Reenacting 2010 Has Begun

OK - the time machine button has been pushed and I am swirling back to the 1860's. Yup! The reenacting season has begun. Our first *actual* reenactment took place in mid May (at Walker Tavern - see previous posting) and the fever is high. It's a fine location for living history and there were a number of unusual set ups mixed in the civilian camp, including a bath house (how awesome is that?) and someone else who had a period (replica?) coffin in front of their campsite. Ok, now, you are going to think I'm strange, but I actually climbed in the coffin, folded my arms, and closed my eyes while my good friend and 'brother from another mother' snapped a few images of me. When he had finished and I opened my eyes I found several people standing over me, not really believing that there was someone crazy enough to actually climb into a coffin! The pictures are very creepy to look at - I'm not posting, them at my wife's request, so please don't ask.
Well, I guess I am trying to experience everything from the era at least once. Next will hopefully be a bath in an actual period tub - yup! She does charge and one can really 'clean up' just like in the days gone by. I also hope to experience a shave from a straight razor - that just might put me in a coffin for real!
This weekend, which is Memorial Weekend, we have another event, this time at Greenfield Village. I will post photos of that event next week sometime.
This season promises to be full of surprises and, for me, the most exciting events ever (there's a civilian only - life on the homefront - event taking place at Crossroads Village in Flint in July - you can bet I'll be there!!).
So, with the button already pushed, I am finding myself traveling on my journey to the past. And what a journey it will be!

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Walker Tavern - The Next Stop Along Michigan's Detroit-Chicago Road

I'd like to write about what I guess could be considered a kind of part two to the Eagle Tavern blog I wrote of a few months ago. This posting is about another local tavern from the 19th century, just down the road a ways from where the Eagle Tavern once stood. On the 15th and 16th of this month, I attended a Civil War reenactment on the grounds of Walker Tavern, and I was able to take quite a few pictures and gather some wonderful information as I toured this historic building.
Walker Tavern is still located in its original location on the historic Old Chicago Road' (U.S. 12) and has been restored to it's mid-19th century appearance.

A little bit of history:After the Erie Canal opened in 1825, thousands of settlers flocked to the Michigan Territory. Two roads moved pioneers west from Lake Erie: the Monroe Pike, running from Monroe to Jackson, and the Chicago Road. These two roads intersected at Cambridge Junction, which made it a great location for a tavern. From 1836 through 1855—when a stagecoach ride from Detroit to Chicago was a long and arduous five-day trip (I vehemently disagree with this statement. It was more like 10 to 15 days to get from Detroit to Chicago. I'm not sure where they got this info from, but it certainly is not true)—a favorite stopping place to change horses, relax, enjoy a meal, or spend the night was this farmhouse tavern. Purchased by and named after owners Sylvester and Lucy Walker in 1843, the tavern also was a convenient site for local political and religious gatherings.
Walker Tavern became a prosperous business and a thriving community hub. Two stages stopped there each day and at any one time there might be ten to twenty wagons lined up waiting for accommodations. One of the stagecoach drivers, Francis A. Dewey, recorded, "Men of every class and condition of life from the earliest times would stretch out their day's drive to reach the hospitable roof of the Walker's hotel ... People flocked in each evening to receive their mail and hear the news brought in from the east and from the west ... Sometimes the crowd numbered 50 or 75 and oftentimes their drunken shouts resounded far into the night."

However, travel was arduous; roads were full of ruts, bogs, and tree stumps. A stagecoach driver's goal was to travel fifty miles in a day, but many times there were complications. As one traveler in the 1830's pointed out, "As soon as we had entered the woods, the roads became as bad as, I suppose, roads ever are. Something snapped, and the driver cried out that we were 'broke to bits.' "
By the 1860s trains replaced stagecoaches as the fast and fashionable way to travel and the railroad line bypassed Cambridge Junction. Stagecoach driver Francis Dewey purchased the tavern and he and his family farmed the land for over fifty years.
Today the tavern serves up a dose of Michigan history. Still located at the crossroads of US 12 and M-50 in the green and rolling Irish Hills, Walker Tavern has been a wayside inn, a roadside tourist attraction and is now a state historic park.

If you recall reading from a previous blog about the Eagle Tavern I wrote, "There is a story told of a stage that left Clinton's Eagle Tavern for the west one morning loaded with passengers. The road was very muddy and the coach had managed to get a mile from the village. The passengers walked back to the inn to spend the night, and early the next morning returned to the coach. During the second day it got three miles from Clinton. Again, the passengers returned to the Eagle Tavern. On the third day the coach must have reached another tavern, for the passengers did not return. "
That other tavern would have been Walker Tavern, which was the next stop for these very patient travelers.

