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Next Meeting – Wednesday, February 10th @ 7:30PM
Mt. Ida Mansion, Ellicott City, MD.
Featured Speaker - Ann Stuart Anderson: Subject – The Dred Scott
Decision
Ann Stuart Anderson was trained as a political scientist and historian. She is a James Madison scholar, and specializes in the Founding and Judicial Studies. She has taught at Claremont Men’s College, Rockford College, Yale University and Georgetown University. She spent seven years at the American Enterprise Institute, in the Judicial Policy Studies program, where one of her mentors was Judge Anthony Scalia. Mrs. Anderson has published articles on the separation of powers, the anti-Federalist Brutus, the theory of democracy of the Constitution, and amending the Constitution by convention. Her Master’s Thesis was on the Taney Court and the Federal Question.
Born in Oklahoma, Mrs. Anderson spent World War II in Bellingham, Washington. She worked her way across the continent to Frederick, Maryland, where she lives with her husband, our venerable Fr. Alister Anderson.
The Baltimore Messenger weekly newspaper is fairly typical concerning their editorial perceptions, opinions, and letters they chose to print. Compatriot Jay Barringer wrote an excellent response to a letter penned by an area resident who elected in writing to share his skewed perspective of history, and flawed opinion concerning General Robert E. Lee. I have chosen to include both Jay’s extraordinary blogged rebuttal, along with my own. Not surprisingly, my response was not deemed worthy for publication by the Messenger. And I suppose that’s a perk of being the Newsletter Editor, I can publish my letter if I deem it worthy. LF
Letters: Name of Robert E. Lee Park should be changed
Posted 1/06/10
Descendants of slavery deserve a park not named Robert E. Lee
The story that the Baltimore Messenger selected as the seventh best story of 2009 is about the repair and improvements planned for Robert E. Lee Park. Surely, one repair and improvement that it needs is to its name.
Civil War historian James McPherson, quoting President Abraham Lincoln's second inaugural address, has written, "Since the 1950s, most professional historians have come to agree with Lincoln's assertion that slavery 'was, somehow, the cause of the war.'" This means that Robert E. Lee led a treasonous insurrection that killed 620,000 Americans in an attempt to keep 4 million people and their descendants in slavery.
Surely, we should stop honoring Lee, especially in a city in which the majority of residents are descended from slaves and might be slaves today if Lee's efforts had succeeded.
To retain the name Robert E. Lee Park is an insult to them and to all residents of Baltimore who care about right and wrong.
Henry Cohen
Baltimore
Yet again, a self-proclaimed historian-cum-genealogist purports to have a firm grasp of history by dropping the name of the Northern-centric historian James McPherson while simultaneously parroting the clichés taught in what passes for “history” class today. The African-American residents of Baltimore City are no more collectively the “descendants of slavery” than all Southerners are descendants of Confederate soldiers. While Robert E. Lee Park may be in need of repair, rather than changing the name as Mr. Cohen suggests, perhaps what truly needs “repair and improvement” is the city’s educational system. It is undeniably abysmal and dangerous. However, instead of focusing on the tough problems that require creative solutions and serious action, politically correct agitators would rather bring up the Confederate boogeyman as the reason for black illiteracy, drug abuse, single-parent homes, crime, and out-of-wedlock and teen births. THAT is the slavery of today – poverty born of burgeoning government give-away programs that create dependency and award failure. I am fairly certain that changing a park name will not make life better for poor, black, city residents. Such an insinuation is the real insult. Lincoln’s argument that slavery “was, somehow, the cause of the war” is specious and simplistic. Do you remember the last several presidential elections ... “It’s the economy, stupid!” While slavery may have been a factor in the economy, it was only one drop in a vast ocean of political, social, and economic reasons going back decades before the War of Northern Aggression. Given the lockstep admiration with which the gatekeepers of the Lincoln myth regularly quote their demigod, would they as willingly quote some of his other reflections? Honest (sic) Abe opined, “I will say then that I am not, nor ever have been in favor of bringing about in any way the social and political equality of the white and black races ...; and inasmuch as they cannot so live, while they do remain