Well... here we are... January 2009. I hope everyone is doing well. I personally am dealing with the trials and tribulations of senior year of high school, including but not limited to applying to college. Most of you have probably not had to do this for some years now, so let me just tell you that it's not enjoyable in the least bit. It's the epitome of stressful, in fact. Which leads me to my next paragraph...
Being part of the Civil War blogging community taught me a lot of things. I learned that there's a lot of support out there if you seek it. I also learned that military history is not for me, that I'm much more interested in the social and material aspects of the Civil War. I learned that a lot of young historians are wise beyond their years, and that a lot of older historians act like children at times. I found this to be particularly difficult to deal with and is in fact probably the reason for the initial hiatus of Ten Roads; to put it simply, I had enough drama in my own life (I am, after all, a teenage girl) that I didn't feel like dealing with all of the drama around here.
Time has passed and I continue feeling that way. I am going to officially say now that I do not plan to continue Ten Roads any longer. I perhaps will start anew at some point, and you definitely will hear from me and about me when I begin future endeavors. I thank you for reading Ten Roads and for all of the help and encouragement many of you have given me.
Feel free to keep in touch! Emails are always lovely.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Dedication Day 2008
Click here to view the video I took of Ken Burns' speech at the Soldiers National Cemetery on November 19th, 2008.
I was helping out the Civil War Institute, so I was "behind the scenes," thus this video is at a somewhat unique angle.
I was helping out the Civil War Institute, so I was "behind the scenes," thus this video is at a somewhat unique angle.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Oh boy.
Park Service to charge museum admission fee.
In reality, it is a better deal for the visitors. Currently the film is $8 and the proposed cost for the film + Cyclorama is $12. $7.50 is obviously a lot cheaper. However, something just bothers me about the museum requiring a fee. This will also cause ticketing to be backed up, causing people to decide against standing in line. That's what happened when we had the tickets for the museum but still weren't charging. We lost a lot of visitors then, in my opinion. Hopefully all of this works out with minimal hassle for visitors and minimal hassle for the Foundation staff.
In reality, it is a better deal for the visitors. Currently the film is $8 and the proposed cost for the film + Cyclorama is $12. $7.50 is obviously a lot cheaper. However, something just bothers me about the museum requiring a fee. This will also cause ticketing to be backed up, causing people to decide against standing in line. That's what happened when we had the tickets for the museum but still weren't charging. We lost a lot of visitors then, in my opinion. Hopefully all of this works out with minimal hassle for visitors and minimal hassle for the Foundation staff.
Saturday, August 09, 2008
Witness tree damaged
Here is the article from the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Oddly enough, I don't remember it storming on Thursday. I must really not be paying attention anymore.
Oddly enough, I don't remember it storming on Thursday. I must really not be paying attention anymore.
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
I've come to a conclusion...
I absolutely despise all of the pointless sectarianism involved in academia, especially the study of the Civil War. It's gotten to the point where other people's opinions are annoying me, which is not something that happens typically and it bothers me. For this reason, I'm going to take a break from this for a short while, probably a few weeks. Besides, I will be busy with some freelance stuff and going back to school. I don't want to wind up hating what I actually love doing, you know?
Saturday, July 26, 2008
"Which is Which?"
The good thing about working on this newspapers project for the CWI Office/Lincoln Bicentennial Commission is that occasionally I come across interesting and/or amusing items. Here is an article from the Philadelphia Press, January 19, 1861.
Which is Which?
The blunders of the English journals, when American topics are discussed, are frequent and amusing. At one time English editors declare that the President of the United States is elected by the rowdies of New York; at another, they acknowledge Mr. Bennett's Herald to be reliable and respectable; anon, they discourse of Ohio as margined by the Atlantic, and so on. We have now to notice their latest and most amusing error.
A London periodical, entitled "Once a Week," commenced eighteen months ago, to rival Dickens' "All the Year Round," has an article, in its number for December 29, called "Abraham Lincoln, President Elect of the United States." It commences thus, biographically.
"'Honest Old Abe,' as the Americans call Lincoln, was originally a farm-laborer in Illinois. Frederick Douglas, 'the Little Giant,' his defeated antagonist, was a cabinet maker."
Here be two pieces of exclusive news - that Frederick Douglass, the negro, was the political antagonist of Mr. Lincoln, and that the said Frederick bears the sobriquet of "the Little Giant." In the innocence of our heart, we always thought that, not Frederick Douglass, but Stephen A. Douglas, stood in that position, and bore that familiar sobriquet. Moreover, we were certain - until corrected in our belief by "Once a Week," - that Stephen A. Douglas is a white man, instead of a black.
The English editor cannot plead, in extenuation, that Frederick was a slip of the pen, for a dozen lines lower down, he describes what Frederick Douglass said of Mr. Lincoln "in one of his stump speeches, when lately itinerating the northwest provinces." He adds that in 1858 this self-same "Frederick" was elected Senator for Illinois, and that the New York Tribune is a "religious" paper. Nothing can be said to excuse the ignorance of a writer who confounds black and white in this odd manner - who supposes a negro eligible for the Presidency - and who speaks of the States of the Union as provinces. To carry on the joke, this very facetious and accurate English writer brags of his personal knowledge of America, its institutions, its people, its politics. "I," he says, "who have stood for hours and days watching the boatmen of these rivers [the Wabash and the Mississippi] know how laborious is their life," he alludes to the boatmen and so on. All this comes from people writing boldly about matters with which they are almost unacquainted. Not otherwise could any person have blundered so palpably as to confound the Hon. S.A. Douglas, the patriotic and eloquent Senator for Illinois, with Frederick Douglass, the negro.
The blunders of the English journals, when American topics are discussed, are frequent and amusing. At one time English editors declare that the President of the United States is elected by the rowdies of New York; at another, they acknowledge Mr. Bennett's Herald to be reliable and respectable; anon, they discourse of Ohio as margined by the Atlantic, and so on. We have now to notice their latest and most amusing error.
A London periodical, entitled "Once a Week," commenced eighteen months ago, to rival Dickens' "All the Year Round," has an article, in its number for December 29, called "Abraham Lincoln, President Elect of the United States." It commences thus, biographically.