As if roaming the inside of Walker Tavern wasn't interesting enough, on the way home, while we were driving through the town of Clinton - around 12 miles east of the Walker location - I noticed a state historical marker that made me wonder...could it be? I pulled over and my assumption was correct: the marker showed the exact original spot of the Eagle Tavern (known also as The Clinton Inn when Henry Ford first purchased it), now, of course, relocated in Greenfield Village! How cool was this? I had now traveled the same road as the stage coaches did all those years ago.

Oh, I know, millions travel upon it yearly. But, I wonder how many actually think about the road that they are driving upon, with all its twists and turns and hills, and just how treacherous and uncomfortable a journey it was back in the days before the automobile. My thoughts did a little drifting as I rode along the U.S. 12 Heritage Trail, imagining what it was like back then.
Yes, I was also paying very close attention to my driving as well, lest any of you think I wasn't!

It never ceases to amaze me just how much history still stands and is within a short drive of my home. And, with the internet, it doesn't take much effort to find wonderful social history, the kind that makes the buildings seemingly come to life.
So many stories to be told...are you listening?

(all photos except the historic marker were taken at Walker Tavern)

If you are interested in learning even more about Michigan's Taverns, please click HERE for a more in depth posting)




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Our 25th Wedding Anniversay Celebration

2010... ...or 1863...

Where to begin…?

The day started off being very windy, cold, and rainy – not the kind of day one would want to have to celebrate a wedding anniversary, especially one as important as their 25^th!

But, we heard improvement was on the way.

Our good friends - our best friends, the Gillett's - showed up around 1:30, as did another good friend, Miss Graber, shortly after, then it was off to the hall for all of us except my dear wife, our daughter, and Mrs. Gillett, for they had to ready themselves for the big party. At the hall the rest of us put up the decorations, reenacting photos that I enlarged and matted as well as some of our original wedding pictures in a photo album, tablecloths, and the table goodies and treats (Hershey’s Kisses, mints, cashews) along with the flower centerpieces.

Although a bit cool, the sun was now fully out and remained until sunset, making for a perfect looking day.

This is the 1872 school house in which our renewed nuptials took place

4:00 came around and it was decided that we would get to the schoolhouse, for the ceremony was to begin at 5:00, and we knew our guests were to arrive shortly. I was ecstatic that my whole family showed (except for a few nephews and nieces) which made my mother pretty happy. Of course, since we were replicating an 1860’s wedding, nearly all attendees were dressed in period clothing…except my siblings and a very few non-reenacting friends, which was understood.

My wife, with help from a good friend, made her gown. Since we were already married, it was okay to see each other before the ceremony!

As we spent some time getting a few photos taken by local tintype image maker Mr. D. Green, pianist Mrs. Purdue began to play a few select numbers – "When Thou Art Near" , "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" , "Air on a G String" - all by J. S. Bach – on the old schoolhouse piano.

When she began Pachelbel’s Canon in D that was our signal for the renewal of the vows ceremony to begin. With Preacher Gillett officiating (being an ordained minister), our kids went from the back of the schoolhouse to the front in age order – Tom, Rob, Miles, then Rosalia – as our witnesses.

Then my dear wife and I stepped out and everyone in the congregation stood up, which totally took her off guard.

She looked more beautiful than ever in her period correct wedding dress / ball gown – one that she had spent this spring making herself, with help from another good friend, Mrs. Root. My eldest sister said that she had an inner glow.

The 1872 Schoolhouse was the perfect location for our renewal of the vows

The ceremony itself was absolutely perfect – the good preacher asked me afterwards if he "did good." I told him “no,” that he didn’t do good…he did GREAT – far beyond our expectations! The biblical passages he used were from the very traditional old-time weddings - Ephesians 5:22-29 - (except his using the word ‘again’ – “Ken, do you take Patricia again to be your lawfully wedded wife?” What a hoot! Everyone loved that!).

I explained to him that he helped to make our dream wedding come true. My wife and I had spoken of having a wedding like this way back before our original marriage, but we knew nothing about reenactors or period clothing at that time, so our renewal was truly a gift, and to us more than a renewal. And, to make it even more special this time around, just before the vow renewals were spoken, we had our eldest son, Tom, play his guitar and sing “In My Life” by the Beatles – not period correct, of course, but the words are absolutely perfect:

There are places I remember
All my life though some have changed
Some forever not for better
Some have gone and some remain
All these places had their moments
With lovers and friends I still can recall
Some are dead and some are living
In my life I've loved them all

But of all these friends and lovers
There is no one compares with you
And these memories lose their meaning
When I think of love as something new
Though I know I'll never lose affection
For people and things that went before
I know I'll often stop and think about them
In my life I love you more

Though I know I'll never lose affection
For people and things that went before
I know I'll often stop and think about them
In my life I love you more
In my life I love you more

(Here's a link of Tom singing it at another location so you can hear what it sounded like)

Everyone loved it! My wife had tears in her eyes. I must admit, I did, too. I told the congregants that it wouldn’t be an event for us if we didn’t have the Beatles being a part – they laughed.