together there must be the position of superior and inferior, and I as much as any other man am in favor of having the superior position assigned to the white race.” While Lincoln’s racism might make a Klansman smile, such a statement is also a true insult to decent people. Every other nation in the world ended slavery and emancipated slaves without a “civil” war and the slaughter of 620,000 men. Mr. Cohen’s only reasonably accurate fact excludes Southern military and civilian deaths among white and black Southerners due to starvation, wounds, and disease. Lincoln did not need the war nor was it forced upon him – he wanted the war. He could have bloodlessly brokered emancipation. Yet he chose the path of murder, pillage, arson, and rape by starting a war that left half of the country destitute for decades. Robert E. Lee, who did not own slaves, defended his family, his home, and his country. He did his duty with honor. Vacuous suggestions about changing the name of a park help nobody. Jay Barringer, Past Commander Trimble Camp #1836 Sons of Confederate Veterans
Henry Cohen's letter, Name of Robert E. Lee Park Should be Changed, is a classic example of demagoguery and revisionist history. To attempt to draw a far fetched correlation between the deaths of 620,000 Americans, and General Lee's stewardship of the Army of Northern Virginia, shows no depth of knowledge concerning the War Between the States.
General Robert E. Lee, who Winston Churchill once described as, "one of the noblest Americans who ever lived", was a soldier, educator, father, and Christian gentleman. In attempting to explain the motivation of Southerners to obtain their independence, he stated, "All the South has ever desired was that the Union as established by our forefathers, should be preserved and that (limited) government as originally organized should be administered in purity and truth." Simply put, General Lee and his countrymen were fighting for states rights, and against a strong centralized government.
It should be noted that both General Lee and President Jefferson Davis believed that slavery would die of its own accord. After the war Lee asserted, "So far from engaging in a war to perpetuate slavery, I am rejoiced that slavery is abolished. I believe it will be greatly for the interest of the South. So fully am I satisfied of this that I would have cheerfully lost all that I have lost by the war, and have suffered all that I suffered to have this object attained".
In 1910, the venerable African-American educator Booker T. Washington spoke kindly of General Lee when he stated, "The first white people in America, certainly the South, to exhibit their interest in the reaching of the Negro and saving his soul through the medium of the Sunday school were Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson".
In this era of sound bite news and non repentant politicians, let's do better by ourselves by resisting the temptation to tear down icons of a bygone era.
Lou Fritz, General Isaac R. Trimble Camp, #1836 Sons of Confederate Veterans
A Practical Guide to Collecting the Civil War by James P. Mesker
Book Review by Compatriot Lou Fritz
As many Trimbleiers are aware, I collect War Between the States relics and artifacts. I also enjoy reading about the war. Consequently, while browsing the bookshelf at Wonder Books in Frederick, Maryland the Practical Guide to Collecting the Civil War caught my attention. I was especially excited about the prospect of obtaining new “strategies” for enhancing my collection.
Unfortunately, this book was an unmitigated disappointment. While I enjoy a bargain as much as the next collector, Mesker's frugality made even me blush. In describing his experience at the Gettysburg show over the 4th of July weekend, he laments that everything at the show tables “was much too expensive for me”. So instead, he ventured to the antique malls in the area to find a 36 -star GAR lapel pin for $1.00 ($12.00 up the street at the WBTS show up the street). Additionally he found some period sheet music, including “Maryland, My Maryland”. He bought the sheet music for $8.00, and exalted in the fact that it's probably worth $50.00.
Mesker steadfastly maintains that WBTS shows are not the best places to purchase memorabilia. Rather, he explains that shows should be used to gauge prices. He believes that flea markets and yard sales are the best places to develop a collection. Mesker is from the Cleveland, Ohio area, and it was edifying to me that Cleveland is such a rich target area for yard sales containing WBTS items. While admittedly, I was a bit jealous of his five dollar book purchase of the War Between the States by Vice President Alexander Stephens, I'm not certain that the effort expended at the various flea markets warranted my envy.