"'Honest Old Abe,' as the Americans call Lincoln, was originally a farm-laborer in Illinois. Frederick Douglas, 'the Little Giant,' his defeated antagonist, was a cabinet maker."
Here be two pieces of exclusive news - that Frederick Douglass, the negro, was the political antagonist of Mr. Lincoln, and that the said Frederick bears the sobriquet of "the Little Giant." In the innocence of our heart, we always thought that, not Frederick Douglass, but Stephen A. Douglas, stood in that position, and bore that familiar sobriquet. Moreover, we were certain - until corrected in our belief by "Once a Week," - that Stephen A. Douglas is a white man, instead of a black.
The English editor cannot plead, in extenuation, that Frederick was a slip of the pen, for a dozen lines lower down, he describes what Frederick Douglass said of Mr. Lincoln "in one of his stump speeches, when lately itinerating the northwest provinces." He adds that in 1858 this self-same "Frederick" was elected Senator for Illinois, and that the New York Tribune is a "religious" paper. Nothing can be said to excuse the ignorance of a writer who confounds black and white in this odd manner - who supposes a negro eligible for the Presidency - and who speaks of the States of the Union as provinces. To carry on the joke, this very facetious and accurate English writer brags of his personal knowledge of America, its institutions, its people, its politics. "I," he says, "who have stood for hours and days watching the boatmen of these rivers [the Wabash and the Mississippi] know how laborious is their life," he alludes to the boatmen and so on. All this comes from people writing boldly about matters with which they are almost unacquainted. Not otherwise could any person have blundered so palpably as to confound the Hon. S.A. Douglas, the patriotic and eloquent Senator for Illinois, with Frederick Douglass, the negro.
Friday, July 25, 2008
"The tube returneth."
That tube thing returned to the square today. It, of course, got stuck again. It took slightly less time for the authorities to move it since they've had practice now, but it still backed up traffic for quite a while. I found it very amusing that they did not learn their lesson the last time. Also, I still do not know what the hell that thing is.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
An update on the Cyclorama
At the end of my shift at the VC on Friday, one of my managers took me upstairs to check out the Cyclorama. They were beginning to install the diorama part of it, including a cannon that is in line with the other cannons in the painting. The actual restoration is pretty much complete and now it's just getting the rest of it set up and the room/hallways/stairs ready for visitors. It's set to open September 26th and put plainly, it is going to be awesome. We've been giving out coupons for 50% off a New Birth of Freedom/Cyclorama ticket and they have no expiration date, so if you find yourself at the Visitor Center before September, make sure you track one down so you can save a bit when you return for the multi-media experience.
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
Interview with Zack Fry
Zack Fry is a history student at Kent State University who has studied the Civil War for most of his life. He has been published in Gettysburg Magazine, The Ohio Civil War Genealogy Journal, and other periodicals. Among the groups he has led on battlefield tours are the Civil War Education Association, Military History Online, and the Gettysburg Discussion Group. He also regularly gives presentations at local libraries and historical societies. Most importantly, he's also a good friend of mine.
Sarah Adler (SA): How did you first become interested in the 59th New York?
Zack Fry (ZF): My fascination started when I realized that much of the regiment was actually from my area of Ohio. I learned the story of their horrific experiences at Antietam, and I soon found that a man from nearby Bellville won the Medal of Honor at Gettysburg. Early in the project, I received copies of the Jacob L. Bechtel letters, an invaluable first-hand account of day-to-day life in the regiment. Bechtel wrote the letters to his sweetheart in Bellville. They really put a human face on the story. From there, my interest grew to include the entire regiment and all their experiences, from Antietam to Gettysburg to the end of the war.
SA: What would you say is the biggest obstacle you've needed to overcome as a young historian?
ZF: That's a tough question. In a strictly practical sense, it's realizing you don't have the means yet to do some of the more detailed research at distant facilities like the NARA in Washington. That day will come, and hopefully very soon. My initial interest was mainly the Ohioans in the 59th, and, unfortunately, just about all the records for their involvement are indeed in New York or Washington. I've made indispensable connections in some very fine historians who have helped me along the way, though, and I'm thankful for that every day.
SA: I know that you have faced some sporadic opposition to your findings. Would you say that this has actually helped you in some ways?
ZF: Nobody who puts his findings on the line escapes some mild criticism. Fortunately, the vast (and I mean nearly unanimous) majority of feedback I've received on my 59th research and interpretation has been complimentary and supportive. Of course criticism makes you a better historian - it keeps you focused, keeps you alert, and keeps you careful in what you say and how you say it. It sounds trite, but the true key to accepting criticism is to learn from it. Where the criticism is correct, vow to avoid that fault in the future. If it is scurrilous or destructive, look past it, and hope others do the same when they witness it happening. That's how I see it right now.
SA: You took the Gettysburg battlefield guide written exam when you were sixteen, right?
ZF: Fourteen, actually. It was in 2002. I remember it well. I think there were about 200 participants, and I wasn't in the top twenty, of course. Unfortunately, I learned the most about the Battle of Gettysburg in the following two years!
SA: So you were the youngest ever to take the exam?
ZF: I have no idea. I think someone at the site said I was, but that would be a difficult thing to determine, and I suppose it wouldn't mean much even if I were. Doing things because you'll be "the youngest" is a bad inspiration, I think; doing them because you believe you can succeed or because you enjoy them is better. Going back to the previous topic - if you're serious about studying history, and especially about being published, you should be willing to accept criticism in whatever fashion it is presented to you. Age must necessarily be immaterial at that point if you hope to be taken seriously.
SA: What would you say is your dream job?
ZF: Any occupation where I can tell others about the historical topics I love and be in the company of those who share my interest. I'd particularly like to teach. One thing is for sure - I hope I never stop learning. I love to research.
SA: You do a lot of your own artwork when you write. How did you get the idea to start sketching to accompany your articles?
ZF: I've always enjoyed portrait sketching, and many friends suggested I use that to my advantage in my writings. When I was just beginning serious research on the Pickett-Pettigrew-Trimble Assault several years ago, I read Kathy Georg Harrison's "Nothing But Glory," wherein the author included her own excellent sketches of key participants. I thought that really gave the piece a personal touch, so it kind of inspired me to do the same. Sketch art for me is a hobby, but it's a very convenient and enjoyable one.
