(1) When the Civil War infantry soldier was marching with full equipment, approximately how much did it weigh? The average soldier was 5'8" and 143lbs; not particularly stout by today's standards. The damage done to these slightly built men when hit by a 58 calibre miniball was understandably devastating. However,... more

I'd appreciate some input on your assessment of the Alcoa area. Other than being aware that it is located on the South side of Knoxville, is near the airport, and in hearing a rumor about the the streets being paved with aluminum foil, I don't know much about it. Therefore, any opinions offered would be gratefully... more

You might be obsessed with Gettysburg if..... By David Fictum and others on the Internet ---------------------------------------------------------------------- if you might be obsessed with Gettysburg if; if you see a hill or mountain (be it in Gettysburg or anywhere in the country) and say "We must deprive the enemy... more

Hey Pards, Just spoke with Tim Smith about the progress with registrations this year for Elkhorn City. Things are going very well with a larger number commiting earlier than ever this year! Yay! That said, it will be essential for us to get our registration in as soon as possible (translated "within a week"), so we... more

This event scheduled for April 24-25 was posted on the 63rd TN website, who will be the host regiment. I know the 8th has participated in this event in the past. Though this is not designated as a "maximum effort," is this an event that the 8th will consider as a relatively high priority? Thanks! Parson... more

Greetings to everyone in the 8th The Battle of Rockford ,TN will be at the Sam Houston Schoolhouse Historic Site the event date is March 5th 6th &7th There will be a school day on Friday the 5th anyone that can make I would really appreciate it there will also be a Saturday evening meal provided for free probably be... more

Civil War All-Stars Note This little beauty came from the August 1965 issue of Civil War Times and was authored by Jay Luvaas. Hope they don't mind me posting it. Just too good to pass up. Union All-Stars Manager - U.S. Grant. Has good success with the two-platoon system; has developed well-balanced team. Possibly a... more

Gary did an excellent job at Ft. Dickinson in portraying a disorderly, drunken soldier, for a first time, that is. However, I think he needs to step up his authenticity, and as his comrades, it is incumbent upon the men of the 8th to help him do it. The below information is taken from documented research in how the... more

I couldn't help but notice that the original commnander of the 8th's Co. 'E' was named Lemuel Bible. As chaplain, I couldn't resist pointing that out. Almost prophetic... Parson

I finally heard from Pete at the BCHM. They are planning a living history for April 16-17-18 this year. Anyone interested post here. I unfortunately have to work that weekend. Doc

Here are the details for Farragut as of today; we are able to set up camp starting at 12:00 Friday , camps will be open from 4-8pm that evening, Saturday everything opens at 9:00 am, at 12:00 we will be doin the ceremony for the trail markers which should only be 25-40 minutes, after that we can stay till 2:00, but... more

If there are no further submissions of back page head shot pics I will be bringing the file to the printer this week. I will have copies available at the Dalton Civil War relic show this weekend. So far I have orders for 12 calendars. Anyone else interested they are $17.00 each. Let me know ASAP. Doc

My Comrades of the 8th TN, I feel that it is proper and fitting that you should know who and what your chaplain is, and what it is that he believes, not just in theology, but as it also relates to his thinking, passions, and burdens. I believe that is owed to you as a group who has welcomed and placed a certain amount ... more

The newsletter is in the mail for those who don't have computer access. The Website also has a link to it and those whom I have e-mail addresses for have already received it as an attachment. If you could not open the newsletter let me know. I need Biographies for the next issue which will be ready for distribution... more

I have been in contact with Steve on this event issue. Steve was to be the Union Commander at Tazewell this year. We were a bit surprised at the number so far who have said they will attend Farragut. After all, Tazewell was on the calendar long before (It's in the October Courier)the organizers of Farraguts Living... more

If it appears I have been MIA in recent days, in a way, we have. Candie and I have been forced to get a taste of "authentic campaigning" since Friday evening as we have been without power since about 6:30PM Friday due to the snow storm. Or, maybe General Sherman took a wrong turn and decided to tear up western NC,... more

The Chickamauga Civil War Show and Sale is next weekend Feb. 6-7 at Dalton,GA. NW GA. Trade Center I-75 exit 333. Sat. 9-5 Sun. 9-3. Adults 8.00 children under 12 free. I plan on going saturday morning. If some more are interested we can ride together or meet up there. Post here if you are.

With all the chatter lately we forgot to post the new website address, so here it is for those who have had our myspace forum contact. www.8thtnus.com. Check it out. Doc

We finally have "Lift-Off!" The New Website has been launched. It's a bit like a rough draft with some tweaking, revision, and updating still remaining. But, for the first time in 2 years, the 8th has a functional website. Parson

Needed to put Bentonville back on the top of the forum. Please post or let Randall know who is going to Bentonville ASAP. Kyle and I can't make it I have to work and am saving my precious days for other events. Doc