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 American Civil War Home Chatroom Transcript (10/14/07) "Christian Cavalier: The Spiritual Legacy of JEB Stuart" an online chat with author Michael Aubrecht (CONTINUED)


SECTION 3

10/14/2007 9:53 pm (et) MAubrecht: SECTION 3: FROM A SOLDIER TO A GENERAL

10/14/2007 9:53 pm (et) MAubrecht: In addition to his published poetry, another rarely known fact about the life of J.E.B. Stuart is the creative ingenuity that he possessed, resulting in several early inventions which he designed to benefit the trooper. Incidentally, this would later result in career opportunities that may not have been otherwise possible. Following a winter spent in his quarters at Fort Riley, Stuart's cavalry received their summer orders to protect settler routes along the Arkansas River. During this time, J.E.B. was granted six months furlough and returned to his home state of Virginia to establish his own homestead with his wife Flora.

10/14/2007 9:54 pm (et) MAubrecht: While on leave, Stuart completed an invention devised to alleviate the problem of carrying a saber. The attachment consisted of a simple brass hook that enabled a mounted soldier to hang his sword on the pommel of the saddle when dismounting to fight. Upon returning to his mount, the trooper could easily detach the weapon and return it to the side of his belt. Immensely proud and confident with his creation, "Stuart's Lightning Horse Hitcher," J.E.B. traveled to Washington in October to patent the device (P.N. 25684) and to present a demonstration of its benefits to the Secretary of War.

10/14/2007 9:55 pm (et) MAubrecht: While waiting for his interview, Stuart was asked if he would take an important message regarding a raid to Lieutenant Colonel Robert E. Lee. Eager to do so, J.E.B. found his

10/14/2007 9:55 pm (et) MAubrecht: superior in Arlington, delivered the message, and requested permission to accompany Lee as an aide. Within days, three of the South's greatest commanders: Lee, Jackson, and Stuart would all be together in the field for the first time. Perhaps it was predestined after all?

10/14/2007 9:55 pm (et) MAubrecht: This raid of course, was the most famous episode, known as "the Raid at Harper's Ferry." On October 16, 1859, John Brown, an anti-slavery campaigner, led a party of twenty-one men in a successful attack on the Federal Armory and Arsenal at Harper's Ferry. After attempting to instigate surrender under a white flag, Lieutenant Stuart ordered the door to be knocked down, which allowed the storming marines access to the building. Despite operating on behalf of the Federal Government at the time, all Southern participants would later be vilified for their actions against the martyred emancipator.

10/14/2007 9:56 pm (et) MAubrecht: A few years later, secession and a "Call To Arms" for the recently established Confederate States of America, led J.E.B. back to his homeland of Virginia. As with many of his comrades, it was with a heavy heart that Stuart entered the War Between the States. After pledging his loyalty to the Union and serving the government with such impeccable duty over the years, his conscience was troubled over participating in what many referred to as a "forced resolution." As with all civil wars, both sides believed they were justified. Both believed that they were acting on behalf of God.

10/14/2007 9:57 pm (et) MAubrecht: As with most native Virginians, loyalty to one's state came first, and many southern officers resigned their commissions in the U.S. Army. Stuart's commander, Thomas Jackson was personally selected to command a regiment of Virginia volunteers and V.M.I. cadets. "Stonewall" would later personally request the services of Stuart to command the cavalry division. Upon receiving a command in the newly established Confederate Army, Jackson's initial task was to train his ragtag brigade of volunteers and cadets to operate with lethal precision. The former professor took this responsibility very seriously and drilled his troops incessantly in hopes of providing Lee with a formidable fighting force. Horsemen were essential in this equation, and required a leadership that was both aggressive and inspirational.

10/14/2007 9:58 pm (et) MAubrecht: Boasting a reputation as a seasoned warrior and a daring cavalryman, J.E.B. had built a grand reputation while fighting hostile Indians in the Western territories. The complete opposite of Jackson in terms of demeanor, Stuart's zeal complimented his new commander's seriousness, and they would grow to be great allies and friends. Ironically, it would be General Stuart who later assumed command of Jackson's men following his wounding at the Battle of Chancellorsville. Neither, of course, would survive the war. This relationship is one of the few 'truthfully' depicted hoakie scenes in Gods and Generals.

10/14/2007 9:58 pm (et) MAubrecht: It was during this time that Stuart became more actively and publicly religious as he followed the example of his superiors. Like Jackson, J.E.B. supported the concept of a spiritually strong army and insisted that the church community assist with the appointment of army chaplains. Throughout the war, he would repeatedly commend his own pastor, stating, "Of my own regiment, the acting chaplain, Rev. Mr. Ball, was conspicuously useful."

