should have done a better job of policing that themselves. Experiencing a “civil war moment” is something to be striven after and cultivated, not just hoped and waited for.

We had good company drill both days, and the non-coms effectively did their part in training the new men.

Chiggers were present in force and although I made it home with a few bites such was nothing like my bouts of chiggers bites in the past. Mr. Ralph was gracious enough to share his anti-chigger ointment with the lads, and that seemed a good investment for hot summer reenactments. I heard complaint of only one tick, found crawling on a nearby soldier’s jacket. Mr. Visser caught a snake at one point and sported it around but it was of the non-poisonous variety. Mr. Shemwell was prevailed upon to tell his Wallaby story another time to the great amusement of the lads. But his stuffed version, and its “accoutrement” was left at home this time.

Otherwise, there was plenty of irreverence in the 9th over the course of the weekend but that is just who we are.

Friday battles -

On to the meat of the matter, faithful reader.

We fell in with Capt. Wayne’s 5th Missouri on Friday as the 9th was not at full strength; Captain Wayne graciously agreed to let your humble correspondent have command. We had enough men on Saturday and Sunday to stand alone.

The Friday morning battle, set to begin at around 10:30, was to have the Yanks begun the battle with an assault on us at a designated time and place, and after we had formed up. At the last minute, in a nice touch, the scenario was changed rather to a surprise attack on us to give the troops a complete change of pace. That was not announced to the rank and file but the troops handled it quite well. Captain Keith of the 4th apparently had his men in the middle of a foot inspection staged to occur just at the moment of attack (nice thinking, Captain). In the event, we received the Yank attack and pushed them back across the bridge and into the sutler’s row and that was the end of it. We all witnessed Lt. Col. Williams attempt to cross the bridge on horse. But the several dead and wounded soldiers on the bridge apparently spooked the beast and it balked from going over and appeared most upset at the prospect. Scary. More horse stories later.

Well, that battle was good enough! Permit me to note that Col. Amend was resplendent this weekend in a new uniform of light brown with orange pipings, and a havelock to boot! Col. Amend, a 9th alum, always presents an impression and calm demeanor we can all attempt to emulate.

The Friday afternoon fight at 5:00, however, was a bust. With high expectations, we formed up, marched over, and went into the tree line above the main battle area and never strayed out and never saw any Yanks. We did get to burn (sorry, waste) some powder when we were asked to make some noise which we dutifully did by firing several volleys into the tree line in our immediate front. Needless to say, there was a great deal of grumbling in the ranks after that. Col. Sanders of the 1st Arkansas Battalion was also getting visibly upset. At an officer’s call after the battle, one of the commanders asked if we had concerns, and said that we did a good job after having been placed in a difficult situation (??!!). The only good thing of this battle was the entertainment of Sgt. Bell who was acting as adjutant and constantly regaled us with comic faces, jokes, and laughs per usual. Well, back to camp and to some liquid refreshment.

Friday night -

One lady came through our camp on Friday night and regaled us with some songs. Other units had musical talent with them during the course of the weekend. This is something the 9th has always lacked. Mr. Poitevin, where were you when we needed you?

And there was the matter of the federal troops supposedly being on the move on Friday night. After we had settled down to our fire, we heard a ruckus on the road which ran through the area a little ways from our camp. This was apparently some federal cav, and they creating a little ruckus, firing their pistols, etc. I don’t know what response we made to that but it didn’t last long. Soon enough, rumors began to filter in of the federal infantry supposedly being “on the move,” as their camps were “empty.” We soon found that some of our artillery boys had posted one of their canon on the road down which the fed cav had just come, and they were ready for action with a full crew. We dutifully reported this to Col. Amend who, much to my chagrin, ordered the 9th to send out a patrol to investigate. I asked for two volunteers and Cpl. Matlack and Pvt. Anspach and I coutered up and set out to see if federal infantry was indeed on the move. We interrogated everyone we ran into but obtained no useful information. Finally, we ran into a squad of federal infantrymen and asked them what they knew and they obligingly accommodated us. Their report was that the federal high command had called everyone back in as they were very mad as reb cavalry had gone into their camp and torn up picket lines and loosed some of their mules, etc. I don’t know if the latter is true, but true to our orders, we proceeded even further, to the federal infantry camp itself, and satisfied ourselves that their infantry was not in fact on the move. We made our way back and reported that to Col. Amend and retired again to our camp. We did not hear of the incident again.

Mother Nature cooled things down a bit that night with the seemingly inevitable rain which drove us under canvas with a steady rain about 10 pm or so, and it rained steadily for several hours thereafter, but none got too wet. Earlier in the evening we had received reports of bad weather coming in and the word was spread to batten down the hatches which we all dutifully did. Nothing like previous events including Boonville earlier this year. Faithful reader, enduring the elements is part of the soldiers’ lot.

Saturday -

Prior to the battles, and during the morning parade, the ladies of the 4th Missouri presented the Battalion a hand-sewn flag. A short history of the flag was also read to the battalion by Major Looney. Nice touch to have those kind of extras at events. I might note that an officer should not carelessly leave his sword poked in the ground during morning parade for fear that others of a more mischievous bent, like one particular Color Sgt., will carry it off.

Later, with all the men formed up, I called out and congratulated Mr. VJ Gianelloni and Mr. David Stickelman who “saw the elephant” at Cowtown 2011 and Wilson’s Creek 2011, respectively. I will try to catch up on the other new men as time permits. This should be a significant event for the Civil War reenactor and one which merits remembrance. I hope this will continue as a 9th tradition.

On Saturday between the battles, the non-coms and I had a Szabo photo taken and the result is posted on the 9th’s Facebook page. See his living history collection at http://www.robertszabo.com/gallery/livinghistory/index.html

Saturday battles -

Messer’s Visser and McMillan went into battle with “packs on.” I asked the latter whether a soldier going into battle might be told to leave “packs off.” He corrected me that soldiers might instead go in with packs on given the eventuality that the soldier might never be reunited with that pack given the vagaries of battle and therefore wanted to take it with him. Makes sense.

At one point on Saturday, the 9th was drawn up in line of battle and put to waiting for a bit, of which we did quite a little bit. One youngster in the crowd was all kitted out in a reb uniform. I called him over and whispered into his ear the various commands for “school of the soldier,” and the 9th dutifully complied with the commands of its new, young captain. I think his mom got some pictures and I hope that that was fun for the lad, as it was for me.

For the Saturday morning fight, we had a broad front for our battle line and Col. Amend had the reb units cycle through the artillery and each other in a passing of the lines to put fire on the Yanks. (I clearly need to work on that movement.) But the whole point of doing that was to get all the rebs into the fight to let the boys burn some powder, but we just had too many rebs compared to the Yanks or for the space. At one point on Saturday, we stared directly into the mouth of a yank cannon. I didn’t think he would fire at this distance, but he did. I heard later that a reb cavalryman was even closer than we and he jumped out of the way at the last minute.

The Saturday pm battle was a real cluster. We had been promised that this would be about a 20 minute fight and so it was for most of us, at least after we got into it. We formed up with more reb infantry behind us, waiting for the battle to begin. We waited, and waited, mind you in August Missouri sun and humidity. Then the Big Bugs (with apologies to Pvt. Watkins) finally decided what was supposed to happen and, incredibly, moved us and the nearby crowd of spectators to another staging location. More waiting. Then we were into it and up the “bloody” hill. A couple of charges by us, and that was it and we left the field, but were given the option to go in with the 4th or go back to camp. Most of the boys were a little pissed by then, and most went back to camp but a few went back in with the 4th MO. I went back out and snapped a few pictures.

Saturday night -

I had put the word out for the 9th to bring in “strange food” for the boys to sample. I had picked up a jar of hot pickled okra from Osceola Cheese but left in the car. Sgt. Downey was the only one who otherwise brought a strange food item - a “100 year old egg,” apparently some type of snack food of Chinese origin. We opened up the package and there were a few gulps as we thought about who would sample it. Cpl. Albert dove in and sampled it and pronounced it not bad. Thereafter Mr. McMillan and Sgt. Downy took a bite. As of this writing, concerned reader, all survived.

Mr. Stickelman cooked up a fine soup on Saturday night with some raw rations left for us (including carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, onions, and some seasoning and fried sausage) and a borrowed pot. I think we may have found a new chef for the 9th!
Mr. Shemwell and Staab and others went into town on Saturday night for supplies and a supper at Ruby Tuesday’s (what, no Braums?). A beer garden said to be at the site, presumably in the food court, closed at 8 pm. I think the organizers just do not know thirsty soldiers!

Col. Amend came around our campfire later that night and asked if the 9th was up for a special scenario the next day. Apparently, some of the federals, redlegs perhaps, had been rousting the civilians in the civilian camp, pro-Southern apparently. The colonel wanted us to lay a trap for them and attempt to seize some of their officers and bring them back to our HQ, and was the 9th up for that. Well, Hell, yes! More on this later.

A stray black and white dog nosed into my tent on Saturday night after I had retired, and although at the time, I wasn’t sure but that it was a dream, I was later assured that it was owned by one of the boys and he nosed into several other tents as well. I fear for what mischief my boy Booster might get into if I brought him to an event.

Sunday -

Some of our numbers began to fade away on Sunday morning.

Mr. Staab reported to roll call on Sunday morning with his pants down around his ankles. As discipline, he was ordered to run with his pant so to the end of the company street and back. No report has surfaced of the cause of Mr. Staab’s having his pants down.

On a more polite note, there was a period church service in camp, officiated over, no doubt, by Capt. Keith. Messer’s Gianelloni, dad and son, and Staab, went into town to find a mass.

Per usual, the men began to break down their camps in anticipation of the “Great Skedaddle” which always follows the Sunday battle.

Sunday battle and happenings -

In a nice touch, the organizers set the Sunday battle, which proved to be the best, to commence at 12 noon, giving us an extra hour or so to hit the road back home.

With high hopes for our little scenario that Col. Amend had mentioned the previous night, the 9th marched out prior to our fall-in for the battle and over the relatively short distance to the civilian camp. We made contact with some of the ladies and they confirmed the intelligence that Col. Amend had that some federal officers rousted them every day prior to the battle. I posted one man atop the adjoining hill and two or three more on or near the bridge across which the federals would have to come. Then, I split up the 9th into two squads and designated their waiting spots. After a couple of false alarms, we began to see federal armed forces coming across the bridge. First cavalry, then infantry and more infantry. I began to have the distinct notion that we had bitten off far more than we could chew and that this just wouldn’t end well.

Well, we kept our cool and attempted to stay out of sight, and incredibly, the federals just passed by us to stage on the hill toward which the main battle of the day would be directed shortly. (I do give the federal infantry kudos as, with their fife and drum playing, they looked great marching across the bridge.) Then, we saw the scoundrels we were after - about 4 or 5 federal officers, one of whom announced himself by his leggings as a redleg - coming into the camp and making contact with the civilians.

I thought it time to pounce and so we burst out and engaged the Yanks in a brief skirmish, although none of use was loaded except your humble correspondent. As it turned out, they weren’t loaded either, although one fired pistol caps at me. The redleg took to his heels and sprinted over to the federal line, and we only saw his back. He left, however, our prize - three federal officers. We took the captured, and humbled, officers over with great satisfaction and in front of the Battalion which was marching in the other way, to Gen. Huckabee who was astride his horse. I was pretty impressed that, during the spirited exchange that followed, Gen. Huckabee and the senior of the captured Yanks, were both pretty cool cucumbers. You had to be there to see these two reenacting professionals keep their cool and continue to maintain entirely plausible first person impressions.

Gen. Huckabee and the Yank traded some pretty lively insults at close range, and after a request from the men that we “parole ‘em to Jesus,” the former generously determined to a regular parole of the men. He left them with the stern caveat, however, that if we caught them under arms again, they would be executed. After, perhaps, some surprise on their part when we first burst out and captured them, I give those Yanks my personal highest compliment for playing along and staying in first person the whole time. Well done!

Well, we still had a battle to fight, and so the 9th fell back into its place in the Battalion line.

