Texas Living History

Texas Living History

SOLDIERS and REENACTORS

Everything A Lady Needs To Get Started Reenacting

1860's

A Simple Photo Shoot where rabbit holes will take you

Timothy Phillips

Billy the Kid He Lived

by Sue Land

The Plains on Fire The Red River War OIW Assembly Georgian Picnic

at River Legacy Park 18th Century Rococo and Regency costume

The Provencal Gal 18th Century Provencal Caraco and Quilted Petticoat Laura Ingalls Gunn

Victorians Fencing The Victorian Fencing Society WINTER 2019

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Winter Texas Living History Quarterly Magazine

Winters in my Life “In civilized surroundings a plains blizzard is bad enough; in a wild country, a blizzard is more appalling than a tornado, for the latter may be dodged, but the blizzard is everywhere and sets its teeth into a man’s vitals, wherever he may be.” Billy Dixon March 17, 1875.

“It was this terrible storm that caught the wagon train...all of the oxen were frozen to death”. Billy Dixon 1871 Pg. 3

Wyman Meinzer/ Winters of My Life

Table of Contents

What a Well Dressed Women wore in the 1860s Heather Sheen Page 11 and Page 15

Living History Showcase

A Simple Photo Shoot Pg 22 - 25 Timothy Philips

Victorian Fencing page 15-19 Winsten Churchill Page 20-21 Jonathan Carr

Billy the Kid – He Lived!

By Sue Land pg. 26- 27

Living History Event Spotlight Georgian Picnic at River Legacy Park

The Plains On Fire - The Red River War Order of the Indian Wars 39th Annual Assembly Amarillo Page 28-39

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Table of Contents Cont.

18th c. Provencal Gal Laura Ingalls Gunn Page 34 - 37

Living History in Texas Quarterly Magazine Articles and Photos by contributors are their own expressed opinions based on their research and sources.

On the Cover Jennifer Thomas photo by Jennifer Thomas DFWCG

Farmers Branch Historical Park A Little House Thanksgiving Page 40 - 42

Everything A Lady Needs Heather Sheen https://southroncreations.blogspot. com/p/about-me.html Page 11 and Page 14 Billy The Kid Musuem billythekidmuseum.com 114 N Pecan St. Hico TX. 76457 DFWCG Check for Annual Events FaceBook calender https://www.facebook.com/groups/ dfwcg/ Historical Machine Embroidery Custom Digitized Designs Chalk Mountain Embroidery Pg. 10 WIth Permision Photo and quote by Wyman Meinzer/ Winters of My Life https://wymanmeinzer.wordpress. com/2010/02/17/winters-in-my-life/ Page 3

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Texas Living History Association facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/TXLHA/ Living History in Texas Magazine is not a subsidiary of TLHA

Information, Research, and Support for Docents, Military Reenactors, Musuems, Civilian Reenactors, and Living Historians

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Here We Go A Wassailing

Historically we celebrated on Twelfth Night, which falls on January 5 or 6. Peasants sang to their lord and he would give food and drink to them. At that time, wassail was served in a large bowl topped with slices of toast, known as “sops.” Sometimes revelers would adapt more of a hostile tone and wouldn’t leave unless they were given wassail or other culinary gifts. Evidence of this can still be seen in the lyrics of “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.” We won’t go until we get some Ingredients

Instructions

8 cups apple cider 2 cups orange juice ½ cup lemon juice 4 whole cinnamon sticks 12 whole cloves, or 1 teaspoon ground cloves ¼ teaspoon ground ginger ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

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1. Combine all ingredients in a large pan.

2. Bring to simmer over medium-low heat.

Reduce heat and continue simmering for 45 minutes. Ladle into cups or mugs and enjoy!

Contributors Timothy Phillips EVENTS Proprietor of Taylor County Forge. Otherwise retired.

Member of Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War. Work part time at Abilene Diagnostic Clinic lab.

Events are added to the TLHA facebook Calender. https://www.facebook.com/ groups/TXLHA/

Laura Ingalls Gunn

Contributing to THLQ Magazine

Interior Designer/Owner at Decor To Adore Author Living Historian

We are always seeking contributors to our magazine. If you have a reenacting event or museum living history report of an event email it to email. livinghistorymagazine@ yahoo.com

Sue Land

Living Historian Showcase

Director/Curator Billy the Kid Museum, Public Relations Director Hico, Texas Visitor Center Director and Writer Chalk Peak Productions

The Historian showcase is designed to celebrate excellence in character research, including historical accuracy in clothing.

The goal of teaching this knowledge to others.

Jonathan Carr

Event Spotlight

President and Instructor of The Victorian Fencing Society Jonathan Carr started fencing in 1984 and has been coaching fencing since 1997

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If you have an outstanding summer event to announce send a report with pictures for the Fall Issue. lleia56@hotmail.com

ON THE SHELF

Writing History Did you know that a woman named Kady Brownell was the color bearer for 5th Rhode Island infantry? She braved enemy fire at Bull Run to hold her banner high! Did you know that Dr. Mary Walker, a battlefield surgeon, was the first and only woman to ever receive the Medal of Honor? Yes, these women and many more marched alongside soldiers and were on the battlefields of the American Civil War. They were both respected and admired by their male comrades. Author Stephanie Ford’s thorough research provides a compelling collection of stories showcasing remarkable women from both sides of the conflict. Alongside the biographies of these amazing women are Ford’s expressive and authentic drawings and a selection of period photographs and fascinating factoids. These details beautifully capture the stories of these brave women in this inspiring and informative middle reader.

https://www.amazon.com Be sure and look for S.H. Ford’s The Grayback Series http://stephaniehford.com/books Author Stephanie Ford is an illustrator, educator, and Civil War enthusiast who has been a regular participant in reenactments since she was in high school. Ford gives presentations to reenactors and historical societies on a number of subjects, including sharpshooters, women’s roles in the war, dress in the nineteenth century, and frontier life in Texas. She also gives art presentations and workshops to artists’ guilds and schools. Ford earned a bachelor of arts in history and art with a minor in writing from Stephen F. Austin State University. She also earned a master of arts in teaching in education and English, as well as her teaching certification, from Texas Woman’s University. She teaches high school art and English, and is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, the Texas Art Education Association, and Women Artists of the West.