10/14/2007 9:59 pm (et) MAubrecht: Sidebar: William J. Jones' book "Christ In The Camp" singles Stuart out by name as being an example of a pious commander.

10/14/2007 9:59 pm (et) MAubrecht: In addition to the Reverend Ball, Stuart graciously provided chaplains for all of his regiments and regularly encouraged group prayer sessions as well as religious meetings. The result of his efforts eventually led to the establishment of the Chaplain's Association, which held large gatherings encompassing the entire Confederate forces in the winters of both 1863 and '64.

10/14/2007 10:00 pm (et) MAubrecht: Stuart also found that a majority of the chaplains in the United States Army belonged to the Episcopalian faith. As a result, he often considered that his opportunities for Christian fellowship and church privileges would be increased by his change from the Methodist Church. Although J.E.B. had been confirmed as an Episcopalian, he practiced as a member of the Methodist community; thus, his attitude toward all denominations of Christians was far from narrow.

10/14/2007 10:01 pm (et) MAubrecht: Denominations were not important while on the march - only that the Gospel be shared in a universal manner.

10/14/2007 10:01 pm (et) MAubrecht: These men of the cloth would also minister to Stuart himself as troubled times were ahead...

10/14/2007 10:01 pm (et) MAubrecht: In November of 1862, Stuart received distressing news from home regarding his darling child, Flora. Suffering from an illness, her health was rapidly deteriorating, much to the dismay of her parents. Unable to return home to be with his family, J.E.B. wrote letters to his wife every day expressing his concern but also a resolve to the will of God.

10/14/2007 10:02 pm (et) MAubrecht: He wrote: "Dr. Brewer's first dispatch was received yesterday, and I answered it at once. The second came today, saying our darling's case was doubtful, and urges me in your name to come. I received it on the field of battle. I was at no loss to decide that it was my duty to you and to Flora to remain here. I am entrusted with the conduct of affairs, the issue of which will affect you, her, and the mothers and children of our whole country much more seriously than we can believe. If my darling's case is hopeless there are ten chances to one that I will get to Lynchburg too late; if she is convalescent why should my presence be necessary? She was sick nine days before I knew it. Let us trust in the good God, who has blessed us so much, that he will spare our child to us, but if it should please Him to take her from us let us bear it with Christian fortitude and resignation."

10/14/2007 10:03 pm (et) MAubrecht: Teej and I have discussed this incident in the past. This is an example of duty coming before family - whether it was 'forced' or not. However , later we will see the opposite...

10/14/2007 10:03 pm (et) MAubrecht: Still these words ring of Christian resolve. If that doesn't sound like the writing of a devout believer [addressing the skeptical scholars], then I don't know what one is.

10/14/2007 10:04 pm (et) MAubrecht: Unfortunately, Flora's condition worsened, and she passed away a few days later. The loss of his little girl was heartbreaking, but J.E.B. maintained his faith in the Lord and looked to the day they would be reunited in the Kingdom of Heaven. He wrote: "The affliction fell at last; the intelligence reached me this morning. I was somewhat expecting it, and yet it grieves me more - the more I think of it. When I remember her sweet voice, her gentle ways, and affection for "Papa," and then think that she is gone, my heart is ready to burst. I want to see you so much. I know she is better off, but it is a hard blow to us. I have been in battle every day since I heard of our darling's sickness, November 2nd. She died November 3rd, and I heard of it on the 6th. I have been harassing and checking a heavy force, believed to be McClellan's. God has shielded me thus far from bodily harm, but I feel perfect resignation to go at his bidding and join my little Flora."

10/14/2007 10:05 pm (et) MAubrecht: Its one of the saddest stories from the Civil War that I'm familiar with. Yet it happened again and again to fathers on both sides - from Generals to Privates.

10/14/2007 10:05 pm (et) MAubrecht: Before we move on… Are there any questions or comments that anyone has in regards to Stuart's early war years? I wanted to present the sacrifice that was endured by Stuart and men like him. XXXXXXXX

10/14/2007 10:05 pm (et) Basecat: Comment...Stonewall and J.E.B. had a very brotherly relationship. Stuart was one of the few who could make Stonewall smile while in camp. Only time Jackson ever wore a new uniform was at Fredericksburg. Stuart was the one who purchased the uniform for him.

10/14/2007 10:06 pm (et) amhistoryguy: ?

