The Newsletter of The Washington Artillery of New Orleans Reenactors.

2008 SEASON IS ON A ROLL

We are off to a “bang”! Participation has been strong at our events. Lets keep it going ! Just remember to sign up ahead of time. We have some exciting events coming up in the summer ! Lets all stay safe and cool once the heat kicks up.

GHP SPEAKS:
The General Orders are attached at the end of this issue and can be accessed by clicking here. Please take a minute to refresh your memory, or read them if you have not yet done so !

There has been some confusion as to what the unit is providing for the members. Water will be provided for emergency purposes, however, other drinks such as gatorade are not the club’s responsibility to provide. 

Its also important that you let Roseanne know directly if you plan to eat, and how many are in your group. This helps with the planning of the meals, and will ensure that you will be able to partake. If you don’t sign up for meals ahead of time, at least one week prior to the event, no later than 3 days before, there is no guarantee you will be able to eat !

Click here for some pictures provided by Janet DeNubilo showing the mounting of the new carriage.

Paul

AFTER THE ACTION REPORTS:

Mooney Grove
Visalia, CA, March 1 - 2, 2008
Towards the end of February, we were ordered to the town of Visalia to support elements of the infantry in an effort to stop the Federals from reaching their goal of securing the California gold fields to continue to finance their continued incursion into our fair country.

We arrived during the evening of February 29, went into park and met up with our infantry. Saturday morning dawned bright and clear as we prepared battle lines to stop the Union . Upon receiving word from our pickets of the Federals advance, we opened up with a constant cannonade that forced the enemy to ground as our troops moved into to engage. As the battle was joined, our numbers seemed to be fairly evenly matched, with no side being able to gain the advantage. Late in the battle, the superior tactics of the infantry commanders began to show the hoped for results. With each infantry push, the Federals fell back further, losing more ground. All the while, we kept up steady artillery fire, at one point stopping the enemy advance cold. The artillery duel was constant and, at times fierce. After a seemingly immeasurable time, those enemy forces not killed or captured were forced from the field and, for the moment, the field was ours. 

Our rest from the morning’s battle was short lived as the Union forces almost immediately received reinforcements and came at us again, just a few hours later. Again opening up with the full might of our battery, we fired continually in support of the infantry as they made a valiant effort to push the enemy from the field. As we saw our boys taking the worst of it from the fresh Federal troops, we fired unceasingly, trying to take out the enemy artillery and force their troops back.
With the Federals closing in, and us lacking infantry support, we found ourselves under close attack by a Union flanking motion. It succeeded in capturing fully half the Confederate battery. As the Union advanced on what remained of our gun line, the order was given to spike the guns and flee so that we could regroup and fight another day. It is my unfortunate duty to report the loss of several valiant members of our unit who chose to stay and fight, giving the rest of the unit a chance to escape.

A most restive night was spent as we reflected on the evil turn of events and awaited the arrival of much needed reinforcements and resupply. As Sunday dawned, we saw the arrival of the much needed fresh troops. After repairing those pieces we could, the Confederate battery opened up on an unsuspecting Union camp, with the enemy lazing about in camp.

Our opening cannonade succeeded in blowing up a portion of their camp and driving them back in total confusion, they thought they has us whipped from the events of the proceeding day. Maybe now they will learn to appreciate how committed we are to our cause.
The Federals quickly committed the bulk of their troops, but we were ready for them and very desirous of avenging those men lost the day before. Throughout the fighting that morning, we kept up a constant rain of shot and shell, forcing the enemy troops to continually regroup and taking out more than one of their artillery pieces. Once again, as in the previous morning, we were able to regain all that we lost the day before and sustain no losses to our own battery.

Determined not to be denied the riches of the gold fields, the Federals again went on the attack just a few hours later. The Federals seemed to gain a second wind during the days brief respite from battle and attacked with renewed vigor, pushing our boys further and further back, capturing many of them. Again we faced an onslaught of Federal troops with no infantry for support. Several of our unit fought a valiant regard defense, allowing our guns, and most of our unit to be withdrawn from the field. Those we made that sacrifice will not be soon forgotten.

Respectfully submitted,
1st Sgt. Michael Collins
1st Co. B.W.A

St. Catherine's Military Academy
Anahime, CA, March 19 - 20, 2008
The day dawned beautifully, making what was to occur this day inconceivable. Reports of a Union incursion reached headquarters and we were sent out to man our guns. We opened with a sustained artillery barrage in support of our skirmishers allowing our troops to take the field.   
With the obvious determination of our foe, it was apparent this would be a hard fought battle. Our valiant infantry was out numbered but fought with a dedication that the enemy had never seen and could never hope to match. That not withstanding, sheer weight of numbers possessed by the enemy made it obvious that only a miracle would save us that morning. That miracle came in the form of cadets from the Virginia Military Institute. These brave boys, for boys they were, had marched the 80 miles from their school in just 4 days. As things looked bleakest for us, these boys threw themselves into the fray and succeeded in tipping the scales in our favor, capturing several pieces of Union artillery and many of the enemy troops. The bravery and determination of these lads cost them dearly with a total of 5 of these brave lads making the ultimate sacrifice for the cause and many suffering grievous wounds.