SA: You lead the occasional battlefield tour. Would you say you prefer giving tours to writing?
ZF: Both are incredibly rewarding, I think. Writing and speaking both involve a great deal of research, which I enjoy to no end. Of course, I can amass more detail in the story when I write, but that venue also lacks the face-to-face interaction that makes battlefield tours remarkable. I'm thankful to have had ample opportunities for both. A historian must be able to argue his case effectively in writing and in person. It's satisfying to be part of a published piece, but it's also very rewarding to be on the battlefield and see firsthand that your point is getting through to someone. I've also made great friends in some truly wonderful people on tours, such as fellow Gettysburg aficionado Lew Gage and the late historian Keith Snipes.
SA: Who would you say has been most influential in your studies?
ZF: On a personal level, my family has provided great support and encouragement. I'd be remiss not to thank professionals such as Bob Krick, Gary Kross, Bob Maher, Dan Reigle, and a host of others for the opportunities and the guidance they've given me. I had the good fortune to learn from some excellent high school history teachers, especially my good friend, the authoritative Mr. Conry. He continues to teach me the historian's craft with a bluntness that only decades of insight can afford, and I'm looking forward to walking the fields of Waterloo and Ypres with him in a couple months. My very inspirational philosophy professor, Dr. Wattles, teaches me at every turn to seek the greater historical truth. As far as Civil War history is concerned, I'm a great admirer of the work of Dr. Gary Gallagher, especially his efforts to connect the battlefield to the home front. Several classics gripped me in my childhood, including the staples of any Civil War bookshelf - Catton, Freeman, and some well-known Gettysburg-specific classics such as Frank Haskell's narrative and George Stewart's "Pickett's Charge." I've also gained a great deal from reading other military history writers such as John Keegan, David Chandler, Mark Grimsley, and Victor Davis Hanson. I'll leave it there for now.
SA: This is a question that has plagued many for ages; Guelzo and Prokopowicz disagree on the answer. So I ask you, do you think Lincoln would have been able to dunk a basketball?
ZF: Let's just say I think he would have had a much better chance of success than Little Mac would have.
Sarah Adler (SA): How did you first become interested in the 59th New York?
Zack Fry (ZF): My fascination started when I realized that much of the regiment was actually from my area of Ohio. I learned the story of their horrific experiences at Antietam, and I soon found that a man from nearby Bellville won the Medal of Honor at Gettysburg. Early in the project, I received copies of the Jacob L. Bechtel letters, an invaluable first-hand account of day-to-day life in the regiment. Bechtel wrote the letters to his sweetheart in Bellville. They really put a human face on the story. From there, my interest grew to include the entire regiment and all their experiences, from Antietam to Gettysburg to the end of the war.
SA: What would you say is the biggest obstacle you've needed to overcome as a young historian?
ZF: That's a tough question. In a strictly practical sense, it's realizing you don't have the means yet to do some of the more detailed research at distant facilities like the NARA in Washington. That day will come, and hopefully very soon. My initial interest was mainly the Ohioans in the 59th, and, unfortunately, just about all the records for their involvement are indeed in New York or Washington. I've made indispensable connections in some very fine historians who have helped me along the way, though, and I'm thankful for that every day.
SA: I know that you have faced some sporadic opposition to your findings. Would you say that this has actually helped you in some ways?
ZF: Nobody who puts his findings on the line escapes some mild criticism. Fortunately, the vast (and I mean nearly unanimous) majority of feedback I've received on my 59th research and interpretation has been complimentary and supportive. Of course criticism makes you a better historian - it keeps you focused, keeps you alert, and keeps you careful in what you say and how you say it. It sounds trite, but the true key to accepting criticism is to learn from it. Where the criticism is correct, vow to avoid that fault in the future. If it is scurrilous or destructive, look past it, and hope others do the same when they witness it happening. That's how I see it right now.
SA: You took the Gettysburg battlefield guide written exam when you were sixteen, right?
ZF: Fourteen, actually. It was in 2002. I remember it well. I think there were about 200 participants, and I wasn't in the top twenty, of course. Unfortunately, I learned the most about the Battle of Gettysburg in the following two years!
SA: So you were the youngest ever to take the exam?
ZF: I have no idea. I think someone at the site said I was, but that would be a difficult thing to determine, and I suppose it wouldn't mean much even if I were. Doing things because you'll be "the youngest" is a bad inspiration, I think; doing them because you believe you can succeed or because you enjoy them is better. Going back to the previous topic - if you're serious about studying history, and especially about being published, you should be willing to accept criticism in whatever fashion it is presented to you. Age must necessarily be immaterial at that point if you hope to be taken seriously.
SA: What would you say is your dream job?
ZF: Any occupation where I can tell others about the historical topics I love and be in the company of those who share my interest. I'd particularly like to teach. One thing is for sure - I hope I never stop learning. I love to research.
SA: You do a lot of your own artwork when you write. How did you get the idea to start sketching to accompany your articles?
ZF: I've always enjoyed portrait sketching, and many friends suggested I use that to my advantage in my writings. When I was just beginning serious research on the Pickett-Pettigrew-Trimble Assault several years ago, I read Kathy Georg Harrison's "Nothing But Glory," wherein the author included her own excellent sketches of key participants. I thought that really gave the piece a personal touch, so it kind of inspired me to do the same. Sketch art for me is a hobby, but it's a very convenient and enjoyable one.
SA: You lead the occasional battlefield tour. Would you say you prefer giving tours to writing?
ZF: Both are incredibly rewarding, I think. Writing and speaking both involve a great deal of research, which I enjoy to no end. Of course, I can amass more detail in the story when I write, but that venue also lacks the face-to-face interaction that makes battlefield tours remarkable. I'm thankful to have had ample opportunities for both. A historian must be able to argue his case effectively in writing and in person. It's satisfying to be part of a published piece, but it's also very rewarding to be on the battlefield and see firsthand that your point is getting through to someone. I've also made great friends in some truly wonderful people on tours, such as fellow Gettysburg aficionado Lew Gage and the late historian Keith Snipes.
SA: Who would you say has been most influential in your studies?