Prior to the battle, and off to our right, we saw some commotion and it appeared that a man had fallen off his horse, and was in the process of being flailed by the horses’s hooves. Medics including some from our ranks were immediately called to the scene, but the matter was soon determined to have been intended.

Permit me to note that our artillery, especially on Sunday, was overpowering. And its firing over our heads got a little too close for comfort at times. But the battle was a great one.

At the appointed time, the cannon burst forth hot iron and we were in it, this time to make the charge up the corn field and into the guns of the waiting federals. We pushed and were pushed several times going up the hill and finally, after the 9th was down to three rifles and one officer, we reached the crest of the hill, and there the matter ended. At one point, I put Mr. Downey in command and he did a fine job.

As a file-closer, I have a great opportunity to watch the men in the line as they act and react to the ebb and flow of battle, and watching how the soldiers take their hits is particularly instructive. You cannot rival, however, Mr. Visser’s. During the battle, this ill-fated soldier took two balls, the first to his leg, resulting in a pretty scary kind of shaking in the lower leg/foot as though nerves had been torn up and muscle loosed from bone. I didn’t think he would be able to make it back up, but he did, the foot still shaking and not able to bear weight. The second and final hit was shortly to be a ball to the head which sent Mr. Visser back and down, his rifle carefully placed as he went down. That one concluded Mr. Visser’s active participation in the battle. Now those were too good hits, and if you had seen them, you could learn a lot! Kudos to Mr. Visser.

To formally terminate the contest, Taps was played with all soldiers on the field doffing hats. Nicely done. Amid all the fun and mischief, no one can sugar coat the grim nature of war and the slaughter of thousands of young men in all of America’s wars, including the WBTS.

The Sunday battle was just shy of an hour although it seemed like far longer than that. We were broken down and on the road by about 2:45 or so.

Getting out -

Although I told him about the 9th’s tradition of hitting Crackerbarrels, Mr. Stickelman has a fondness for the Wafflehouse, and so that is where we had a late lunch in Springfield before hitting the road home. Mr. Stickelman and I were home in Topeka later than night at approximately 7:30 pm.

Epilogue -

The Homie award goes to Mr. Ralph who at one point in the battle Saturday hailed Ted Prater, retired colonel of the Battalion, who was serving informally as a file closer. Mr. Ralph greeted him and stated that he thought he was a federal? Mr. Prater, of course, was the Battalion colonel for many years. (I may have come in a distant second by sitting down on and breaking one of my camp chairs.) Sgt. Downy needs to bring Homie to the next event so that a proper award can be made to the next recipient.

I am immensely proud of the boys in putting a 22+ man company on the field and carrying themselves in a soldierly fashion on and off the field, including helping break in the new recruits. Truly, “There is none finer.”

That said, I ask each man for the next event, Lexington, to ask himself, before the event - what can I do to make this event a better event for my pards? Some information about Lexington MO, September 16-18, 2011, can be found at mocivilwar150.com/event/200

Kudos from Col. Amend following the event:

“Gentlemen of 9th, comrades all...I would like to take this time to congratulate this company of men for their bravery in the face of numerically superior enemy forces. You were able to bring some relief to our pro-southern citizens, and provide very useful intelligence, through the capture of several federal officers. As Colonel I am authorizing Captain Cox grant two weeks furlough to each member of the raiding party, in recognition of a job well done. I know in the coming weeks as we advance Northward in pursuit of the foe, the 9th Texas infantry will be to the fore of the fray whenever battle is joined. Again gentlemen "Well Done" Most Respectfully, B. W. Amend, Colonel, 1st MO BATT”

Our newest recruit, Mr. David Stickelman reports that :

“The Wilson's creek event was very positive for me. The 9th Texas was incredibly welcoming and everyone in the unit was tremendously helpful and interested in seeing me have a great time. I was very happy with everyone's willingness to assist me with information and supplies. I can honestly say that no one in the 9th Texas made me feel unwelcome or belittled me for being new and unfamiliar with reenacting. The 9th is truly a great place to be and I am very thankful to have found such a great group of reenactors. I appreciate your invitation to join and truly had a great time at Wilson's creek. I find myself really looking forward to future events. What an exciting and interesting hobby this is!”

Chris Hayhurst adds:

I would like to say to all the old and new 9th men I had a blast at the creek and would be more then happy to fall in with you boys more as the years go on and I really had too much fun getting to see all the guys I grew up with in the 9th. Thanks guys, it really was a blast. Can't wait til Lexington

You can also find an AAR on Cpl. Matlack’s blog at http://spiff45.blogspot.com/

I remain, your most humble and obedient servant,

Brian Cox
Captain, commanding
9th Texas Reg’t of Infantry
1st MO. Battalion

Battle of Carthage MO Reenactment
May 13-15, 2011

After Action Report

The 9th Texas attended a very good reenactment at Carthage MO the weekend of May 13-15, 2011. The event kicked off the 150th anniversary of 1861 battles of the Civil War (or as those of a different persuasion may refer to it, the War Between the States). Read on faithful reader, and hear the tale of Carthage 2011.

The actual battle on July 5, 1861, was a largely strategically unimportant victory of nascent Missouri State Guard (MSG) troops under sitting Governor Claiborne Fox Jackson over better armed federal troops under Col. Franz Sigel. The MSG outnumbered the federals by some 6 to 1 but fully 1/3 of their number of 6000 were wholly unarmed. Eventually, the MSG drove the federals from the field but only after a desperate defense and skillful retreat by Sigel.

Our own reenactment of the event somewhat shy of 150 years later was as true to the event as reenactments will get with the Missouri and Arkansas battalions driving the federals around the town square on Saturday. Sunday’s battle was a “tactical” event for reenactors only, of which more later.

I rode in to the event with Mr. Staab for about a four (4) hour trip out of Topeka, as a point of reference. Some light mist fell on the way down, but that was as wet as the weekend got. Upon our arrival, our first stop was the local Brahms for an excellent burger (I am getting to be a fan). Some of our boys were already on-site and had set up the company street and dug the fire pit.

Present for duty in the 9th Texas were newly-promoted 1st Sgt. Randy Downey, 1st Cpl. Bob Albert, newly-promoted 3rd Cpl. Herb Shemwell, and Pvt’s J. Gibbens, Pettus, Ralph, Staab, and Waters, and your humble correspondent as captain.

Young Mr. Jordan Waters, Mr. Staab’s cousin, joined us again and proved an eager and capable soldier. We welcome him to the ranks. Greetings also to Ms. McDaniels who accompanied Pvt. Gibbens to the event.

We fell in with Captain Todd Conner’s boys of the 16th MO as a combined company for the weekend. The boys from Jackman’s 16th are a good bunch of soldiers and we were privileged to have taken the field with them.

Also present for the Battalion were the 1st under Captain Steve Montgomery, the 2nd under Captain Ron Ulrich, the 3rd under Captain Chris Shuster (sporting a very tall hat - see the photo on the 9th’s Facebook page) (including the 4th Arkansas), the 10th under Captain Joe Broski (who did artillery work), and the Arkansas Battalion. Sorry if I missed some.

Our brothers in the 4th MO selflessly galvanized for the weekend to help portray Sigel’s yanks and Captain Keith was the overall federal commander, and did a good job as usual. More on the good captain later.

Present for battalion staff were Colonel Brad Amend, Major Sam Looney, Lt. Col. Mike (“Mississippi”) Williams, Sgt. Major Gary Sutton, and Battalion Color Sgt. Shawn Bell.

I would guess we had maybe 400 or more infantry, and maybe 6 or 7 pieces of artillery., both sides. There was also plenty of reb cavalry, including some ladies in the ranks, eliciting at one point a “howdy, ma’am”; much less cav on the federal side.

Mother Nature largely cooperated the whole weekend with 60’s and 70’s during the days, but much cooler at night, in the mid 40’s.

While no rations or powder was issued, and there was $10 lug for MCWRA membership, getting in was no problem and registration was quick and easy. (I wish I had made the effort to snag one of those event medals.) Porta-potties were close at hand, but a little problematic. More on this critical point later. Sutler’s row had Del Warren, Fall Creek, the Irish Lady, and others. Food sutlers were a little slim, but I heard good things about the Apple Jack vender.

Wood was no problem as, with that provided for us on our arrival, and one trip to the wood pile by the entire regiment on Friday night, we had plenty, and also plenty of straw. Water was also close at hand. Ice was not provided, but it never really got warm enough for that to be an issue. Parking was very close. One complaint - the universally promised, but almost never enforced rule against cars in camp, was not enforced here and add to that the fact that our camp was in the midst of a modern softball diamond, and it was virtually impossible to get away from the 21st century.

We were told that photographers would be “imbedded” in the ranks for purposes of a film or book of photographs, but I saw none “imbedded” although there were many photog’s around, still and video. I would like to get a copy of that event book of photos, and will advise when I have any details if anyone is interested,

Breakfasts of the weekend were the usual fare -- eggs, bacon, sausage, cheese. I have to say that Mr. Staab cooked up some mighty fine corn bread in a dutch oven on Friday night. I hope to see that again. Col. Amend admonished us at one point on Saturday about rough language in the camps, that a complaint had been made. Sorry about that, won’t happen again.

There was much talk around the campfire about the recent film shoot of Tim Burton’s “Abraham Lincoln Vampire Hunter.” Some of the lads were extras in the filming down in New Orleans including our own Mr. Pettus and Mr. Visser.

We had some fairly large crowds in the camps mainly before the battle on Saturday, and we were able to talk to the folks about what we reenactors are doing and why, about the battle and the War, and the life of the Civil War soldier. This is always good PR for the 9th and also carries out one of our basic functions as a reenacting group to help educate the public about history.

The plan for the Saturday fight was adapted after the actual scenario with the MSG making the march into town, and there to push the Yanks back. And that is what happened. Of course, there was the matter of the long march into town on asphalt roads and the corresponding march back after the fight. There were some pretty footsore soldier during the latter, and we had to arrange for some motorized transport back, including a local constable who graciously accepted the task.

Prior to the battle, Gov. Fox on horseback came by to urge us to throw the German mercenaries out of Missouri. Well done!

In the event, we marched into town and initially made contact with the feds in the town square where the artillery was set up. We had a brief set piece battle there, including with way more cavalry than there was room for. I note that Pvt. Waters, carrying a shovel for weapon, took an early hit, and dutifully remained in place as a casualty. I say with no regret that he was then and there told in a rather peremptory fashion by one of the cavalrymen to move off and under a tree. No call at all for that tone.

Well, we then pushed the Yanks into the streets, and commenced “rolling thunder” which we had done before, all great fun. And I hope the massed spectators, many of whom were able to get quite close to the action, enjoyed it as well. Rolling thunder, faithful reader is the process of succeeding companies advancing, giving a volley, then splitting in the middle, with each side going to the rear on opposite sides, hooking up again with the companies behind, thence to move forward and repeat the process. And down some of the narrow streets, it created quite an impressive “boom” when the volleys were delivered. I give the Yanks kudos for creativity when, at one point, several Yank cavalrymen burst out of an alley on our flank, and engaged us.

A special treat for the troops, and hopefully for those of the crowd on Saturday who got to witness it, was a brief hand-to-hand melee between the competing forces toward the tail end of the fight. This is quite unusual in the reenacting world because of the relatively high chance of injury unless handled very carefully (recall Jeff City in 2009). And add to that the prospect of doing that with metal heel plates on concrete. I can say with great satisfaction that the 9th was picked to do the part for the MSG with our opposite number being the game lads of the galvanized 4th Mo. Prior to the battle, we carefully scripted the matter, as much as possible, down to the point of each participant meeting his opposite combatant and planning their own little brief tussle. The actual deal went off very well, thank you, with only one complaint of an unexpected blow to a particularly sensitive part of Mr. Gianelloni. I think he survived. Mr. Staab’s man was nowhere to be found and so he hung back. Would greatly appreciate knowing of any videos of this out there.

That done, the battle in the streets just continued to run, and I guess we could have circled the square again. But, at one point, I saw the Colonel go out ahead of our lines, and it appears that was the signal for the matter to end.

What little we could see of the Carthage “square” during the battle looked quite intriguing with some shopping and eating opportunities. But no time!