Our euphoria at snatching victory on the field was short lived however. That afternoon, after receiving apparent reinforcements, the enemy again attacked. We kept up a constant cannonade, regardless of our rapidly diminishing ammunition stores, in support of our troops. Many times that afternoon our boys would push the Federals back into their own artillery positions, each time, though, the troops would reach the fence line closest to the enemy position, withering cannon fire from the enemy would decimate their numbers, forcing them to retreat. As things went from bad to worse for our men, the decision to withdraw from the field in order to regroup and resupply.

Receiving much needed reinforcements during the night, we attacked again in an attempt to retake the ground lost the previous day and recover as much of our equipment and free as many of our comrades as possible.

Opening with a sustained artillery barrage, we were able to soften the Federal’s position and send them scurrying for cover. With well placed shot and shell, we continued to keep the enemy off balance as our boys fought a see-saw battle with the enemy. Each time they advanced, they were able to gain more ground than they lost with the enemy advances.
In the end, were able to retake the field with no casualties amongst the artillery and far more blue on the ground, never to rise again, than grey.

Feeling the sting of their ignoble defeat that morning, the enemy again tried to take us. With sharpshooters taking out the enemy foolish enough to make targets of themselves, we pounded their positions with continual shelling.

Committing all troops at their disposal, Brigade command continued to hold the Federals at bay, constantly shifting their men to counter the seemingly endless assault by Union troops. The more we took out with cannon and infantry, the more they seemed to have to commit to the fray. Again, each time our boys were able to push them back towards their own lines, enemy cannon fire would take a heavy toll on our men with canister and shot.

As the battle progressed, we could see those of our men our men still able to fight, falling back on our position. In the end, with infantry support all but non-existent and our ammunition all but spent, we found ourselves sorely pressed from the front and left flank, we were forced from the guns in an effort to preserve ourselves to fight another day.

Although we have lost the day and much sorely needed equipment and men, our Cause is just and we will prevail. We will meet the enemy again and avenge the loss of many valiant and stalwart men soon.

I remain your Humble Servant,
 Michael Collins, 1st Sgt.
1st Company , B.A.W.

HOLLYWOOD CEMETERY
Some time back Paul received an E-mail from Bill Ward in Midlothian Virginia. He has been working at Hollywood cemetery in Virginia and needed some information of what they thought are Washington Artillery members who are buried there and some with unmarked graves.

Sue and Mike Walters immediately stepped up and sent money to mark Lt. Issac William Brewer of the Third Company who was killed on August 23, 1862 at Rappahannock, and Cpl. John James Norment, First Co. who died March 31, 1865.

Doug and Pam paid for a marker for Pvt. David T. Moore who died in a Louisiana hospital August 13, 1864.

Our unit The Washington Artillery sponsored two stones, Pvt. Charles Falconer First Co. Killed December 13, 1862 at Fredericksburg and Pvt. James Little third Co. who died on June 21, 1862 in a Louisiana hospital.

And Janet and I sponsored Lt. John M. Galbreath First Co. who was mortally wounded at Drewry’s Bluff and died on September, 18 1864.

You can see the stones that are in process and installed by going to www.southernsoldiers.org

We are still trying to verify a couple of names but I have exhausted my library. John Chalfin (Chafin?) died 9/17/61 and Joseph K. Keriny. Keriny is actually in another cemetery.

The list of the Washington Artillery members buried at Hollywood Cemetery is included at the end of the newsletter and can be accessed by clicking here.

Our thanks to Bill for letting us know so that we could help.

Paul

LADIES CORNER
At St. Catherine’s the Ladies of the Washington Artillery held a tea hosted by yours truly.  It was well attended.  We even had our GHP make a presence.  The topic was Cosmetics during the Civil War.  It was an opportunity to learn some of the techniques and recipes that were used back then.  It made our concoctions simple and wonderful.

A NOTE FROM MAJOR & MRS. SIMMONS
Scott and I would like to thank you all for your kind words of condolences. Thank you for making our quick get away from St. Catherine's possible.  I hope we did not leave too much chaos behind. Scott and I were able to make it to his mother's side and be with her during her last 24 hours of life. The family has taken Scott's mother's passing well, as she is no longer in pain or suffering to breathe. We would like to thank you all for your prayers and kind words. It is a comfort to us to know that we have friends out there that really care about us. See you soon.

Scott and Donnalee Simmons

A NOTE FROM JIM O'DELL
To all members of the Washington Artillery of New Orleans:

If anyone is registered for, and is planning on attending, the 2008 145th Gettysburg as infantry, and needs a Confederate home, I extend an invitation to participate in the event with the 1st Regiment Virginia Volunteers, Company D.  You all have been extremely gracious in letting me fall in with the WA when I come out to California and I would like to return the favor.  Also, if you want to play as a Federal, I am also a member of the 61st Pennsylvania, Company A, and undoubtedly can arrange your participation with that unit.