ZF: On a personal level, my family has provided great support and encouragement. I'd be remiss not to thank professionals such as Bob Krick, Gary Kross, Bob Maher, Dan Reigle, and a host of others for the opportunities and the guidance they've given me. I had the good fortune to learn from some excellent high school history teachers, especially my good friend, the authoritative Mr. Conry. He continues to teach me the historian's craft with a bluntness that only decades of insight can afford, and I'm looking forward to walking the fields of Waterloo and Ypres with him in a couple months. My very inspirational philosophy professor, Dr. Wattles, teaches me at every turn to seek the greater historical truth. As far as Civil War history is concerned, I'm a great admirer of the work of Dr. Gary Gallagher, especially his efforts to connect the battlefield to the home front. Several classics gripped me in my childhood, including the staples of any Civil War bookshelf - Catton, Freeman, and some well-known Gettysburg-specific classics such as Frank Haskell's narrative and George Stewart's "Pickett's Charge." I've also gained a great deal from reading other military history writers such as John Keegan, David Chandler, Mark Grimsley, and Victor Davis Hanson. I'll leave it there for now.
SA: This is a question that has plagued many for ages; Guelzo and Prokopowicz disagree on the answer. So I ask you, do you think Lincoln would have been able to dunk a basketball?
ZF: Let's just say I think he would have had a much better chance of success than Little Mac would have.
Pivot! Pivot!
Yesterday there was this... thing... in the square. I noticed an unusual backup in front of the train station (where I was working) when I left, and I looked towards the square eventually to see what was holding up traffic. And I saw this. What is it? I do not know. I know that it was large and rusted and tank-like. And that the truck carrying it wasn't able to make it all the way around. It was stuck in the square, taking up the whole area from York Street (where the truck part was) to Chambersburg Street (where the end of the thing was). People were getting out of their cars and leaving the shops to come out and get a look and snap a few pictures. Luckily I had my cell phone with me.
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Oh boy
145th Battle of Gettysburg re-enactment may be biggest ever.
As a local who has to go to work those days (mostly at the VC, nonetheless), I can honestly say I'm not quite looking forward to that.
As a local who has to go to work those days (mostly at the VC, nonetheless), I can honestly say I'm not quite looking forward to that.
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
CWI 2008
I hesitate to write about my week at CWI because I don't think I can do it justice. But I know that there are some who have asked to hear about it, and so I will give it a go. I'm going to do it by day so that it maybe will flow a little better.
Sunday
My parents and I arrived at Gettysburg College around 2:30, I checked in and they helped me carry everything up to my room. One of my roommates, Alix, was already there. So we talked and got to know each other a little. My other roommate, Corinne, showed up a little while later. We went to an orientation meeting where we did the usual "name, where you're from, and three interesting facts about you" and met Pete Vermilyea, who is in charge of the scholarship students. At 6:30, we ate dinner at the opening picnic and then went to the CUB ballroom (a place that would become way too familiar to us) to hear Wendy Allen (a personal favorite of mine) and Richard Wengenroth talk about their Lincoln art. After lectures, the scholarship students retired to Apple, where we played cards and talked. By this point we were all pretty good friends and nicknames had been given to most.
Monday
We woke quite early in order to make it to breakfast in time. Alix, Corinne, and I stopped at the library to check our emails before heading to the CUB for our first lecture. It was a big one, too. Gabor Boritt welcomed everyone with his wonderful Tiger Lily poem before the panel discussion on Abraham Lincoln featuring Jean Baker, Michael Beschloss, Ken Burns, and James McPherson. After, Corinne and I decided to get autographs on the back of our folders - a practice that we would continue throughout the week - enabling us to meet most of the speakers. After lunch, McPherson returned along with Craig Symonds to talk about Lincoln as Commander in Chief and as Commander in Chief of the Navy. An extra program scheduled for 4:00 was canceled and instead Kenneth Winkle spoke about Lincoln and civic organizations for a little over half an hour. Dinner was at 6:00. At 7:00, Dr. Allen Guelzo spoke about the Lincoln-Douglas debates and Harold Holzer spoke about the time in between Lincoln's election and his taking office. Michael Burkhimer was the moderator. When the lectures finished around 9:00, the scholarship kids again headed back to the dorms where cards were played and messes were made when applesauce was substituted for spoons in the game of Spoons.
Tuesday
We woke up even earlier in order to make it to breakfast. After some bacon and hash browns, we met with Daniel Epstein for a private Q&A session. Dr. Brad Hoch gave us a tour of Lincoln's time in Gettysburg. Fun fact: Dr. Hoch used to be my pediatrician. We stopped by the train station and I chatted with Adam while everyone else toured. We returned to campus in time for lunch. According to my schedule, we had a bunch of free time in between lunch and dinner with Chief Justice of the Rhode Island Supreme Court Frank Williams. I think maybe we went to the writing lab to work on the writings Pete wanted us to do during the week. After dinner we attended a lecture with Frank Williams and Daniel Mark Epstein with Larry Taylor as moderator. Cards were played at night.
Wednesday
Breakfast was had. Lewis Lehrman, William Lee Miller, and Richard Carwardine lectured in the morning. Joe Fornieri and Sharita Jacobs acted as moderators. Carwardine was someone I saw more throughout the week and is a nice fellow with an awesome British accent that makes him easy to listen to. A side note, I am currently reading his book on Lincoln, Lincoln: A Life of Purpose and Power, and so far it's quite good. We took the obligatory CWI group photo on the steps of Pennsylvania Hall (Old Dorm) and complained about the sun being in our eyes. After lunch was lectures with Douglas Wilson, William Harris, and James Oakes, with Catherine Clinton as moderator. At 3:00, we went on the Lost Avenue tour and got to see that legendary part of the battlefield that few ever view. We returned for dinner. At 7:00, John Waugh, Julie Fenster, Thomas Craughwell, and Gerald Prokopowicz lectured. Eileen Mackevich and James Tackach moderated. Thomas Craughwell is not quite a Lincoln scholar; he dabbles in several areas. His most recent book is about the plot to steal Lincoln's body. He was definitely one of our favorite speakers during the week, the story very entertaining. We were disappointed when he ran out of time because he was actually fun to listen to. I believe it was Wednesday night that we attended the FOG pizza party, where Joshua Domosh (one of the scholarship kids) regaled us with more stories about the legendary Stanley Domosh. I also saw Eric Wittenberg's name on the list of honorary members, accompanied by several other very accomplished souls. Cards were, of course, played. I think maybe by this time we had acquired spoons. It'd be better not to inquire as to their source.