Battalion Color Sgt. and 9th alum Shawn Bell arrived on site Saturday afternoon, and we helped him to a bachelor party of sorts around the various campfires as his nuptials approach. 1st Sgt. Downey and his pard, the 1st Cpl. shared a skillet of cabbage and sausage for Saturday night dinner. I was offered a spoon. Good stuff.

And there was the matter of Captain Keith’s kepi. Apparently the challenge was made of a $5 bounty to whomever could take his hat, although there was some disagreement about the actual terms of that bounty. Well, Mr. Ralph with some assistance was able to get that hat, and bring it back into the 9th’s camp, and the same was the subject of some photography, and I think those photos may surface. All in good fun, and the bounty was paid by the good captain on Sunday. I understand that there may be some paybacks, and so our mascot chicken will need to remain vigilant. That said, Texas is ready!

(I might add that, after the event, Captain Keith emailed me and applauded the 9th’s ingenuity in getting his hat.)

One soldier, who shall remain anonymous, was reportedly caught in a porta-potty sans paper and used his cell phone to make a call to his pard who quickly made the rescue. “If they’d a had ‘em, they’d a used ‘em.”

Around the campfire later that night, we were treated to a command performance by a young man, Jake Simpson, from the 4th MO who was brought over to the 9th’s campfire. In looking for a smoke-free seat, he eventually landed next to me, and I can tell you that was a rare treat. Now, that boy can play - bluegrass, rock, cowboy, classical, and of course, Ashokan Farewell (composed by Jay Unger in 1982 and used as theme music in Ken Burns’ Civil War). He knew almost all of our requests (and I had several). He was accompanied at various points by a guitar and bones. Thanks, Jake, for providing that great entertainment!

Dave Renley, of Minnesota, later came by the 9th’s campfire to catch up. A most hospitable host on our trips up to Pipestone.

There was a dance on Saturday, per usual, but I think no one went except young Mr. Waters (and he said he got asked to dance).

Shawn Bell was full of mischief - no one can bring you up like Sgt. Bell; a real asset to the Battalion, on and off the field. There was the matter of the disappearance of the flagstaffs from the federal camp ....

The 9th’s campfire was relatively calm for Texas with most hitting the sack no later than 12:30 or so. No cards, and no “bob fire.”

There also was the matter of the wallaby. Someone, who has not yet been found out, but I have my suspicions, placed a stuffed wallaby in Cpl. Shemwell’s tent. I understood he awoke at 2 am to find the animal there, and Herb had no idea where or how. In any event, the creature was patterned after the North Platte NE wallaby which Herb encountered on one of his travels. In the interest of propriety, let me just say that the poor wallaby had the look on his face which suggested, “just shoot me.” Our new mascot wallaby, faithful to the original, provided great amusement to those in camp to whom he was introduced, including, I might add the good Ms. Looney who came around.

Sunday morning dawned, and we were left in the sack a little longer by the Sgt. Major. Time to do some shopping after drill. No church call was heard in the 9th’s camp. I understand that the organizers brought someone in to preach.

As said, the public part of the event was effectively over on Saturday as the event organizers determined to reward the reenactors with a tactical on Sunday; the term generally means reenactors only, no spectators. Ok, good idea, once you get past the idea that we would not have the folks to talk to in the camps as on Saturday (and Missourians love their Civil War history!). But the part about the four+ mile march to the site of the tactical really sounded like a dealbreaker to many of us. However, our own Col. Amend was able to negotiate our way out of that march and change the plan to permit motor transport to the site, and thence a relatively short march to the field. That all worked out pretty well - we all had to break down camp by 11:30 and then get into the long caravan in our cars and trucks to the site.

The sun broke through for awhile, but it was mostly cloudy and fair for the fight. Perfect weather. Gen. Huckabee was with us on Sunday and took overall command. I think that I also saw Ted Prater, our former colonel, earlier in the camps.

We hit the field and our artillery began to engage theirs long distance. Their cav began to pester our flank a little but had no chance against our greater number of cav. Our infantry then began to advance across the open field and we traded volleys with the federals, still in the distance. We advanced still further, and there the 9th/16th took a most destructive canister hit with better than 50% of the men down. But we had no choice but to stay in the fight and as we advanced further and shifted to our left, those men who went down were invited up to finish the battle. Eventually, we had the Yanks pushed into a narrow defile, an opening in the tree line. Then the Arkansas boys appeared to also push them at right corners to us. “Pinched” into the corner, the Yanks had no choice but to give, and there the battle ended. We resurrected, gave the usual cheers, and Gen. Huckabee promised to bring refreshments at Wilson’s Creek.

Thereafter, we made the approximately 20 minute march back to the parking lot. The good in that march back in was that, when we made it to the parking lot, we were ready to hit the road back home, and so we did, saying goodbye to Carthage 2011. We were back on the road by 2:15 and home in Topeka a little past 6 pm.

Farewell, Carthage, on to Boonville (June 17-19)!

Boys, the Max Battalion schedule is nearing being half done, so I encourage all the faithful soldiers of the 9th to join in the fun.

Your obedient servant,

Brian Cox
Captain, commanding
9th Texas Reg’t of Infantry
1st Missouri Battalion

Epilogue - Faithful reader, for a report on the reenactment and many pictures, please visit the website of the Carthage Press at http://www.carthagepress.com/

Someone said that this is the last Carthage reenactment. I hope that is not true as we had a warm welcome from the locals, and it was a good event, and site of an actual CW fight.

Sympathy to Mr. Gianalloni whose barn back home was torched on Saturday, apparently an arson. And to Mr. Hayhurst, who made the long drive in to Carthage only to have to immediately turn around to attend to a family emergency back home.

With great reluctance, I announce that I have accepted the resignation of Brian Shively from his position as First Sgt. of the 9th Texas. Sgt. Shively has been the First Sgt. of the 9th for many years and a soldier in the 9th since 1996. His technical skills, leadership abilities, and all-around good cheer are known to all. Duty and loyalty have always been Brian’s watchwords. I cannot understate his contributions to the 9th, and he will be greatly missed as First Sgt. I think that we will yet see Brian around the 9th’s campfire at some time in the future.

Effective immediately, the 9th’s non-com rank structure will be as follows:

First Corporal Randy Downey is promoted to First Sgt.;

Second Corporal Bob Albert is promoted to First Corporal;

Third Corporal Rob Matlack is promoted to Second Corporal;

And Private Herb Shemwell is promoted to Third Corporal.

Men, these are your new non-coms and entitled to your respect.

I can readily say that there is no finer group of non-coms anywhere in the Battalion. These men will serve the 9th well in the trying and competitive times ahead. And during the busy campaigns of the sesquicentennial, with competence, commitment, and communication. Each of them will be expected to step up from their new roles to a brevet higher rank, as the need arises.

Men of the 9th, please join me in congratulating these soldiers on their promotions!

9th Texas - THERE IS NONE FINER!

Your obedient servant,

Brian Cox
Captain, commanding
9th Texas Reg’t of Infantry
1st Mo. Battalion

The 9th Texas spent a pleasant weekend at its first event, and spring muster (after a fashion), at Cowtown in Wichita Kansas, and 1870’s style frontier town, and a ready made prop for the business of Civil War reenacting.

Present for duty for the weekend were:

Brevet 1st Sgt. Rob Matlack; and Pvts. Gianelloni (Mark), Gianelloni (VJ), Hainstock, Poitevin, Ralph, Staab, and Amend (our Battalion’s colonel who selflessly fell in as a private), and your humble correspondent as Captain.

The location was in our own back yard, and close enough for greater numbers of the 9th to be in attendance, and I hope that happens in 2011, where we will do this again. Firewood was sufficient and water was just across the street. There were no food venders, but all undoubtedly gained weight, the undersigned included, from the calories consumed. Our opponents were the game lads of the 8th Kansas and McClain’s battery (would like to get some reb artillery here sometime). And the 2nd Kansas under Captain Greg Traxson fell in with us to bolster the reb side.

Mother Nature, although taunting us with her omni-present power on the way down with high winds and drizzle, nonetheless cooperated with good conditions during the days, including dry weather (hopefully a sign of things to come for the reset of the season). Friday night was a little cool and windy but Cowtown graciously opened up the various buildings on-site, and the 9th spent Friday night quite warmly in the period schoolhouse.

Cards were much in evidence both nights and Mr. Poitevin introduced us to a new game or two. Departing from our usual custom of cards at the Captain’s table in camp, we tramped over to the town Saloon which provided an appropriate backdrop for some serious card play. Alas, my luck was none too good.

Mr. Poitevin and Mr. Hunt (who was the Cowtown “roadie” for reenactors) regaled us with a song or two on Friday night.

Saturday dawned and after breakfast, we had our drill through the town with the 2nd Kansas. While drilling we stopped in front of one of the merchant’s stores and gave an impromptu talk on the life of the Civil War soldier, and stood for questions. My thanks to the two soldiers who I pulled from the ranks to answer questions in first person for the crowd. Although unawares, they pulled it off quite well.

Saturday’s battle was conceived as a spur of the moment deal. While confabbing with Captain Goering of the 8th Kansas, our foe for the weekend, as to the scenario for the day, we suddenly noticed an earthen berm across the sidewalks on the far North edge of the town. Instantly, it struck us that that would make a great fortification for the side lucky enough to defend it. At first, it was the Rebs, then at the last minute, we changed it to put the Yanks there. Bad choice for us as it turned out. In the event, we stormed into town up the main street, engaged some of their skirmishers, then attempted to take their works but we were thrown all the way back into our camp clear on the other side of town. Although we got our butts handed to us, the crowd watching this was appreciative and truly impressive for a venue the size of Cowtown.

We also re-acquainted with some old 9th men who dropped by including former captain Brian Albert, and Pvt.’s Luther and Harris. And we also saw Mr. Tim Johnson, a federal now for many years, but good to see.

Saturday night came around soon enough, and after a trip to the local Brahms for provisions, and some cards as noted, Mr. Hunt again sang us a song or two and he was joined by his lovely wife who also gave us a spirited version of Garyowen.

VJ Gianelloni might be said to have technically “seen the Elephant” at Cowtown 2011 (as this was his first event to actually fire a rifle in a fight, although he has been under fire before). A relation to Mr. Staab, Mr. Jordan Waters, also joined us for the fight on Sunday, and this was his “seeing the Elephant,” and he did a fine job and we hope to see him out again.

Sunday morning dawned and we had a nice church service, helped in part by our own Mr. Staab, who will be doing the whole thing soon, I hope.

Sunday’s crowds were greatly down from Saturday’s but there was still fun to be had. The scenario this day was for the Rebs to break up into two parts, the 9th as skirmishers, and the 2nd coming in later to roll up the federal flank. The Yanks were in camp, supported by an artillery piece, and the 9th first engaged them, and then the 2nd came in to finish the job. Per our plan, Captain Goering of the 8th called for a ceasefire and came out with a white flag and surrendered his men. We rounded them up then did a march by the crowd to good applause for our efforts.

Many thanks to the City of Wichita, owner of Cowtown, and a special thanks to Greg Hunt, who was essentially the “roadie” for the reenactors, for making the weekend memorable. Greg told us Sunday morning that we had helped Cowtown set a single day attendance record. And we made the local Wichita Eagle (with photos and a story -- see http://www.kansas.com/ under photo gallery).

And a special thanks to the boys of the 2nd Kansas under Capt. Greg Traxson who fell in with us. Hard fighters, and good impressions every one.

I am more impressed with this venue every time I go to it. And, although it is a little late in the season, I think that I will make it a permanent location for the 9th’s annual meeting/spring muster.

Just a couple of thoughts - more sutlers and food venders are needed, and this should be advertised as a two day event.

That said, Well done, Cowtown!

YOS,

Brian Cox
Captain, commanding
9th Texas Reg’t of Infantry
1st Mo. Battalion

2010 was a great year for the 9th Texas Reg’t of Infantry. We fought five (5) Maximum Battalion events, at Ash Grove MO in March; Holden MO in June; Pilot Knob MO in September; Mississippi City MS in November; and Prairie Grove AR in December.

