By Scott Robertson
John “Pappy” Hawthorne (pictured below) adjusts the bright red hat that marks him today as a member of the Union artillery. He likes the artillery more than the infantry, he says, because you don’t have to march so much.
It’s easy to imagine those same words coming from an actual United States Army artillery sergeant 150 years ago. The Union’s heavy wool uniforms were useful in winter, but hot as blazes when marching on 80 degree days like last Sunday at Tipton-Haynes Historic site. It’s also better to work artillery because you don’t get “shot” as much. Once you go down, Pappy says, there’s nothing to do but lie in the grass and bake till it’s over.
Pappy knows from whence he speaks. His first re-enactment was at Tipton-Haynes in 1988 and he’s been coming back ever since. He’s fought on both sides, and in multiple roles. “We could do this every weekend if we were up for the travel,” he says. “But we just do about one a month.”
For Pappy and his fellow re-enactors, these events are like family reunions, opportunities to catch up with friends from years gone by. For most spectators, they’re chances to glimpse a bit of history and a bit of showmanship. For some, they’re chances to relay their heritage to a new generation. For Tipton-Haynes, they’re a chance to show off the historic site, one of the region’s underrated treasures.
“I’ve done a lot of these over the years,” Pappy says. “But Tipton-Haynes will always have a special place in my heart.”
All photos by Chris Robertson.
The cavalry charges
Before the battle, re-enactors enjoyed a game of rounders, an 1860s precursor to baseball.
- The Confederate line returns fire in front of the crowd of spectators at Tipton-Haynes.
This little Volunteer was thrilled to have an up-close and personal meeting with a cavalryman and his mount.
“Johnny Reb” returns fire as the Confederates make an ill-fated advance.
- The uniforms and firearms displayed during inspection are correct to the period. The blue earplugs are not.
Pappy Hawthorne tries a bit of hardtack before the battle.
A Union cavalryman shoots toward rebel positions on the far hillside.