Then we renewed our vows and I never felt more in love with my wife than at that moment! And, to have our children be our witnesses…it just doesn’t get any better – what a wonderful feeling!

See our daughter as the flower girl?

The ceremony had ended with a prayer and we were "announced" with a round of applause. Looking out at the congregation sitting in that old 1872 building – most dressed 1860’s – gave off the wonderful appearance of a time gone by. The old schoolhouse was the perfect location for our special period renewal.

The ladies of the 1860's

Once the ceremony had ended, many more photos were taken and then it was off to the VFW Hall just down the road. Although a modern hall, those of us in period clothing - and the music - helped to transform it back into another era of 150 years ago.

My family - and there were numerous other family members who could not attend!

Upon entering the hall doors, another good friend, Mr. Cook, “announced us” and everyone clapped once again. Just as was done 25 years ago.

The food, although not period, received many complements: 2 Marcos Meats 6 foot sub sandwiches, plus goodies that family and friends pitched in and made for us: tuna noodle, a variety of cookies, our “wedding cake” made by my sister-in-law, potato salad, greens salad, potato chips, and many other fine edibles. As this was not a formal dining-type gathering, I went around to the tables to let the guests know they could eat whenever they were hungry.

Another preacher friend, Pastor Purdue, said a beautiful grace.

The Michigan Ruffwater Old Time String Band: A fine group of period musicians!!

Glen Morningstar’s Michigan Ruffwater Old Time String Band, an absolutely amazing group of period musicians, began to play shortly after 7 and the Grand Ball began with the Grand March lead by President and Mrs. Lincoln (the Priebe’s) – we didn’t feel comfortable enough to lead in the grand march – but practically every guest in attendance, including all of my siblings, my mom, and non-reenacting friends (!), joined in.

From there the regular period ball and contra dancing began, which included “Spanish Dance” (Haste to the Wedding), Contra Dance (Guilderoy), Circle of Couples (Jenny Lind), The Fan Dance, Quadrille with ladies chain (Oh Susannah & Road to Boston), A March Cotillion (Buffalo Gals & Camptown Ladies), The Virginia Reel (Sir Robert de Coverly), and the “Spanish Waltz”.

These last two are mine and my dear wife's absolute favorites. But, a special moment happened during the Fan Dance: our third son, Miles – yes, our Miles (who has Aspergers Syndrome)! - joined in, and the for the first time he actually ‘danced’ (more like walking...but still...) down the line (with his cousin)! And, the second time he actually ‘skipped’ (with young Miss Purdue, the daughter of the pastor and the pianist, who kind of coaxed him into putting a little more kick in his step).

The Fan Dance

Everyone whooped and hollered as he did this – our photographer told me he noticed this right off and really admired the way our reenactor friends treated and cheered Miles on. He said he could see that our little living history community are truly like family. That was so special – a major step for Miles!

And my other children also danced the evening away - - - - these old dances are much more fun than the modern ones, I must say.

The Spanish Waltz

The non-reenacting friends and family that joined in the dancing literally "had a ball!" They've never been to anything like this so it was quite a shock in comparison to what they were used to at such an occasion.

During Ruffwater's intermission, my son Tom's vocal group, Simply Dickens, performed a small set beginning with “If I Needed You” – a non-period country hit from the early 1980’s by Emmylou Harris and Don Williams, but it was mine and Patty’s original wedding song 25 years ago, and to have my son and his group sing it perfectly for us was simply awesome. After they performed this tune (and Patty and I danced to it), Simply Dickens performed a few more numbers, actual period correct tunes: Shady Grove, Johnny Has Gone For A Soldier, Soldier Soldier Will You Marry Me, Hard Times Come Again No More, and Wayfaring Stranger. They only played for around 20 minutes but the guests loved them.

Period vocal group, Simply Dickens, singing into very non-period microphones - at least everyone could hear them!!

The Virginia Reel

We were told about (and then witnessed for ourselves) a number of people from connecting halls / rooms who were coming out of their party to watch ours’. I guess we were quite a hit!

Unfortunately, 10:00 came and the evening wound down, and it was time to say goodbye to our family and friends.. A few came back to the house with us – sort of an afterglow - and we all had wonderful, but tiring, visit.

It's not everyone that has President Lincoln attend their anniversary party! Here he is with my niece, who loves our 16th President.

Here it is, now, a few days after, and my wife and I are still on a "high." In fact, I am writing this on our actual wedding anniversary date: May 11th.

Feels like the first time indeed...only BETTER!! Our dream truly did come true...thanks to the greatest family and best of friends...ever!

What 25 years produced for my wife and I !!

