Spring 2025 has Sprung!
- Jason A. Sumner
- Mar 19
- 12 min read
Updated: Mar 20
And with it comes a new season of living history events, locations to visit, programs to schedule and give, and additional dedication to further developing our knowledge and skill in presenting this period of American History. The year began with the company’s annual meeting, which was held on Saturday, 18th January, 2025 in Sylacauga. At the meeting the company adopted a rather different and robust schedule for the Spring Season and also considered some additional undertakings.
“The Battle of Olustee / Ocean Pond”
Olustee Battlefield State Park, Olustee, Florida
(14th February - 16th February, 2025)
The season kicked off with travel to Olustee, Florida on February 14th, 2025 for the 48th annual “Battle of Olustee.” which commemorated the 161st anniversary of the battle fought on 20th February, 1864. It was the largest battle fought in the state of Florida and occurred near present-day Lake City, FL. The battle entailed a federal force of around 5,500 soldiers moving eastward into the interior of the state in order to disrupt Confederate supply lines and possibly for the intention of moving on the state’s capital at Tallassee. These soldiers, under the Command of Brigadier General Truman Seymour, had advanced westward from Jacksonville, FL.
Prior to the arrival of the Federal forces in Jacksonville on the 7th of February, 1864, movement of the Federal fleet had been observed by Confederate forces and had prompted a response that called for preparation for defensive operations against the invading force. This assignment was assigned to Confederate Brigadier General Joseph Finegan. When it became apparent the Federal forces intended to move westward toward the state’s interior, Finegan began seeking a defensible position.
He found the best ground for this purpose at Olustee Station or near Ocean Pond, as the ground offered a narrow passage between a lake on his left flank and a nearly impassable swamp on his right flank. Once locating the most desirable ground to stand against the oncoming Federal forces, Finegan would call for additional soldiers to defend Florida. A call that was answered by Brigadier General Alfred Colquitt who had moved his veteran units south from Savannah, Georgia to support Finegan.
On the 20th of February in 1864, the Federal force comprised around 5,500 soldiers and 16 cannon, and was moving westward from Macclenny, FL. By this time, the Confederate forces that had amassed near Olustee numbered nearly the same. Anticipating the Federal forces movement, Finegan sent our skirmishes to draw Federal forces to Olustee. Contact was made in the afternoon, and the Confederate line was formed. Finegan’s line comprised infantry in the center and calvary support on each of the line’s flanks.
Given that the battle would be fought in the young or newly planted forest, the terrain was quite free of both obstructions and underbrush, meaning that these soldiers would fight upon the open ground under the pine canopy. The fighting was quite brutal and was had in close quarters, with the Confederate forces repelling repeated Union assaults. No earthworks were constructed by either force, and the fighting upon open ground raged until nightfall, when, in disarray, Federal forces began a hasty withdrawal towards Jacksonville. The result of the battle was a decisive Confederate victory, with Federal losses numbering around 1,800 killed, wounded, or missing, as compared to Confederate casualties numbering around 950. The defeat of the Federal forces at Olustee would mark the end of the Union’s effort to control the state of Florida and would leave the state largely under Confederate control for the remainder of the war.
The Event
We spent a good part of the day on Friday traveling to Olustee, though in no particular rush to arrive; rather, instead we made several stops including one at the National Civil War Naval Museum in Columbus, GA.
It was the first time that I had been to this museum and a great experience as it featured a number of very unique and interesting exhibits. I would further add that the layout of the museum is very well put together. My favorite part of the museum was the C.S.S. Jackson, of which a portion of the hull has been recovered from the Chattahoochee River and is housed within the Museum. It gives the impression and an idea of the size of an ironclad. Further, the exhibit presents information about the vessel and its fate, inclusive of a photograph of the vessel from the war. (See upcoming vlog on the National Civil War Naval Museum in Columbus, Georgia)
We arrived at Olustee after dark and after an orderly registration process with the Florida State Park service, found our way into the Union Camp. After 15 to 20 minutes of searching, our squad of four settled on a spot adjacent to the road in the center of the Union Camp. Here we decided to erect a fly in the configuration of an A-Frame, which afforded all of us ample room to sleep. We conducted our set-up in a period of about twenty-five or so minutes and then spent the rest of the evening resting after a long day of traveling.
The next morning, we rose at our own discretion, as we were not directly affiliated with any of the units at the event and were bound to no particular schedule. The pros of the situation were that we were free to undertake the morning hours as we pleased. The cons, in that we’d be reliant upon another company to take us in. I am proud to say that the latter would be no issue for us as we quickly found a home with another group prior to the beginning of the fight. Our service to the cause of living history commenced shortly after noon when we arranged ourselves for inspection. Typically, this is conducted to ensure the weapons being used are in operable condition and do not require immediate service or repair prior to stepping onto the field. Further, it serves as a safety measure, as the cartridge box is inspected, the barrel is inspected for obstructions and the firearms are carefully examined to ensure that there are no issues with anyone's weapon prior to stepping off. We additionally will use this time to inspect uniforms, canteens, and footwear to ensure that all men are compliant with both company and event standards.
