What is it about an event that makes it a success? Is it the location or is it the area in which it is held? Or could it be the historical significance and those interested in learning more about its past? What is its allure? The answer lies with its diversity and variety.
I’ve had the honor of attending the Battle of Aiken for several years. Even in the lean years of the pandemic, there was something about the history of the town, its origin, and the pride the people have in their historical heritage. On February 25-27, 2022, I was privy to witness the rebirth of an event based on variety/diversity within our American timeline.
Apparently all the stars were in alignment, as the weather smiled upon the land and a ‘perfect storm’ atmosphere was created for the Battle of Aiken. According to the Aiken Standard, Friday witnessed over two thousand children, parents and teachers visit the diverse educational experiences offered. The weekend activities and living histories included numerous settings of multiplicity. Represented on the rolling hills were such presentations as Joe, a Sioux Indian from Pine Ridge Reservation, with a beautiful teepee. He shared his love for God, his heritage and awakened within many that Native American spirit that seemed to permeate the surroundings. Other attractions included a young mountain man who was actually a trapper and he discussed the process as he shared with the students numerous furs he had collected. A station offered actual hands-on experiences with the tomahawk throw. A military timeline was provided from WWI through current day soldiers. War Dogs were present along with military nurses. One of the attractions was a man who had an uncanny resemblance to General John Pershing, He also possessed a wealth of knowledge in his first-person portrayal. The sensational Band Jubilee thrilled all who visited them at the pavilion. Victorian dance demonstrations were given and another grand Ladies Tea and Social was offered. The Southern Elite Cloggers put on an outstanding performance of their clogging skills. A fashion show was also held with lovely ladies showing their gowns to the spectators. Joe Long demonstrated proper protocol in using swords and sabers. Chaplain Joey Young talked of the role of the chaplain during the War Between the States and offered tracks to those passing by. A blacksmith demonstrated his crafts and a teacher of olden days shared the educational experiences one could have in a period classroom. The spectators enjoyed the drills and maneuvers of the Infantry, the charging Cavalry, and the booming artillery as they offered a prelude to the battle.
One of the main attractions was the Hunley Replica and the outstanding presentations by Al Counch. Donna Barron, the daughter and author of the Man Who Carved Stone Mountain, was present with her books and personal reflections of her father. Six lovely young ladies had a station where they etched and sketched images of those wishing to pose. Gregory Newsom (author, artist) shared his knowledge on the role of Black soldiers during the WBTS. Paula Boone explained the challenges women faced during that timeframe. Meet the Generals included General Robert E. Lee, President Lee, General Longstreet, General Toom, General Cleburne, Major John Baxley, and of course, South Carolina’s own General Wade Hampton. He recruited several young people and had them sign an oath of allegiance. The children scrambled and clamored around General Hampton’s tent to be inducted!
The estimated crowd of ten thousand was free to roam the period encampments and talk to the men and women. Some of the excitement was seeing a mail carrier on horseback delivering mail to the generals and soldiers. Tin Plates were created and sutler row welcomed all those in attendance. Yet another attraction to the event was footage being shot for an upcoming film by Chris Forbes.
On Saturday, The Battle of White Pond occurred at 11:30, followed by an old-fashioned shootout. The scenario loosely followed the delaying action by the Confederates. Federal General Kilpatrick had made plans of marching through Aiken, toward Graniteville and the cotton mills that supplied the Confederate Army. He also planned to move on to Augusta, Georgia and destroy the powder works. Standing in his path was General Joe Wheeler and his fighting Cavaliers.
Another interesting event was the solemn funeral procession that occurred. Led by a riderless horse and followed by the coffins with a contingency of mourners, the crowd paused in the shopping and walking to pay their respects by removing their hats and standing silently as the procession walked in in cadence to the tap, tap, tap of the drummer. Pete Peters offered a fascinating prelude prior to the battle. General Lee offered the invocation and prayer for safety. At 2:30, the Battle of Aiken began. General Lee collaborated along with the Provost Marshals to maintain order and safety. The stage was set for the reenactment. Shots were fired and the battle began!
The Battle of Aiken (February 11, 1865) scenario entailed Federal troops marching forward into the V-shaped trap designed by General Wheeler and staff.
Eager to begin the fight, Southern Troops began firing, thus alerting the Federals of the ambush. Fierce fighting ensued up and down the streets of Aiken. Realizing that ‘Fighting Joe’ Wheeler had crafted a battle plan along with having knowledge of the terrain, ‘Kill Cavalry’ Kilpatrick withdrew from the field.
To say that the 157th anniversary of the Battle of Aiken was a success would be an understatement.
To this fielder, it demonstrated the diverse history of our nation as well as the tenacity and determination of our people to get out from under the cloak of a pandemic and celebrate life once again, though slightly more cautious.
For more information about the annual event, go to the following links: Email @ battleofaiken@aol.com; Battle of Aiken, P. O. Box 1863, Aiken, S.C. 29802; and/or Battle of Aiken – 28th Annual Festival.