10/14/2007 10:06 pm (et) bluelady: comment

10/14/2007 10:06 pm (et) MAubrecht: Yes base. In fact there are some GREAT letters here at the NPS archives from subordinates 'poking fun' at Old Jack in his 'new duds' Yes am

10/14/2007 10:07 pm (et) bluelady: JEB's son was originally named Phillip but the strain from the relationship with father in law caused JEB to change his name

10/14/2007 10:07 pm (et) amhistoryguy: How well received by the common soldier, was Stuart's effort to build a spiritually strong army, any evidence (Letters etc. of their reaction? )

10/14/2007 10:08 pm (et) MAubrecht: From what I've read - there was a great revival that took place during the war. I actually write extensively about that in my 3rd book. Let me say this..

10/14/2007 10:10 pm (et) MAubrecht: As the war dragged on - the need for religion grew. In other words during the first few years of the war - the non-Christians were content. However as the horror and death and destruction continued (with no end in site) the ministers and preachers were more an more sought after. There were approx. 300,000 new conversions over the course of the war (counting both sides.)

10/14/2007 10:10 pm (et) amhistoryguy: Thanks

10/14/2007 10:11 pm (et) bluelady: ?

10/14/2007 10:11 pm (et) MAubrecht: "Christ In The Camp" is a great book filled with tons of letters etc. Also, the NPS has a bunch of War Journals w/ individual correspondence from the churches to their ministers in the field. Early on they are clearly frustrated by camp behavior - later they can't fit all the people in their tents for service. War made a lot of Christians.

10/14/2007 10:12 pm (et) MAubrecht: Yes bluelady.

10/14/2007 10:12 pm (et) TreeFrog: ?

10/14/2007 10:12 pm (et) bluelady: where is Flora (daughter) buried?

10/14/2007 10:13 pm (et) MAubrecht: Another great question that I don't know :) I can look it up after we're done. I assume on the Stuart's property.

10/14/2007 10:13 pm (et) MAubrecht: Yes Treefrog.

10/14/2007 10:15 pm (et) TreeFrog: I don't know if this is so much a question, or a comment. I've read though about the US Sanitary Commission and the US Christian Commission. The Christian Commission had to stop their work, giving soldiers food, blankets and etc, because several people were upset that they gave "a loaf of bread with a bible" or something along those lines, and so all donations of that sort to the Christian Commission were sent to the Sanitary Commission to distribute.

10/14/2007 10:15 pm (et) MAubrecht: I think TreeFrog is typing.

10/14/2007 10:16 pm (et) TreeFrog: Do you think this is a difference in how religion was viewed in the North and the South?

10/14/2007 10:16 pm (et) Basecat: Little Flora was reinterred and rests with her Father at Hollywood Cemetery.

10/14/2007 10:16 pm (et) bluelady: I thought that might be the case..thanks base

10/14/2007 10:17 pm (et) TreeFrog: Sorry if that's a tad off topic, but it came to mind while I was reading what you've written

10/14/2007 10:17 pm (et) MAubrecht: Thanks base. That makes sense. In regards to Tree's query. Actually I do. And I could do a whole hour on that alone. I will say this... the South was more 'openly' fervent about their faith - I suspect that it's still somewhat true today.

10/14/2007 10:17 pm (et) bluelady: May I inject to tree's question

10/14/2007 10:18 pm (et) MAubrecht: Please feel free blue - I have a more detailed answer I'll formulate while you share...

10/14/2007 10:19 pm (et) bluelady: The north possibly having more of a "melting pot" of sorts when it comes to immigrants could have possibly had a larger contingent of Non Christian soldiers.. I think of all the Jewish regiments..maybe that had a lot to do with it

10/14/2007 10:20 pm (et) MAubrecht: Thanks blue - Here's the answer that I wanted to give: Fortunately, as the war progressed, a movement referred to as "The Great Revival" took place in the South. Beginning in the fall of 1863, this event was in full progress throughout the Army of Northern Virginia. Before the revival was interrupted by U.S. Grant's attack in May 1864, approximately seven thousand soldiers-10 percent of Lee's force-were reportedly converted. Dr. Gardiner H. Shattuck, Jr., author of A Shield and Hiding Place: The Religious Life of the Civil War Armies, reports that "The best estimates of conversions in the Union forces place the figure between 100,000 and 200,000 men-about 5-10 percent of all individuals engaged in the conflict. In the smaller Confederate armies, at least 100,000 were converted. Since these numbers include only 'conversions' and do not represent the number of soldiers actually swept up in the revivals-a yet more substantial figure-the impact of revivals during the Civil War surely was tremendous."

