I’ve mentioned before my lifelong affection for Country Music, but I have also grown into quite a Bluegrass fan over the last few years. I really like the message, the music, and the '19th-century feel' that the genre has. I recently discovered some great bluegrass songs from the Civil War and will be adding many of these classics on my iPod.

My favorite is (of course) "Jine the Cavalry!" According to Wikipedia: The verses detail various feats performed by Jeb Stuart's troopers, the cavalry arm of the Army of Northern Virginia, while the chorus urges the listener to join the cavalry. The song was most commonly sung in Virginia and was among Stuart’s favorite songs. It recounts many of his early exploits, including the daring "Ride around the Army of the Potomac" in the early summer of 1862, and the invasion of Pennsylvania in June and July 1863.

One of Stuart’s men, Sam Sweeney, was an accomplished banjo player and often serenaded the cavalier and his officers during the Gettysburg Campaign. BTW: There is a great version of the tune w/ a nice slide show made up of various Stuart images posted over on YouTube.

CHORUS:
If you want to have a good time, jine the cavalry!
Jine the cavalry! Jine the cavalry!
If you want to catch the Devil, if you want to have fun,
If you want to smell Hell, jine the cavalry!

We're the boys who went around McClellian,
Went around McClellian, went around around McClellian!
We're the boys who went around McClellian,
Bully boys, hey! Bully boys, ho! (CHORUS)

We're the boys who crossed the Potomicum,
Crossed the Potomicum, crossed the Potomicum!
We're the boys who crossed the Potomicum,
Bully boys, hey! Bully boys, ho! (CHORUS)

Then we went into Pennsylvania,
Into Pennsylvania, into Pennsylvania!
Then we went into Pennsylvania,
Bully boys, hey! Bully boys, ho! (CHORUS)

The big fat Dutch gals hand around the breadium,
Hand around the breadium, hand around the breadium!
The big fat Dutch gals hand around the breadium,
Bully boys, hey! Bully boys, ho! (CHORUS)

Ol' Joe Hooker, won't you come out of The Wilderness?
Come out of The Wilderness, come out of The Wilderness?
Ol' Joe Hooker, won't you come out of The Wilderness?
Bully boys, hey! Bully boys, ho! (CHORUS)

I wasn’t eager to vote for any of these bozos (on either ticket) – but I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the traitorous act that is currently being perpetrated by one of the candidates.

Bad move Rudy. You’ve lost your fan base… and your mind!

For more, read “Off Base? Giuliani Roots For Red Sox To Win WS” over on WCBSTV’s webpage.

This morning I received an email from General George Pickett (aka Niles Clark of Lee’s Lieutenants). In it he directed me to an interesting project that the Chattahoochee Guards (SCV Camp #1639) is conducting.

In a nutshell, they are in the process of raising $3,200 to have 10,000 copies of Pastor John Weaver’s talk on the “Truth about the Confederate Battle Flag” produced on CD. Pastor Weaver’s talk about the history of the Battle Flag, why the War was fought and the Christian origins of the Saint Andrews Cross is one of the most compelling and inspiring talks ever made. The Chattahoochee Guards will provide patrons with one copy of the CD for each 32 cents donated with a minimum donation of $35. They will take no profit and their only purpose in this endeavor is to get the CDs out to the public.

If you would like to listen to the CD, click either High Speed Connection (DSL, cable or satellite) or Dialup modem on their website.

I wanted to give you a quick heads up that I have a feature article on the local Civil War painter John Adams Elder’s exhibit running in this weekend's edition of The Free Lance-Star (Town & County insert), as well as another on Mort Kunstler's latest release and upcoming appearance here in Fredericksburg in next week's. I also have a reply letter in the next issue of Civil War Historian magazine, as well as a long-format feature in the issue after that (Jan/Feb 08). Please patron these wonderful publications so I can retire early.

PS. Last night NBC’s Brian Williams was reporting from the scene of the wildfires that are currently spreading across California at an alarming and deadly rate. He stated that this event was the largest single evacuation of people in America since the Civil War. (Tip of the hat to our good friends over at CWi who pointed out that he mistakenly used the words "peacetime." 'Peace-anything' isn't really an accurate term when describing the War Between the States is it?)

Still, as I pray for the safety and comfort of those who are affected by this disaster, I can't help but reflect on how awful the burning of Atlanta, Richmond, Charleston, and other cities must have been. If the shocking photographs and film clips that are being broadcasted from San Diego are any indication of the firestorm that swept across the South, then I have a much greater appreciation and sympathy for the citizens who suffered through it. Black and white photographs of charred chimney stacks and rubble do no justice to the magnitude of destruction, nor the terror that it must have struck in its victims.