We also fought at smaller events in Cowtown, Wichita KS in April; Black Jack KS in June; Diller NE in July; Pipestone MN in August; Lamoni IA in September; and Brownville NE in October.

Mother Nature refused to be entirely cooperative, as in 2009, as she caused the premature termination of the Spring Muster at Ash Grove with snow and sleet, and the Holden event with a flash flood which nearly floated us all off.

Our National Event of the season was attended by five stalwarts from the 9th, and although it was a long trip down (past Memphis), the fights were good including in entrenchments dug for the reenactment of 1862‘s Fort Donelson. Of course, not to be forgotten was Col. Sanders vexed expostulation on Sunday, “what battle is this?!”

Throughout the year, we revisited an old 9th Texas recruiting tool of setting up a booth at the gun shows. We made four of them this season, one in Wichita, two in Topeka, and one in Kansas City. To good success, I hasten to add.

Rank structure remained stable, and we can all credit our solid core of veteran non-coms who help make the 9th what it is. Thanks again: 1st Sgt. Shively, and Cpl’s Downey, Albert, and Matlack.

We also had three (3) new men join the ranks - Jim Pettus, Joshua Ralph (nephew of Jamie), and Jason Wiltshire. They acquitted themselves well as soldiers when they first “saw the elephant.”

And we saw Lt. (ret.) Carl Rader at Cowtown, and he brought along some much-needed regimental funds. Also, Major (ret.) Brian Albert also joined us at Prairie Grove and fell in as a private.

Also, a special thanks to Capt. Greg Traxson’s men of the 2nd Kansas who fell in with us at Cowtown and Prairie Grove.

And last but not least, the Battalion continued to be led by, among other capable staff, 9th alumni Col. Brad Amend; Sgt. Major Gary Sutton; and Color Sgt. Shawn Bell. I can add that our own Mr. Visser also capably fills in as Major when the need arises.

Sadly, we bid farewell to Major (ret.) Lang Perdue, the Battalion surgeon for many years, and a 9th veteran of many campaigns, who passed on to his reward, before his time, in June.

Over the course of the season, we acquired some new regimental equipment, had some good times playing cards at the Saturday night fires, put on our funny hats for morning parade at Pilot Knob (to Col. Amend’s amusement), continued our tradition of passing out Homie for the flub or faux pas of the weekend, and got lots of pictures.

Our website at ninthtexas.com continues to impress, and we continue to have a very good presence on Facebook which provides a very interactive experience.

Room for improvement? Sure. But this year embodied again the 9th’s bonds of brotherhood, gained through shared interests, experiences, and adversities. Truly, you can’t get that from a book!

That said, now on to 2011 and the Sesquicentennial of the commencement of the War Between the States!

I remain, most humbly and respectfully,

Your obedient servant,

Brian Cox
Captain, commanding
9th Texas Reg’t of Infantry
1st MO Battalion
----------

Veterans of the 2010 campaign:

Capt. Brian Cox
1st Sgt. Brian Shively
1st Cpl. Randy Downey
2nd Cpl. Bob Albert
3rd Cpl. Rob Matlack

Privates:

We have had so much success with recruiting at gun shows, that I have booked two more. First, the RK gun show at the Expo Center in Topeka, the weekend after Prairie Grove AR, that is Dec. 11-12. I would appreciate some help on that.

Following the Topeka gun show is the MVACA gun show in Kansas City, just South of KC International Airport, Jan. 8-9, 2011. Again, any help would be appreciated.

Following that, and following tradition, we will have our annual regimental planning meeting on Feb. 12, 2011, in Topeka, unless there is sufficient commitment to a muster in the field. I would appreciate the thoughts of the rank and file on these two options. This is the main time for all to express their opinion on the direction the 9th is taking, the events we should attend, the leadership we should have, and everything else which it would be appropriate to consider.

And then, the sesquicentennial (150th) begins! Here is what I have thus far (there will be further discussion on Max. Batt. events at Prairie Grove):

Feb./March - 1st Mo. Battalion planning meeting - likely near Springfield MO; I will attend and any who want to have their say can attend as well. MAX battalion events will be set at this meeting

March 12    4th Mo. Grande Ball - Springfield MO.

April ?        Cowtown - Wichita KS - in our own back yard, and a great recruiting opportunity

May 13-15    Carthage MO - likely a MAX event

June 4-5 ?    Black Jack KS - pre-war, but in Kansas

June 17-19    Boonville MO

July 21-24    First Manassas VA http://
            www.manassascivilwar.org/*

    *9th Texas Grand Civil War weeklong tour precedes

July ?        Cole Camp MO - possible MAX

Aug. 12-14        Wilson’s Creek MO - likely MAX. - not to be missed, and will be well-attended by the Battalion.

Sept. ?        Lamoni IA - mini-campaign event on Friday night

Sept. 16-18    Lexington MO - likely MAX.

Oct. 1-2        Leasburg MO

Oct. 21-23     Fredericktown MO

As always, if you have something the 9th needs to consider supporting, let me know so we can get it on the calendar.

I remain,
YOS

Brian Cox
Captain, commanding
9th Texas Reg’t of Infantry
1st Mo. Battalion

Pilot Knob (assault on Ft. Davidson),
September 24-26, 2010
After Action Report
Captain Brian Cox
9th Texas Reg’t of Infantry, 1st MO. Battalion

Men, you could have asked for no better reenactment this year than that recently concluded at Pilot Knob the weekend of September 24-26, 2010. The maximum battalion event was well-attended by the 9th Texas, and the Battalion, as well as by the 1st Arkansas Battalion, by sutlers and food venders, and by massive local crowds. Reenactments both days of the disastrous assaults on the federal fort were well orchestrated and provided a good show both for the participants and the spectators of what transpired on that fateful day in September 1864. Mother Nature did not fully cooperate, but to no harm. Read on, faithful reader and hear the story of Pilot Knob 2010. (The 9th was last here in 2007 and you can find that after action report at http://www.ninthtexas.com/pilotknob2007.htm.)

A fuller account of the actual 1864 battle can be found at http://missouri-vacations.com/fort-davidson-state-historic-site/index.html. The long and short of this tragic battle, however, was Gen. Price’s fateful decision in September 1864 to delay his march toward the intended capture of St. Louis to take the federal Ft. Davidson which lay in the path of his Army of Missouri of some 12000 cavalry, including some 3000 unarmed soldiers and 6000 untested draftees. Uncoordinated frontal assaults on the fort by massed confederate infantry were blasted aside by the fort’s defenders of some 1500 men and seven artillery pieces. Some of the Southern attackers who actually made it to the fort were blown to pieces by crude grenades thrown over the earthen walls by the federals. Anticipating a second day’s assault, the federal garrison inside slipped out that night between confederate forces, but a small crew remained in the fort to blow the powder magazine. Gen. Price’s army sustained casualties of some 1000 men to some 250 for the Yanks.

The Missouri State Department of Natural Resources has preserved the fort, and maintains on site a very informative visitor’s center with a number of relics including uniforms and flag. There is also a small diorama of sorts which shows the topography of the area and marks the movements of the various units of the contending armies.

The area is beautiful, mostly grassy, level ground, but surrounded on three sides by small mountains, including Pilot Knob and Shepherd’s Mountain, which command the position of the fort. The preserved fort itself is largely earthen at this point with high walls, and a deep surrounding moat. The crater from the magazine explosion is still plainly visible inside. Several historical markers tell the tale.

I made the trip in in a van with Messers. Staab and Shemwell, about seven (7) hours out of Topeka as a point of reference. We made a mighty effort to hit the road early enough to arrive and get set up in the light, but were only partially successful. I think the trip would be quicker but for those curving roads south of St. Louis. The trip in was largely uneventful until we stopped at a WalMart just north of the site for supplies, and Mr. Staab bought a couple of those roasted chickens (which we reheated on the campfire after we had set up, to good use for hungry soldiers). We were all in line to pay when what appeared to be a grizzled old local came up behind us and remarked on those chickens we were buying. Well, it was not some local, but rather Rob Hayhurst, an old 9th veteran who was in the area from work to attend the event. Good to see Mr. Hayhurst in the field again, and he hasn’t missed a step!

Already on site when we arrived were new man Mr. Pettus (sorry, Jim, you will probably have to endure that description until 2011) and Cpl. Matlack. Mr. Matlack had his whole family out in force, wife Leilani, son (and future captain) Robbie, and daughters Emma and Katie (“bug”), all dressed out in civilian kit. Permit me to note that little Robbie was all solider, going here and there, carrying gear in, and wanting to dig the fire pit and start the fire all on his own.

Present for duty for the 9th were:

1st Sgt. Brian Shively, 1st Cpl. Randy Downey, 2nd Cpl. Bob Albert, 3rd Cpl. Rob Matlack, and Pvt’s Shemwell, Ralph, Staab (with his impressive new sword bayonet), Rob Hayhurst, and Pettus. Two (2) new men also joined the fight, Joshua Ralph, Mr. Ralph’s nephew (from New Zealand), and Jason Wlltshire, a childhood friend of Cpl. Albert. All told, we had 11 rifles and stood as our own company for the weekend. The new men, Messrs. Wiltshire and Ralph “saw the elephant” this weekend and did well for fresh fish, and I hope they had a good time and that we will see them again. This was Mr. Pettus’ third event and he continues to progress as a good solider.

Present for Battalion staff:

Col. Brad Amend, Lt. Col. Mike (“Mississippi”) Williams (good to see you out again, Mike), Major (and adjutant) Sam Looney, Major Dave Burnos, Sgt. Major Gary Sutton, and Color Sgt. Shawn Bell. Mr. Dave Jepsen, a good friend of the 9th, was also part of the color guard.

Present for the Battalion were:

Capt. Steve Montgomery’s 1st MO; Capt. Ron Ulrich’s 2nd MO; Capt. Tim Ritter’s 3rd MO. Dismounted; Capt. Chris Shuster’s 3rd MO; Capt. Daniel Keith’s 4th MO; Captain Bill Wayne’s 5th MO; Capt. “Dime” Hollingsworth’s 9th MOSS; Capt. Richard Haviland’s Kelly’s Irish Brigade (a federal militia group aka the “Washington Blues”); and Elliott’s Scouts under brevet Capt. Bob Green. Col. Robbie Sanders’ Arkansas boys and the 11th Mississippi men (who we also saw at Pipestone and Lamoni earlier in the year) were also present. I am sure that I have missed some and please forgive me that.

We had an estimated 120 reb infantry, and 80 or so federal infantry. Plenty of artillery was present for both sides, and a smattering of cavalry although the latter was not of much consequence in the battle scenarios. Although by all accounts I heard, this was a great event, an event of this nature with this kind of community and regional support clearly cries out for greater attendance by the reenacting community.

Registration was quick and easy and finding our camp was no problem. Parking was little of a hike but you could apparently find a shortcut if you knew the spot through the tree line. There were not so many cars in camps as in some past events this year. We had plenty of firewood (damned if it didn’t turn out to be the kind that burned with abundant smoke), water from a water buffalo was only a short hike, and porta-potties were within 100 yards of our camp, with hand sanitzers inside (and you could have real porcelain if you wanted, up toward the sutlers, say 1/4 mile or so as the crow flies).

Sutlers’ row was truly impressive for an event of this size with Del Warren, Fall Creek, Twin River Mercantile, Mercury sutler, the Tin Man, the Civilian Companion, and many more, such that if you had the time and inclination to shop, you would be well pleased. Even an old solider could find a thing or two to buy. And, oh yes, Robert Szabo, period photographer (wet plate collodian process, and see his website at http://www.robertszabo.com/), of which more later, faithful reader. Sutler’s row was fairly close, as noted, so a complaint of being away from the center of activities would have no merit. There was also a pretty fair crowd of food venders close by as well with all kinds of State fair-type fast food - root beer, turkey legs, funnel cakes, BBQ, brats, shrimp on a stick, pork rinds, kettle corn, fried potatoes, lemon aid, and more, and the boy scouts were there with their homemade treats, and I am sure that I have missed some here. You clearly ran the risk of gaining weight at this event were you not careful.

