NEWS FROM THE CAMP
June 2007 Issue
http://www.bencaudill.com
Ben E. Caudill
Camp #1629
Box 1102
Whitesburg, KY 41858
The Last Salute
An empty chair now and forevermore shall sit at our table in remembrance of those that have gone before.
Mark Barger, Cecil Brown, Harold Cantrell, Greg Caudill, Vernon Cooper, Atlas Hall, James Hamilton, Johnny C. Osborne, Jake Smith, Henry Webb, Michael Wright
The General’s Dispatch
Let us call this the month of dedications and memorial services, as we have honored those of yesteryear with fifty moving ceremonies. Not only did we do well at the Confederate Dedication but was honored by being asked via the Veterans of Foreign Wars to offer a memorial service at the West Wood/Sandlick Cemetery on Memorial Day. This we have done with over fifty participants firing a military salute and three artillery pieces! Richard Brown has written an After Action Report that is on line and he has also offered comments in this month’s edition of our paper.
The KY Division Reunion held in Paducah was a resounding success and has rekindled the resolve to complete several projects. The Vicksburg Monument is well on its way to being completed by the November goal of dedicating it. One hundred years to the date of the proposed dedication, the first monument was unveiled. This Kentucky Monument will be the last placed at Vicksburg, so we must consider it a maximum effort to attend and assist in any manner. This is another ONCE in a lifetime opportunity. The License Plates Project is steaming along and soon we will be ready for prepaid deposits to the First Southern National Bank in Richmond, KY. The Flags Across Kentucky (Our camp has the honor of setting the 1st at Pound Gap) is under way and money is being raised to purchase a piece of property on I65 and later I75 for the colors to wave at the travelers. Ms. Hitt has donated a beautify picture of the CSS Cairo and we ask that each member sells ten tickets towards that endeavor. Les Williamson was nominated as Cumberland Brigade Commander. Notes regarding the reunion are listed on our web, under the Journal. At Morgan’s Raid on Georgetown, a Division Meeting was held with 30+ members present. Items discussed included the license plates update, flag locations, and other topics. Cumberland Brigade led the way, as our own Les Williamson conducted the meeting.
The National Reunion is quickly approaching and we need to register those planning to attend. To date David Chaltas is going to represent the camp’s interest and vote on its behalf. Richard Brown, Ben Caudill Camp Adjutant, will fill out the necessary papers required by that Reunion. The Reunion is being held in Mobile, Alabama. The proposed amendments are attached for your perusal, review, and revision suggestions.
The School of the Soldier is in its 3rd week at Wise, VA. We had ten+ new participates to date. See Danny Wright for details. The MOST exciting news of the month is from Richard Brown’s research that has been added to Appalachian Rebels. It involved our ancestors’ visit to Stonewall’s Gravesite, The Hot Springs, Natural Bridge and (get this) two fights with Custer that we won! With sacred principles to maintain, I remain your obedient servant. Old Gen Laus Deo
Upcoming Events: June 21-23, 2007-Keynote Speaker at the Indiana Camp (Steve Ritchie) and presenting at the Indiana Civil War Summer Camp the following day. Location: New Castle, Indiana's Best Western-Raintree Inn) Huddleston House (Cambridge City, Indiana) June 29-July 1, 2007-City of Crab Orchard, KY; Contact Cheri Kuhn (threemonkiees@hotmail.com) July 3-4, 2007-Living History/Parade and Skirmish at Mills Park, Gatlinburg, Tennessee; No registration fee (limited to 150 reenactors). The Living History Program will be all day until 2 on the 3rd. The Parade starts at Midnight (1st 4th of July Parade in US!). Skirmish of Gatlinburg (enacts the skirmish between Colonel Thomas’s Legion and Federals Colonel Palmer.) Huge crowd expected. Contact: jerryrparsons@hotmail.com July 6-8, 2007-The Capture of Gladesville and Cranes Nest; Wise, Virginia. There will be battling in the streets, courthouse and the recreation of the capture of Colonel Ben Caudill and 120 of his men. Sunday will witness the Battle of Cranes Nest. MAXIMUM EFFORT! Contact: Ronda Robertson at spamsick2004@yahoo.com July 28-30. 2007-Battle of Cynthiana, KY Cavalry Brigade Sponsored Event; August 5, 2007-Confederate Monument Dedication for Pvt. William DeBord, 63rd VA Infantry Co.K This will be at the 50th Jones/DeBord Family Reunion, held in Rowan County KY. Food for all. Dedication will be at 2:00pm at the Franklin Cemetery, a short drive from the Reunion site. The road to the Cemetery is gravel, but is steep. There will be plenty of room for parking and for the service. Please contact Darrell Crawford at va63rd@yahoo.com In need of Volunteers for the Service. August 8-11, 2007-NIBROC Festival, Corbin, KY August 17-19, 2007-Battle of Saltville, Saltville, VA. Contact Captain Hunt at terryhunt05@comcast.net MAXIMUM EFFORT!
