150TH ANNIVERSARY
The Battle of Shiloh
Shiloh, TN
March 31 - April 1, 2012
Your Correspondent traveled to the wilds of west Tennessee to witness one of the two reenactments marking the 150th Anniversary of the Battle of Shiloh. This one hosted by the Blue Gray Alliance was held on property literally adjacent to the battlefield. Two members of the 125th New York made the torturous ride out to represent the Mifflin Guard. Otherwise, this was a Western event with Iowans, Missourians, Louisianans... and a fascinating departure for anyone raised in the East. Your Correspondent cheered on his comrade in the 9th Texas Infantry that actually portrayed Confederate on Saturday and then Union Zouave on Sunday. While the soldiers enjoyed the battles, there were shortages of water, an overabundance of garbage, and a sore need for transport to cover the vast distances involved. Still, spririts were good, the weather held out, and there were no mishaps. And for any reenactor that has not yet played the part of Spectator, this adventure was an eye opener on what the public endures at these large events and proper respect should be afforded henceforward.