No food was issued, but the lads brought plenty and no one went hungry.

Permit me to add that some in attendance gave a general nod toward the event’s authenticity guidelines - ragged, including some leggings, some in blue, - as urged on their website at http://www.arcadiavalley.biz/Battle%20of%20Pilot%20Knob%20Reenactment/index.htm. Some might argue that there were many who were too crisp and clean to properly portray the part of Gen. Price’s 1864 army. Yes, me too.

Mother nature largely cooperated for the event with temperatures both days in the 70’s, a little cooler on Friday night, and on Sunday morning. There was no occasion to suffer from the weather. But it wouldn’t be reenacting were there no rain. Read on.

Getting in and Friday night -

We set up our company street with neighbors 3rd MO Dismounted and 5th MO. Our comrades showed up over the course of the night. The Friday night campfire was a little tame doubtless in deference to Saturday night, and temperatures turned a little cool after we had all turned in. I had been in bed for awhile when Mr. Ralph and his nephew, Mr. Joshua Ralph, arrived, and we got them set up (helping your comrades set up is a selfless thing to do). Much later, and unbeknownst to me until morning, Cpl. Albert, and new man Mr. Wiltshire arrived well into the wee early hours.

Saturday -

Mornings at Pilot Knob were misty, dewy affairs with fog on the surrounding mountains slowly receding with the sun to reveal the natural beauty of the area which every soldier understood was in stark contrast to the carnage to come.

No doubt of the reality of the morning coming could last long, however, as, tho’ we missed Sgt. Major Sutton earlier in the season, clearly he hasn’t lost a step and “welcomed” us to arise, too early, on Saturday morning.

Well, morning parade was next after breakfast, and, of course, we had to do it - the 9th has a reputation of sorts -and, by prior agreement, we all put on our (modern) funny hats and marched into line, and you could see Col. Amend almost voice a silent expletive when he realized what we were doing. (Sorry, I missed getting a shot of that.) The hats put away, we soon had 9th and later Battalion drill.

Saturday battle and afternoon -

The reenactment followed the actual battles, as best as we could, with a Battalion-wide assault after some preliminary skirmishing and artillery dueling. What was truly impressive was the Battalion or most of it going in in one long line of battle. It was a good thing that we practiced our wheeling.

The battle started with our Arkansas boys engaging the Yank infantry who were outside the fort. Seemed like that went on for a little longer than necessary, but then we went in.

We did a “passage of lines” to get our Battalion line from a battle line behind the guns to the same position in front of the guns. The order was Battalion, right face, upon which each company immediately did a left face, following which each company went through our designated spot between the guns, and then a by company into line to form up with our brother companies on the other side.

Artillery on both sides continued to work during the infantry assault. Mr. Shemwell took an excellent hit at one point. I also noticed one young reb casualty in front of us propped himself up on one elbow to watch the action; yes, bad form - when you go down as a casualty, wounded or killed, stay true to that.

After the second assault on the fort, the 9th had approximately 70% left, but then we all went down with our trademark canister hit and that was it for us. And shortly after that was it as well for the rest of the battle as the Battalion’s assault could not carry the fort.

Following the battle, of course, there was a little time to explore. I can tell you that you would truly learn the draw this event has turned into if you went to sutler’s row which was literally jam-packed with spectators, easily rivaling some of the bigger events in the east that I have been to. Col. Amend advised on Sunday that the organizers thought that they had 20,000 spectators attend the event. I didn’t have the same throngs of people to talk to as at Pipestone earlier in the year, but I was able to talk to the folks in smaller groups of 2 and 3, some approached us, and others I approached to stimulate conversation, and I can tell you those Missourians are polite and engaged to a man, and love their history. The numbers present to watch prove the point.

The boys in the 9th had determined to take a group Szabo photo, so, after the battle, we “coutered” up again and marched over to sutler’s row, and coaxed Bob out of his tent to do the job. It was a little problematic where to take the photo as spectators were literally crawling all over the place. Eventually, Bob found a spot in front of Ft. Davidson, and so we took two of his chairs and borrowed a third, and that was it. We did need to keep spectators out of the shot, and this primarily from along the top of the ramparts of the fort, which were a part of the walking tour of the fort. Little Robbie Matlack went up and was able to shoo spectators away until the “shoot” was over. While Bob was setting up the shot and while he was going over to get the “wet plate,” the boys were quite the object of attention by the spectators, and numerous additional photos were taken. If my boys were not so humble, I think the attention might have gone to their heads. I picked up the finished photo on Sunday morning and it is excellent as usual, and a copy is posted on our Facebook page. Following that, we did a trademark 9th “deadline,” also in front of the federal ramparts, a perfect opportunity, and a copy of that is also on Facebook.

Later on, we had a mail call back in camp. Mr. Pettus got one letter denying his request to transfer from the infantry to the calvary. Another one which Mr. Shemwell handed me and which I read to the boys was picked up on the battlefield and appeared to have blood on the envelope. It was a letter from a Yank, addressed to “Dearest Mother.” An excerpt:

"I will not deceive you mother and tell you that the life of a soldier is with out trial and hardship. The [regiment] has seen some hard fighting since we left. You must realise this frightful conflict has forever changed us. We are not the innocent youth who marched away to the sound of the brass band or waved longingly at the pretty girls that lined the road. We have become hardened men, whose every step is haunted by the ghosts of fallen comrades. We have become harvesters of death - each soul bears the mark of Cain. I shutter[] when I contemplate the change."

The letter abruptly ended, bearing witness to the untimely death, perhaps, on the battlefield of its author. There go we all on the field of battle but for the grace of God.

On a lighter note, Major Looney brought along his “consort,” his word, which according to Wikipedia, is “a spouse or companion, often of royalty or a deity, sometimes slightly inferior in function/status.” I recall that the last time I met the estimable Ms. Looney she was a temperance gadfly at Huzzah Valley just about two years ago.

Saturday night -

Saturday night was soon to be upon us. The Yanks put on a nice officer’s soiree with cigars and wine or beer and gave us all a chance to network. Nice touch. Captain Montgomery of the 1st MO and I later shared a birthday cake with the lads back in camp, the cake nicely prepared by Steve’s daughter, “Syd.”

The Saturday night beer garden, past sutler’s row, across the road, was much anticipated but proved a bit of a bust, a least from the 9th’s standpoint. We essentially went in two waves but it was pretty much subdued from years past.

This year, I did witness the reenactment of the blowing of the fort’s powder magazine and there were still massive crowds of spectators present to witness the event. In a nice touch, the organizers had laid a large numbers of candles in the area in front of the fort to mark the casualties. At the appointed time, the match was struck - and well, you must have been there to truly appreciate the event, but I posted a picture on Facebook which can give you some idea, interested reader.

Following a new tradition, the 9th held a lively poker game at its camp, and it seems to have been the focal point (or, loudest nuisance) at our end of the Battalion camp. The game was dealer’s choice, and confed. scrip/scalps were the currency of choice, and there was some liquid refreshment. We had several big winners over the night, your faithful correspondent not among them having lost, incredibly, every hand. Perhaps even more incredibly, Mr. Ralph got beaten twice while holding four of a kind. After I bowed out to watch/doze, I had to let M. Ralph bet with the monies I had left. I think a good time was had by all including some of our visitors. Our new man, Mr. Wiltshire outlasted our other new man, Mr. Ralph, who retired for the evening.

Saturday night turned out much warmer than Friday. Bit by bit, the men drifted off from the poker game, myself a little earlier as I was bushed. Around 1 am, I was awakened by the pitter-patter of the beginning of a little rain. It eventually turned into a downpour which lasted a little over an hour, to no apparent harm. Mother Nature was not through, faithful reader, as you will find out.

Sunday -

We were allowed to snooze another hour but awakened per usual by Sgt. Major Sutton. As the morning grew on, the mist which had crept over the mountains surrounding us on three sides gradually burned off.

There was a fairly long officer’s meeting to discuss the afternoon’s battle, and at which, in addition, the remaining events of the season as well as events in 2011 were discussed. The Collierville TN/Twin Rivers campaign is next for the Battalion, and it looks like we may have upwards of 20 men which should be one or two companies; the Arkansas boys will also be present in strength. See their website at http://colliervillebattle.org/. Prairie Grove AR is in the rotation this year again in December and although sometimes a little cold, it is not to be missed.

As to 2011, the following will or may be the 1st MO Battalion “maximum” events, all in Missouri:

May 13-15    Carthage

June 18-19    Boonville

July ??        Cole Camp

Aug. 12-14    Wilson’s Creek

Sept. 16-18    Lexington MO

All of these will be Missouri State Guard impression, and I will try to get some information out about the preferred uniform, although we have done this many times before.

Not to be forgotten are the following on next year’s calendar:

Feb. ??        9th Texas regimental meeting/muster*

        Instead of a meeting, perhaps it is time to have a muster.

March 12    Period Ball, Springfield MO, hosted by             4th MO

July 21-24    First Manassas VA http://
                www.manassascivilwar.org/*

                *9th Texas Grand Civil War tour             precedes (week long)

Captain Shuster also called attention to the Battalion website which he maintains, and it can be found at http://www.firstmissouribattalion.com/

In anticipation of a big, busy sesquicentennial in 2011, we will have a Battalion planning meeting at Prairie Grove in December. But if anyone has events you want the Battalion to consider, please send those in to me or to Major Looney and a master list of possibles will be compiled.

In a nice touch, the event organizers distributed caps as a bounty for attendance. We got a tin per man, with an additional five tins later which 1st Sgt. Shively duly distributed.

After the meeting, no battalion drill was had but the 9th went out to cement some basics and to reinforce some safety points about the battle to come (i.e. remember the “safe line” for our own artillery past which we did not want to retreat - good to keep in mind). By chance, during our drill, Col. Amend was out surveying the ground in anticipation of the battle. Well, we decided to slowly creep up on him, an old 9th man himself. We marched in his direction, and when he turned to see us, we immediately nonchalantly looked away. We did this several times until Brad came over and I invited him to offer a few words of inspiration to the boys, which Brad did wholly off the cuff.

In lieu of Church, I went over to Bob Szabo and picked up the 9th’s group photo. Nicely done, per usual. I had brought some WalMart fried pies with me, and distributed them to the men, and the extras went to some of our partners in the Battalion. Sunday morning proved much cooler, and some broke out greatcoats, and you could see your breath when you exhaled.

Prior to forming up for the battle, the 9th took a vote on awarding “Homie,” the 9th’s mascot rubber chicken, awarded at each event for the best faux paux. There were no front runners at the Knob, and so, Cpl. Downey won by default, for failing to bring Homie, which he had been previously awarded. A number of the boys also went in to sutler’s row to do a little last minute shopping and we also made our obligatory tour of the fort, and the visitor’s center. The former, including the hole left by the blast, is still quite impressive after all these years.

Sunday battle -

Col. Amend had reported at the Sunday officer’s call, and later announced to the men in forming up for the fight, that one federal thought the Battalion not aggressive enough during the Saturday battle. We endeavored to remedy this point of view! And the Colonel gave quite a stirring speech prior to marching out to give Battle.

As noted, the plan again was to go out in one long Battalion line, and make our three assaults on the Fort, which we did. I note that some of our boys attempted to emulate the “new” rebel yell which has been reported on the internet. See for example the link at http://26nc.org/History/Rebel-Yell/rebel-yell.html. This is totally different from what we have been doing for years.

The battle commenced at 1:30 and was over 2 pm, but there was plenty of hard fightin’ in that 1/2 hour. The scenario was the same as on Saturday, but this time the 9th made it further, although by the time the 3rd assault was done, we only had three men left, Mr. Hayhurst, Cpl. Matlack, who had taken the colors, and the undersigned. The Battalion had suffered in excess of 50% casualties. I remember on the second charge following Col. Amend and Sgt. Bell up to what seemed like the gates of Hell, almost to the moat, the swirling powder smoke almost obscuring the federal ramparts. I could clearly see the federal cannoneers and remember thinking, are we too close for them to fire at us (they didn’t). On that second charge, a number of our boys went into the moat and at that point the “grenades“ came out in great number, and I saw one of our boys, doubtless soon himself to meet his maker, throw one back in. Now, that was a battle!