The Adjutant’s Desk
The Colonel Ben E. Caudill Camp No. 1629 has seventy-seven members at the present time. The camp has one application for membership that will be voted on at this meeting. The person requesting permission to join the camp is Wesley Callahan in honor of his ggg grandfather, Russell Hacker Combs of Caudill’s Army. A member of another SCV camp, Joe Trosper, has filed papers asking to be transferred to our camp.
The dedication of the Sandlick Cemetery monument and the graves of the Confederate soldiers buried there went very good on Memorial Day. A large crowd was on hand to watch almost fifty men and women in period clothing do a presentation honoring all military personnel buried in the cemetery. The original plan was for a dedication for the soldiers that had died in the Confederate hospital located at the mouth of Sandlick Creek. However, at the request of the VFW, the dedication grew into a memorial service for all military personnel but retained its Confederate theme. The VFW noted that soldiers from all wars and time periods of American history are buried in the cemetery and that an event as big as the one that the Caudill Camp was presenting could help them honor all soldiers. They also provided a large, beautiful wreath to stand beside the monument erected by the Caudill Camp. The Letcher County Military Museum came to the rescue when Ronnie Robbins had to cancel playing Taps for the dedication due to a soldier’s death in Virginia. Ben Taylor and the museum allowed us to use their brand new electronic bugle. Camp member, Wendell Brown, played the mournful tune in which everyone assumed he actually played it. Wayne Watts and the Letcher County Central High School Jr. ROTC provided the flag corps. State Representative Leslie Combs and Letcher County Judge Jim Ward both made speeches commending the Caudill Camp on the endeavors to honor their ancestors. At least two County Magistrates were in attendance, Archie Banks and Bobby Lewis. The ladies with the OCR presented a beautiful wreath and helped educate the crowd. Two very talented ladies, one a Kentuckian and the other a Virginian, performed period music. It was noted by Faron Sparkman that one of the Known tombstones set was the 900th tombstone set by the Caudill Camp, quite an accomplishment. A long line of Confederate re-enactors and two cannon (the Caudill Camp artillery company and Wayne Whitaker’s cannon) fired volleys honoring all veterans buried in the cemetery. When the event was over, the crowd stayed long enough to thank the Camp for a job well done. I am very proud of the Camp for working together on the project and making it a great success. Note: On Memorial Day, Ben Taylor and James Duncan from the museum rode their Willys Jeep around town with a huge, First National Flag flying from it.
The Camp was well represented at the Battle of Jonesville re-enactment that took place on the weekend of June 2nd and 3rd at Jonesville, Lee County, Virginia. It was one of the best re-enactments that I have attended in a long time. I would encourage everyone to attend the event next year. Also, the re-enactments at Elkhorn City on May 26th and 27th and at Georgetown on June 16th and 17th had representation from the Caudill Camp. The upcoming re-enactment of the Battle of Gladeville and Cranesnest will be held on July 7th and 8th at Wise, Virginia. The Camp is helping sponsor the event and encourages all members to attend or participate. The city of Wise is being very supportive of the event. The 5th Kentucky Infantry, Company F, re-enacting group of which is composed of Camp members, is conducting several School of the Soldier in Wise County before the event. If anyone is interested in attending, please see Tabby Back or Danny Wright.
