Download Feb 2012 - 7th Florida Infantry Company K

7th Regiment of Florida Volunteer Infantry
Company K
OFFICIAL BULLETIN for February, 2012
“Lord! What a scramble there’ll be for arms and legs, when
We old boys come out of our graves, on Judgment Day:
wonder if we shall get our own again? If we do, my leg
will have to tramp from Fredericksburg, my arm from here,
I suppose, and meet my body, where it may be.”
Anonymous Union Sergeant, Quoted by Louisa May Alcott in Hospital Sketches, 1863
In This Issue
Presidential Pontifications
The Captain’s Desk
The 1st Sergeant’s Journal
The Quartermaster’s Report
January Business Meeting Minutes
History of Bowlegs Creek
John Mitchell’s Hat
Upcoming Events
Wanted – To Buy/Sell/Trade
Civilian Board and Military Officers
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Presidential Pontifications
Dispatch from the Front:
Captain Fletcher,
At your direction Privates C. Hendrix, G. Newman and I reported to our temporary
duty assignment to defend the Cow Cavalry and the vital beef supply Lines which are
centralized near Ft Meade, Fl.
On January 28, 1863 the 28th Georgians, Company K no less, engaged a small but determined invasion force at a place called
Bowlegs Creek. We fell in the Georgians and I am very pleased to report that we defeated the Invaders who were last seen heading
north in a most disorganized fashion.
Captain, it is my distinct displeasure to report that while engaged in battle Private C. Hendrix reported that one of the invaders,
dressed in a complete and rather well kept uniform of the Army of the Republic bore a striking similarity to Private G. Newman.
Sadly, after further observation I am compelled to report that Private G. Newman in fact deserted to the Union Army, took up arms
and fired in our direction. I ordered Private C. Hendrix to target the deserter and not relent until he hits his mark or falls himself in the
field of battle. I must report that I observed the deserter fall after a well placed shot by Private C. Hendrix, thus ending this sad
chapter in the otherwise glorious record of Company K, 7th Florida Vols.
Private C. Hendrix and I are making our way to meet up with the rest of Company K, 7th Florida Vols. and hope to meet you near
Lake City, Fl. at the soonest possible date but we expect to arrive no latter than February 17.
Your Obedient Servant,
Corporal David Hendrix
President Company K,
The Captain’s Desk
As I’m certain all are aware at this point, our beloved Captain Fletcher has been wounded while in defense of our Confederacy and is
currently digitally impaired. As a result, he is unable to provide us with a report for the newsletter. Please continue to keep Skip and
Megan in your prayers.
The 1st Sergeant’s Journal
Men of Company K,
I was very pleased with the performance of Company K during the recent action around
Brooksville. I am also very grateful for the professionalism which was shown, and the assistance
which was provided, by our NCO’s both in camp and in battle. 1st Sergeant Mitchell, 2nd
Sergeant Giminaro, and Corporals Reynolds and Hendrix performed magnificently under the
very trying circumstances of having a relatively “green” company commander due to the loss of
Captain Fletcher (at least parts of him) and several fresh fish to train and prepare. I am in your
debt.
Conspicuously absent, and without authorization I may add, was Corporal Tran. It seems the
young Corporal chose to celebrate his 21st birthday by becoming somewhat inebriated which, inevitably, led to a rather ferocious
hangover and apparently rendered him less than able to perform his duties. I will leave it up to you, his comrades, to determine what,
if any, punishment is appropriate when he appears at Olustee. This issue will be discussed Friday evening around the campfire and, if
required, an official hearing will be held. Let it be known that I will have the “Shirker” sign in my possession should it be required.
I am also grateful to Quartermaster Newman for outfitting all of our fresh fish. Be certain to read the QM report which follows this
missive as it contains important information which all soldiers of Company K are responsible to know.
