Going to Battle

We spent the day yesterday in the eastern part of the state for the Battle of Bentonville reenactment. It was a fun girls day to hang out with Donna and see Poppy and Uncle Forrest as Union soldiers. I don't envy them having to wear their wool suits in almost 80 degree weather though. The horses were the highlight for the girls but both were real troopers to not have a clue what was going on. Sadie even napped in the midst of battle as canons and gunfire were going off less than 50 yards in front of her. It was fascinating to me without having more than general knowledge of the war. I had read that this was the largest battle of NC during the Civil War and that the troops fought here after leaving Goldsboro. This was the last battle fought before heading to Durham where Sherman surrendered. Anyway, an important battle of the Civil War which is only reenacted every 5 years. Other than the huge turnout of people, it was amazing to me how authentic everyone participating makes the weekend. The soldiers must wear their coats except when at camp. The tents and guns are the same as the soldiers used in the 1800s. We saw quite a few people cooking over their campfires. Also, to explain the black on the boys faces......they are newbies in their regiment so they are marked with gunpowder. I think I could go on and on but we did have a fun day at the Battle of Bentonville.