The Camp’s Financial Report is as follows: As of June 18, 2007, the Colonel Ben E. Caudill Camp No. 1629 had approximately $1,358.55 in its checking account. This included the Litter Abatement check given by the Letcher County Fiscal Court, which was deposited on May 31st, 2007. I believe there is one outstanding check not cashed yet. Honoring the Memory of our Ancestors, I remain your Adjutant Brown
Chaplain’s Comments
Welcome Everyone! Today is the First day of summer and it has been hot and dry. Looks like it’s going to be a long hot summer. It’s hard for me to do anything outside when it’s this hot but think about our ancestors. How did they fair? I am sure it was hard to find any cool place (maybe down by the creek, a cave, or under a cliff). Regardless, the war went on hot or cold. It didn't stop the long march just like to Saltville VA or the Frozen Fight of Jonesville. They seem close today (about a 2 hour drive) but back then it took over a week! We are so bless today and sometimes we forget, but we need to stop and thank God for all that He does for us. Pray for Dixie. Chaplain Tabby Back
Prayer Line
Let us remember the family of John Peck. Pray for Colonel Ray Adkins, as he undergoes surgery in the near future for a growth that is non cancerous. Continue praying for Bill Nordan (General John H. Morgan). He is doing well and performed brilliantly at Georgetown this past weekend. Pray for our beloved Cliff Howard (President Davis). Remember to pray for Gary Holdin, Puddin and others that give of their time as living historians. Let us remember Captain Terry Hunt, as his family mourns the loss of loved ones. Pray for the lady from Saltville that asked me to remember her, as she is going through a rough time with cancer. Pray for all the infirmed, those alone and needing the touch of the Master’s hand, as well as our troops that guard freedom’s door. Chaplains of the Confederacy
Sayings of the South
“Oh, the beautiful sunny South," the home of my birth, my childhood and of my womanhood, could I leave thee, could I claim another home? Ah, no ... I love her as a fond mother. I couldn't survive in a colder, less genial clime." Ada Bacot, a S. C. widow, found in her diary; dated 1861.
Nathan Bedford Forrest’s Speech to the Pole Bearers Association on July 5, 1875.
A convention and BBQ was held by the Independent Order of Pole-Bearers Association at the fairgrounds of Memphis, five miles east of the city. An invitation to speak was conveyed to General Nathan Bedford Forrest, one of the city's most prominent citizens, and one of the foremost cavalry commanders in the late War Between the States. This was the first invitation granted to a white man to speak at this gathering. The invitation's purpose, one of the leaders said, was to extend peace, joy, and union, and following a brief welcoming address a Miss Lou Lewis, daughter of an officer of the Pole-Bearers, brought forward flowers and assurances that she conveyed them as a token of good will. After Miss Lewis handed him the flowers, General Forrest responded with a short speech that, in the contemporary pages of the Memphis Appeal, evinces Forrest's racial open-mindedness that seemed to have been growing in him.