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Lastly, Dave Hendrix has been promoted to the rank of Corporal. I expect all Private soldiers to follow his orders as they would
follow Captain Fletchers, immediately and without discussion. Corporal Hendrix has earned his stripes and should wear them proudly.
Well Done, Corporal!
The Roll of Honor at Brooksville is as follows: 2nd Lt. K. Van Leuven, 1st Sgt J. Mitchell, 2nd Sgt. T. Giminaro, Cpl. B. Reynolds, Cpl.
D. Hendrix, Pvt. G. Rogers, Pvt. S. Brown, Pvt. G. Newman, Pvt. D. Greenwood, Pvt. R. Greenwood, Pvt. C. Hendrix, Pvt. R. Hague,
High Pvt. R. Heisler, Pvt. T. Rodriguez, Pvt. J. Caddell, Pvt. Z. El Nahwy, Pvt. Je Hough, Pvt. A. Hough, Pvt. J. Hough, Pvt. R. Clark,
Pvt. C. Linsey, Pvt. C. Prime, Pvt. P. Poropat, Pvt. A. Finn, Pvt. R. Arrison, Pvt. E. Oglesby, Pvt. EJ Oglesby, Pvt. J. Coleman, Pvt. J.
Smith.
The following daguerreotypes are of our recent action at Brooksville and are provided with my complements:
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The Quartermaster’s Report
Greetings All!
At our Brooksville event I realized that we need to restrict entry into the Sign Posted Quartermaster
Tent, when it is made available. It was a great event with a good turnout, and there were some
lessons learned. By popular vote it was determined that when the Quartermaster is not physically
present, the only people able to enter the tent and sign out equipment will be the Commanding
Officer or acting First Sergeant. The sign out forms with a pen will be available on a clipboard in
the tent. In the same tent, there are pre-rolled cartridges, caps and powder for sale along with
recruiting information. Funds generated from these sales are turned over to the unit treasurer either
in person or by mail after the event.
When items are borrowed, if you decide to wash them, do the wool items in cold water and let air dry to avoid shrinkage. For
borrowed rifles it would be nice to make a cleaning attempt before we leave the site. Even running water down the barrel until it
drains out clean, would be a good start. I do the rest when I get home anyway. The rifles after they are cleaned are heavily oiled on the
outside to deter rust if possible. If you are borrowing a rifle, you may want to bring at least one rag to wipe it off. It does not hurt
either to wipe it off after a night of heavy dew in camp.
We are galvanizing a lot at different events, so I recommend that if you do not have a Union coat to get one. The blue pants are good
too as they are interchangeable for both armies.
If you have any requirements, make sure you e-mail me in time before an event. Since retirement, I have started to leave early for
events on Thursday or Friday. We have a large amount of equipment and to bring it all on a chance someone may need it is not
reasonable. Another lesson learned from Brooksville is that people tend to forget that they may need shoes. These need to be requested
also with some idea of size. I suggest bringing some sort of oil and rags to soak the shoes before wearing them. This will tend to soften
them and reduce the possibility of blisters. Wearing thick socks also helps. Brogans are not known for their easy wear and jogging
ability.
After an event, please return equipment promptly to the Quartermaster before changing or loading your own vehicle. This will reduce
the risk of company equipment being packed by mistake with your own. I appreciate it also as I am then able to pack up my own gear
and get my vehicle.
Our shipment of powder has been received. If you want to place an order for Olustee, please send a check to Bob Arrison. I will ask
Bob to send me an e-mail confirming payment and how many cans @ $14 per can. I will pull the correct number of cans, put your
name on it and place it in my box to go to Olustee. The same applies for caps @ $11 per tin. This will cut down on the amount of
money needed for change and get the money to Bob and our account quicker. Paul has offered more of the paper ladies in order for
me to roll more company rounds to be sold at the events for anyone caught in a pinch. The cap supply has been very steady. Not all
Sutlers have had these except at the very large events.
Thanks, I will see you all soon.