Other chapters in the book contain rudimentary suggestions for collecting edged weapons and firearms. Mesker points out that manufacturer's markings should be carefully scrutinized before making an important purchase. But really, this is not Mesker's stock and trade. I sense that he would just as soon find a Carte de Viste of Judah P. Benjamin for $12.50, then find a pristine 1851 Navy Colt revolver in excellent condition for $1,250.00. Mesker advocates the idea of buying relics cheaply, and either hoping that the seller doesn't know what they have, or that the item appreciates in value either through your own research or simply through time.
While I certainly agree with Mesker's assertion that when you're speaking to dealers be courteous and polite, I don't agree with his belief that a good collection can be built by routinely buying relics “on the cheap”. There may be some rubes somewhere out there that really don’t know what they have, but I've found them to be few and far between. Far more frequently one will find that dealers know precisely what they have, and rightly expect to be paid a fair market price for their relics.
My personal maxim for collecting is that individuals should collect what excites them, and not be overly concerned about monetary worth. However, I also believe that he best place to find genuine items of substance, are through reputable dealers. And that's where Mesker and I have a notable divergence of opinion.
Upcoming Events
30 January: SCV MD Division Meeting at Broadneck Library @ 9:00 a.m.; Annapolis, MD. It is open to any SCV member in good standing.
Col. Harry W. Gilmor Camp Bull and Oyster Roast Feb. 6, 2010
Compatriots, Ladies and Friends,
Elliott Cummings has graciously indicated that he will save the Color Guard a table at the Gilmor Camp Bull Roast. The food is terrific so who will be going? Please send your fee, ($30.00 per person to Elliott), and let Ray Rooks know by email if you will be sitting with him at the Color Guard table. Please note on your check to Elliott "Color Guard" so he knows where to seat you. Don’t delay, as of our publication date this event may be sold out!
Culp Camp - Ancestor’s Candlelight Dinner – March 20, 2010
2010 MD. Division SCV Color Guard & Trimble Camp - Calendar of Events – Tentative
February 6, 2010 -Col. Harry W. Gilmor Birthday Bull and Oyster Roast, HERITAGE PARKVILLE GARDENS, 7 PM Contact basilduke@comcast.net for ticket info. Tickets are only $30! Not a Color Guard event but let's all go and have a great time!
February 15,2010- George Washington Birthday Parade Alexandria Virginia. This is the first year this has been on the Color Guard schedule, as we join the R.E. Lee Camp. We will car pool to the event. We will leave from the 195 Park and Ride off I 95 in Catonsville at 10 A.M. As we will need to park together, please let me know if you are going but not meeting at the park and ride so I can bring enough flags. Formation is at 12:00 in Alexandria at the intersection of Asaph and Wilkens Street. More details to follow!
3/13/2010 Confederate Navy- Marine Corps Day: Annual ceremony to honor the Confederate States Naval and Marine Corps at Old St. Anne's Cemetery in Annapolis, Md. Color Guard members are asked to arrive by 10:30 A.M. for formation for the 11:00 ceremony. A very nice reception follows in St. Anne's hall.
4/17/2010 President's Street Station: Let's Save it! More details to follow on an organized march to support the historic station and show Baltimore City it's history lesson. Formation at 9:45 A.M. at the Foot of Broadway in Fell's Point and help save President Street Station.
4/18/2010 Massing of the Colors: This will be the 21st celebration of the Massing of the Colors, which is sponsored by the Military Order of World Wars. Our nation is at war and public ceremonies like this are a fine way to display our patriotism for all to see. This ceremony will be held at Fort Meade High School and please arrive at 1:45 PM for formation.
4/24/2010 Maryland Division Convention: The Major General Arnold Elzey Camp will host the Annual Maryland Division, SCV Convention on Saturday, April 24, 2010. The Convention will be held in Ocean City at the Castle in the Sand Hotel. Tickets are $30 and hotel rooms go $109 to $129 per night. Email Jeff Martins with questions at jethro@shore.intercom.net. This is an election year so do not miss this one! Be there no later than 8:30 for a prompt start! Don’t forget to bring your camp flag for the procession. This Division Convention is always exciting.