I hope you enjoyed our very special day - a day which was every bit a wonderful (if not more so) that our original wedding day!

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Table of Contents

I finally did it - - I made a Table of Contents page for my Greenfield Village blog. So now anyone who is interested in any particular structure, event, ride, or anything else GFV can easily access it with just a click.
Check it out, won't you?
Thanks!
Greenfield Village Open-Air Museum

Random Historical Thoughts and Commentaries

Lately I have been engulfed in a wonderful book called "The Cormany Diaries - A Northern Family in the Civil War." As stated in its title, it is the diary and journal of Samuel Cormany and Rachel Bowman respectively, beginning with entries from before the two even met and continues through their courtship, marriage, and birth of their child up until the end of the Civil War. What I find thoroughly fascinating about this book, besides, of course, reading 1st person accounts of everyday life as lived during the mid-19th century, are the thoughts and feelings that show well the times in which these two young people lived. In particular it shows the morals and mores of the period. For instance, Rachel, who took a job as a school teacher and was boarding with a family far from her home, wrote in her journal on July 7, 1860 (around five months before her marriage to Samuel) (spelling and grammar intact):
"I have great things to write this morning. Last evening after I had been to my boarding place a little while Joanna Dickson came there. They were talking and laughing about something. at last Joanna said, 'Miss B. you did not know that Joab C. had become daddy." I was perfectly dumbfounded. I did not know what to say. I was to Mr. Carpenters on Monday night & about 12 o'clock at night some men came there. Marinda and I had just gone to bed. it scared us, we thought they were robbers, we were silenced by being told that they must be drunk. I have found out since that it was the Constable & that he came & took Joab off that night up to Orange station, where the girl lives. Early in the morning Mr. C went up to help settle it. I was at their house helping Marinda make her dress. On the 4th Marinda, Joab & I went to Columbus and never found a word of it out till last evening. I fear it will injure me some, being a stranger here. Although I never once went with him alone, still I was in his company. I can hardly bear to stay over here now, it makes me feel awful to think I had anything to say to such a man. I feel like taking a good cry."

We here in the 21st century look at the values and morals of Rachel's time and think them quaint, do we not? We feel that because we are more 'accepting' that we are better for it. And, because of this, we consider ourselves "enlightened." It seems in today's society that we become more 'enlightened' due to less values and morals.
Of course, values and morals change over time, sometimes for the better, sometimes not. I must admit that I am glad that folks who have children out of wedlock are no longer a scourge in our society. I only wish it wasn't quite as tolerable in the sense that it happens so often...too often.
And to be enlightened should not mean to be more accepting, but, rather, more aware.

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For quite a while I have been hearing and seeing advertisements about the History Channel's extensive new 12 hour mini-series "America: The Story of Us," claiming that this was the first time in something like 40 years that such a task of telling America's history was undertaken. I really wasn't sure just how good it would be, I mean, this is the History Channel and we all know how little real history is shown. I also figured it would be filled with Howard Zinn-type leftist propaganda with nothing (or very little at best) to off-set his one-sided revisionist pap that seems to pass as actual American history, and I would probably find myself getting very frustrated watching it.
Well, I have watched the first four hours so far.
I'm giving it, at this point, a C-. But, not necessarily for its leftist leanings (not nearly as left as I thought it would be, I must say).
I guess I should have known better than to ever think the History Channel would do American history any real justice.
Again, I have only watched four hours of the 12 hour series - I have not seen the show in its entirety. But, since I specialize in early-to-mid-19th century living, with the colonial period a close second, I have to tell you that their coverage of this period so far is, well, pretty lame.
I have been sorely disappointed.
So let's speak of the content inside the program, or the lack thereof. As most know, it seems that history as it's told today only tells half of the story, conveniently leaving out information that would give a more complete understanding of the why's and the wherefores of our founding fathers. I was hoping that "America: The Story of Us," being 12 hours in length, just might finally tell us the whole story.
I was wrong.
In fact, I was speechless (if you can believe that) at the amount of American history that was missing.
First off, they forgot about the explorers; Christopher Columbus, Amerigo Vespucci, Ponce Di Leon, Hernando De Soto, and a number of others. Nada. Nothing. Totally ignored. The powers that be just do not seem to understand that good or bad, right or wrong, these men were a very important part of American history.
But, there was a piece on Jamestown. For about five minutes.
Oh, and the pilgrims received about 7 minutes of air time...maybe...
The French and Indian War? What? Was there a war fought in the mid-18th century? Do the good folks at the History Channel not realize the importance of this, ahem, forgotten war, and what a major role it was to the story of us?
Obviously not. Ice Truckers, however, they know about.
The show then jumped from the early 17th century to the Rev War in less than a half hour. This is including the opening credits and the speech from Obama. That's roughly 170 years in less than 30 minutes.
Something's amiss here.
The images on the screen (many - too many - computerized images) jumped and flashed and swirled in dizzying fashion as if I was watching an MTV-style program - the flashiness over-shadowed the content.
And I haven't even said anything on the poor choices for commentators: Sheryl Crow? Michael Douglas? P. Diddy? Donald Trump? Meryl Streep? The "Reverand" Al Sharpton? Since when does being an actor or a singer or a billionaire (or a loudmouth) make one knowledgeable on American history (or any other subject for that matter)?
Why would they not get actual historians for a project such as this? At least one could then take it a bit more seriously. And, please don't say it wouldn't be as interesting with boring old historians. Ken Burns has already proven everyone who thinks this way wrong!
The next episode is going to be about the Civil War. I am a Yankee tried and true, but I will be interested to see how the confederacy will be treated. Will they show both sides' opinions?
Ahhh...there I go again!
As far as the rest of the story, methinks that the last six hours that will follow the Civil War episode will be mostly 20th and 21st century. The first six hours were for the first 300 years, and the last six hours for the last 100 years (or thereabouts).
The story of us indeed!
I'll stick to my books.

