It started with a post on the N-SSA Bulletin Board concerning Scott, a 9 year old Civil War buff. He was in the Boston area for cancer treatment. Some N-SSA members started a fund for Scott. While Scott was in Boston, members of the New England Region from the Tammany Regiment and 10th Mass Battery visited Scott and family. Riding the subway into the city in uniform went OK, but it took awhile to make connections once we got there. Scott has a very good knowledge of the Civil War, and we had conversations with him ranging from historical events to shooting Minie balls. We presented him with a kepi, belt and buckle, a National and regional medal and a 100th National badge, a video of N-SSA skirmishing, Gettysburg magazine and a book on Union Cavalry.
Meanwhile, Rachel of R. Preston Chew's Battery, rounded up: a Colt from Lodgewood Manufacturing; boots & saber from Liberated Goods; Tommy Johnson (The Cavalry Shop) supplied a pistol belt & buckle w/ holster; Winchester Sutler donated the quick release hangers for the saber; and Carolyn Jarnagin of C.D. Jarnigan made Scott a Union Cavalry uniform with original buttons (Scott's favorite service) and a Confederate one for his brother at cost. The BCRs, responded to the call for donations with (a lot of) money, and a uniform for Scott's dad. The generosity of the BCRs allowed Rachel to arranged for lodging and such for the family to come to the 101st Nationals, and we really owe them thanks for that. Scott really enjoyed the trip they made possible.
The family came down on Friday and stayed through Sunday, though I don't believe Scott's feet ever touched the ground. On Sunday at formation, Rachel and two of the 10th Mass Btty, together representing the members of the N-SSA, presented the sabre and a revolver to Scott. In addition, members gave Scott unit pins, medals and mementos. As Scott's father had had surgery only days before, and his mother had her hands full with Scott's three brothers, they didn't get to visit with everyone they wished to see. They hope to be able to come again in the fall and have a chance to visit then.
Scott and family made it for Saturday of the Nationals and visited with the 10th Mass and R. Preston Chew's Bttys. It was great to see them and we are glad they were able to fit us into their schedule. Scott and Don visited some campsites so Scott got a taste of our experiences.
The following was when the family was in Boston
