Civilian Activities

Susan Whittle
Unit Civilian Coordinator

Portraying a civilian impression during the 1860's War to Suppress Yankee Aggression is what we're all about.   Most of us have family members serving in the military.  In the past, we have not had  much involvement in a military camp, however, Signal Corps of the James gives us that ability.  My job is to ensure that civilian members play a meaningful, accurate historical impression.

After each event that I attend I will be drafting a "Letter Home" which is our counterpart of the "After Action Report".  You are invited to view them as they are linked below

Prior to events I will publish a Commissary and KP list assigning cooking and cleanup duties for the weekend.   This list will be posted on the unit duty  board. 

Below you will see a partial listing of some of the things we do - and have planned.  

TREATS FOR THE TROOPS

One of our camp activities is depicted in the picture to the left.  (click on it to view the full size picture)  At various events, while the men are out fighting, we will prepare a treat for the returning hero's.  As they march back to camp the ladies will meet them on the march and hand out doughnut holes that we have prepared.  Not only is this traditional and period correct but it gives us a purpose and also lets the troops know that we care for them.

Ladies will make the dough from scratch and then boil them over the fire.  When they are done they dry a bit and are then rolled in powdered sugar.  Once cooled off they are put into bags which we take out to the returning troops.  Believe me - the troops are MORE than appreciative of our work!  CLICK HERE to view the recipe that we used for these wonderful treats!

PERIOD SPEAKING

Since our unit portrays Civil War era individuals it is our goal to use 1860's vernacular in our impressions.  At every event, we continue to add to our period vocabulary and each person endeavors to use these terms to the maximum extent.   Don't worry - they're not that hard!

SEWING CIRCLE

Another activity we have is a "Sewing Circle".   With the men 'out to war' the ladies had to take the time to do all of the sewing that was needed.   All of the ladies in camp take turns sewing various articles.  Additional pictures of this will be forthcoming.  

CONFEDERATE SECRET SERVICE

Another talent we are working on is our service in the Confederate Secret Service, of which Signal Corps was a part.  Training on this topic is tentatively scheduled for our Fall event at Cedar Creek.  We will have training from one of the most knowledgeable subject matter experts in the field of study.   This will be ideal for our Civilians as countless ladies served the Confederacy in this role.

TELEGRAPH OPERATORS

If our ladies and younger teens so desire they can learn how to be a telegrapher.  There were MANY female and young operators during the war.  Learning this task seems daunting but due to the code that we use it is surprisingly easy.  Simple proficiency can be learned within an hour.