American History DVD's and more

One of the Civil War units I belong to is doing a presentation for the middle school building where I work. It's a great time for us and for the kids, for we do our best to bring history alive, and the kids really seem to enjoy it. They come out to the field in groups of around 50 each and begin their journey to the past with the military.

This is where they will learn about the everyday life of the northern American soldier of the 1860's: from their forage caps to their brogans, the complete uniform and accoutrements are explained in great detail. The firing of muskets also takes place, much to the delight of the young teens. And, finally, a description of the effects of a leaded bullet entering a body is told.

Then it's the civilians turn to explain life on the northern homefront.

A young farm girl of the 1860's explains to children her age from the 21st century about her chores, including spinning wool.

We will usually touch on the many local aid societies of the time - the Christian Commission and so forth - and of all the time and effort the folks at home put into ensuring as much care and comfort to the boys off fighting. Everyday lives of children their age is also discussed, including daily chores and games.
We will then spend time speaking of battle towns, usually of Gettysburg, and what happened inside that borough during and after the three day battle. We try to bring to life just what those that remained in the war-torn towns had to deal with afterward, including the bodies left on the fields, in the streets, and in the homes; the amputated body parts tossed out the windows of the makeshift hospitals, the excrement from over 150,000 men in a town that normally had a population of 2400 people. Dead and wounded horses. And then the stench of everything mentioned roasting in the hot July sun.
We try to bring the realities of that war to life for these kids who just seem to have to learn facts and figures without the human details.
The best part is, if you know anything about middle school kids, they can be quite a challenge. Their hormones are raging, they are stuck between being a little kid and becoming a teenager, and they have ATTITUDE!
But, by our words and even our actions during our presentations, we capture their full attention and keep a hold of it for the duration.

The preacher of the 21st Michigan, Mike Gillett, keeps the kids enthralled with his tales of a preacher's duties during the Civil War.

Normally, the school PTO will pay us to come there to put on our little living history exercise, and they plan to again this year as well. But, unfortunately, this will be the last time we do our event at this particular middle school, for it will shut its doors for good when school lets out in June. Because of the shift in population and the State of Michigan's lack of school funding, a number of schools throughout the state will be closing up for good come June. In this city, only one middle school will remain (from three only 25 years ago) come September.
So we in the 21st Michigan decided that we will take the money given to us and purchase numerous American history DVD's to donate to the one remaining middle school. We wanted to give to the kids a well-rounded selection of American History, showing the ups and downs of this nation.
I'd like to share with you what we selected as well as reviews of each:

Desperate Crossing - This History Channel presentation of the pilgrims is two and a half hours of a well-known and very important part of our American history, although you may not realize how little you actually do know of these separatists and of the times they lived. In fact, it certainly is more movie than documentary and, although interspersed throughout are historians filling in the gaps, this docu-drama is as engulfing and riveting as any full-length period movie I have seen. The lives and times of these early European settlers are authentically portrayed by use of English Shakespearian actors, and the quality shows. Never have I seen any other film put flesh on the bones of the pilgrims to the extent this one does. A social history extravaganza! The clothing, lighting, effects (especially while on the Mayflower), and, at times, even some of the speech patterns are reflected fairly accurately. I did not see the typical revisionist history so often reflected in many of today's historical depictions. They were very religious folk bent on keeping their practices, even if they had to cross the ocean to do it, and this movie shows that in no uncertain terms. The Indian dramatization was done very well for the most part, although I would have preferred to have their speech in their original (or close to their original) language and include the use of sub-titles. Oh well, can't have everything.
For teachers and lovers of history I recommend this docu-drama very highly. A wonderful way to learn about our early American history.