Regards,
Gary Newman
727-501-2935
[email protected]
January Business Meeting Minutes
Call to order by Dave Hendrix.
Treasurer’s report was given by Bob Arrison who provided a financial summary.
Quartermaster’s report was given by Gary Newman. Gary reported the QM stores are currently missing one bayonet and scabbard and
stated the need to limit access to the QM tent. Tom Giminaro made a motion that only the QM and the sergeant’s will be permitted in
the QM tent at events. 2nd was made by Burt Reynolds and the motion passed with unanimous vote. Rich Heisler made a motion that
the QM have a sign-out sheet in the QM tent for equipment. 2 nd was made by Gary Newman and the motion passed by unanimous
vote. Gary Newman made a motion to purchase 2 bayonet’s/scabbards for the QM stores. 2nd was made by John Mitchell and the
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motion passed by unanimous vote. Gary Newman made a motion to purchase a supply of gunpowder. John Mitchell made the 2nd and
the motion passed by unanimous vote. Gary requested that the members advise him of QM needs well in advance of events so he
doesn’t have to bring the entire QM stores to all events.
Secretary’s report was given by Keith Van Leuven. Burt Reynolds made a motion to accept the last report as written in the August
Newsletter. 2nd was made by Rich Heisler and the motion passed by unanimous vote.
Civilian Board elections were held with the following results: President: Dave Hendrix, Vice President: John Mitchell, Treasurer:
Bob Arrison, Secretary: Keith Van Leuven, Quartermaster: Gary Newman.
Military positions will remain unchanged: Captain: Skip Fletcher, 1 st Sgt: Keith Van Leuven, 2nd Sgt: John Mitchell.
Keith Van Leuven reported on the upcoming schedule which may be found in the February Newsletter. Dave Hendrix discussed the
Shiloh event and that the battalion will be attending the Blue-Gray Alliance event. Dave discussed the possibility of renting a van to
ease transportation concerns. Additional discussion will be held at Olustee.
Keith Van Leuven made the motion that the newsletter no longer be land-mailed as it is a pain in the butt for him to find time to get to
the post office. 2nd was made by Burt Reynolds and the motion passed by unanimous vote.
Jeff Hough discussed Facebook page for the company.
Dave Hendrix handed out insurance cards and medical emergency forms which are to be kept in the cartridge box at all times.
Dave Hendrix adjourned the meeting.
History of Bowlegs Creek
The following was provided by Gary Newman.
Many of the citizens of the Peace River Valley lived far away from the influence of the war, and many wanted nothing to do with the
war itself. However, a good portion of the people living in modem day Polk, Hardee and Desoto Counties were Union loyalists. To
make matters worse, many of the families that were divided on the Confederate-Union issues, including the question of slavery, had to
choose sides, thus leading to political disagreements amongst neighbors and families. In fact, very few residents in and around the Fort
Meade area owned slaves. As per the Polk County tax roll in 1861, only eleven men had slaveholdings with a total value of just
$81,000.
Another issue facing the residents of the area was the elimination of the draft exemption for cattlemen by the Confederate Congress. In
his book Fort Meade, Florida, Canter Brown explains that "on February 17, 1864, the Confederate Congress drastically revised its
conscription law, eliminating the draft exemptions for cattlemen" who were supplying food to the area. Furthermore, "The change
unleashed squads of conscription agents determined to force all suddenly eligible 'cow hunters' into confederate service, and many
individuals were forced to choose sides." Consequently, many chose to join the Union Army.
As conscription agents began to hunt down non-exempt cattlemen for the Confederate Army, many of the residents of the area began
to seek refuge in Union-occupied Fort Myers. These new recruits would later form Captain Henry A. Crane's (Union Army) Second
Florida Calvary. The Union presence in Southwest Florida would soon reach Confederate Captain James McKay, who would find out
about Crane's intentions to destroy the Confederacy's cattle supply efforts with help from Confederate traitors and Union sympathizers
Escaping the Confederate draft.
