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Thousands turn out to see Confederate victory
2/25/2008 12:44 AM   0 comment(s) on this story E-mail this story to a friend

By APRIL BAILEY, Staff writer

Several thousand history buffs gathered on Sunday to watch the re-enactment of what was considered one of the most significant Confederate victories during the Civil War, the Battle of Aiken.

A crowd of about 3,000 turned out for the event, sponsored by the Aiken Brig. Gen. Barnard E. Bee Camp of the Sons of Confederate Veterans Camp #1575, to witness what life was like more than 140 years ago. According to Cmdr. Richard Walling, the event is held each year to pay homage to those who served during the Civil War.

"We honor our Confederate ancestors by doing this," he said.

Walling says his participation in the event honors one Confederate soldier in particular -- his great-great grandfather Daniel P. Eargle, who fought in the battle. "I'm doing this in his honor," he said. Walling said the money raised will go toward the production of the 2009 Battle.

For Camp #1575 members Frank and Judy Stone, the weekend's weather helped to make the event an even bigger success. Frank, who has participated in about 15 re-enactments over the years, said typically the Battle has one day of good weather and one rainy day. This year however, there were mostly sunny skies on both Saturday and Sunday.

Miller Roach of North Augusta portrayed a Union soldier for the event. While Roach said he enjoys meeting the masses of people the Battle of Aiken draws each year, he is also happy to see people take an interest in the history of the United States. "These are people who worked to make this country what it is," he said.

Ed Mann, who was dressed as Gen. Stonewall Jackson, said the living history and performances are a good way to educate kids about the Civil War. He said he has been participating in the event for about 10 years and often visits local schools and speaks to kids.

Roy Luke of Martinez was back for his second year as a spectator. He said he enjoys visiting the Battle of Aiken because it offers a unique perspective of what life was like during the 1800s. When you think about it, not very much has changed since then besides technology, Luke said.

"We still measure time by the wars we fight; whether it's Aiken in 1865 or Iraq right now."

Contact April Bailey at abailey@aikenstandard.com





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