Thursday
After breakfast Thursday morning, we had a private Q&A with Ed Bearss. Brian Dirck, Burrus Carnahan, and Allen Jayne lectured. Tim Shannon and Tom Turner moderated. Lunch was consumed with Catherine Clinton. Everyone then met outside for the Marine Color Guard that arrived to present Ed Bearss with his birthday cake. The man is now 85 years old. At 1:30 we went on our Beginner Tour of Gettysburg. Needless to say, this covered things I do all of the time, including seeing the film at the Visitor Center. So I slept through it (even Pickett's charge, which is loud), because I've seen it about five times now (I do work there, you know) and I was tired. Jared Peatman took us on a tour of the battlefield. The end of the tour brought us to the cemetery, where I told Jorg Nagler, the German Lincoln biographer, a little bit about some of the people buried there. We made it back for dinner, which we had with Dr. Allen Guelzo. All I will say about Dr. Guelzo is that he is a very interesting person with a gift for snark. The Raffle/Auction was eventful for us scholarship kids. We convinced Jordan to bid $1100 on a rifle, which we thought would sell for about $10,000. It um... didn't. It wound up going for $1200 and there was a moment of silence that Jordan describes as "the scariest moment of his life." And you guessed it! Cards were played when we returned to the dorms.
Friday
Friday was the last day we all had together, as Corinne left that night and several others left very early Saturday morning. Our first lecture after breakfast was one with Michael Burlingame (whose lecture helped me immensely with how I look at research), Jorg Nagler, and Matthew Pinsker. Michael Birkner and Kent Gramm moderated. Matthew Pinsker gave us a demonstration of the incredible Google Earth Tour project that it seems like everyone is working on (including myself). Afterwards was the annual CWI slide show. After lunch we heard from Barry Schwartz (whose lecture was not exactly well-received) and James Percoco. Jean Bandler and Elizabeth Brown Pryor moderated. I spoke with Elizabeth Brown Pryor after the session and got some great advice about the Foreign Service. CWI was then given a sneak peak of the horrible, horrible, horrible film Discovery did. It was supposed to be based on Gabor Boritt's The Gettysburg Gospel, but it just wound up being terrible. It was actually so bad that it was hilarious. It was also hilarious hearing Gabor and Jake argue about the events leading up to the film being made and Gabor talking about how horrible it is. Unfortunately, Pete wanted us to finish up our writings for him and we had to leave mid-horrible movie. We attended the banquet, which was nice. We then had to say goodbye to Corinne. At 8:00 we went to the Majestic, where we watched Budapest to Gettysburg, which is absolutely amazing. There was a Q&A with Jake and Gabor afterwards. We played cards back at the dorms until 11, when we went out to the soccer field to watch fireworks. It was a wonderful night. Alix and I went to sleep by 12:30. Apparently the others all stayed up all night. And apparently some really crazy happenings occurred. Let's just say that Alix and I were glad we missed said happenings.
Saturday
We went to breakfast, lugged our stuff to the CUB to check out, hung out in the café for a short amount of time. My mom then came to pick me up and I had to say goodbye to everyone, which was sad. I then went home and took the rest of the day to recover.
In summary, I had the most incredible week of my life. I met some amazing people, some of whom had such an immense impact on me that it cannot be put into words. It was an excellent time and I hope I can make it back somehow next year when the joint themes will be the Assassination of Lincoln and Mary Todd Lincoln.
Sunday
My parents and I arrived at Gettysburg College around 2:30, I checked in and they helped me carry everything up to my room. One of my roommates, Alix, was already there. So we talked and got to know each other a little. My other roommate, Corinne, showed up a little while later. We went to an orientation meeting where we did the usual "name, where you're from, and three interesting facts about you" and met Pete Vermilyea, who is in charge of the scholarship students. At 6:30, we ate dinner at the opening picnic and then went to the CUB ballroom (a place that would become way too familiar to us) to hear Wendy Allen (a personal favorite of mine) and Richard Wengenroth talk about their Lincoln art. After lectures, the scholarship students retired to Apple, where we played cards and talked. By this point we were all pretty good friends and nicknames had been given to most.
Monday
We woke quite early in order to make it to breakfast in time. Alix, Corinne, and I stopped at the library to check our emails before heading to the CUB for our first lecture. It was a big one, too. Gabor Boritt welcomed everyone with his wonderful Tiger Lily poem before the panel discussion on Abraham Lincoln featuring Jean Baker, Michael Beschloss, Ken Burns, and James McPherson. After, Corinne and I decided to get autographs on the back of our folders - a practice that we would continue throughout the week - enabling us to meet most of the speakers. After lunch, McPherson returned along with Craig Symonds to talk about Lincoln as Commander in Chief and as Commander in Chief of the Navy. An extra program scheduled for 4:00 was canceled and instead Kenneth Winkle spoke about Lincoln and civic organizations for a little over half an hour. Dinner was at 6:00. At 7:00, Dr. Allen Guelzo spoke about the Lincoln-Douglas debates and Harold Holzer spoke about the time in between Lincoln's election and his taking office. Michael Burkhimer was the moderator. When the lectures finished around 9:00, the scholarship kids again headed back to the dorms where cards were played and messes were made when applesauce was substituted for spoons in the game of Spoons.
Tuesday
We woke up even earlier in order to make it to breakfast. After some bacon and hash browns, we met with Daniel Epstein for a private Q&A session. Dr. Brad Hoch gave us a tour of Lincoln's time in Gettysburg. Fun fact: Dr. Hoch used to be my pediatrician. We stopped by the train station and I chatted with Adam while everyone else toured. We returned to campus in time for lunch. According to my schedule, we had a bunch of free time in between lunch and dinner with Chief Justice of the Rhode Island Supreme Court Frank Williams. I think maybe we went to the writing lab to work on the writings Pete wanted us to do during the week. After dinner we attended a lecture with Frank Williams and Daniel Mark Epstein with Larry Taylor as moderator. Cards were played at night.