On February 10, 1864, a planned attack on Fort Myers was organized at Fort Meade, but it would be halted due to a Union attempt to
seize Tallahassee. All Confederate troops were called to obstruct the Union march from Jacksonville to Tallahassee. On February 20th
of 1864, the two armies would clash at the Battle of Olustee near Lake City. This would be one of the bloodiest battles in Florida
history with close to 3,000casualties and a Confederate victory. Though the Confederate Army defeated the Union troops, most of the
Peace River Valley was left unprotected and vulnerable to Union attack.
On February 22 1864, Fort Meade residents William McCullough, William McClenithan, and State House representative James D
Green arrived at Fort Myers. The men informed Union officer Captain Henry A. Crane of the Confederate's "great loss of provisions"
and their desperate need of cattle and supplies at Fort Meade. Henry A. Crane was so satisfied with this intelligence that he appointed
William McCullough and James Green as lieutenants for this splendid information and on March 13, 1864, Captain Henry A. Crane
dispatched thirty troops under Green to seize the Confederate supplies and gather recruits at Fort Meade. By March 20th, Green's
detachment had increased to about fifty men (mostly Confederate deserters) and marched for Willoughby Tillis' homestead south of
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Fort Meade, confiscating, horses, mules, and slaves. Consequently, Green's detachment moved on to Confederate Thomas Underhill's
home killing him with two gunfire shots. Green's troops seized com, meat, contraband (slaves), and firearms before returning to Fort
Myers.
Union Officer Captain Henry A. Crane was so pleased with Green's results, that on April 2nd he ordered the men back to Fort Meade
to capture (or kill, if necessary) Confederates Willoughby Tillis, James Lanier, Francis A. Hendry, Jacob Summerlin, F.C.M. Boggess,
John R. Durrance, Henry Seward, Streaty Parker, and to secure supplies, horses and contraband.
The Second Florida Calvary (Union) had made it to just fifteen miles from Fort Meade when they were spotted by Confederate
pickets. Confederate James McKay Jr., (Capt. James McKay's I son) was in charge of the battalion at Fort Meade, retrieved his forces
and halted Union advancement at Bowlegs Creek. On April 7thI 1864, Union and Confederates met in battle near present day Mt.
Pisgah Road and Dishong Road, just two miles south of where US 98 crosses the Peace River. It was a brief skirmish that left
Confederate James Lanier (a Fort Meade resident) dead and wounded Henry A. Prine (of Sucrum) in the foot. The Confederate Army
retreated back to Fort Meade; however, the Union Army would lay siege to the Tillis' homestead. Union soldiers then burnt the Tillis
home and destroyed all of the Tillis' family possessions.
The Union troops failed to control Confederate-occupied Fort Meade but would return later with reinforcements including the Second
Regiment-- United States Colored Troops (USCT). On May 6, 1864, Union forces briefly occupied Tampa, while James McKay Jr's
Confederate forces were preparing for the first cattle drive of the year. McKay quickly gathered up his Tampa Confederate troops and
marched towards Tampa, but the Union Army had already reached their goal of confiscating supplies, ammunition and dismantling a
canon at Fort Brooke. When McKay reached Tampa, the Union Army had already withdrawn from the scene.
On May 13, 1864 five officers along with one hundred of the Second Florida Calvary and 107 black troops from the United States
Colored Troops, headed for Fort Meade. Their mission was to relieve Union family members who had been captured at Fort Meade
and to acquire the remaining confederate beef cattle. Union forces captured two Confederate pickets who informed them (the Union
forces) of the planned ambush on the road to Fort Meade. Therefore, the Union forces would instead cross Peace Creek below the
mouth of Bowlegs Creek taking possession of Fort Meade without any resistance. Confederate tr100psdrew a skirmish line with some
sixty troops but retreated.