A nice touch, prior to resurrection, was a single bagpipe player slowly marching across the field of casualties in front of the fort, playing a haunting Amazing Grace.

Getting out -

As we were resurrecting and marching back to camp, a steady light drizzle of rain began to come down. And it progressed to a more steady drizzle during the break down of camp such that, with the exception of canvas during the Saturday night rain storm, this where you could get really wet if you did not look lively. But we were back on the road by 2:50, and after a mandatory 9th Texas stop at Cracker Barrel, we were back in Topeka, as a point of reference, by 11 pm.

Epilogue -

Permit me to offer my praise for the efforts of all men in the 9th in bringing new men into the ranks. Pilot Knob is evidence of the effort as we had, in addition to Mr. Pettus, a new man himself, two (2) new men who we hope to see later in the year, or next, for the 150th. I can’t tell you how proud I am of this effort!

And now, on to Collierville!

I remain

Your obedient servant,

Brian Cox
Captain, commanding
9th Texas Reg’t of Infantry
1st MO. Battalion

Men, I have secured the 9th a table at the RK Gun show on the indicated dates for recruiting. The show is at the Topeka Expocenter at 19th and Topeka Blvd. We attended several gun shows earlier in the year and had a good result for the effort. I would appreciate volunteers to help man the 9th's table for all or any part of the show that you can make.

Brian Cox
Captain, commanding
9th Texas Reg't of Infantry
1st MO. Battalion

Men - Gen’l Price has directed that we assemble near Irontown MO on Sept. 24, and no later than the 25th, for the advance on St. Louis and its ordnance.

Scouting reports indicate a small federal garrison with at least some artillery at the so-called Ft. Davidson at Pilot Knob MO. The nefarious author of Order No. 11, Gen. Thomas Ewing, is reported to be in command of the fort, and capturing him would be a worthy prize. I am optimistic, however, that we will choose the prudent course of bypassing that obstacle to conserve our forces for the greater prize at St. Louis.

We have encountered setbacks over the course of the last year, and I understand that many of you lack arms, and are yet untested in battle, however, our prospects remain bright should every man do his duty.

I remain

Your obedient servant,

Brian Cox
Captain, commanding
9th Texas Reg’t of Infantry
1st MO. Battalion

I can recommend the summer Pipestone MN event as a good time for reenactors, the long drive notwithstanding. The event is not a MAX Battalion, nor one that the 9th had voted to attend but the 9th has a history of many of its members making the trip over the years. I count myself as a twice veteran of the event, but Mr. Visser remarked that this was his eighth visit!

Messrs. Shemwell and Staab and your humble correspondent made the trip on behalf of the 9th. And new man Jim Pettus out of Junction City, Kansas, joined us on site as did Mr. Visser who acted as major and wing commander for the weekend. Present for staff was adjutant Sam Looney. Other units present from the Battalion where the 3rd MO/4th Ark. (good to see you, Big Phil!) under Captain Shuster, and the 4th MO under Captain Keith. There were also some boys from the 1st South Carolina, a group from the region, who fell in with us. I think that Col. Croufutt’s Muddy River Battalion were also in attendance on the federal side. More were there, sorry I haven’t named all!

Pipestone is a small burg about (seven) 7 hours out of Topeka as a point of reference, on I-29 almost all the way. The downtown area sports a particularly impressive Pipestone County Courthouse (and your humble correspondent has seen alot of courthouses!) said to be made of quartzite. A large Civil War soldier statute sits on the front lawn commemorating Civil War and Spanish American War soldiers from Pipestone County. A Sherman tank also sits on the lawn commemorating Pipestone veterans of WWII and the Korean War.

Infantry, and a smattering of artillery were present, but no cavalry. Kudos to Dave Renley for ramrodding this event.

Weather was near-perfect with temps hovering around the upper 70’s to 80’s during the day and somewhat lower at night, although Saturday night became a little cool. Mother Nature reminded us that she was still in command as she threw a brief shower our way later Saturday afternoon, but we had no more than gotten our gear under canvas than it quit to no harm. One can recall the wet 2009 campaign.

Parking was excellent in terms of accessibility, merely a stone’s throw from camp, but poor in terms of ambiance, as our row of vehicles was plainly visible to us from camp, and you could not help but notice the power lines overhead. On the down side, there were no raw rations issued, no meals provided, and (gulp) no beer garden. But we we were issued a voucher for discounts at local merchants. There was a water spigot close at hand, and plenty of wood and straw, and somewhat clean porcelain was just across the road. Overall, I give the event very good marks.

Getting in and getting set up were easier than a reenactor could hope for, and before we knew it, despite the long trip in, the 9th’s company street was set up and our fire started. We caught up with our pards and began the usual campfire. Some stayed up a little late.

A full slate of activities was available to the interested spectator as the event’s website reflects at http://www.pipestoneminnesota.com/cwd/Home.html, There was a very good Abraham Lincoln in attendance, and under my command on Sunday morning, we endeavored to capture him but he threatened that we would have to take the First Lady as well, and pay her decoration bills, so we promptly retreated.

The event was a little spare on sutlers, but Del Warren of James Country made the trip and a friendly face behind the counter is always a good thing.

Camp life and battles --

As noted, Mr. Pettus, our newest volunteer, “saw the elephant” at Pipestone, and he acquitted himself quite well for a fresh fish. Kudos to Mr. Pettus.

As last time, I give Pipestone high marks for interested spectators who roamed our camps both Saturday and Sunday, even though we were removed somewhat from the center of attention of the event. Mr. Pettus and I joined in telling all who would listen about the life of the Civil War soldier, about what reenactors try to do, about the causes of the War, about the flags, etc. I can’t tell you how gratifying it is to have the chance to speak to the folks like that.

Due to low numbers, the 9th fell in both days with our brothers in Captain Keith’s 4th MO, Captain Keith taking command of our consolidated company on Saturday, and your humble corespondent taking over on Sunday. It was an honor and a privilege to fight with those boys.

The battles both days were good, taking place in the bowl-like arena fronted on the federal side by a rocky, and therefore protective curtain.

Of note, the Sunday battle raged for 10 minutes with Major Visser’s left wing going in alone to even things up from the Saturday battle, but they were badly handled by the Yanks being eventually pushed off the field, and then we went in, but got chopped up as well. Some of the Zouaves on our front, I noted, thinking it safe behind a split rail fence, all went down either in a canister blast or due to an extraordinarily well-played volley of musket fire. I also note that I observed Mr. Staab take a very good hit as well.

The Sunday battle was over at 2:35, meeting a premature, perhaps, end, with the blowing of a whistle which signaled a real casualty, in this case a young man who went down with the heat. He was taken off either on stretcher or golf cart for observation, but that was the effective end of the battle.

Late Saturday afternoon, we picked up Mr. Staab’s period bat and ball and had some batting practice in the ample field adjacent to our camp. Mr. Staab is adept enough to be able to point the spot out with the bat that he would hit to, and deliver on that. We had a brief scare as one lad hit the ball well past the outfielders and into the long grass so action stopped for several long minutes while we searched.

We had some poker around the 9th’s fire on Saturday night, and I think that Mr. Pettus came away the winner.

We also tried out some new equipment I have purchased for the regiment, including a large tin coffee pot which will go a long way toward filling our needs for coffee and/or hot water, and twin tin buckets for washing/rinsing dishes, the latter a much-needed addition.

On Saturday night, Mr. Pettus treated us to a dinner at a local diner. Mr. Staab had alerted me to the presence of a good local brew so we picked up some more at a local store on the way back.

Captain Keith conducted an excellent church service on Sunday morning which was well-attended, with Jim Bearden leading the singing.

The 9th boys pulled out of the site at 3:42 pm on Sunday after the battle, and were back to Topeka at approximately 12:30, all tired but much satisfied from the experience.

Epilogue -

Permit me to note that the interested reader can find an excellent after action report on the event put together by Captain Keith at http://www.4moinf.com/aar-pipestone-mn-aug-14-15-2010.php

On a sadder note, we were informed of the unexpected and untimely death of a soldier from the 1st MO, Chad Pennington, leaving a wife and several children. I also note the death of Major (ret.) Lang Perdue of the 9th Texas who passed earlier in the year. Col. Amend has previously authorized the wearing of a black band on the uniform in remembrance of Major Perdue and such can be taken in remembrance of Pvt. Pennington as well.

YOS,

Brian Cox
Captain, commanding
9th Texas Reg’t of Infantry
1st MO. Battalion

Boys, we are well into August but it cannot fairly be said that the 2010 season is half over as there is still ample hard fighting left to be done including campaigns in Missouri, Arkansas, and Tennessee.

The next maximum battalion event is Pilot Knob in southeast Missouri, Sept. 24-26, 2010, and Gen. Price’s ill-fated frontal attack on Ft. Davidson. A good time was had there last by the 9th and the Battalion in 2007. Registration materials and directions, etc., can be found on their website at http://www.arcadiavalley.biz/Battle%20of%20Pilot%20Knob%20Reenactment/index.htm. We are past the nominal registration deadline of August 1, but you can download a form from this website and follow the directions there indicated. There is a $10 fee which apparently makes you an MCWRA member for the event, if you have not already paid. This site also has some important uniform guidelines which we should follow.

After PK is our “national” event for the year at Collierville TN, Nov. 11-14. Their website is http://www.cleburnes-division.com/. According to this website, the registration fee is $20 and due by Oct. 1, and there will be no walk-ons. Apparently skirmishes begin on Thursday and continue through Sunday. Per previous email, please register as Huckabee’s Division, and although the anticipated impression is rebel, be sure to bring the blue. More details are sure to follow.

And ending the year with the best that our area has to offer is Prairie Grove AR, fought on the actual battleground, Dec. 3-5. Some information can be found at http://www.arkansasstateparks.com/park-finder/park-events-details.aspx?id=27479, but I will get out more details as we get closer to the event. Make plans now to protect yourself in the event of cold weather. This is a longtime event for the 9th Texas and all should make plans to attend.

Other non-Max Batt. events which you may wish to consider are the following:

Lamoni IA - Labor Day Weekend, Sept. 3-5, 2010 - Their 8th Annual Civil War Days website can be found at http://www.civilwardays.org/. Of particular interest is their mini-campaign style event within an event which can be found under their link for “Campaigners Only” - I can recommend this for the unusual experience, but note that you have to be on-site and ready to march out at 7 pm on Friday night. The site is a fairly easy drive out of Topeka, as a point of reference, somewhat short of 3 hours, on I-35 north out of Kansas City. I believe that the Battalion will be well represented at this event.

Brownville NE - Oct. 8-10, 2010. This event is just across the Kansas/Nebraska border, about two hours out of Topeka, as a point of reference, on highway 75. I will get out more information about this event as I get it. Support Mr. Visser on this one.

Topeka Civil War Days - Oct. 9, 2010, at the Museum of the National Guard, just south of Topeka. Unfortunately, this under-attended, but close by, event is the same weekend as Brownville, above. The event is one day only, regularly attended by a federal artillery crew, and it has some other attraction to it, including a pancake fee free for reenactors, and occasionally the Lecompton Reenactors. Fair recruiting opportunity. I may split my time between Brownville and Topeka.

There are many gun shows on the horizon and I will get out details as time permits. Based on our success at gun shows earlier in the year, this is the spot on which to place our bets for recuiting. Here are several:

Chisholm Trail Gun Show - Wichita, Oct. 9, 10 - some of you who cannot make either Brownville or Topeka, can support the 9th by setting up a table at this event. More details to follow.

RK Gun Show - Topeka, Oct. 16-17, and Dec. 11-12, 2010.

Thunder on the Border - Sept. 17-19, 2010, Blue Springs MO. Some information can be found at http://www.jacksongov.org/content/3279/3838/3866/default.aspx#september (scroll down). See also their Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=120247794671430&index=1. This is our own Sgt. Major Gary Sutton’s home event, and it is also co-sponsored by our brother Battalion unit, the 16th MO. This is an event close at hand which is pre-War.