5/1/2010 Decoration Day (Frederick): Annual ceremony sponsored by the E.V. White UDC chapter, U.D.C. . A ceremony in old Mt. Olivet to honor the Confederates buried there, sand this year will include the dedication of a new grave marker. Color Guard members are asked to arrive at 2:30 P.M. P.M. for formation for the 3:00 ceremony.
5/8/2010 Pennsylvania Division Confederate Memorial Day: Culp Commander Jim Palmisano has extended an invitation to participate in the Pa. celebration of Confederate Memorial Day. The ceremonies will take place at 11:00 A.M. the Virginia memorial. Formation will take place there at 10:30 A.M. Maryland members may also attend the Pennsylvania Division lunch which follows. See ya’ll there.
5/8/2010 Annual Dinner to honor Major General Isaac Ridgeway Trimble: The Dinner is a wonderful event held annually at historic Baldwin Station Restaurant in Sykesville. Bring a candle with you to light in memoriam for your ancestor. This year the dinner is on the actual date of General Trimble’s birth! You will then be served an excellent dinner and desert. The spirit of camaraderie flows here and all are encouraged to attend. Please let me know if you would like to attend. Bring your lady!
5/15/2010 Captain Wirz Ceremony (Washington D.C.): Annual ceremony to honor Capt. Heinz Wirz, killed by the Yankees unjustly and honored in this ceremony for his courage. Formation is at 10:30 at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Washington D.C. on Bladensburg Rd.
5/16/2010 Annapolis Memorial Day Parade: Color Guard "step off" at 2:00 on Sunday May 17th .Formation will be right off West Street just like last year. Please arrive by 1:30, and let’s give the capital a good showing. See you there.
5/22/2010 Sharpsburg Parade and ceremony in the National Cemetery: A parade through historic Sharpsburg and into the National Cemetery for the Antietam Battlefield NPS Memorial Day Service. We have been requested to be the Color Guard and more details and this is a great opportunity to strengthen our relationship with the Antietam NPS. This is also an excellent opportunity to strengthen our relationship with the rangers at Antietam. Let’s all meet at the Antietam Battlefield HQ at 12:30 P.M. Parade formation is at 1:00 for a 1:30 start. We can then car pool to the Sharpsburg Elementary School on Main Street. We will march through the historic town and into the National Cemetery, where we will be the official Color Guard.
**5/24/2010 National Memorial Day Parade (Washington D.C.) As John Zebelean called it, "Jubal Early's dream." This is the most important parade added to our schedule in recent memory, so please be sure to add the date. I have checked parking and I think it best to park on 14th Street in the garage at 607 14th Street. It is just above Pennsylvania Ave. I suggest we carpool, just like last year. I suggest we form for car pool at 11:00 at the 195 Park and Ride (95 south to 195) For all event contacting my cell phone is 410-258-2223. You must let me know you will be there if you are not meeting the car pool so I can have a flag for you. Come one and all to our march on Washington!
6/5/2010 Confederate Memorial Day: Annual ceremony sponsored by the Maryland Division UDC and the Col. Harry Gilmor Camp. Formation at the 9:30 on Confederate Hill in historic Loudon Park Cemetery. We need a Firing party for this event!
6/6/2010Confederate Memorial Day at Arlington National Cemetery (Washington D.C.): I have accepted the invitation of the Washington D.C. UDC invitation to participate at the Memorial ceremony at Arlington National Ceremony, Confederate Circle at 11 A.M. It is indeed a high honor and formation will be at 10:30 A.M.
6/19/2010 Head Stone Dedication: Congressional Cemetery for Lt. Pettigrew. We are assisting Compatriot John Murlin from Georgia with the dedication. The ceremony will be held at 11:00 A.M. so gather one and all to help a compatriot mark his ancestor's grave.