On May 19, 1864, Union forces (comprised of many of Fort Meade's own citizens) burned Fort Meade destroying all buildings, except
a log officer's quarters, which would later be occupied by Captain Francis A. Hendry after the war - it would be dismantled in the
1890s.
Resource: http://blog.peacerivervalleyflorida.coml2011/04Ibattle-of-bowlegs-creek-fort-meade.html
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John Mitchell’s Hat
The following was provided by Gary Newman.
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Upcoming Events
February 4, 5, 2012. Battle at Townsend's Plantation (Renningers Market at Mt. Dora). Sponsored by the law offices of Clay
Townsend, Esq. and hosted by the 37th Alabama Co. H. Battle 3pm Saturday and 2pm Sunday. This event is north of Orlando on
Hwy 441 just a couple of miles from Mt. Dora at 20651 U.S. Hwy 441, Mt. Dora FL, 32757. As you start down the big hill, look for
the Renningers flea market and battle sign on East side of road. Contact: Wayne Vaughn at [email protected]
February 11, 12, 2012. Fort Zachary Taylor, Key West, Florida. Fort Taylor was a Union held fortress (one of three in Florida). It
served as headquarters for the Union Navy's East Gulf Coast Blockade Squadron. Directions: Take US 1 south to mile marker 0 and
turn left on Southard Street. Turn left and follow the signs to Ft. Taylor State Historical Site. For additional information and
registration check their website at www.floridastateparks.org/forttaylor
February 18, 19, 2012. The Battle of Olustee, Olustee Battlefield State Historic Site, Olustee, Florida. The reenactment takes place
on the actual site where the Battle of Olustee (Ocean Pond) was fought. First time visitors and reenactors to the event should read the
listing of activities at: http://battleofolustee.org/ The battlefield is located just fifteen miles east of Lake City on Hwy. 90 from I-75
and 50 miles west of Jacksonville. Take I-75 to Hwy. 90 exit. Go east on Hwy. 90. Drive slow, the signs at the entrance for
reenactors have been small and hard to see in the past. Contact the Olustee Battlefield Historic Site at (386) 758-0400 or email
[email protected]
February 25, 26, 2012. Fort DeSoto, The 97th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Re-enactment Regiment, in cooperation with the
Pinellas County Parks Department and Fort DeSoto Park, will host an American Civil War Weekend Encampment and Historical
Battle Reenactment at the Fort DeSoto Park located in Tierra Verde on the Southern-most tip of Pinellas County, Florida. Battle reenactment each afternoon at 1:30 PM. Information: contact Tom Stanton at [email protected]
February 29, 2012 through March 4, 2012 Pioneer Park Days. Zolfo Springs, FL at the Pioneer Park. This event will include
Living History (Thursday through Saturday), reenactments (Saturday and Sunday), meet and talk with spectators and Confederate
vendors. Authentic camping is welcome and you can set up your camp on Wednesday through Friday night. Free supper will be
available for all reenactors on Friday and Saturday. Sponsored by the Sons of Confederate Veterans, The United Daughters of the
Confederacy and reenacting units (USA and CSA) of Southwest Florida. The Pioneer Park is located at the intersection of Hwy 17
and SR 64 at 2822 Museum Drive, Zolfo Springs, FL. 33980. Reenactors contact Tom Geffert at [email protected]
March 3, 4, 2012. The Battle of Natural Bridge. Natural Bridge Battlefield State Historic Site (Florida). A full military skirmish
will be conducted on Saturday afternoon. On Sunday, at approximately 1:00 PM, opening ceremonies will honor the combatants of
the Battle of Natural Bridge which will immediately be followed by the Battle of Natural Bridge reenactment. Directions: Drive south
from Tallahassee for about eight miles to the community of Woodville. As you reach the elementary school at the southern edge of