This morning I finished another church chapter, St. George’s Episcopal, for the ‘Houses of the Holy’ manuscript. Next up is Fredericksburg Presbyterian and United Methodist before moving on to the outer congregations in Spotsylvania County. One of the most interesting aspects of this project (IMO) is the incorporation of the local slave and freed African-American experiences. In addition to the recollections of southern soldiers, civilians, and northern occupiers, this third-perspective has become a crucial part of my study.  To be honest, the race-relations side of history never really interested me, but as I mature as both a historian and a writer, I am finding it to be an important and far too neglected part of the Civil War narrative.

Therefore I am making a concerted effort to include the black citizen’s viewpoints for each church where applicable. I am finding some interesting differences in the way the events of the pre- and post-war era are remembered. Several of the African-Americans that I quote were children at the time of the war, and their views of the conflict, as well as the sudden changes in the social structure of Fredericksburg during Reconstruction, are much more positive and prosperous. Understandably, slave adults who escaped north prior to the battle(s) paint a much more bitter and painful portrayal of the town. Many served in the Union army as teamsters, and even soldiers, while others received an education and returned as ministers.

Although I have included several testimonies throughout the book, I was immediately drawn to two; extraordinary slave narratives that were published in the years following the war. Both outlined the pre- and post-war experiences of African-Americans in the local Episcopal Church. One was titled “Memorys of the Past” and was an autobiographical memoir of John Washington, a former slave describing his life, 1838-1862 in various places in Virginia especially Fredericksburg. Washington, who would later attend Shiloh Baptist (Old Site), recalled his early introduction into Christianity at St. George’s Church due to the insistence of his master. In Chapter 5 of his memoirs he recalled:

“The Episcopal Church in Fredericksburg is situated on the North East corner of Princess Ann and George Street surrounded on the North and East by the Grave Yard, Fronting on Princess Ann Street about Midway the square was a small one story brick in which I used to go to a Sunday School Sunday afternoon and was taught the cathacism and verses of the bible were read to us by heart. I do not think much good resulted from this School for we was not permitted to learn A.B.C. or to Spell. But Mrs. Taliaferro was most zealous in sending me to each such places on Sundays as she would by this Means know where I was by asking Miss Olive Hanson, My Teacher, by the way she was a most kind and gentle lady and I often think of her sweet face and blue ey[e]s, and feel a spark of gratitude for the efforts on her part, for I really know she would have learned me to read and wright if the law had permitted her so to do.”

The other was quoted from Joseph F. Walker, a former slave child who also published his own recollections. Walker recalled the ‘parental upbringing’ he experienced as a boy during the war years. In his memoirs, which were recorded by John J. Lanier, he describes his own path to salvation, as well as the dramatic appointments that were exposed to him as an adult:

“I became Sexton of St. George’s Church in 1878. I still continued to live with Judge Barton. My combined stipend as sexton of the Church and as Judge Barton’s Butler was $17.00 per month… My first religious impression was obtained from Mr. Cushionberry; from his having daily morning prayer. All the servants came to this service. I have kept it up ever since, and consider it one of the most valuable things I have derived from my Episcopalian friends.” (Walker continued to serve at St. George’s for years to come and also became a Senior Deacon at Shiloh Baptist, [New Site]. Over a period of 48 years he served 6 Rector’s through their entire terms of service.)

It is my hope that through the inclusion of these stories, I will be able to present a better-rounded and accurate picture of the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of these historic congregations.

Over the last few days I’ve received several invitations for speaking engagements next year. In March, I’ll be appearing at the prestigious Lee’s Hill '55 Club (topic: TBD), and in April, I’ll be the guest speaker for that month’s SPC Community Lecture Series (topic: Historical Churches of Fredericksburg). June will have me at the third annual Gathering of Eagles in Winchester, and I have several radio spots lined up in between. Still, with baby Jackson arriving in under 8 weeks, I’m trying to limit my schedule to just a few events. I had to turn down a magnificent offer to be a guest lecturer at the 2008 Faith Writer’s Conference in Nashville Tennessee, but I hope to appear at the 2009 event.

There was a time when I regularly declined offers to do public speaking, but over the last year or so, it has become my favorite part of being a local author and historian here in Fredericksburg. The people that I have had the honor to talk to this year were extraordinary and I am so very thankful for their interest in my work. I especially like speaking to church groups as the intent of my message immediately goes above and beyond the usual secular Civil War talk.