If there is any interest, you may contact me directly at: jrjim@verizon.net

NEXT EVENTS:

Thousand Trails, June 7 - 8, 2008
Thousand Trails Campground
4700 Crown Valley Road
Acton, CA.
From Highway 14, take the Crown Valley Rd South to Acton. Pass through Acton, cross the tracks, bear right at the Y, go under the bridge and the park is on the left. Look for the entry sign.

1812 Overture, July 4, 2008,
Cabrillo Beach
San Pedro, CA
This is not a Re-Enactment, but it is a fund raiser for the Unit. We spend the day in lving history and meeting the public. At night, we are an integral part of the park's presentation of the 1812 overture, providing the cannon punctuation.

Check your e-mails for details ! Or contact Paul DeNubilo.

Ft. MacArthur Days, July 12 - 13, 2008,
Ft. MacArthur Museum
3601 S Gaffey St.
San Pedro, CA
More than just Civil War, this event is a timeline that stretched from the Roman Era through Viet Nam.

Directions: Take any highway or freeway in Southern California to the South 110 Harbor Freeway. The Freeway ends on Gaffey St. in San Pedro. Continue southbound on Gaffey towards the ocean and the hills. Follow the signs to the museum, Angel Gate Park and the Korean Friendship Bell. As you go over the last hill and around the bend, the museum’s entrance is on the right at 36th St. Drive westbound on the access road until you see the museum’s main gate on the left. Public parking is on the right side, across from the gate.

Civil War Days, July 19 - 20, 2008,
Duncan's Mills, CA
Directions: Hwy. 101 North River Road/Guerneville exit (about 1 mile north of Santa Rosa). Turn west onto River Road toward the Russian River Resort Area and continue on to the town of Guerneville. Travel straight through Guerneville and continue on to Duncans Mills. Turn left onto Moscow Road and continue over the bridge (about 1/4 mile). At the end of the bridge, make a right turn onto Freeze Out Road. Follow the signs to the site (about 1/4 mile).

More information is available at http://www.civilwardays.net

A REMINDER FROM THE GHP

Remember everybody, Mikey and I need to know if you are or are not going to the events if you would like a meal, and when you plan to arrive so we can plan, how many guns go and meals. Remember to bring ice and drinks.

CHANGING ADDRESSES?
If you change your snail mail or e-mail addresses, please let us know. Call or e-mail Janet DeNubilo with the changes. Some folks don't find out about events and, worse, don't get the WARCRY cause they changed addresses. Don't be left out!

You can also access the WAR CRY and our calendar of events here on the WAR web site.

EDITOR'S NOTE:
I appreciate the fact that everyone who contributed, was able to turn in the submissions prior to the deadline.  I apologize for the delay in getting this edition out to you.  I underestimated the amount energy I would have during my first trimeseter.  (For those of you who haven’t heard the news yet, the Torres family will be welcoming a new addition to the family by the end of the year.)  I am hoping that this coming trimester will come along with the burst of energy I keep reading about !

The Newsletter will be published on a bi-monthly schedule.  The next publication dates, will be July 5th, September 6th, November 1st.  and January 3rd, 2009.

I can be contacted thru e-mail maritza_m_torres@sbcglobal.net, or by phone.

GENERAL ORDERS OF THE WASHINGTON ARTILLERY REENACTORS

INTRODUCTION
The orders listed herein are the general orders of this unit and are in effect at all events. They are to be supplemented as needed by special orders that are pertinent to the activity. The most common of which shall be the schedule for the day, availability of the mess and uniform of the day.

GENERAL ORDER #1. Schedule

• Each member shall maintain cognizance of the schedule for each event either through the posted calendar or the newsletter.
• Notify the First Sergt. and the GHP, at least one week prior to an event of his intention to attend, his arrival time and mess plans.
• Make every effort to attend Friday set up time.
• Support maximum effort events.
• Meet the requirements for events requesting pre-event registration.

GENERAL ORDER #2. ATTENDING THE EVENT

• Each member shall: Arrive prior to 0800 on the day of the event, unless posted otherwise, if you have to setup tent, furniture, other personal baggage.
• Be at the event site at least one half hour before public time with no set up or setup after public hours.
• Bring ice for the larder, drinks for personal consumption and lunch.

GENERAL ORDER #3. AT THE EVENT.

• Assist in the camp and gun line set up.
• During public hours maintain a “defarb” attitude.
• Be attentive to our visitors, make them welcome to our camp.
• Do not leave camp without informing the Provost or First Sergt. Always plan to return 45 minutes before the next scheduled unit event.
• Volunteer for mess duties, fire starting, water, cleanup etc
• On last day of event pre-pack un needed personal equipment.

GENERAL ORDER #4. After event.

• Do not leave unless special arrangements have been made with the first Sergt.  Otherwise, remain until the gun line and common camp equipment have been loaded on the club trailer.
  
• Make every effort to stay until entire camp packed and policed.
• Turn found items over to the First Sergt., GHP, or broadcast to the Club membership what you have found.

WASHINGTON ARTILLERY MEMBERS INTERED AT HOLLYWOOD CEMETERY