10/14/2007 10:21 pm (et) MAubrecht: Does that answer your question Tree?

10/14/2007 10:21 pm (et) bluelady: I do know that revivals were important in union camps..at least to some I recall EH Rhodes

10/14/2007 10:21 pm (et) TreeFrog: I suppose... :-)

10/14/2007 10:22 pm (et) MAubrecht: Great posts guys/gals and props to basecat for backing me up on these tough questions. I knew you'd be a great room. Thanks. Let's move on to our next and final section…

10/14/2007 10:22 pm (et) TreeFrog: Despite the fact my dad's a minister, religion has always baffled me, and the fervor that it invokes in people is odd to me.


SECTION 4

10/14/2007 10:22 pm (et) MAubrecht: SECTION 4: FROM A GENERAL TO A LEGEND

10/14/2007 10:23 pm (et) MAubrecht: I will say this Tree. It's been a blessing to me and my family. However, it's not necessarily for everyone.

10/14/2007 10:24 pm (et) MAubrecht: In the following months, J.E.B. achieved more great victories that boosted the morale of Southerners everywhere. Many papers covered his actions with great bias, and his flamboyant reputation as a raider grew to immense proportions. Noteworthy conflicts of the war would include his participation at the Seven Days' Battle, Second Manassas, Antietam, Fredericksburg, and others. One particular skirmish involving Stuart's troops resulted in the largest cavalry battle in American military history. Two other major engagements (one before Brandy Station and one after) would reflect both the greatest triumph and the greatest tragedy of his historic career. These of course were the victorious Battle of Chancellorsville and the devastating Battle of Gettysburg. Stuart's worst engagement of all however was still to come.

10/14/2007 10:24 pm (et) MAubrecht: In layman's terms... JEB Stuart was a 'rock star'.

10/14/2007 10:25 pm (et) MAubrecht: (On a side note: I'm not going to get into J.E.B.'s controversial ride to Gettysburg, frankly it doesn't fit into this theme but I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Eric Wittenberg and J.D. Petruzzi's new book "Plenty Of Blame To Go Around." This is one of my new favorites, and is IMO one of the best works published on Stuart.)

10/14/2007 10:25 pm (et) MAubrecht: On May 8, 1864, J.E.B. and his men prepared to engage the enemy at a strategically superior location known as Yellow Tavern. Although they had achieved the element of surprise, the cost was dear as both the men and horses were exhausted from the ride. Realizing the desperateness of their situation, Stuart rushed among his men and tried to rally them. As the Federals withdrew, a private hurriedly fired his pistol into a group of mounted Confederates by the Telegraph Road. Instantly J.E.B. clutched his side. Looking down at his bleeding abdomen, he calmly whispered, "I am shot." Later he said, "I'm afraid they've killed me. I will be of no more use." As several of his troopers rushed to his aid, the wounded general scolded them, yelling, "Go back! Go back! Do your duty as I've done mine."

10/14/2007 10:27 pm (et) MAubrecht: Sidebar: One of my military historian buddies with the USMC Quantico studied this engagement for his thesis project and in his expert opinion (of which I am no expert) he concluded that Stuart exercised sloppy commanding and was irresponsible with his own life.

10/14/2007 10:27 pm (et) MAubrecht: Fleeing the ensuing battle, an ambulance managed to evacuate Stuart to the house of his brother-in-law on Grace Street in Richmond. After placing the distraught commander in bed, the wound was inspected and judged mortal, given the medical capabilities of the time. After his worldly matters were concluded, J.E.B. focused his remaining thoughts on the journey that lay ahead. He turned to the Reverend Peterkin of the Episcopal Church and asked him to sing his favorite hymn, commencing, "Rock of ages cleft for me, Let me hide myself in thee…" Then he joined the ministers in prayer. He said his last words to the doctor, stating, "I am going fast now; I am resigned; God's will be done." J.E.B. Stuart finally died at about 7:30 p.m. on May 12, 1864, just hours before his family arrived. He was 31 years old.

10/14/2007 10:28 pm (et) MAubrecht: Unlike the national pageantry that had accompanied the burial of General Jackson, Stuart was buried the very next day. Senior Confederate officials, including Jefferson Davis, were in attendance, but there was no large parade, no honor guard, as every able-bodied Confederate soldier was out fighting the Yankee invaders. In retrospect, J.E.B. probably would have preferred it that way, as his life had been given for the same cause they were protecting. The Reverend Dr. Minnigerode of Saint Paul's Church performed the service.

