When Hope Rouda married Dave, she received the first clue when their honeymoon included a stop at the Shiloh Battlefield. David is a history buff and the Civil War holds a particular fascination for him.
Fourteen years and two sons later, the whole family is involved with reenactments of the Civil War. They were in Gettysburg recently for the grand celebration of the 150 year anniversary of the Civil War. Thousands of spectators poured into Gettysburg to tour the battlefields, watch the battles being staged and stroll among the encampments.
The historical representatives of the Civil War numbered into the thousands also — so many that two separate huge battles were staged. One took place before the Fourth of July and the other on July 6. Both were well done — down to the historically accurate wool uniforms — despite the rising temperatures and humidity.
Most of the units came for a minimum of three days, setting up camps as authentic as possible and living there, cooking over open fires and sleeping on cots in their tent cities.
Hope Rouda’s job was to remain in the camp where a “living history” area was displayed and she explained to any passersby the cooking practices of the time period and described the camp equipment. She taught about herbs that the women who accompanied the troops used in cooking and to nurse the injured. As she set up her cookware on July 6, her husband and two sons, Drew, 13, and Brett, 9, trudged out with all their gear to prepare for the battle.
Since Drew had been flag bearer in previous camps and proved himself reliable, he was allowed to carry a rifle in his first battle at Gettysburg. Brett, not old enough to carry a gun, was nevertheless given the important task of being the captain’s aide and he performed the job of a “runner” — delivering messages between the lines.
These boys have attended the encampments since they were toddlers and both can explain the movements of the Union or Confederates in various battles, and the reasons for the strategies. They have learned history while having fun and making friends among the other Civil War Reenactment families. David also led the Children’s Militia through some drills so that they too would learn and understand what they were all there for.
Hope Rouda said she is done camping in the summer, but will continue to take part once the humidity drops in the fall. The garments that they brought home were soaked from both perspiration and the rain, which flooded them out on their last day in Gettysburg. On arrival near Butler, Pa., home to the family, they had to immediately set up the tents again to properly dry out. Next all the rifles, buckles, belts, canteens and other items had to be cleaned and polished for the next encampment.
Despite the heat, sleeping on a spot over some mole holes, (a whole story for another time) and dealing with the traffic and red tape in taking part — this family — and all those who were asked said, “It was worth it.”
To be in that place, where the future of our country was decided, has been described as holy, enlightening, and awe-inspiring. For the one family — my family — those words have proved to be true.
I used my own family’s story because I had personal contact with other reenactors and battlegrounds through them. Most reenactors are not just big boys and girls “playing soldier,” but have a deep respect for history and want to keep it alive.
Company C took part in the recent Gettysburg 150 year anniversary. On July 13, they marched in the Heritage Days Parade in Phillipsburg.
“We will be at Greenwood Furnace, Huntingdon County on Aug. 3 and 4, 2013, so it is a busy summer,” said president Lynn Herman.
Herman said the organization is looking for recruits. Those interested should contact him at (814) 861-0770.
