Eric Wittenberg's Blog - His Visit to Perryville in 2008

Okay, some might consider this cheating (I am trying to add content to this blog from about any source), but this link goes to the Perryville trip that noted author Eric Wittenberg took to Perryville in August, 2008. Mr. Wittenberg has written a number of Civil War titles, mostly dealing with cavalry actions in the Eastern Theater (I can highly recommend his Gettysburg's Forgotten Cavalry Actions), so it is refreshing to read his positive comments about the Perryville battlefield. Enjoy the read!

Perryville Battlefield Visit

Heroes of the Western Theater: Thirty-third Ohio Veteran Volunteer Infantry

Recently I was able to pick up a copy of this newer book (released in mid 2008), written by Lois Lambert, and published by Little Miami Publishers. It is a regimental history of the 33rd Ohio Infantry, which was part of Colonel Leonard Harris' 9th Brigade (3rd Division - I Corps) at Perryville. The 33rd not only fought at Perryville, but nearly every other important battle of the Army of the Ohio/Cumberland for the remainder of the war. Raised in south-central Ohio, the 33rd had an excellent battle record, and stood on Snodgrass Hill as part of Thomas' final defensive line.

After accepting a wonderful offer from Mrs. Lambert to stop by her home to purchase the book I knew that the book was going to be one I was going to enjoy as the Lamberts (pro-rebel husband Tutt and Aussie Shepherd JEB) know their history and have a passion for the past (Luckily I live a scant three miles from the Lamberts). Mrs. Lambert expounds upon not only the facts of the regiment, but also allows us a glimpse into the lives of some of its members. I am only a few chapters into the book, but can state that this title is like reading a Cozzens book, having excellent detail weaved into interesting passages that captures that human element that makes history enjoyable.

I highly recommend the title to anyone interested in Perryville, the war in the western theater, or regimental histories.

Order here.

Perryville Battlefied - Saved Property

The first time I visited Perryville State Historic Site was in 1988. At the time I believe the battlefield consisted of 98 acres. Today the battlefield is 691 acres, and still growing. Here is a picture (from Kurt Holman - the site manager at Perryville), showing the saved acres. Stellar! Bear in mind, this is NOT a national battlefield (although it should be treated with as much honor and awe as Gettysburg) but a local and state project. Those who have worked over the years to save more of this pristine battlefield should be highly commended.

CWPT Annual Conference/Friends Group

The conundrum....

I am debating on whether or not I am going to attend the conference for 2010. It would be a great opportunity to join like-minded folks and visit Perryville, Richmond, and Mill Springs, but modestly speaking, I probably have about as much knowledge on these three battles as those giving the presentations. The cost of the trip, including hotel, is fairly expensive, and it appears that Ed Bearss is not going to be attending, which is one of the main reasons why I would want to participate in such an event. It will be the only CWPT annual conference within shouting distance, and the dollars spent do help support CWPT's mission, which is preserving our Civil war past so that our future generations can visit and honor our veterans as we do today.

A lot depends on work as well. Last year I received a very nice bonus at Christmas (is it politically incorrect to say "Christmas"? It is? GOOD!), but this year things have been tighter. If a bonus is forthcoming, it will make my decision to go much easier, actually it would make it automatic.

So, the dilemma still exists, for now. The bonus will make the trip, otherwise I might have to fore go this opportunity. Should know in the next few weeks.

On a different note....

It does appear that there is a Friends of Perryville group. I received a recent email from the park that mentions that the friends group is a new entity which is just getting started. I am hoping to hear directly from one of their board so that I can post details on how we can support this group, which seems to be tied more directly to the battlefield than the Perryville Enhancement Project (and their affiliate the Perryville Battlefield Preservation Association). From what I gather there is a lot of political bullcrud within the latter group, so instead of sending my financial support to them, I'd rather it go directly to the battlefield. Stay tuned for more details as they become available.