As always, your getting out to me notice of your intention to attend any or all of these events is appreciated so I can keep staff advised. If you need anything, please contact me.

YOS,

Brian Cox
Captain, commanding
9th Texas Reg’t of Infantry
1st Missouri Battalion

Guys, I know, in September there is Lamoni IA on Labor Day weekend, and then there is the next Maximum Battalion event at Pilot Knob MO on Sept. 24-26 (which we should all shoot for), but if you can’t get enough of it, consider this one and it is close to home - “Thunder on the Border” at Missouri Town, 8010 E. Park Road, Lee's Summit, Missouri (about an hour and 35 minutes out of Topeka as a point of reference). And you can support our old Sgt. Major Gary Sutton who might call this event his own. This is a pre-War event with some living history mixed in with some skirmishes/scenarios. And the site provides its own ready-made props with an entire town to play in.

Details are as follows: obviously no confederate shells, but instead civilian/bushwacker/guerrilla outfits, with period weapons including early muskets, pistols, shotguns, knives, and flintlocks if you have them. Federals will be there as well, and we are looking to have 25 men per side. Contending camps will be set up.

Missouri town will provide hay/straw, firewood, water, portapottys, but sorry, no food rations. Probably no food vendors either. Also the Park gates need to be closed by 10:00 PM on Friday night and open up at 7:00 AM on Sat. morning - important to know for those traveling in.

For further details, contact 1st Sgt. Rick Gardner of the 16th MO, or Sgt. Major Sutton of Battalion staff.

Looks like fun! Let me know if you plan to attend.

YOS

Brian Cox
Captain, commanding
9th Texas Reg’t of Infantry
1st MO. Battalion

High expectations for the 3rd Maximum Battalion event of the 2010 campaign were dashed by Mother Nature’s frenzied rain storm unleashed on the reb infantry camp Saturday morning and into the afternoon. I write now to tell the brief, soggy tale of the “Greater Holden Float Trip” or of the “Holden River,” eager reader.

Holden is a small burg southeast of Kansas City MO which the 9th visited most recently in 2009 (and at which we took one of the great photos of the unit courtesy of Bob Szabo). The trip is on good roads almost all the way and was a short trip for most of the lads. Mr. Staab and your humble correspondent made good time (once we got by a frustrating bottleneck around Lawrence KS).

Present for duty at the event for the 9th were the following:

1st Sgt. Brian Shively
1st Cpl. Randy Downey
Pvt. Anspach
Pvt. M. Gianelloni
Pvt. VJ Gianelloni
Pvt. J. Gibbens
Pvt. Ralph
Pvt. Shemwell
Pvt. Staab
Cpl. Jepsen from the 10th MO/color guard
and the undersigned as captain.

Present for the battalion were Capt. Williams’ 1st MO Dismounted; Capt. Ulrich’s 2nd MO; Capt. Schuster’s 3rd MO (including some of the game lads from the allied 4th Arkansas); Capt. Ritter’s 3rd MO Dismounted; Capt. Wayne’s 5th MO.; and Capt. Conner’s 16th MO.

Present for Battalion staff were Major Burnos and Sgt. Major Sutton.

We had a smattering of calvary and a cannon or two.

A disappointingly small contingent of Yanks, the Irish Brigade (?), were present, but we out-numbered them three to one. Caution - venting alert:

Why such disproportionate odds continue at our reenactments at this late date puzzles me -- this is no longer a question of “helping out the Yanks”; it is a question of making an event look realistic. I can say that the 9th Texas always stands ready to galvanize if told ahead of time that we will or may do so.

Getting in was no problem, although the parking location was, as last year, quite a hike away. And there were many, many vehicles which were not removed from the camps until Saturday morning (not from our boys tho’). The 9th’s camp was on the extreme flank of the Battalion and situated on some furrowed ground in the middle of our campsite. The 3rd Mo Dismounted was to our right and the cav. camp was on our left. Unbeknownst to us, we were also situated in the path of what would become as the “Holden River.” Read on, brave reader.

In any event, we made our camp, amid brutal humidity as the sweat was literally rolling off of me, for one. We anticipated a pleasant time to catch up with our pards, have a couple of beers, snack a little, and generally relax from the workweek. We had a dickens of a time getting our fire started as the wood provided was apparently quite wet. I went through a number of matches, several fistfuls of straw, and a number of my recruiting handbills before we finally had a serviceable fire. We eventually called the campfire quits after 12 midnight recognizing that reveille at 6 am would be on us before we knew it. I slept tolerably well, and the night went largely without incident.

And like clockwork, the booming voice of the Sgt. Major was on us, at 6 am, just as promised, and we were grudgingly up. Kudos to the City of Holden for providing raw rations of quite tasty slab bacon, sliced bread, potatoes, eggs, and onions. We were also provided plenty of ice. Firewood was a little problematic as it was mostly in quite large chunks and we had to scrounge for some of the necessary smaller stuff. There were several clean porta-potties close at hand. No other complaints on the amenities.

We made our morning reports, and fell in on the Battalion line; the 9th was matched with the 16th Mo, and we were second in the line of march, and the color company. Our first duty of the weekend was to put on a short parade in downtown Holden, maybe a mile away, although many of us tried to beg off, to no avail. We dutifully piled into a school bus provided for the purpose, and, like packed sardines, drove into town, and waited for the yanks. In the event, we formed up, marched behind a local police car for the two or three blocks of downtown Holden, then returned to camp by the same means. Of note, a period gatling gun owned by one of the locals was on display. The matter was uneventful but the heat and humidity were mounting.

As no battalion drill was in the offing, I endeavored to have some regimental drill and got that done with Sgt. Shively’s assistance. At least one suggested the danger of drilling with fixed bayonets or with guns at all given some ominous weather reports which were coming in. At a brief officer’s call shortly thereafter, we noted an ominous darkening of the heavens to the north, a shift in the wind, and a change in the temperature. The cooler temperatures were quite a relief, but no old soldier was blind to what was happening.

Shortly thereafter, the rain began, at first in drips and drabs, but then enough to drive us under canvas. In my tent, I marked the commencement of the downpour at 11:45 am. Surely, this would not last, I thought, and the boys of the 9th are experienced campers and know how to secure their tents from the elements. Well, high and dry in my tent, I studied some drill materials that I had brought along and then took off my glasses to snooze while I had the time.

I must have dozed off as the next thing I knew was private Ralph knocking on my tent pole indicating that the camp was flooding. I invited him in and felt around me and sure enough, outside the perimeter of my groundcloths, there was at least 1/2 inch of water - inside my tent. I looked outside and our company street was literally awash, and just beyond was a coursing small river of rain headed for the nearby lake. This was no simply downpour but enough to actually carry off your gear - later, some from the cav. were literally raking the waters to try to dredge up equipment which had floated off.

At this point, it became simply an exercise of getting the men’s tents and gear moved to higher ground. Some of the men were out of camp and we undertook to make the move for them. Holden was emblematic of the selflessness of the lads as well all pitched to work together to help each other out of the soggy mess we were in. That work concluded the day. Major Burnos called us all together to advise that the event had been called. He momentarily corrected that to advise that the day’s activities had been cancelled. For our boys whose gear was thoroughly soaked, however, the die had been cast and we made the vote to pull out. I saw everyone out of there and then Mr. Staab and I made our way out.

I understood that some stayed. I salute you, but do not regret our decision as we were literally flooded. A number of pictures posted on our page on Facebook tells the tale better than I can.

Pvt. Ralph writes of the experience:

A steady downpour started, and the musicality of the drops hitting the tent made me sleepy... I carefully made sure all my gear was stacked inside, near me in the center. I had rolled up the edges of my poncho and ground cloth to be sure water didn't get into my blankets, then I fell asleep, and was awakened by the feeling of wetness.. looking... See More ... See More to my left, all of my gear was bobbing and tilting in 6 inches of water! Now I feel how wet the blanket is all around me... I grabbed my gun, cartridge box, haversacks and carpet bag of clothes, sloshed my way over to Captain Cox's tent, where he was soundly sleeping, but awoke and let me take cover!

Pvt. Mark Gianelloni relates:

All my equipment soaked to the bone, but amazingly very, very little rust on my musket! Sgt. Shively should be proud of me. I must have done a heck of a deal oiling that sucker down. BTW, I would like to express my EXTREME gratitude to those who took it upon themselves to move our equipment to higher ground while V.J. and I were cowering in the relatively dry safety of Del's tent, blissfully unaware of how bad it was getting down in the camps! Y'all are true pards! There are none finer!

Cpl. Downey adds:
Finally dried out from the Holden Civil War Regatta. It was great to see my pards. Was sorry that Brad and Shawn didn't make the festivities! I have to say that It was the first time that I ever saw a cast iron dutch oven float by the front of my tent! Of course in time around the fire it will become a cast iron stove... and chin deep water! Of such events are legends made!

Although a truncated event, we award the Homie to Pvt. Anspach for forgetting to replace the nipple on his rifle before packing up for the event.

I might add that we were able to catch Col. Amend and Color Sgt. Bell who were on their way in, to advise that there was no need to finish the trip.

Well, we now turn a page, hopefully, on bad weather for the 2010 campaign, but who can predict, and the best bet is to stay prepared, and be sure to pray to the weather gods prior to every event.

YOS,

Brian Cox
Captain, commanding
9th Texas Reg’t of Infantry
1st MO. Battalion

The 9th Texas attended Wichita Cowtown’s “Civil War Sampler” the weekend of April 16-18, 2010. I count the event a success from the standpoint of good attendance, good battles, good camaraderie, and - drum roll, please - near perfect weather (the rain having largely passed before we got in). Cowtown is an 1870’s-style town with authentic buildings and other items and implements of the era which lends itself comfortably to Civil War reenactments and living history. See their website at http://oldcowtown.org/

Present for duty were 1st Brian Shively, 1st Cpl. Randy Downey, 2nd Cpl. Bob Albert, and privates Anspach, Gianalonie (Mark), Gianalonie (VJ), Hainstock, Poitevin, and Ralph, and your humble correspondent as Captain. We also welcomed new recruit Tate Bartlett from near Dodge City into our ranks, and he saw the Elephant at this event. In addition, Chris Hayhurst, son of 9th veteran Rob Hayhurst, also joined us for the fight; he plans to fall in with us more in future campaigns and he will undoubtedly be the same quality soldier as his father. Rob was there as well and I invited him into the fight but he declined (more fun to watch his son in the fight, perhaps). I count as a special treat that Carl Rader, former Lieutenant of the 9th, also joined us for the Saturday fight. Battalion Color Sgt. Shawn Bell, Dave Jepson of the 10th MO. and Lt. Jim Bearden of the 1st MO. also joined us for the weekend. Wayne Turner, former 1st Sgt. of the 9th, stopped by for a chat, and Tim Johnson, also a 9th man from back in the day, who, unfortunately, has gone over to the dark (Blue) side, also stopped by for a chat.

Our brothers from the 2nd Kansas from SE Kansas under the capable leadership of Capt. Greg Traxson were also present and fell in with the 9th both days for drill and battles. Elliott’s Scouts under Capt. Sam Stanton also lent their considerable firepower to the reb cause for the weekend. Good impressions, all.

Our opposition was Capt. Jon Goering’s game lads from the 8th Kansas who fielded, say, 15 rifles for the weekend. A nicely trained lot. McClain’s Battery, a veteran crew, also lent the power of a single cannon.

I give the event high marks. It was a convenient distance for most of the 9th, and indeed, given that the 9th is largely Kansas-based, it was a chance to do our thing in Kansas, there were ready made “props,” the staff that we dealt with were cheerful and helpful (including most notably Sheri Gaskins and Greg Hunt), parking was very close, as was water and clean porcelain. Firewood was never an issue. And Del Warren set up a tent for all of our shopping needs (of note, some new overshirts were bought). On the other hand, my complaints are few. No raw rations were issued nor were we offered a breakfast or Saturday night meal. And, the event staff refused to open the parking lot gates until 4:30 pm on Sunday, about an hour and 1/2 after the event was over and while we were waiting to go home. And, rather than a stand up fight, we essentially did Missouri irregulars resisting regular federal infantry enforcing an Order No. 11 (a scenario which maybe didn’t happen at all, but that has never stopped us). Small gripes on balance.