Three Soverigns for Sarah - (this review is from the product description) - This is a true story. Nineteen people were hanged and one old man pressed to death, while hundreds of others suffered in jail cells during the "witch hysteria" of 1692. Three Sovereigns for Sarah is the most accurate portrayal yet. Each character you will see actually existed, actually spoke many of the words you will hear. Original transcripts of the trials are woven into the dialogue. All of the costumes, locations, buildings and props offer a rare, authentic glimpse of the late 1600's in America. Each viewing will reveal something new, never before seen. Most important, it is a powerful and moving story about three loving sisters who are accused of witchcraft. Academy Award winners Vanessa Redgrave, Kim Hunter and Phyllis Thaxter portray those sisters. The youngest, Sarah Cloyce (Vanessa Redgrave), tried to clear her sisters' names.

The War that Made America: The Story of the French and Indian War - (this review is from the product description) - What if the French had won? Almost 250 years ago, French and English armies clashed in the primeval forest of western Pennsylvania as they struggled to control the most important piece of real estate in 18th century North America. The army that controlled the forks of the Ohio, a confluence of mighty rivers that would one day become Pittsburgh, held the gateway to the entire continent. Native Americans boldly tried to manipulate the balance of military power between the English and the French. It was the French and Indian War, and an inexperienced Virginian soldier named George Washington, serving under the British flag, learned battle-scarred lessons that would indelibly shape his life.

John Adams - Upon reading many of the reviews of this series I am having a difficult time understanding the reviewers who do not care for this set. It seems there are three main reasons for them not to like it: *It's all drama* *the quirky camera angles and shots* *the 'stiffness' and language of the actors* First off, yes, it is mostly drama with very little physical action. But that does not make it bad or boring - instead this is what brings the viewer in. And, with the inclusion of the (mostly) period-style language, one feels almost as if they were in the company of our nation's fore-fathers themselves. It seems that people in today's society need blood and guts action for them to like a movie. That's unfortunate, because just like in "Gods & Generals" (the Civil War flick), it's the drama that greatly enhances this movie. Yes, I would have liked to have seen a couple of battle scenes, but showing the wounded after the battle was just as moving. As for stiffness of the actors: someone stated in one of their reviews here that ordinary people of the late 18th century didn't act like the people shown in this series. Research shows that, yes, folks did act very similar to what's portrayed. You have to watch a movie like this not with a 21st century mindset but with the realization that people didn't always socially act the way they do today. It amazes me how so few people understand this. And speaking of personalities, I believe that all the actors - sans one - fit their parts well, especially Benjamin Franklin. The one I was slightly disappointed with was the actor chosen to portray the younger General George Washington (during the 1770's). Although working well as the older PRESIDENT Washington, I feel they needed a younger man to play the part during the Rev War. The man chosen is just too old for the 1770's scenes. But, Thomas Jefferson was spot on! I do agree to an extent with other reviews that the way the film was shot can get a bit frustrating: angle left this scene - angle right the next - run with the camera the next scene...a little too overdone. But, you learn to over-look this. A minor thing in my opinion. By the way, the sets (computerized and otherwise) were so accurate - the details were amazing: true candle lit rooms, pulling the curtain past the door to help keep the cold out, the hat racks, framed silhouette pictures, the furniture and the rooms of the houses themselves, the "extra's" in the streets (vendors, animals, etc.)...I could go on and on - all as accurate as I have seen in any movie. And the clothing was perfect as well. Not a detail was missed. It seems as much went into the sets and clothing as into the acting and dialog. How refreshing. All things considered, this is a phenomenal work that has just blown me away. The best American History film I have seen yet.

The Crossing - (this review is from Amazon) - Every American knows that George Washington crossed the icy Delaware River in the War of Independence, if only from Emanuel Gottlieb Leutze's famous 1851 painting. The made-for-cable-TV historical drama The Crossing, scripted by Howard Fast from his novel, corrects at least one piece of historical invention--Washington did not stand and pose for the occasion of Leutze's portrait--but, more importantly, it frames the event in the real-life drama that made it a decisive moment of American history. Jeff Daniels makes a fine General George Washington, the quiet, dignified, and increasingly desperate leader of the volunteer Continental Army. By December 1776, six months after the Declaration of Independence was signed, the tired and hungry army had retreated to the far banks of the Delaware River, a mere fraction of the original 20,000-strong force. Knowing that defeat means the end of the revolution, Washington takes the offensive in a dangerous surprise attack that turns the tide of the war. Like the sprawling Civil War epic Gettysburg, The Crossing takes one incident of the Revolutionary War and digs into the whys and wherefores that make it vital history. It brims with rich historical detail and comes alive with the stories of officers, soldiers, and a very human George Washington.