My 'Faith Under Fire' program that I did for the Spotsylvania Presbyterian Men’s Ministry last month was responsible for these newest invitations and it has also manifested itself in several church-related projects. The idea of discipleship was the backbone of that talk as our church was just beginning a new series called 'The Discipleship Challenge'. Today we learned about the challenges of practicing charity and grace and had the opportunity to take a pledge to pray for an unchurched-adversary, or a person that we have recently had differences with. After last week's episode, I nominated a certain VA high school teacher on my card. In a nutshell, the 'Discipleship Pledge' is a promise to prayerfully consider an individual during our daily scripture study or meditations. It’s easier said than done, and I suspect that there will be some sarcastic posting somewhere poking fun at the act. However, this pledge is not about me, so I’ll take it.

The idea of using this genre of historical narrative to Witness for Christ is nothing new. It’s the foundation for most of my personal projects (minus my magazine and newspaper gigs) and has been the backbone of my book-publishing career. Still, there is a time and place for sharing the Good News and the key is NOT to force it down people’s throats, or come off as being too aggressive. I may be an Evangelical Protestant, but I’ve never agreed with the ‘banging door-to-door’ theory, or the old ‘fire and brimstone’ ambush method. Nothing turns people off to religion more than attacking them and coming off as some self-righteous zealot. People find religion when they want to. Or they don’t. I have plenty of non-Christian and/or agnostic associates who I get along with wonderfully.

Another group that is sharing the Gospel within the context of Civil War history is the Sons of Confederate Veterans Chaplain Corps. This blessed organization of battlefield believers has recently become an interest of mine (I am an Associate SCV member), and I am planning on contacting them this week to see if I can assist them in promoting their mission. Each month, they publish a 20+-page newsletter that is filled from beginning to end with inspirational stories and spiritual nourishment. It’s titled the 'Chaplain’s Chronicle' and features a wealth of positive prose including biographies of Christian Soldiers, sermon notes, prayer considerations, and reprints of general orders. Here is a PDF of the October issue.

Along with our good friends over at the Re-enactor’s Missions for Jesus Christ, these groups are using their time and talents for sharing the glory of their God, while simultaneously preserving the storied history of our culture and our country. Well done gentlemen. Well done!

Longtime Yankees historian Harvey Frommer has written more books on the Bronx Bombers than any other sports-author that I know. I own most of them. In fact, the Frommers occupy an entire shelf in my personal library, and I always look forward to their newest releases with great anticipation.

To date, Harvey Frommer boasts more than 39 sports books on his resume, including the classics “Shoeless Joe and Ragtime Baseball”, “New York City Baseball”, as well as “The New York Yankee Encyclopedia”. He was also a writer at Yankees magazine for 16 years. As a former baseball-writer and Yankees fan myself Harvey’s books have always had a special place in my heart. I have also been fortunate enough to have been mentored from time-to-time by the author who has generously shared some wonderful critiques and advices on my own writing projects.

My favorite book (to date) by Harvey was a real gem titled “A Yankee Century: A Celebration of the First Hundred Years of Baseball's Greatest Team.” This book covered it all from their historic beginnings as the New York Highlanders playing in Manhattan's Hilltop Park in 1903, to their reign as the modern-day dynasty that brought Major League Baseball into a new millennium with World Series championships in '96, '98, '99, and 2000. For Yankee fans, or anyone who loves baseball, owning “A Yankee Century” is like having a clubhouse pass to the most fabled franchise in all of sports. That is until now…

With the release of the updated version “A Yankee Century and Beyond” Frommer has once again outdone his previous effort by incorporating the latest developments in the storied franchise since the centennial of baseball’s winningest team, This new edition of this richly illustrated study offers profiles of the team’s legendary players and coaches, detailed statistics, unforgettable moments on and off the field, rare period photographs, trivia, and more. I was particularly pleased to see some great new photography and plenty of all-time lists showcasing a myriad of Yankee records and achievements.

For those who are unfamiliar with “A Yankee Century” this book is a must have, and for those who have read the original version, “A Yankee Century and Beyond” is much-much more than just an update, it’s an extension into the most recent additions of the franchise’s history. For more information on Harvey Frommer visit his website and for ordering information, visit “A Yankee Century and Beyond” on Amazon.com.

Yesterday I received the review-CD of an exciting new release that I will be covering in more detail for The Free Lance-Star newspaper. I did want to share a little insight here…

Of course I’m talking about the highly anticipated documentary “Still Standing: The Stonewall Jackson Story” by Franklin Springs Family Media. This wonderful DVD is based on the critically acclaimed book by our friend and fellow blogger Richard G. Williams Jr. His study, titled “Stonewall Jackson: The Black Man’s Friend,” re-opened the door to a part of our hero’s legacy that is far too often forgotten – the story of his Sunday School for both freed and slave blacks. As a fellow Jackson biographer, I was very interested in seeing how the panoramic cinematography that Franklin Springs is known for, would match up with the insightful narrative based on the text of Mr. Williams. Wow!