“Ladies and Gentlemen I accept the flowers as a memento of reconciliation between the white and colored races of the southern states. I accept it more particularly as it comes from a colored lady, for if there is any one on God's earth who loves the ladies I believe it is myself. ( Immense applause and laughter.) I came here with the jeers of some white people, who think that I am doing wrong. I believe I can exert some influence, and do much to assist the people in strengthening fraternal relations, and shall do all in my power to elevate every man to depress none. (Applause.) I want to elevate you to take positions in law offices, in stores, on farms, and wherever you are capable of going. I have not said anything about politics today. I don't propose to say anything about politics. You have a right to elect whom you please; vote for the man you think best, and I think, when that is done, you and I are freemen. Do as you consider right and honest in electing men for office. I did not come here to make you a long speech, although invited to do so by you. I am not much of a speaker, and my business prevented me from preparing myself. I came to meet you as friends, and welcome you to the white people. I want you to come nearer to us. When I can serve you I will do so. We have but one flag, one country; let us stand together. We may differ in color, but not in sentiment Many things have been said about me which are wrong, and which white and black persons here, who stood by me through the war, can contradict. Go to work, be industrious, live honestly and act truly, and when you are oppressed I'll come to your relief. I thank you, ladies and gentlemen, for this opportunity you have afforded me to be with you, and to assure you that I am with you in heart and in hand. (Prolonged applause.)” Whereupon N. B. Forrest again thanked Miss Lewis for the bouquet and then gave her a kiss on the cheek. Such a kiss was unheard of in the society of those days, in 1875, but it showed a token of respect and friendship between the general and the black community and did much to promote harmony among the citizens of Memphis. You shall know the TRUTH and the TRUTH will set you free.
Welcome Compatriots
Wesley Callahan-Fusonia, Kentucky
Reverend Doctor Bill Mackie-Edinburgh, Scotland
Trivia Questions
What dashing cavalry officer led the band called the “Iron Brigade of the West”?
Who did General Robert E. Lee refer to as the “eyes of the army”?
What Confederate general was considered the “Savior of the Valley”?
What did “playing old soldier” mean?
What bloody battle is sometimes called the “High Tide of the Confederacy”?
What general’s horse is stuffed and displayed at the Virginia Military Institute and what is his name?
What Kentucky general was riding the beautiful bay horse named “Fire-Eater” when he was mortally wounded at Shiloh?
What very southern name was given to General Patrick Cleburne’s steed?
Who was originally supposed to own Stonewall Jackson’s horse, Little Sorrel?
10. What was Traveler’s original (and very political) name?
Bluegrass Confederate,
Guerrant’s Diary-
East Tennessee Campaign-Saturday, October 10th, 1863
Near Jonesboro, Tennessee
Since yesterday morning our men and horses have gone without food or rest-night and day and fought four times. Nightfall caught us nearly to Jonesboro. Thus ended the longest day I ever experienced. I prayed for night to come and close its tearful drama. And all of this resulted from the want of discipline among a part of the 16th Georgia and 1st Tennessee; men naturally courageous, but habitually cowardly. Giltner’s men with Witcher’s, Chenoweth’s (Caudill’s Army), and Trimble’s men stood to their places steady, and amid the hail storm of death, were unmoved as veterans. The loss of the enemy must have been severe, as our men fired deliberately and sometimes at 50 paces. We learned from a prisoner that they lost 60 this morning at Henderson’s Mill. They must have lost more both at Rheatown and Pugh’s Hill. So without food or rest, we have marched 35 miles and fought four times since yesterday morning. I never was as neared exhausted. In endeavoring to rally the men, I hallooed until I almost lost my voice.
Answers to Trivia Questions
Jo Shelby.
Cavalry General J.E.B. Stuart, famous as a scout.
Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson whose many victories in the Shenandoah Valley endeared him to the people.
Faking sickness at sick call.
The Battle of Gettysburg.
General Stonewall Jackson’s horse, Little Sorrel.
General Albert S. Johnston. Fire-Eater was a term used to describe zealous Southern secessionists.
Dixie, who was killed in action at Perryville.
Little Sorrel was suppose to be a gift to his wife, Anna, but Jackson took such a liking to the 11 year old horse that he kept it for himself.
Jeff Davis, in honor of the Confederacy’s president.
900 Stones Set with 287 Dedications!!
Minutes
May 17, 2007
The monthly meeting of the Colonel Ben E. Caudill Camp No. 1629 of the SCV was held on May 17, 2007, at the Letcher County Vocational School. Members in attendance were: Danny Taylor, Willis Strong, Manton Ray Cornett, Tabby Back, Garland Kiser, Richard Brown, Wayne Watts, Danny Wright, John P. Back, David Chaltas, Okie Blair and Timothy Blair.