6/26/2010 Corbit’s Charge Westminster: Formation at 12:15 PM at the Courthouse area in Westminster for an annual ceremony to honor those fallen in the battle here in 1863. The Pipe Creek CWRT extended an invitation to us, as they will honor Lieutenant Murray killed in the skirmish from Stuart’s Cavalry. He is buried in the church yard. Let us pay him his deserved remembrance and let him know his service is not forgotten. Take 140 to Center Street. If coming from the west make a right, if coming from the East it is a left. You will see the encampment to the right and park in the area near the front of the school.
7/4/2010 Severna Park Parade: Annual parade where we spread SCV good will to the public. Formation at 9:00 A.M. at Our Shepherd Lutheran Church on Benfield Rd. in Severna Park. We will meet in the parking lot on Ritchie Hwy (where Ledo's is located and the parade finish of the past. Come one come all to defend our numerous First Place showings in the "home field parade" this one has become to us!
8/28/2010 Annual Potomac River Crossing: Cross the Potomac at Historic White’s Ford. We will step off at 12:00 P.M. in Dickerson Park for this Norris Camp Non-Period event!
Directions: From Poolesville and points South; follow Whites Ferry Road, MD RT 107, west out of Poolesville, 3.4 miles to Martinsburg Road, Turn right, a church is at the intersection. Go 2 plus miles to sign on left to Dickerson Regional Park. Turn left to parking lot less than a mile down the road, just short of the Canal. From Frederick and points North; take MD RT 85 to MD RT 28, go through Dickerson, bare right on to Martinsburg Road at flashing light by the power plant. Go about 1-1/2 miles turn right to parking lot less than a mile down the road, just short of the Canal.
9/6/2010 Labor Day Parade: in Gaithersburg, Md., Sept. 6, 2010. A public parade so let’s all turn out! Directions:
Take 95 to 495 to 270 North. Take Exit 11 (124 North) Pass 355 to a right at the 4th light on Mid County Highway. Make a right at the first light on Goshen Rd. Make a left ion Girard Ave. Follow Girard to the end and make a left on Diamond Ave. Make your first left for our formation at number 63 yellow. Park at the bottom of the hill. See ya'll there!
9/11/2010 Howard County Monument Ceremony: Annual Ceremony to honor Howard County’s Confederate soldiers and sponsored by the Major General Isaac Ridgeway Trimble Camp #1836. Formation is at 10:30 for the 11:00 ceremony.
10/9/2010 Point Lookout Ceremony: Annual Ceremony sponsored by the Camalier Camp at Point Lookout the final resting place of thousands of Confederates. All were incarcerated by the Federal Government. Let's make this the first of many special Point Lookout Ceremonies in the new Confederate Memorial Park. Formation at 10:30 A.M. for the 11:00 A.M. Ceremony.
11/20/2010 Remembrance Day Parade: Annual parade in Gettysburg
sponsored by the Sons of Union Veterans. The Color Guard will meet at 12:00 for
formation on Lefebvre Street (by the school off Baltimore Street). This is an
historic Parade of Period Dressed participants and surely one not to miss.
12/4/2010 Christmas Parade: Parade in Northeast Maryland. Color Guard formation is at 12:00 PM. A great parade that is a nice ending to our 2010. Last year it snowed so prepare for the weather. Get a poncho!
Confederate Cruise to Bermuda?
Nurtured by the fellowship and camaraderie of the Loudon Park, Jackson-Lee ceremony earlier in this month, the topic of a Confederate Cruise has been fermenting for the past several weeks. Conducting a bit of preliminary research on the matter, I have discovered that our best “potential” dates and rates for a cruise leaving Baltimore might be either October 30, 2010 or November 14, 2010. Based on “off-season” rates, the passage to Bermuda on Royal Caribbean, will be under $500.00 per person. Several compatriots have expressed interest in setting sail to Bermuda. This would certainly be a Maryland Division Color Guard event to remember! Of course we would need to conduct some research as to locating Confederate graves on the island, prior to embarking on such an adventure.
Please let me know if you’re interested in this excursion. To make the trip viable, I believe we need at least eight compatriots participation. I think this could be a very enjoyable fall respite. More details to follow.
Bon Voyage!
LF