I must say that I am very impressed, not only with the scenes that fill the screen with glorious images of Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley, but also with the wonderful commentary that is interwoven by noted historians James I. “Bud” Robertson Jr., Dr. George Grant, William Potter, Virginia Military Institute Col. Keith Gibson; and Francis Lightburn Cressman — great granddaughter of Civil War Union General Joseph Lightburn — among others. It is a feast for both the eyes and mind.

The overall storyline of Jackson’s life is familiar, but what makes this documentary special is the particular focus on his religious piety and evangelical efforts on behalf of the African-American population in Lexington Virginia. Throughout the film we are told the stories of a young Tom Jackson growing up amongst slaves in Jackson’s Mill and his particular fondness for them as an adult. We are also told about the special relationship that he shared with his personal body servant and cook Jim Lewis. Truly Jackson was more than just a Confederate General; he was a paternal deliverer of black literacy, and instrumental in planting the seeds for eternal salvation in the slave and freed members of his Colored Sabbath School. Four churches sprung from this foundation and most are still operating today.

Tender footage of a recent reunion and church service that was attended by descendents from both the original African congregation and Jackson family reinforce the notion of faith crossing the racial divide for generations to come. Clearly Jackson’s evangelical mission is validated even today. It’s a touching story to say the least and will appeal to a wide audience of both Civil War enthusiasts and Christians. It’s the kind of inspirational film that should be shared, and I can see a wonderful opportunity for Bible studies and church retreats using this as part of their curriculum.

Bonus features include an interview with the author Richard G. Williams Jr. as well as comments by award-winning director Ken Carpenter, who openly admits the controversial nature of this subject. Still, I challenge any nay Sayers to watch the film and judge for themselves. My conclusion is that there were over 100 souls that were saved by the kindness, compassion, and convictions of Thomas Jonathan Jackson. That's over 100 new Christians in the Kingdom, who may have never been introduced to the teachings of their Savior if not for the ministry of the general.

I highly recommend this piece to study groups and I also urge parents to share this insightful and inspirational story with their children as this side of ‘Stonewall’s’ life is most likely ignored in the classroom. To order your copy of Still Standing, visit Franklin Springs Family Media’s website.

Its 8:30 on a Friday night and I’m literally sitting here typing away while watching the replay of Joe Torre’s press conference from earlier today. As a former baseball writer - as a rabid Yankees fan, I must say that I am truly upset to see Joe go, yet I understand and support his decision not to return to the Bronx. The 2008 ‘offer’ on the table was clearly an insult for a guy whose team had just engineered a remarkable comeback during the regular 162-game season.

For most teams, making it into the playoffs would have been met with some gratitude, but not in New York. Simply stated, it’s another championship ring or nothing at all. This is not new of course. “The Boss” certainly invests huge sums of cash into his team’s line-ups; however Joe’s resume is filled with record-setting statistics and he deserved a much better departure than this. I will admit that this post-season collapse affected me more than any prior, but I still appreciated the great ride we had in the chase. Joe had a lot to do with that.

So tonight I sit here trying to come up with something poetic as I look back fondly on a Hall of Fame skipper’s tenure and smile. Unfortunately it’s a forced smile as I can’t help but feel a great deal of disappointment in Mr. Steinbrenner and the rest of the Yankees administration. For the last 12 years, Torre has been the mainstay for an organization that was reborn as a dynasty. He was always a first-class guy and will be missed very much. After all, the guy won 1,173 games (and a few AL Pennants and World Series in between.)

It will be interesting to see what kind of fallout this has on the Bomber’s free agent players who may or may not return (gems like Mo Rivera, A-Rod, and Posada) now that Torre’s gone. The timing IMO stinks as the Yankees dugout was brimming with plenty of fresh, young talent including Joba Chamberlain. These pups would have blossomed under Joe’s tutelage.

Even the Yankee haters out there have to give Joe Torre his props. No other coach has accumulated the numbers that he has. No other coach was as beloved by his players either. He will be missed by everyone in the clubhouse and in the stands. Now we must look to the future. I’m worried for sure. And I just realized that he won’t be there when New York hosts the All-Star Game next season. Maybe he will be there – but NOT in pinstripes. Whoever replaces Coach Torre better have BIG feet (to fill Joe’s shoes) and he better be a Yankee.

It looks like ESPN’s Baseball Tonight is doing a special segment on Joe’s career now. I’m going to go relive some wonderful memories. Thanks Joe. May God bless you wherever you go.