10/14/2007 10:29 pm (et) MAubrecht: Sidebar: This site is of course in Hollywood where his wife (and now we know thanks to basecat - daughter) are also buried.

10/14/2007 10:29 pm (et) MAubrecht: One account of the simple funeral stated: "The body was then borne forth to the hearse in waiting, decorated with black plumes and drawn by four white horses. The organ pealed its slow, solemn music as the body was borne to the entrance, and whilst the cortege was forming-the

10/14/2007 10:29 pm (et) MAubrecht: congregation standing by with heads uncovered. The members of the deceased General's staff and relatives occupied several carriages in the line. From the church the cortege moved to Hollywood Cemetery, where the remains were deposited in a vault, the concluding portion of the affecting service read by Rev. Dr. Minnigerode, of Saint Paul's Church, and all that was mortal of the dead hero was shut in from the gaze of men."

10/14/2007 10:30 pm (et) MAubrecht: In the end, it was far more than the service record, personal items, and other accoutrements that Stuart left behind. It was the spiritual roots and patriotism that he had instilled in his family and his men. Even today, the descendants of the good General carry on the proud memory of their famous namesake, and his service to both his God and country will be heralded forever.

10/14/2007 10:30 pm (et) MAubrecht: Last month, I was reading the latest Sons of Confederate Veterans newsletter (Army of Northern Virginia), which featured a very nice article written by Chaplain Mark Evans on Stuart's beliefs. He wrote, "The fearless, fun loving, General J.E.B. Stuart, Chief of Cavalry, Army of Northern Virginia, had a depth of spirituality that is often overlooked. Chaplain J. William Jones said: 'Stuart was a humble and earnest Christian, who took Christ as his personal Savior, lived a stainless life, and died a triumphant death. He used to attend our Chaplains' Association when he could, take a deep interest in its proceedings, and manifested the liveliest concern for the spiritual welfare of his men.'"

10/14/2007 10:31 pm (et) MAubrecht: He added, "Chaplain Jones gave this tribute: "And thus the dashing soldier quietly 'fell on sleep,' and left behind the record of a noble life, and a simple trust in Christ --- the prophecy of a blissful immortality, where charging squadrons and clashing sabers never disturb the 'rest that remaineth for the people of God.'"

10/14/2007 10:31 pm (et) MAubrecht: These are just a few of the countless references to religion that followed Stuart's untimely passing. And these little vignettes that I have presented tonight - the lesser-discussed stories - (IMO) are the building blocks for the gallant and glorious memories that have truly made his story unforgettable. If not for his faith, who knows what kind of soldier he would have been, or what kind of man?

10/14/2007 10:32 pm (et) MAubrecht: Was he fanatical like Jackson? Probably not. But did religion play a pivotal role in his journey toward greatness? Absolutely. Stuart was a cavalier, but more importantly he was a Christian.

10/14/2007 10:32 pm (et) MAubrecht: Captain R. E. Frayser, from Stuart's staff perfectly summed up the life, legend, and legacy of his beloved commander when he stated, "In this short period of thirty-one years, four months and twelve days, he won a glorious and imperishable name, and one that posterity will delight to cherish and honor."

10/14/2007 10:32 pm (et) MAubrecht: I thank you all VERY MUCH, and I am standing by for any questions or comments. XXXXXXXX

10/14/2007 10:32 pm (et) Basecat: Just a couple of sidebars...Little Flora was buried in Hollywood prior to her Father's Death. The previous fall. And while Stuart was buried, those in attendance could hear the sounds of battle in the distance as the fighting raged on in the area of Spotsylvania Court House.

10/14/2007 10:33 pm (et) amhistoryguy: ?

10/14/2007 10:33 pm (et) MAubrecht: True base. Thanks for adding that. Yes am.

10/14/2007 10:33 pm (et) bluelady: I recall reading that is why a state funeral did not take place..the war was too close

10/14/2007 10:33 pm (et) Babs: ?

10/14/2007 10:34 pm (et) MAubrecht: Babs you can go after am's question. Thanks.

10/14/2007 10:34 pm (et) amhistoryguy: You mention Stuart was not as fanatical as Jackson - what were their similarities and differences in terms of personal spiritual philosophy?

10/14/2007 10:35 pm (et) MAubrecht: They were both outward believers - but Stuart did not have the strictness of the observance of the Sabbath, he did not forcibly make officers attend prayer meetings.

10/14/2007 10:36 pm (et) MAubrecht: Jackson was quite bothered by his religious practices being interrupted by war...

10/14/2007 10:36 pm (et) MAubrecht: Stuart IMO recognized that war came before and would mail a letter knowing it would arrive on a Sunday - while Jackson would never do that.