For this particular inspection, our process was examined and closely observed by officials from the State of Florida. The difference between their procedure and that of the Federal Government, is that with most state organized events, we still inspect arms ourselves while supervised; as with the national park service, they inspect arms and distribute ammunition. I completely agree with the manner in which this has been conducted on both levels and understand the necessity of doing so on both our partners with the state and federal government.
The scenario played out over the course of a two-hour period which began with Confederate forces skirmishing our column as we moved through the terrain on a small dirt pathway towards their positions. Our three battalions essentially leapfrogged one another as we advanced to the main Confederate position. A few things that took me by surprise for this event. 1) the number of spectators, roughly 5,000 - 6,000 people attended, 2) the use of pyrotechnics, which were synced to the firing of artillery and exploded quite often to our front, 3) the resupply of powder during the course of the fighting, it was a nice touch and resembled the running of ammunition to the lines in combat as would have occurred often, 4) the large prickly cactus like plants that would stab you through your brogans and boots, and looked quite painful, a few others had the great misfortune of becoming entangled with these devils as they took hits.
The battle would eventually see the Confederate forces pushed from the field, representing the first assaults on the position by Union forces, with the massive Confederate artillery barrage and counter offensive to be staged on Sunday afternoon. Unfortunately, given the terrible weather in Alabama, we elected to leave early Sunday morning to return for fear of damage. Conclusively, I was quite impressed with Olustee and had an excellent time. It was a well operated event and one that I plan to make a regular appearance at moving forward. We learned a good bit about our methods for attending events that are a much greater distance for us, which was helpful in our preparations for the 160th Anniversary of Bentonville.
Hardee Guard Battalion Drill: "School of the Battalion"
Lee - Gordon Mansion, Chickamauga, Georgia
(28th February - 1st March, 2025)
The Hardee Guard Battalion met at the Lee Gordon Mansion in Chickamauga for instruction and training, two weeks after the event at Olustee. At the drill, we spent time refreshing for the upcoming season, “knocking off the dust” as some may say. We had two primary matters of which instruction was given, the first being the structure of the company, beginning from the “file” and advancing to the concept of “comrade in arms,” which are two files or four men, who form the basis of the movement for the proper deployment of skirmishers. We practiced advancing a skirmish line and skirmish line movements and firings, while also addressing the importance of the structure that was taught in the period. Further, we worked upon “Battalion, companies to the rear by right of file.” This movement was utilized to move men from one front-facing position to another or to withdraw or redeploy with haste and requires that company-level officers understand the reason for the movement and the manner in which it is conducted. As spectators were on property for this event, we also reviewed the manual for the order “load in nine-times” with the proper order structure, which I was quite grateful for as I personally needed to be refreshed as it is indeed an aspect of our interpretation that is often overlooked. The spectators present were then treated to a firing demonstration consisting of “fire by files from the right,” “fire by rank,” and “fire by company.”
I very much appreciated the opportunity to drill and enjoyed the fellowship with other members of our battalion. The property was outstanding, and I very much enjoyed visiting as it was my first opportunity to see the antebellum home. I was made to understand that it is now owned by the city of Chickamauga, Georgia and has been used for social events and as a wedding venue. I am very grateful for the city’s support of our efforts to educate and for the privilege of not only visiting the property but also utilizing it for our drill.
The 160th Anniversary of the Battle of Bentonville
“A Terrible Storm”
Bentonville, North Carolina
(14th March - 16th March, 2025)
We made the long journey to Bentonville, North Carolina for the 160th anniversary of the largest battle fought in North Carolina and the final battle of the Army of Tennessee.
The battle took place between 19th and 21st of March in 1865, involving some 81,000 men. The Federal forces numbered roughly 60,000 and the Confederate forces, some roughly 21,000 men. For this particular engagement, General Sherman had been moving north towards Petersburg, Virginia, when his forces encountered the Army of Tennessee which had taken up a defensive position in the area. Sherman thought it unlikely that they would stand in this location given Mill Creek to their rear; however, Johnston had committed to a defensive action and hoped that Sherman might commit to an offensive as he had at Kennesaw Mountain during the Atlanta Campaign.
The battle began with forces under the command of Major General Henry Slocum probing the Confederate position, initially believing the resistance in the area to be Confederate cavalry operating in the area. However, Confederate forces quickly pushed the Federal forces from the field in an effective resistance, until additional Federal forces had arrived to reinforce. The second day of fighting saw very little actual fighting other than minor skirmishing. Sherman believed Johnston would withdraw, especially with his back to Mill Creek; however, Johnston remained hopeful that he could entice a Federal assault on his entrenched positions as he had done at Kennesaw. Sherman was not so keen to commit to a full frontal assault and would allow for additional reconnaissance on the third day by Major General Joseph Mower.