Gods & Generals / Gettysburg - (this review is from the product description) - Key battles of America's Civil War thunder across the screen in two richly scaled, rigorously authentic, powerfully compelling epics based on acclaimed historical novels by Michael Shaara. Gods and Generals reveals the spirited allegiances and fierce combat of earlier Civil War struggles, framing its tale with the fateful clashes at Bull Run, Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville. The tide of the war changes during three fierce days of combat at Gettysburg, the gripping saga of the tactics, command errors and sacrifices behind the bloodiest battle ever fought on U.S. soil. These sprawling films remind us of the people, passions and heroism that fanned the flames of a country at war with itself.

It's with these films/dvd's that a variety of American History can be witnessed, as accurately as available, and will hopefully give the middle school kids a greater understanding of times past in this great country.
What do you think? Any other possible suggestions for historically accurate (as far as TV and films go) movies?
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No Shortage of Michigan History

Lately I have been blogging quite a bit about Michigan's history. I am quite proud of the state in which I live (even with the sad economy we have!) and I enjoy writing about its past.
A couple years ago I wrote the original version of this week's posting, entitled "If You Seek History, Look About You," and pointed out all of the wonderful history that we have in the southern lower part of Michigan.
Last June I repeated it with a few additions.
I'd like to repeat it here once again, for I have gained new followers since, and I also have been letting my "facebook friends" know about my blogs as well. Michigan is much more than cars and industry; history is spread throughout this much maligned state and I would like to share this with folks that might be planning summer (and even autumn) vacations. I have added links to many of the places - be sure to click on 'em for further details:

"A Night to Remember" Bed & Breakfast in Lexington, Michigan

What people never seem to consider when they think of Detroit or southern lower Michigan is history.
Well, what most folks don't realize is that we have plenty of history all around this area. More than you may know.
In fact, I would put our collection of historical institutions against most other states - well, except maybe for the east coast. They seem to have the corner on pre-20th century American history. But, for the north central region of the U.S. (sorry - I don't consider us the 'midwest' - north central is more accurate), I don't believe you will find another area with more history.
First off is Greenfield Village the open-air museum in Dearborn. It's probably the most famous in the U.S. - right up there with Colonial Williamsburg. I have written plenty about GFV so, if you are interested, please see my blog dedicated to to the museum at http://gfv1929.blogspot.com/

Connected to Greenfield Village is the Henry Ford Museum, second only to the Smithsonian for historical artifacts, including the actual chair Abraham Lincoln sat in when he was shot by Booth at the Ford's Theater. It also has hundreds of old-time cars, a few full size locomotive trains, many carriages, period guns, furniture from long ago, wood stoves, a 1940's diner, camping gear once belonging to George Washington...

George Washington slept here...literally!

...there's so much to see - it's a full day's visit or more to just visit the museum! I will eventually have a blog on the Henry Ford Museum. (for more on the Henry Ford Museum, please click here The Henry Ford Museum)

About an hour and a half north of Detroit, in Flint, is Crossroads Village. Crossroads is another open air museum, although on a much smaller scale, but, in many ways, more accurately depicted than Greenfield. It has dirt streets rather than cement paved streets, wood-plank sidewalks rather than cement paved sidewalks, and is more accurate in its portrayal of mid-19th century life in that it has a very rural, small-town atmosphere. It has a 'downtown' area, numerous Victorian houses, a working gristmill, an icehouse, a carriage barn, church, school, a working blacksmith shop, and a 45 minute train ride.
An immersion experience for sure - - -

- - - - Crossroads Village is truly a worthy trip back to the 1880's. Here's my site in progress dedicated to Crossroads http://crossroadsvillageofflintmichigan.blogspot.com/

A little closer to Detroit - Mt. Clemens - has the Crocker House Museum. Run by Kim Parr, this shining example of Victoriana at its best is a very busy place indeed. Ms. Parr, historian extraordinaire, keeps this beautiful and authentically furnished 1869 house hopping throughout the year as numerous activities, including Wallow and Wassail at Christmas time, a mourning presentation in the late summer/early fall, teas, home tours, and a number of other events take place that bring the past to life.

Folks in period clothing help to keep the atmosphere correct at many of these events here at the Crocker House. Kim has a passion for history and it shows.

Historic Fort Wayne, in downtown Detroit, is a true gem in the heart of the city that very few folks think about, much less visit. Built in the 1840's, this actual fort never saw any battles; however, it was the place that most soldiers in lower Michigan, from the Civil War era through Vietnam, were mustered into service. Imagine being able to visit a place right here in Michigan that has a major Civil War connection! The officer quarters, the barracks, sallyport, guard house - all are still there as they stood in the old days, ready for visitors to take a walk through. The sallyport is my particular favorite part.