10/14/2007 10:37 pm (et) Babs: How many children did he have?

10/14/2007 10:37 pm (et) amhistoryguy: Thank you, very interesting stuff.

10/14/2007 10:38 pm (et) MAubrecht: Flora had several - let me get their names....

10/14/2007 10:39 pm (et) Babs: You say Flora had several were they not all from J.E.B.?

10/14/2007 10:39 pm (et) MAubrecht: Also while I get these names - Flora never remarried and became a teacher.

10/14/2007 10:39 pm (et) Basecat: James Jr., Philip, Flora, and Virginia Pelham Stuart.

10/14/2007 10:39 pm (et) bluelady: Basecat, Phillip IS James Jr.

10/14/2007 10:40 pm (et) Susansweet: I just looked at the picture I took last week there is a tombstone inscribed Little Jeb to the left of the big monument

10/14/2007 10:40 pm (et) MAubrecht: She taught at the Virginia Female Institute in Staunton. Thanks basecat

10/14/2007 10:40 pm (et) Basecat: My Bad..and can see that now...:)

10/14/2007 10:40 pm (et) bluelady: JEB was so mad at father in law that he told flora that his name would be changed.

10/14/2007 10:41 pm (et) MAubrecht: Actually Flora later became the headmistress of the school.

10/14/2007 10:41 pm (et) MAubrecht: From what I understand - her ceremony at burial was bigger than her husbands.

10/14/2007 10:42 pm (et) bluelady: Michael..did father in law survive the war? and if he did, did he and his daughter have any relationship after the war?

10/14/2007 10:42 pm (et) Babs: So two children survived him? the multi-name son and a daughter? I noticed that you said he has descendants..

10/14/2007 10:43 pm (et) Basecat: After Little Flora died, Stuart asked Flora to come to Culpeper so they could grieve together. Lee made it a point to visit with her, and prayed with her.

10/14/2007 10:43 pm (et) bluelady: IIRC there is a JEB IV

10/14/2007 10:43 pm (et) TreeFrog: ?

10/14/2007 10:43 pm (et) MAubrecht: I believe he did survive the war and they were able to come to terms. Yes Babs there are several Jeb Stuarts here in Richmond.

10/14/2007 10:43 pm (et) Basecat: There is also a JEB V...Mike's wife Dr. in Richmond..:)

10/14/2007 10:43 pm (et) MAubrecht: One was an Army doctor another is in some city position. They have children who are also JEBs.

10/14/2007 10:43 pm (et) MAubrecht: Yes Tree.

10/14/2007 10:44 pm (et) bluelady: how cool is that for Mike!

10/14/2007 10:44 pm (et) secret squirrel: thought there was a professor at Mason also

10/14/2007 10:44 pm (et) TreeFrog: You might have mentioned this and I missed it. But didn't his brother-in-law also serve the Confederacy?

10/14/2007 10:44 pm (et) MAubrecht: May be too. They appear at many SCV and MOC functions.

10/14/2007 10:44 pm (et) Basecat: Blue...IIRC, he is not allowed to talk CW when the wife visits the doc..:)

10/14/2007 10:45 pm (et) MAubrecht: My doctor went to medical school with Mike's doc.

10/14/2007 10:45 pm (et) bluelady: Iol too bad for mike then! ;)

10/14/2007 10:45 pm (et) MAubrecht: Yes. Brig. Gen. John Rogers Cooke

10/14/2007 10:46 pm (et) Basecat: Michael..Great job!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thanks!!! Enjoyed it immensely.

10/14/2007 10:46 pm (et) secret squirrel: yes, very enjoyable

10/14/2007 10:46 pm (et) amhistoryguy: Yes, thanks so much Michael.

10/14/2007 10:46 pm (et) bluelady: IIRC Phillip St George Cooke..stated that it was too bad he wasn't around his "boy" to steer them in the "correct" direction

10/14/2007 10:46 pm (et) Babs: Yes, thank you very much.

10/14/2007 10:47 pm (et) Susansweet: Thanks Michael sorry I was late

10/14/2007 10:47 pm (et) mobile_96: excellent

10/14/2007 10:47 pm (et) MAubrecht: Thank guys/gals my pleasure. I hope I wasn't too short on some topics -wanted it not to be too long

10/14/2007 10:47 pm (et) bluelady: yay Michael..and I'm glad I got home to see it!

10/14/2007 10:47 pm (et) bluelady: but now I must be off. later you al! :)

10/14/2007 10:47 pm (et) MAubrecht: When I speak to a crowd here in Fredericksburg I can see faces and know where to go with it - this online is a little more challenging. And thanks to Steve for finding those answers so quickly.