The reconnaissance would turn into an assault by Federal forces, which would see Confederate forces pushed from their positions, only to be halted by Sherman’s insistence that the advance stop and Federal forces return to the Federal lines. Had the Federal assault been allowed to persist, it is quite possible that the Army of Tennessee would have been cut off from its only means of retreat across Mill Creek. Given the circumstances, Johnston would first evacuate the wounded and, under the cover of night, order his army across Mill Creek, withdrawing and burning the bridge behind them.
Estimated casualties were numbered as 1,527 for the Federal forces, of which 194 were killed, 1,112 were wounded, and 221 were reported missing or captured. For the Confederate forces, there were 2,606 reported casualties. Of which 239 were killed, 1,694 were wounded, and 673 were reported as missing or captured.
Arriving at the Event
We arrived at the event on Friday afternoon after a very long drive. Registration was established just behind the Harper House and Visitor’s Center, which was well organized and went quite quickly. After completing registration, we found our way over to the Union Camps and began looking for the location of the second brigade, which we found a short ways into the treeline. Here we picked a small area off of the road to make camp which consisted of two flys, for the six of us to sleep under. We were quite comfortable and had plenty of room. After settling in, we constructed a small fire and scavenged for what wood was available, though green, we were able to get a suitable blaze going for a good bed of coals.
After being settled, we had to relocate our vehicles, which was quite a chore as we were parked some ways from our camp; however, I believe that this was the best way to manage parking at the event and the walk was not terrible. Our evening on Friday was quite pleasant and served as an opportunity for good fellowship and discussion regarding our thoughts on the event and our expectations for visiting the sutlers. Regarding the sutlers, trouble was to be had with the bountiful offering of goods available, and needs were to be satisfied at some cost. The purchase of a new federal issue blanket by Sekala, or any selection of fine quality hats made by Dirty Billy were certainly on the table. Each of the sutlers presented a wealth of useful inventory, all for the benefit of the living historian, from boxes, to needles and thread, there was indeed something for everyone. Food was also in great supply, leaving none hungry or without ample options. Given the number of spectators to the event, I felt that this need was well addressed by the number of options made available to those visiting the event.
Saturday
We woke Saturday morning to the sounds of first call, and our morning report was made available to the event adjutant. Once this information was delivered, we prepared for drill, which consisted of 1) Company Drill, 2) Battalion Drill, & 3) Brigade Drill. I found the Brigade level drill to be most interesting as it was the first time for me to see it and to be a part of it. In the grand scheme of things, both the Battalion and Brigade level drills are much the same as those given at a company level; the difference being that they are much more technical in the number of men involved as well as a general dependency to ensure that the officer corps understands their particular role in each movement, from the Captains online to the Colonels in the rear of the formation.
Following the conclusion of the Drill, we departed for the Charleston Tintypist tent, as I had scheduled an appointment to have a tintype made. This picture has quite quickly become a favorite of mine from our many years of having these taken and I remain impressed with the work that Christine (Charleston Tintypist) does. She has a great talent and I appreciate her for sharing it with all of us in the hobby. I quite rightly told her that I felt that she was documenting my journey through my living history career.
We returned to camp following the tintype and then dispersed to the sutlers and to find food items for the event as there was no desire to return and attempt cooking prior to stepping off for the battle. This time of rest and fellowship was greatly appreciated and enjoyed and placed us in a rested position prior to stepping off for the day’s scenario.
The Battle
We formed for battle at 13:45 and were counted, having been inspected earlier in the morning. Once formed, we along with the other two federal brigades were marched to the edge of the battlefield which took no more than ten minutes to reach as we walked through the park's unique and sandy terrain, passing over some of the original earthworks which are preserved to this day.
Once staged we waited for the conclusion of the cavalry demonstration being put on for the public, before being moved into the field in a long column consisting of all three Federal brigades. For this particular scenario, it was intended to represent the opening of the battle on the first day with the confederates driving off two federal divisions, before Federal forces regrouped and ultimately drove the confederates back to their works.
Once we had staged on the edge of the field, there was a prolonged wait as the first of the three brigades was deployed from the left of our line. I was later able to identify this group as being the Prairie Dog Mess. They would open the engagement, being joined by the second of our brigades after engaging the Confederate lines on the left. The Second brigade would set up on their right and occupy as well as dig trenches in the field. This was quite interesting, and would provide a unique experience for us later in the scenario.
The Confederate line would receive additional support and move forward in force, resulting in the flight of both brigades to the right and rear, as we were ordered forward to engage the fresh Confederate forces deployed onto the field. We would fire two to three volleys, before advancing to the trenches in the middle of the field and from here would remain for the rest of the scenario, as the Confederate line advanced, broke, withdrew, and redeployed a few times before yielding the field.
This spring season has been quite busy and has afforded us new opportunities to expand to new events and to participate in different capacities as a company and as individuals growing in our interpretation and impressions. I am very excited about the direction this year is taking and I am forward to upcoming events with great anticipation. It is my hope to continue documenting in greater detail the events that we are attending and how we undertake travel, facilitate set-up, and to share experiences at each event, from visiting with sutlers, to time spent talking with members of the public and answering questions.