Wednesday
Breakfast was had. Lewis Lehrman, William Lee Miller, and Richard Carwardine lectured in the morning. Joe Fornieri and Sharita Jacobs acted as moderators. Carwardine was someone I saw more throughout the week and is a nice fellow with an awesome British accent that makes him easy to listen to. A side note, I am currently reading his book on Lincoln, Lincoln: A Life of Purpose and Power, and so far it's quite good. We took the obligatory CWI group photo on the steps of Pennsylvania Hall (Old Dorm) and complained about the sun being in our eyes. After lunch was lectures with Douglas Wilson, William Harris, and James Oakes, with Catherine Clinton as moderator. At 3:00, we went on the Lost Avenue tour and got to see that legendary part of the battlefield that few ever view. We returned for dinner. At 7:00, John Waugh, Julie Fenster, Thomas Craughwell, and Gerald Prokopowicz lectured. Eileen Mackevich and James Tackach moderated. Thomas Craughwell is not quite a Lincoln scholar; he dabbles in several areas. His most recent book is about the plot to steal Lincoln's body. He was definitely one of our favorite speakers during the week, the story very entertaining. We were disappointed when he ran out of time because he was actually fun to listen to. I believe it was Wednesday night that we attended the FOG pizza party, where Joshua Domosh (one of the scholarship kids) regaled us with more stories about the legendary Stanley Domosh. I also saw Eric Wittenberg's name on the list of honorary members, accompanied by several other very accomplished souls. Cards were, of course, played. I think maybe by this time we had acquired spoons. It'd be better not to inquire as to their source.
Thursday
After breakfast Thursday morning, we had a private Q&A with Ed Bearss. Brian Dirck, Burrus Carnahan, and Allen Jayne lectured. Tim Shannon and Tom Turner moderated. Lunch was consumed with Catherine Clinton. Everyone then met outside for the Marine Color Guard that arrived to present Ed Bearss with his birthday cake. The man is now 85 years old. At 1:30 we went on our Beginner Tour of Gettysburg. Needless to say, this covered things I do all of the time, including seeing the film at the Visitor Center. So I slept through it (even Pickett's charge, which is loud), because I've seen it about five times now (I do work there, you know) and I was tired. Jared Peatman took us on a tour of the battlefield. The end of the tour brought us to the cemetery, where I told Jorg Nagler, the German Lincoln biographer, a little bit about some of the people buried there. We made it back for dinner, which we had with Dr. Allen Guelzo. All I will say about Dr. Guelzo is that he is a very interesting person with a gift for snark. The Raffle/Auction was eventful for us scholarship kids. We convinced Jordan to bid $1100 on a rifle, which we thought would sell for about $10,000. It um... didn't. It wound up going for $1200 and there was a moment of silence that Jordan describes as "the scariest moment of his life." And you guessed it! Cards were played when we returned to the dorms.
Friday
Friday was the last day we all had together, as Corinne left that night and several others left very early Saturday morning. Our first lecture after breakfast was one with Michael Burlingame (whose lecture helped me immensely with how I look at research), Jorg Nagler, and Matthew Pinsker. Michael Birkner and Kent Gramm moderated. Matthew Pinsker gave us a demonstration of the incredible Google Earth Tour project that it seems like everyone is working on (including myself). Afterwards was the annual CWI slide show. After lunch we heard from Barry Schwartz (whose lecture was not exactly well-received) and James Percoco. Jean Bandler and Elizabeth Brown Pryor moderated. I spoke with Elizabeth Brown Pryor after the session and got some great advice about the Foreign Service. CWI was then given a sneak peak of the horrible, horrible, horrible film Discovery did. It was supposed to be based on Gabor Boritt's The Gettysburg Gospel, but it just wound up being terrible. It was actually so bad that it was hilarious. It was also hilarious hearing Gabor and Jake argue about the events leading up to the film being made and Gabor talking about how horrible it is. Unfortunately, Pete wanted us to finish up our writings for him and we had to leave mid-horrible movie. We attended the banquet, which was nice. We then had to say goodbye to Corinne. At 8:00 we went to the Majestic, where we watched Budapest to Gettysburg, which is absolutely amazing. There was a Q&A with Jake and Gabor afterwards. We played cards back at the dorms until 11, when we went out to the soccer field to watch fireworks. It was a wonderful night. Alix and I went to sleep by 12:30. Apparently the others all stayed up all night. And apparently some really crazy happenings occurred. Let's just say that Alix and I were glad we missed said happenings.
Saturday
We went to breakfast, lugged our stuff to the CUB to check out, hung out in the café for a short amount of time. My mom then came to pick me up and I had to say goodbye to everyone, which was sad. I then went home and took the rest of the day to recover.
In summary, I had the most incredible week of my life. I met some amazing people, some of whom had such an immense impact on me that it cannot be put into words. It was an excellent time and I hope I can make it back somehow next year when the joint themes will be the Assassination of Lincoln and Mary Todd Lincoln.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Greetings from CWI!
I write to you from the CUB at Gettysburg College during some rare free time between lectures and tours and meals and private sessions with Very Important People.
The Civil War Institute is a beyond amazing experience thus far (not that I expect anything less during the remainder of my time). I will give a very, very detailed report when I find myself back home and rested.
The Civil War Institute is a beyond amazing experience thus far (not that I expect anything less during the remainder of my time). I will give a very, very detailed report when I find myself back home and rested.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Projects, projects, everywhere
The Civil War Institute at Gettysburg College (technically my employers) and the Lincoln Bicentennial Commission have me working on two projects as of late. My part in each is extremely dull, although what I'm contributing is important because when the projects are finished they are both going to be impressive.
Project number one involves a database of libraries in Pennsylvania. My job is to go through the spreadsheet of the database, separate the first and last name fields, and then go into the .pdf file and copy-paste email addresses. Fun stuff, lemme tell you. Big-picture-wise, the database is being created so that every library in Pennsylvania can be contacted and asked what kind of Lincoln-related holdings they have so that a website can be created with every single Lincoln-related text/artifact held by Pennsylvania libraries.