Some restoration is still needed but many local historians and preservationists have donated their time and money - and continue to do so - to keep this true historic gem alive. You, too, can donate to keep this part of Detroit history alive.
By the way, during the summer (this year July 10th and 11th), a Civil War muster takes place.

Traveling about an hour and a half west of Detroit, another small collection of historic buildings are waiting to be visited by the public, Waterloo Farms. A log house, a bake house, an icehouse, a granary, and a mid-19th century farmhouse (among a few other buildings) help to show what farm life was like in Michigan 150 years ago. Throughout the year the group that runs Waterloo Farms holds various events, including one for the American Indian, a pioneer days, and a Christmas gathering.

Near Greenfield Village and the Henry Ford Museum is the Dearborn Historical Society collection of buildings, including the Commandent's Building, restored to its 1833 - 1875 appearance as well as the Gardner House, built in 1831 and is the oldest structure built in Dearborn that is still standing. It is furnished to a mid-19th century appearance.


To visit these buildings will cost you nothing but donations are accepted. It is worth the trip to see these few original Dearborn landmarks - my wife and I did and the tours of each building together totaled about two hours. The historical society has done a fine job in the restoration of these beautiful old structures.

Traveling two and a half to three hours outside of the metro-Detroit area is another historic village called Charlton Park, and this is located in rural Hastings, Michigan. Similar to but smaller than Crossroads Village, Charlton Park is home to mid-19th century Michigan structures, including a 19th century few houses with period furnishings, a barber shop, a general store, a church, bank, school, a cooper shop, a blacksmith shop, and a small mainstreet collection.

As I have only visited the Charlton Park during Civil War reenactments, I don't know if the docents are in period clothing or not, but don't let that stop you from visiting this place. The (mostly) 19th century homes and buildings are well worth the scenic drive.
Check out there informative site: http://www.barrycounty.org/parks-and-services/charlton-park/

If you enjoy driving, taking a ride on US 12 from Detroit to Chicago - heck, even Dearborn to Jackson - is well worth your time and gas. Traveling through authentic 19th century towns where many original structures still stand gives one the opportunity to see this stage coach road as it once was...well...in a way. It is a modern street now, with modern autos zooming by. But, while driving along, stop and visit some of the Victorian towns along the way. One of the best restored buildings on the trip is Walker Tavern, at the junction US 12 and M 50. This restored 1836 tavern, still in its original location, is open to walk through telling the story of all taverns and stage coach stops along US 12 - well worth it. It is a part of the Cambridge Junction Historical Society http://www.michigandnr.com/parksandtrails/details.aspx?id=440&type=SPRK collection of farm buildings as well as the Inn itself.
US 12 has other historic stopping points as well. And if you love antiques, these small towns have plenty of antique shops. Visit the site dedicated to this "Chicago Road."
Traveling about two and a half to three hours north along the very scenic shoreline of Lake Huron, near the tip of the thumb, you will find another small but authentic historic village called Huron City, where most of the original late 19th and early 20th century buildings are still there as they stood a hundred plus years ago, including the seven gables house, a general store, a log cabin, a church, and the nearby Point Aux Barque lighthouse, among other structures.
Tours are given during the summer season. I have never taken the tour, but I have walked around the buildings and, I believe, the next time I am out that way I will take the official tour.

By the way, on your ride up to the tip of the thumb, please visit the Victorian Villages that dot the shoreline: Lexington, Croswell, Port Sanilac, Forester, etc.

Now, I know that throughout the local communities there are many historic structures - train depots (Holly and Mt. Clemens have two beautifully restored depots), schoolhouses (my hometown here in Eastpointe has a restored schoolhouse from 1872), log cabins, and other pieces of history - that belong to (or are cared for by) the various historical societies, and they are very happy to give tours. And, many of the smaller towns and cities throughout the area, such as Romeo, Mt. Clemens, Clinton Township, Port Huron, Saline, St. Clair Shores, Holly (the list could go on), all have beautiful original historic structures (Wolcott Mill in northern Macomb County comes to mind), Victorian homes and even mansions still standing and restored.

One town, Marshall, Michigan near Battle Creek, even has a yearly historic home tour. I have never taken the tour myself but friends who have say it's excellent! Here's a site in case you want to get more information http://www.marshallmich.com/hometourbro02.html

I realize I haven't even touched on the northern towns and villages of Michigan, such as Mackinac Island and the town of Mackinaw at the tip of the mitt. I haven't been there in many years, but I am centering today's blog on places I have personally visited within the last few years. When I do travel that far up north, however, I will give a full report.

I also know there are many historical places in the area that I have missed, and I apologize if I missed your site (especially if I've been there!).
I hope this has helped some locals to visit their local history and may entice out-of-town history lovers to come to Michigan for a historical visit. Or even seek out historical sites in their area.
No, I don't work for a travel agency - I just like to pass along historic info and places to visit for those interested.


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