Sergeant at Arms Wayne Watts called the meeting to order. David Chaltas led the Pledge of Allegiance. Tim Blair led the Salute to the Confederate Flag. Tabby opened the meeting with prayer and read some scriptures, talking about truth and honor. He then asked for prayer request. Lt. Commander John P. Back conducted the prayer. Commander Chaltas recommended that the camp do a candle remembrance of our ancestors. The Ancestor Roll Call was performed. Adjutant Richard Brown announced that a quorum was present and that the camp could conduct business. Richard Brown read the previous minutes. John Back made a motion to accept the minutes, Wayne Watts seconded, motion passed. David Chaltas gave the Commander’s Report, stating that South Carolina SCV had paid for a flagpole to go at the Pound Gap Monument and that Tennessee has shown interest in doing the same. South Carolina’s flagpole has been ordered and payment sent. The Commander also read off the list of upcoming re-enactments and events. A vote was taken on accepting Wallace Kincer as the camp’s newest member. John Back made the motion, Danny Taylor seconded: vote passed. Wallace is the gg-grandson of David Kincer of Caudill’s Army. Richard gave the Adjutant Report and Financial Report. Commander Chaltas and Wayne Watts presented the agenda for the dedication scheduled for Memorial Day, May 28, at the Sandlick Cemetery. Wayne will supply five flagpoles for the flag presentation by the Letcher County Junior ROTC. Ronnie Robbins will be coming from Clintwood to perform Taps. The brochures for the dedication have been made and will be handed out by the ladies of the OCR. Commander Chaltas will provide an easel to place a placard telling of the camp’s fallen members. The easel will be set by the monument. There will be a working at the monument on Saturday, May 19, at 9:00 A.M. to cut the large, dead pine tree and haul it off. Also will set the remainder of the Unknown Tombstones, two more Known stones and the statue of the Confederate soldier. Richard, Wayne and others will supply water to be placed in coolers for the dedication, as it will probably be hot. Wayne Watts and Kenny Cantrell can be contacted for more information. Wayne will supply a tent and David Brown will supply tables. Danny Wright will check on having extension cord for the podium. Lt. Commander Back gave a report on the Little Leatherwood Re-enactment Committee. The camp watched a film on black confederates entitled “Black Confederates” and voiced their approval of the film. John P. Back closed with a word of prayer. The next meeting will be held June 21 at the Letcher County Vocational School.
Executive Council Meeting
Conducted via Internet
Richard Brown, David Chaltas & John P. Back
June 19, 2007
Agenda
Dedications
Membership
Pound Gap Project Progress
State Reunion Review and National to be held in July
Colors across KY
Presentation: The Custer Caudill Connection: Richard Brown
Agenda
June 19, 2007
Call Business meeting to order-Sgt. At Arms Watts
Prayer-Chaplain
Pledges
Scripture Reading-Chaplain Tabby Back
Ancestral Roll Call-All members
Welcome-Recognition of new SCV & Associate Members
(HAND OUT: Membership Applications)
State if there is a Quorum present
Reading/Approval of Minutes-camp member
Read Commander’s Comments
Lt. Commander’s comments
New Business
National Reunion held in Mobile, Alabama-approval of registration payment
Vote on New Members: Wesley Callahan-Fusonia, Kentucky
Reverend Doctor Bill Mackie-Edinburgh, Scotland-Associate Member and Honorary Membership
Form a Public Relations Committee
Dedication: EVENT Calendar
Open Floor
Events Committee-Report on Status of 2007 events
Dedication of Whitesburg Cemetery Monument- Setting 4x16 markers to the Unknown soldiers
School of the Soldier; Wise, VA. 6:30 at Addington Elementary by Courthouse
Confederate Kin-ISBN=$150.00----Confederate Kin II has over 200 pages to date!
Trash Pickup at Pound Gap-set date
PRESENTATION: Richard Brown and Custer!
Trivia-Richard Brown
Adjourn by Prayer