Project number two involves a database of Pennsylvania Civil War newspapers on the Penn State Libraries site. I am assigned Philadelphia, so I do searches for mentions of Abraham Lincoln in the Philadelphia newspapers included in the database. I enter every hit into a spreadsheet and save the page of the newspaper as a .pdf file. Later on every article will be sorted through and some will be disposed of. Once all of that is completed, the articles will be used in order to create a sort of Google Earth of 1860s Pennsylvania with Lincoln's whereabouts marked. I think it will wind up being quite interesting.
It takes a lot of patience to do these things. I am finding it hard to stay motivated. I finished about 150 for the first project today (I still have a couple hundred to go) and only about 10 articles for the second project (I have hundreds and hundreds more to go through). Hopefully my motivation levels will increase over time.
Project number one involves a database of libraries in Pennsylvania. My job is to go through the spreadsheet of the database, separate the first and last name fields, and then go into the .pdf file and copy-paste email addresses. Fun stuff, lemme tell you. Big-picture-wise, the database is being created so that every library in Pennsylvania can be contacted and asked what kind of Lincoln-related holdings they have so that a website can be created with every single Lincoln-related text/artifact held by Pennsylvania libraries.
Project number two involves a database of Pennsylvania Civil War newspapers on the Penn State Libraries site. I am assigned Philadelphia, so I do searches for mentions of Abraham Lincoln in the Philadelphia newspapers included in the database. I enter every hit into a spreadsheet and save the page of the newspaper as a .pdf file. Later on every article will be sorted through and some will be disposed of. Once all of that is completed, the articles will be used in order to create a sort of Google Earth of 1860s Pennsylvania with Lincoln's whereabouts marked. I think it will wind up being quite interesting.
It takes a lot of patience to do these things. I am finding it hard to stay motivated. I finished about 150 for the first project today (I still have a couple hundred to go) and only about 10 articles for the second project (I have hundreds and hundreds more to go through). Hopefully my motivation levels will increase over time.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
The Last Civil War Veteran
Currently I am at the station, where preparations for the Gettysburg Festival are being made. Late paintings of the late Larry Rivers are hanging on our walls. Some of them are gorgeous, leading me to a Google search, leading me to this (somewhat disturbing) sketch he did of Edwin Denby, claimed to be the last Civil War veteran.
EDIT: It was brought to my attention that this is actually not the case. Please read the comments for more details.
EDIT: It was brought to my attention that this is actually not the case. Please read the comments for more details.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Ch-ch-ch-changes?
Gettysburg train station promised to park service.
I love how no one has told any of the people who actually run the station about any of this. It's very weird to find out about this from the newspaper.
I'm not quite sure what this means for Adam or myself (mostly him since it's his only job) and all of the volunteers, but I guess we don't have to worry about it all just yet considering it could take quite a long time for Congress to approve of the purchase. Chances are I'll be off at college by the time any take over actually occurs.
Hopefully it will all work out.
I love how no one has told any of the people who actually run the station about any of this. It's very weird to find out about this from the newspaper.
I'm not quite sure what this means for Adam or myself (mostly him since it's his only job) and all of the volunteers, but I guess we don't have to worry about it all just yet considering it could take quite a long time for Congress to approve of the purchase. Chances are I'll be off at college by the time any take over actually occurs.
Hopefully it will all work out.
Sunday, June 08, 2008
Lake Marburg/Codorus
Last night I went to the Reliance Mine Saloon to meet Eric Wittenberg and several other Civil War bloggers/generally very interesting people - I had a great time, by the way. Eric and I somehow got to talking about Codorus (well, I as a local call the lake itself Codorus, but in reality it's called Lake Marburg). Neither of us knew why Lake Marburg and Codorus State Park were created, so I decided to look up some of the history today when I got home from work. Here is a mix of things I just read about on various sites and my own knowledge.
The area now known as Codorus State Park was once the location of Mary Ann Furnace. Founded in 1762 by George Stevenson, George Ross, William Thompson, and Mark Bird, it is regarded as the first of its kind on the western side of the Susquehanna River. Mary Ann Furnace provided the continental army with cannon balls and grapeshot and also employed Hessian prisoners, allowing the ironworks to be kept open while many of its original employees were off fighting the British during the Revolution. Nothing of the ironworks remains today.
Before Codorus State Park, there was Codorus Creek and the community of Marburg. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the P.H. Glatfelter Paper Company collaborated in order to establish Lake Marburg as both a water source for Glatfelter and the people of Spring Grove and a recreational lake. Codorus Creek was dammed and Marburg was flooded December 6, 1966 and Lake Marburg was full three years later. The creation of the park and Lake Marburg was known as "Project 70."
Lake Marburg is now 1275 acres with 26 miles of shoreline. It is used for fishing and boating, but it still provides water for P.H. Glatfelter. Because that company uses it in its manufacturing process, the depth of the lake fluctuates dramatically; some summers its level will drop 22 feet.
Because the lake was created over top of Marburg, during droughts it is possible to see the roads leading into the old community. Some original structures also remain under the water, so I'd imagine they can still be seen as well. Which I think is pretty neat, although a little... eerie.
The area now known as Codorus State Park was once the location of Mary Ann Furnace. Founded in 1762 by George Stevenson, George Ross, William Thompson, and Mark Bird, it is regarded as the first of its kind on the western side of the Susquehanna River. Mary Ann Furnace provided the continental army with cannon balls and grapeshot and also employed Hessian prisoners, allowing the ironworks to be kept open while many of its original employees were off fighting the British during the Revolution. Nothing of the ironworks remains today.
Before Codorus State Park, there was Codorus Creek and the community of Marburg. The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the P.H. Glatfelter Paper Company collaborated in order to establish Lake Marburg as both a water source for Glatfelter and the people of Spring Grove and a recreational lake. Codorus Creek was dammed and Marburg was flooded December 6, 1966 and Lake Marburg was full three years later. The creation of the park and Lake Marburg was known as "Project 70."
Lake Marburg is now 1275 acres with 26 miles of shoreline. It is used for fishing and boating, but it still provides water for P.H. Glatfelter. Because that company uses it in its manufacturing process, the depth of the lake fluctuates dramatically; some summers its level will drop 22 feet.