10/14/2007 10:48 pm (et) ks: Seemed well thought out and paced, Michael. Thank you.

10/14/2007 10:49 pm (et) MAubrecht: Does anyone have anything else to ask or add?

10/14/2007 10:49 pm (et) Basecat: BTW..Flora died on May 10, 1923...49 years minus 2 days when J.E.B. passed away.

10/14/2007 10:49 pm (et) MAubrecht: Once again I THANK YOU all very much.

10/14/2007 10:49 pm (et) amhistoryguy: Funny how one-dimensional we are willing to let our heroes become. This makes Stuart much more a real person.

10/14/2007 10:50 pm (et) Susansweet: and she continued to wear black here whole life

10/14/2007 10:50 pm (et) TreeFrog: MA, do you have any further information on the soldier who shot JEB? I've read that it was a Michigan Private from the 5th (?) Mich Cav named John Huff?

10/14/2007 10:50 pm (et) Basecat: Michael..No problem...and glad to add to your presentation.

10/14/2007 10:50 pm (et) Babs: Wow! My mom was two years old when she died.

10/14/2007 10:50 pm (et) MAubrecht: Thanks. Eric was very pleased with my angle. Yes Tree you are correct.

10/14/2007 10:51 pm (et) MAubrecht: In regards to John Huff I can add this...

10/14/2007 10:51 pm (et) TreeFrog: Is there any evidence to back that up, or was it a soldier saying "yeah I was the one who shot JEB"?

10/14/2007 10:52 pm (et) TreeFrog: I have a particular interest in this as John Huff originally served in Co C, 2nd U.S. SS... the unit of my namesake :-)

10/14/2007 10:52 pm (et) MAubrecht: Private John A. Huff of the 5th Michigan Cavalry bragged about the event, but if you read the after action reports - no specific name is given. He ended up with credit - probably as a result of the papers covering it.

10/14/2007 10:53 pm (et) MAubrecht: Both the Richmond Examiner and Harper's Weekly use the name.

10/14/2007 10:53 pm (et) MAubrecht: The Southern Historical Society Papers later printed eyewitness accounts of the wounding and death of J.E.B. Stuart:

10/14/2007 10:53 pm (et) TreeFrog: Okay, I may be biased in this, but with him having served as a Sharpshooter, if anyone on that field would have the skill to specifically target the general it would be he

10/14/2007 10:54 pm (et) MAubrecht: Colonel (then Captain of Company K, First Virginia Cavalry) "Gus" W. Dorsey,

10/14/2007 10:54 pm (et) MAubrecht: It read" I was stationed on the Telegraph road with my company, K, numbering about seventy men, and the first I knew about our troops being whipped and driven back on the left was when General Stuart came down to my position, with a view of ordering me back; and just as he rode up to the company the Yankees charged. He halted a moment and encouraged the men with the words: "Bully for old K! Give it to them, boys!" and just as K had repulsed the Yankees he was shot through the stomach. He reeled on his horse and said: "I am shot," and then, "Dorsey, save your men." I caught him and took him from his horse. He insisted I should leave him and save my men. I told him we would take him with us; and, calling Corporal Robert Bruce and Private Charles Wheatley, we sent him to the rear. No other troops were near General Stuart when he was shot that I saw."

10/14/2007 10:56 pm (et) MAubrecht: From what I understand Stuart was in close proximity to the shot. Hence why the Marine Professor that I cited previously believed Stuart to have been both careless and in error at the time of his wounding. I'm no tactical expert though. I can only share what he said.

10/14/2007 10:56 pm (et) Basecat: Will just add this as well...When Lee was in charge at West Point, guess who was his most frequent guest for dinner...Stuart. Lee's wife adored him, and always wanted to cook for him.;)

10/14/2007 10:57 pm (et) TreeFrog: What one man calls careless by being close to the front others would call being a good general. Far to many spent their time far behind the lines directing from behind a map or a bottle

10/14/2007 10:57 pm (et) MAubrecht: As some of you know I am currently working on a book for The History Press on the historical churches of Fredericksburg (which BTW is coming along great)...

10/14/2007 10:58 pm (et) Basecat: Tree...IMHO..tend to think he knew how desperate things were going...and was trying to lead by example...Cost him his life.

10/14/2007 10:58 pm (et) MAubrecht: In my pile of materials from the archives I found a great letter talking about Stuart arriving for a church service late (after it started) and General Lee turning around to 'scold' him because his sword was making so much noise clanging on the ground he interrupted the preacher.

