Living History
Fort
Pulaski National Monument
Savannah, Georgia
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THE IMMORTAL SIX-HUNDRED
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February 22 - 24, 2002
600 Confederate Officers imprisoned
at Ft. Pulaski
"for retaliation" during the winter of 1864-65
Unique opportunity to interpret a little-known episode
of the Civil War, in the actual place of occurrence
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Seeking high quality impressions of:
CONFEDERATE IMPRISONED OFFICERS
(ANV, AOT and Trans-Miss Dept.)
Confederate Authenticity Guidelines
&
FEDERAL GARRISON TROOPS
(battle veterans of the AOP)
Federal Authenticity Guidelines
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Strict Authenticity Guidelines
TO BE UPHELD!
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Participants quartered inside of
Fort Pulaski the entire weekend.
The National Park Service has
limited the number of participants
SO, APPLY EARLY!
Thank you for your interest in a truly unique living history event to be held at Fort Pulaski. This brick masonry coastal defense completed in 1847, lies at the mouth of the Savannah River. Famous for the April 1862 bombardment and recapture by Federal forces, the Fort was also the scene of a little-known episode involving prisoners of war. In the winter of 1864-65, Fort Pulaski became a camp of special purpose - the prison of 600 Confederate Officers held aside for retaliation. Though sympathetic, their guard, the 157th NY Volunteer Infantry, were under strict orders not to relieve any suffering. The human relations of captors and captives put friend and foe on a new footing, where there were no winners.
Set at the place where actual interpreted events happened, this weekend will provide many opportunities for serious living historians. First person behavior is strongly emphasized. High standards of authenticity must be met. Strict rules governing clothing, equipment and conduct will be enforced. This event is not advertised for general participation. Every participant must apply as an individual; no unit registrations.
Amenities include overnight lodging in the Fort and all meals (period menus). Sleeping quarters will be in restored casemates, with wooden bunks or beds, wood floors, and fireplaces/wood stoves. All lighting is by candle lamp. The weather in Savannah in early spring can be quite unpredictable. However, as all activities can be performed within the Fort, under cover, foul weather is no obstacle. One rewarding memory of this event will be the opportunity to occupy the Fort after public hours. After dark, the Fort is illuminated only by candle lamp and fireplace, and echoes to the sound of heelplates on heavy oak floors and brick pavements.
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IMPORTANT: Due to limited facilities, the Park Service limits the number of total participants. Most living historians are re-enactors, but not all re-enactors are living historians. We need only dedicated people who are not afraid to educate the public.
This event is not an excuse for free accommodations for a night in Savannah. Your duty and obligations are to Ft. Pulaski. Everyone is asked to stay on post from 11pm Friday until the close of activities Sunday afternoon. If you cannot fulfill this commitment, please don't come. There are always more willing participants wanting to come than we have room for. Saturday night activities (music, games and entertainment) are being planned.
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REGISTRATION FEE: $30.00. This includes $10 for all meals and a $20 deposit, which will be refunded at end of program (4pm, Sunday), following room inspection.
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EVENT RESTRICTIONS
In addition to existing Park Service rules
No alcohol allowed on Federal Property, period.
No participants under the age of 18, unless as functioning musicians, who can demonstrate their duty to the public.
No cigarette smoking within fort or immediate surroundings.
No loud behavior between taps and reveille.
Weapons will NOT be discharged during this weekend. The Park Service will inspect all weapons during Saturday morning formation.
Participants to remain in period attire during off-duty hours.
No stainless steel or enamelware mess gear.
No modern eyeglasses or period style sunglasses
No modern footwear, desert boots, or bare feet.
No modern army blankets or post-war style quilts.
No modern jewelry, including wristwatches, post earrings, etc.
NO ANACHRONISMS; if unsure, leave at home or get prior permission from coordinator.
NO PARTICIPATION WITHOUT PRE-REGISTRATION.
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We are striving to make this event as real and meaningful as you are willing to make it.
Please read the information within these webpages carefully. If you wish to participate in this event, please email as soon as possible, the contact listed below for an application. There is limited space for participants... So Register As Soon As Possible!