Because the lake was created over top of Marburg, during droughts it is possible to see the roads leading into the old community. Some original structures also remain under the water, so I'd imagine they can still be seen as well. Which I think is pretty neat, although a little... eerie.
Saturday, May 24, 2008
An inflammatory post
The first time I ever heard about the Lost Cause was when my good friend Zack Fry chided me for saying that the Civil War was not solely about slavery, but other issues as well. I did not mean that slavery was not an issue, or even that it was not the main issue, only that it was not the only issue the lead to civil war. Zack explained the concept of the Lost Cause and all that it entails and we moved on to a less heated topic. It may have even involved Monty Python and hovercrafts being full of eels.
Since that time several months ago, I have come across many blog entries pointing out Lost Cause-ers, stating annoyance and/or disgust with their beliefs. I came across one today as I sat at my desk at the train station, bored out of my mind. And suddenly it hit me. I had a philosophical, historical, and social epiphany.
Now one must know before reading the rest of this post the type of person I am. I am historically unbiased in most cases. Unless someone has done personal harm to me or my loved ones, I am likely to see both sides of every conflict or situation. There are constantly recounted stories at my school about me taking on entire classes in debates because I am the only person able to understand where both sides are coming from. I've found this especially helpful in my academic pursuits. Whether I personally agree with something is immaterial to me when dealing with historical research. As a student of the Civil War, I have remained sympathetic to neither North nor South. Instead I have become sympathetic to individuals - mostly the misunderstood ones - from both sides of the conflict. This leaves me in a position in which many historians are not, and thus I feel this is one of the few things I am actually qualified to comment on.
So about that. Back to my epiphany.
The Lost Cause, from my understanding, started primarily as an artistic movement. It was the South's Norman Rockwell version of the war. Whether it was correct or not, I don't care; that's not the point here at all. The point is, rather, that the Lost Cause today is an actual belief. It has been in the culture so long that it is now considered true by many. And whenever those people are insulted or berated for what is actually their belief, it is the equivilent of telling someone they are wrong for being a certain religion. Just because you do not believe that what they believe is accurate does not give you the right to be rude. Is it so unbelievable that someone could have an outlook on something that is completely different from yours? The point is, to tell someone they are wrong does not make you right.
Don't think this is me going after the pro-Union guys because the Lost Cause-ers are just as bad, stirring up just as much trouble on the internet.
I suppose the accuracy of the Lost Cause itself lies in whether you are talking about the political causes of the war or the personal causes. The government was surely fighting for different reasons than the common soldier was. But that's not the point either.
I am a firm believer that to understand a conflict you must take note of both sides. The Lost Cause is actually part of history but everyone is too focused on deriding it and the people who seem to believe in it to take note of this.
Chances are you are disagreeing with me. "What a silly little girl," you may be saying. That's fine with me. I don't need you to agree with me. All I ask is that you understand my point. And if you don't due to any lack of clarity on my part, please let me know and I'd be more than happy to clarify.
Disagreeing is one thing; insulting is another.
Since that time several months ago, I have come across many blog entries pointing out Lost Cause-ers, stating annoyance and/or disgust with their beliefs. I came across one today as I sat at my desk at the train station, bored out of my mind. And suddenly it hit me. I had a philosophical, historical, and social epiphany.
Now one must know before reading the rest of this post the type of person I am. I am historically unbiased in most cases. Unless someone has done personal harm to me or my loved ones, I am likely to see both sides of every conflict or situation. There are constantly recounted stories at my school about me taking on entire classes in debates because I am the only person able to understand where both sides are coming from. I've found this especially helpful in my academic pursuits. Whether I personally agree with something is immaterial to me when dealing with historical research. As a student of the Civil War, I have remained sympathetic to neither North nor South. Instead I have become sympathetic to individuals - mostly the misunderstood ones - from both sides of the conflict. This leaves me in a position in which many historians are not, and thus I feel this is one of the few things I am actually qualified to comment on.
So about that. Back to my epiphany.
The Lost Cause, from my understanding, started primarily as an artistic movement. It was the South's Norman Rockwell version of the war. Whether it was correct or not, I don't care; that's not the point here at all. The point is, rather, that the Lost Cause today is an actual belief. It has been in the culture so long that it is now considered true by many. And whenever those people are insulted or berated for what is actually their belief, it is the equivilent of telling someone they are wrong for being a certain religion. Just because you do not believe that what they believe is accurate does not give you the right to be rude. Is it so unbelievable that someone could have an outlook on something that is completely different from yours? The point is, to tell someone they are wrong does not make you right.
Don't think this is me going after the pro-Union guys because the Lost Cause-ers are just as bad, stirring up just as much trouble on the internet.
I suppose the accuracy of the Lost Cause itself lies in whether you are talking about the political causes of the war or the personal causes. The government was surely fighting for different reasons than the common soldier was. But that's not the point either.
I am a firm believer that to understand a conflict you must take note of both sides. The Lost Cause is actually part of history but everyone is too focused on deriding it and the people who seem to believe in it to take note of this.
Chances are you are disagreeing with me. "What a silly little girl," you may be saying. That's fine with me. I don't need you to agree with me. All I ask is that you understand my point. And if you don't due to any lack of clarity on my part, please let me know and I'd be more than happy to clarify.
Disagreeing is one thing; insulting is another.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
As promised...
It was kind of the trip from hell, but at least I got Chamberlain-related pictures.
That's the Chamberlain museum. But it wasn't open :(
The man himself. Or rather, a statue of the man himself.
And here's a picture of Chamberlain and myself, basking in the gorgeous Maine day.
That's the Chamberlain museum. But it wasn't open :(
The man himself. Or rather, a statue of the man himself.
And here's a picture of Chamberlain and myself, basking in the gorgeous Maine day.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
At least there will be mountains...
Tomorrow my parents and I head off to New England for a few days. One of my cousins is getting married on Saturday in New Hampshire, we're staying a couple days with my aunt and uncle in Massachusetts, and then we're going to go up to Bowdoin College in Maine so I can check it out and see if it's a "fit."
I'll attempt to get a good picture of Chamberlain's house for you all.
I'll attempt to get a good picture of Chamberlain's house for you all.
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