Friday night, per usual, the guys made their way in and we set up our camp, and made our fire. Winds apparently did not make it above 15 mph which was said to be the point at which a fire ban would be put into effect, and as such, we had a good fire all weekend long. Mr. Bearden joined Mr. Ralph and your humble correspondent for dinner out on the town, and we ended up at a microbrewery in Wichita’s Oldtown. The night was fairly uneventful, and there was no mischief, except our by now usual game of cards at the 9th’s fire, at which I took a considerable beating.

Morning dawned after my usually restless night of sleep. The men were nosily preparing breakfast outside my tent, so I decided it was time to get up. We had our breakfast and then drilled a little with the lads from the 2nd Kansas. Later, I gave a short speech to stir up some emotions for the event. A copy of the text of Order No. 11 is included at the end of this AAR.

I give kudos to the event Staff for arranging some other activities during the days, including a very capable Robert E. Lee impression by Norman Joy from Hutchinson. I caught his act and think that he did a wonderful job giving the audience a taste of what was running through Lee’s mind on the fateful night of July 2, 1863. He then stood for questions in first person. I could not resist asking him, with great respect, whatever possessed him to send those men over a mile of open ground against the center of the federal line held by determined foes who had been there for two days, and some under cover of a stone wall. He did a very good job of answering that question. Gen. Grant was also in attendance but I did not catch his act. I am left wondering why we didn’t have our own Tom Leahy make an appearance as Abraham Lincoln as he did at Cowtown 2009.

The 1st Missouri Battalion Color Sgt. Shawn Bell turned in a good performance as “Dr. Cravinsky,” an expert on the sartorial side of the Civil War reenactor with special emphasis on cravats - hence the name. Mr. Bell was ably assisted by Mr. Jepsen of the 10th Mo., no slouch in the fashion department.

Doug McGovern of Vintage Visuals also snapped a number of photos which can be found on his website, and one excellent group shot is posted here and on our Facebook page.

The afternoon battle was scripted that morning by a quick consult with Capt. Goering of the 8th Kansas, and consideration was given, I assume, to what the organizers wanted. Prior to the battle, I called out Mr. Downey and 1st Sgt. Shively for a few words to the assembled men on firearm safety, a particular concern given that none of us would be formed in typical two rank formation, we had some new men, and we had many pistols.

As noted, the scenario was Order No. 11 of which, faithful reader, I am sure that you are by now well advised. The Yanks advanced from the farm and barn driving refugees before them, including many of the spectators who must have thought that they only came to watch. The rebs, as Missouri irregulars, were waiting in town. As the federals advanced and attempted to take our flag planted in the street, a furious firefight developed. We had the numbers, but they the discipline and a canon, and so we melted away and that was the fight. A cute little pre-teen federal solider, fully uniformed, scoped out the town prior to the 8th’s entry each day.

After the Saturday battle, Mr. Rader presented us a shell jacket for the 9th Uniform Bank, and also $200 cash money left over from the old days. We will put that cash to good use, and the shell is the first item going into the Bank.

In addition, a reporter from the Wichita Eagle also dropped by and spoke to Messrs. Hainstock and Downey, and your humble correspondent, and an article with quotes ran the next day. Faithful reader, you can find that article, and some reader comments, at http://www.kansas.com/2010/04/17/1273548/re-enactors-bring-civil-war-history.html. But no pictures.

Saturday night was upon us and several of us went into Wichita searching for beef, and found it at Player’s. Your humble correspondent posed a toast to all his pards who attended the event, and we stuffed ourselves. We returned to camp to find the poker game in full play in the saloon. I joined Col. Amend, and Messrs. Albert, Ralph, and Bartlett for some cards, 9th Texas style. My luck improved measurably from the previous night.

No mischief through the night. I note that, upon the morning, I noticed a strange orange, rounded tent had mushroomed in the federal camp.

We got our breakfast and had more drill, joined again by our brothers in the 2nd. At one point, we pulled up in a battle line behind the Yanks who had formed up sans arms. I quietly told the men I was about to give an order which I wanted them to disregard. I then turned and loudly gave the command to “Load!” A few surprised blue faces turned our way to see what were we doing!

The Sunday battle scenario had the same general theme, but this time, we secreted Elliott’s Scouts in a position to fall in flank and rear as the federals came into town to take the flag. That ploy worked perfectly as the Yanks had no chance and were massacred where they stood. Those surrendering, and the wounded were shot down a la Centralia. The Civil War in the Kansas/Missouri theatre was a merciless affair and that was what we attempted to recreate.

We were somewhat erratic in awarding Homie in 2009, however, we carefully sifted the potential Cowtown candidates and the award was made to Col. Amend who came into camp Saturday afternoon late and presented a too-inviting target to not get a roll in the dirt in his spotless jean wool, compliments of Messrs. Albert and Shively.

Permit me to note that Mr. Piotevn is progressing well on his impression, purchasing a new battleshirt and also a bright red cravat. VJ Gianalonie also joined us for the fighting with a rifle and I hope he enjoyed the experience.

As noted, Wayne Turner, former 1st Sgt. of the 9th, and a colorful character, also dropped by in civilian attire, caught up with the lads, and watched the Sunday battle. He also brought a whole carload of gear and clothing he is interested in selling. Some deals were struck, and he will have a listing of items still for sale which I will get out to all of the 9th by one means or another.

There is an excellent, if too short, video of the event done by one of the Cowtown staff, Greg Hunt, and you can find it at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9098WSj13iI

Of note -- the event staff has suggested approximately the same weekend for Cowtown 2011, billed as an “immersion” event, although I do not know if that is for the general public or the reenactors.

I have also included at the tail end of this AAR a short note from Sheri Gaskins, volunteer coordinator for Cowtown, who did a wonderful job and tenders her thanks to us for participating.

YOS,

Brian Cox
Captain, Commanding
9th Texas Reg’t of Infantry
1st Mo. Battalion

_________

General Order № 11.
Headquarters District of the Border, Kansas City, August 25, 1863.
1. All persons living in Jackson, Cass, and Bates counties, Missouri, and in that part of Vernon included in this district, except those living within one mile of the limits of Independence, Hickman's Mills, Pleasant Hill, and Harrisonville, and except those in that part of Kaw Township, Jackson County, north of Brush Creek and west of Big Blue, are hereby ordered to remove from their present places of residence within fifteen days from the date hereof.

Those who within that time establish their loyalty to the satisfaction of the commanding officer of the military station near their present place of residence will receive from him a certificate stating the fact of their loyalty, and the names of the witnesses by whom it can be shown. All who receive such certificates will be permitted to remove to any military station in this district, or to any part of the State of Kansas, except the counties of the eastern border of the State. All others shall remove out of the district. Officers commanding companies and detachments serving in the counties named will see that this paragraph is promptly obeyed.

2. All grain and hay in the field or under shelter, in the district from which inhabitants are required to remove, within reach of military stations after the 9th day of September next, will be taken to such stations and turned over to the proper officers there and report of the amount so turned over made to district headquarters, specifying the names of all loyal owners and amount of such product taken from them. All grain and hay found in such district after the 9th day of September next, not convenient to such stations, will be destroyed.

3. The provisions of General Order No. 10 from these headquarters will be at once vigorously executed by officers commanding in the parts of the district and at the station not subject to the operations of paragraph 1 of this order, and especially the towns of Independence, Westport and Kansas City.

4. Paragraph 3, General Order No. 10 is revoked as to all who have borne arms against the Government in the district since the 20th day of August, 1863.
By order of Brigadier General Ewing. H. Hannahs, Adjt.-Gen'l.
_________
Hello,
Thank you all for the amazing event that we had here at Cowtown! You were all so wonderful, and we have had nothing but good response to the weekend.
One of our regular volunteers was out there taking photographs of the weekend, and will have them up on his website for viewing and downloading, by May 1st. We know it isn’t much, by way of thanks, but it is just a little sign of our immense gratitude. We hope that you will all be back next year, when we are looking a t larger, immersion event.
Greg Hunt, my co-coordinator (or is that conspirator) for the event, was able to put some video together of the weekend, and it is on YouTube. If you look for Whacksmith (his YouTube name) and type in CivilWar Nation, you should find it.
If you did not see the CNN piece, it is in the video section of the CNN website under Oz Winery.
Thank you again for all that you did to help us make the weekend such a resounding success. By the way, we had a total of 703 visitors, up over 200 from last year’s Civil War event.
Take Care, come back and see us again.
Sheri
PS: We appreciated you waiting to bring cars onto the grounds until we were closed. We know it was hard to do, but we want the visitors to have as much of the “real thing” as possible.

The 9th Texas held its annual planning meeting Feb. 20, 2010, at the Museum of the National Guard in Topeka. I count it a successful effort as nine (9) men plus one new recruit made the trip on a cold, snowy afternoon...... ( READ ON AT CAPTAINS CORNER)

2010 Campaign opens with Spring Muster!

Guys, here is the first chance to knock of the rust and see the rest of your pards. The 1st Mo. Battalion Muster will be held the weekend of March 19-21, 2010, at the Nathan Boone state park just North of Springfield MO. Although Col. Amend has promised drill, drill, drill, you can bet there will be some fun as well, especially because the 9th will be in attendance. Please contact me and let me know that you can attend, and whether I can assist on transportation or otherwise.

Your obedient servant,
Brian Cox
Captain, commanding
9th Texas Reg't of Infantry
1st MO. Battalion

Men, it is the time of year to again hold out the hat for contributions to keep our tremendous website at ninthtexas.com up and running. As you know, this doesn't come for free. At $15 per man for the year, this is quite a deal. I urge every man to support the 9th by prompt payment to either me or Mr. Ralph or at the regimental meeting in February. I have sent the check, and it was much appreciated!

(Thanks to all who have supported the site with your funds! Jamie)

Brian Cox
Captain, commanding
9th Texas Reg't of Infantry
1st Missouri Battalion

the annual 9th Texas Regimental Meeting will be held this year on Saturday, February 20, 2010, at the Museum of the National Guard, Forbes Field, Topeka, commencing at 11 am. The address is 6700 Topeka Blvd. and it is just off the main entrance to Forbes Field. We will take a collection for pizza or other catered items for the meal.

In addition to any other items brought for discussion, the following are on my list:

2010 campaign
Sources of powder, caps
Federal “alter ego” unit
Rules of conduct on the field
Recruitment
Discussion of and collection of dues for ninthtexas.com
Rank structure

In addition, we will or may have some gear up for sale or trade. I have been in contact with Lang Perdue who still has an amount of gear and CW books up for sale.

As always, please bring your photo albums.

I encourage all members of the 9th Texas, including all non-coms, to attend, and suggest that we use the meeting as a chance catch up with our pards and to spark excitement in the 2010 campaign. Door prizes will be awarded.

Yours most respectfully,

Brian Cox

3/24/2009
Near Edna, Kansas on into Indian Territory
After Action Report

Early on a Saturday morning, a party consisting of myself and Pvt. Keidel took off in the rain to meet with Shawn Bell and four stalwarts from the Eighth Kansas. Our objective was Hayrick Mound Ranch, about six miles South of Edna, Kansas and right across the state line into Indian Territory.

Abe Lincoln (Tom Leahy) celebrates Kansas’ birthday with Gov. Sebelius, addresses Kansas Legislature

Our own Pvt. Tom Lahey reprised his role as Abraham Lincoln at Kansas Day activities in Topeka at the Museum of History this past Thursday (January 29). T

Battalion meeting set for Saturday, February 5, 2011, at 11 am, in Pierce City MO. I will attend in behalf of the 9th, but please advise of any comments of concerns in behalf of the rank and file. If anyone wishes to attend as well, please coordinate with me.

Battalion meeting set for Saturday, February 5, 2011, at 11 am, in Pierce City MO.

I will attend in behalf of the 9th, but please advise of any comments of concerns in behalf of the rank and file. If anyone wishes to attend as well, please coordinate with me.