10/14/2007 10:59 pm (et) TreeFrog: MA do you have any info on the caliber weapon Stuart was shot by? I just found a website that claims the caliber was different from that of the rifle or pistol John Huff would be using, therefore he couldn't be the shooter

10/14/2007 10:59 pm (et) MAubrecht: Clearly Lee had a fatherly relationship with the man. He took his death worse than any other officer's.

10/14/2007 10:59 pm (et) Basecat: Michael...IIRC, when Lee found out he died, he cried. One of the few times he did during the war.

10/14/2007 10:59 pm (et) MAubrecht: I'm sorry I don't Tree. From what I understand it was a standard issue revolver.

10/14/2007 10:59 pm (et) TreeFrog: Basecat, and that if nothing else would make him a good leader in my opinion. It is the careless leader who will leave his men to suffer defeat while not sharing the dangers of combat.... IMHO

10/14/2007 11:00 pm (et) MAubrecht: So I can completely see his wife being enamored by the cavalier.

10/14/2007 11:00 pm (et) MAubrecht: Lee said "I can scarcely think of him without breaking down." or something very similar.

10/14/2007 11:01 pm (et) MAubrecht: maybe he said "weeping" either way he took it hard. Thanks am it's been a pleasure.

10/14/2007 11:02 pm (et) Basecat: Michael...He reacted like he lost one of his children...

10/14/2007 11:03 pm (et) MAubrecht: I will say this - as one who studied Jackson and Stuart more than any other individuals. Jackson was like a Fortune 500 CEO - all business and not much fun. Stuart was the opposite. Thanks Treefrog.

10/14/2007 11:03 pm (et) ks: Have some work to complete yet tonight, so I'll head out as well. Again, thanks, Michael. Adios!

10/14/2007 11:04 pm (et) MAubrecht: He arranged dances and balls - and was the type of commander whose staff probably had a good time working for - other than the 100+ mile rides of course. :)

10/14/2007 11:04 pm (et) Basecat: Michael...Could not have said it better...Fun and Stonewall did not mix, unless he was with J.E.B..:)

10/14/2007 11:05 pm (et) MAubrecht: And JEB had a little more 'levity' with his superior. Not many people had that kind of relationship with 'Stonewall' - That's really why the first 2 books were written. Their vignettes of their lives were so similar in so many ways - and the differences really complimented each other.

10/14/2007 11:06 pm (et) mobile_96: so, did Stuart mention the line about going over the river on his death bed?

10/14/2007 11:07 pm (et) MAubrecht: Stuart's last words were - "I am going fast now. I am resigned. Gods will be done."

10/14/2007 11:07 pm (et) Susansweet: Interesting sidebar: The Last Cavalier is buried next to Ellen Glasgow who won a Pulitzer Prize for her novels about the false sentimentality of Southern society

10/14/2007 11:07 pm (et) Basecat: Michael...One of my fave Stonewall/Stuart moments was at Nicodemus Heights prior to Antietam. Stonewall showed up and eventually spent more time than he thought he would.

10/14/2007 11:08 pm (et) MAubrecht: Ironic isn't it Susan?

10/14/2007 11:08 pm (et) MAubrecht: Yes base, I just missed getting a special tour there by Manny this past summer. Would have loved to have stood on Nicodemus Heights

10/14/2007 11:08 pm (et) Susansweet: Yep and that Jefferson Davis faces a grave with a headstone label GRANT

10/14/2007 11:09 pm (et) MAubrecht: Oops! I misspelled Mannie's name - he would not be happy. Sorry Ranger Gentile.

10/14/2007 11:10 pm (et) Basecat: Michael...Have not been up there as it is private property now, but hopefully one day we both can.

10/14/2007 11:12 pm (et) MAubrecht: Well it looks like we are coming up on the 2 hour mark. I'll be at Montpelier tomorrow trying to learn about Madison's plantation and its experiences during the Civil War. If no one else has any questions I'll bid you all a good night. Thank you so much for having me. I had a great time and look forward to doing it again.

10/14/2007 11:14 pm (et) MAubrecht: Thanks Basecat, Susan, ole, mobile, and shotgun

10/14/2007 11:15 pm (et) Basecat: Thanks to all who showed up....Nice to see the occupants list that long. :)

10/14/2007 11:17 pm (et) Basecat: BTW..for those who have not read it...The best bio on Stuart is "Bold Dragoon- The Life of J.E.B. Stuart" by Emory Thomas. Came out in 1986 but still stands up today.