This event is set during the early stages of the Confederate siege of Chattanooga in late 1863. During this period Gen. Braxton Bragg hoped to starve the Federal forces occupying Chattanooga into submission since he was not able to follow through with his victory at Chickamauga earlier in 1863. We will be focusing on the activities around Orchard Knob in September and early October of 1863.  We will represent pickets set to keep an eye on the opposing force. Here are some first person quotes from the period that give a great idea of what we hope to recreate.

“The opposing picket lines were only two hundred yards apart and much fraternizing went on. Pickets called informal truces for varying durations of time and met each other between the lines. They talked of home, their loved ones , mutual friends ect… A lively trade was also carried on in such items as southern tobacco for northern coffee and southern newspapers for those in the north. When the truces were over men returned to their lines and made ready to kill each other again. Not all the pickets engaged in these bartering sessions. “ - This Band of Brothers by James M. McCaffrey

“They have established about a half mile in front of our line a place called Hells Half Acre where there about 300 to 500 congregate every day. It is a curious place, so I am told. All kinds of games are played here that one ever heard of. An auction in full blast where you can buy a watch or and old worn out pair of shoes-the place cant be described.” -  One of Cleburnes Command Captain Samual T. Foster
 

For those that may remember this event will be styled after the Outpost events of 1999 and 2000. We want to give folks a chance to experience life as a picket facing the enemy. This will not be your typical tactical event. Do not expect grand assaults or a lot of marching. It will be a static picket post. You can expect small patrols and some minor probes by the enemy. So you will need to be on your toes. We hope to encourage trading between the lines as neither army was particularly well supplied during this period.

The Confederates forces will be portraying the 45th Alabama Infantry. The Federals will be portraying the 8th Kansas Infantry. Both of these units have some interesting and unique aspects which should provide some good material for the event.  The WIG will be coordinating and commanding the Confederate forces. The SCAR will be doing the same for the Federal forces. We are limiting both sides to 150 men.

Rations will be provided. Attendees, except those with a medical condition that may dictate otherwise, should arrive with empty haversacks.

The event is being held on property just east of Rome Georgia along the Etowa River. This property includes a historic house built in 1843 with several of the out buildings still intact. It is the residence of the property owner. Local legends indicate the house served briefly as Gen. Sherman's headquarters as he pushed south toward Kennesaw and Atlanta. The address for check-in and parking is:

4230 Kingston Hwy

Rome, GA 30161

Click here for a map

If you have any questions contact Tripp Corbin or Jim Butler.