Woodville, turn left onto Natural Bridge Road. Travel approximately six miles east to the battlefield site. Authentic soldiers and
civilians contact Captain Chris Ellrich at [email protected]
March 10, 11, 2012. Battle at Crystal River. Civil War Battles take place at 2:00 PM Saturday and Sunday with pyrotechnic blasts
for effects. Directions: Seven miles northwest of Crystal River along US 19/98, site is on the west side of the road. Site entrance
signs will be on the highway. From Dunnellon, take CR 448 west, turn north on US 19/98; or SR 40 west to Inglis, turn south on US
19/98. From Orlando, take the Florida Turnpike north to I-75, exit at first exit at Wildwood (SR 44) to US 19, turn north to Crystal
River and follow the signs. As you pass over the railroad tracks, get in the left lane. go about a mile and turn left into the small one
lane entrance road. GPS position: N28.59.281 W082.38.889 www.crystalriverreenactment.org
March 24, 25, 2012. Battle at Narcoossee Mill. St. Cloud Fla. (southeast of Orlando - Kissimmee St. Cloud area. Sponsored by the
Jacob Summerlin Camp #1516 Sons of Confederate Veterans. The park is located at 4700 Chisholm Park Trail, St. Cloud, Florida
34771. Take Hwy 192 (Irlo Bronson Hwy) to Hwy 15. Go 2mi North on Hwy 15, look for the park sign. Another way to get there
(from the North) is to take I-4 to the toll road 528 (Beeline Expressway) go east and get off on Hwy 15 exit (Narcoossee Road) go
South on Hwy 15. GPS position: N28.16.448 W081.15.020 Contact the SCV Camp at http://www.jacobsummerlin.org/ or Don
Williams at [email protected] More information, pre-registration http://www.jacobsummerlin.org/ed2007.pdf
March 29, to April 1, 2012. Battle of Shiloh. 150th Anniversary event. Shiloh, Tennessee. For more information, check their
website at: http://shiloh150.org
April 19, 20, 21, 2012. The Saint Andrews Bay Salt Works Raid. Panama City, FL. This event portrays the US Navy's and
Marine Corps raids between the winter of 1861 and the spring of 1865 on the Southern Confederacy's largest salt works in the Saint
Andrews Bay area and will represent typical amphibious raids conducted by Union Naval Forces along Florida's coast line. The
National Civil War Naval Museum will be providing the steam and oar powered launches for the amphibious landings. There will be
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an amphibious landing with battle and salt work raid Saturday and Sunday afternoon. Pre-registration is required before March 1st.
Reenactors contact Steve Fetherman at [email protected]. Located at 430 W. 5th Street (Beach Front).
April 2012. (Date undecided) "The Enterprise Raid". Lanochee in Paisley, FL. Two main battles (one Saturday and one Sunday)
with a possible tactical. Location: 41940 Boy Scout Road, Paisley, FL., 32767. More information, contact Chuck Munson at
[email protected] or 352-669-0291.
Their website is still under construction but is up and running at:
http://www.enterpriseraid.com
I am grateful to Col. Neipert and his Florida Reenactors Online Newsletter (www.floridareenactorsonline.com) for his permission in
using this information –Editor.
Please see our website (www.7flcok.com) for a complete listing of events.
WANTED – To Buy/Sell/Trade
Available for purchase: Contact Jack Coleman at: 813-987-6210 or [email protected].
1 McClellan saddle at REDUCED PRICE
Contact Jack for info and prices.
7th Regiment of Florida Volunteer Infantry
Company K
www.7flcok.com
Civilian Board
President: Dave Hendrix
[email protected]
Vice President: Skip Fletcher
[email protected]
Secretary: Keith Van Leuven
[email protected]
Treasurer: Bob Arrison
[email protected]
Quartermaster: Gary Newman
[email protected]
Military Officers & NCOs
Captain Skip Fletcher, Commanding
[email protected]
1st Sergeant Keith Van Leuven
[email protected]
2nd Sergeant John Mitchell
[email protected]
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