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Necessary Things

HISTORICAL MACHINE EMBROIDERY Emroideried slipper on Black Velvet Small, Medium, Large Custom Orders $150 for tops only To be attached to your souls Chalk Mountain Embroidery 254-965-2568 https://www.facebook.com/Chalk-MountainEmbroidery

Apron and Bonnett Set sewn by Laura Ingalls Gunn $25.00 Description Girls small to medium apron set. Fits ages 7-9.

Open Reed Deer Antler Predator Call

Made from 100 % cotton fabric. Eyelet trim is poly cotton. The fabric has been washed and dried prior to construction to minimize shrinkage.

Cleaning: machine wash, gentle cycle, warm dryer.

A warm iron may be used.

The blouse and skirt shown are for costume ideas only. They are not included in the purchase. Please see other listings to purchase these items.

You can read about our family history here: http://www.decortoadore.net/ little-house

$650.00 Open Reed call crafted from deer antler w/Turquoise inlay and coyote teeth embellishments. http://wymanmeinzer.bigcartel.com/product/open-reeddeer-antler-predator-call

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https://www.etsy.com/listing/588650608/apron-and-bonnet-set-peachturquoise

Everything A Lady Needs To Get Started Reenacting Dressing for the 1860’s

9https://cwdress.blogspot.com

A simple cotton everyday dress is usually the least expensive and most versatile option to start your reenacting impression. You can dress it down for a working impression, and dress it up for a tea or barn dance. You can check our website for pictures, links, vendors, and sewing tips. Some of these items are available at reenactment sutlers, but websites are provided if you can’t find period correct items at events.

In order to make your dress fit properly, you must create your undergarments first.

CORSET A custom-fitted corset is often better than one off-the-shelf. Only get an off-the-shelf corset if you can try it on in person and the vendor has a good return/alteration policy. A corset is a necessity to give your body the correct shape for the 1860s, and to support your clothing comfortably. Because a good custom corset is laborintensive, it will cost around $100-$200 unless you make it yourself.

Sew It Yourself Difficulty Level: Moderate-Hard PastPatterns.com has a pattern and a kit RedThreaded.com has a kit

Buy It EnsemblesofthePast.com TreadleTreasures.etsy.com The Paper Lady Corsets on Facebook AbrahamsLady.com Originals-By-Kay.com RedThreaded.com AmazonDryGoods.com

CAGE OR HOOP SKIRT A properly shaped hoop skirt will make your skirt lay properly and keep your dress and petticoats from tangling in your legs as you walk. A cage is worn for nearly every impression except hard work in the field or around the fire.

Sew It Yourself Difficulty Level: Moderate-Hard Truly Victorian 141 - 1858 Round Cage Truly Victorian 103 - 1865 Elliptical Cage WoodedHamlet.com - Cage Crinoline Kit

Buy It Wade & Company Custom Clothiers on Facebook The Dressmaker’s Shop on Facebook WoodedHamlet.com AmazonDryGoods.com Kansas Mercantile on Facebook

CHEMISE A chemise is the first layer you put on and it protects your body from being rubbed by your garments - and protects your garments from your perspiration. You will want 100% cotton, as it breathes the best.

Sew It Yourself Difficulty Level: Easy-Moderate The Sewing Academy free pattern Past Patterns 707 Use Pimatex Bleached Muslin (usually available online at JoAnn Fabrics and other fabric stores)

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Buy It EnsemblesofthePast.com TreadleTreasures.etsy.com AbrahamsLady.com Originals-By-Kay.com Cont. page 12

Everything A Lady Needs To Get Started Reenacting

Cont. from page 11

DRAWERS 1860s drawers were crotchless, which makes using the facilities much easier! (Yes, this is both modest and comfortable.) They were typically on a fitted waistband that buttoned. You will want 100% cotton as it breathes the best.

Buy It EnsemblesofthePast.com AbrahamsLady.com Originals-By-Kay.com

Sew It Yourself Difficulty Level: Easy-Moderate The Sewing Academy free pattern Past Patterns 706 (Includes Petticoat pattern) Use Pimatex Bleached Muslin (usually available online at JoAnn Fabrics and other fabric stores)

PETTICOATS A petticoat or two smooths the outline of your skirt against your cage. An under-petticoat helps with modesty when your skirt inevitably swishes around. If you choose to go without a cage while doing heavy chores, your petticoats will definitely need to be starched to hold their shape.

Sew It Yourself Difficulty Level: Easy The Sewing Academy free pattern Past Patterns 706 Use Pimatex Bleached Muslin (usually available online at JoAnn Fabrics and other fabric stores)

Buy It EnsemblesofthePast.com AbrahamsLady.com Originals-By-Kay.com TreadleTreasure.etsy.com

STOCKINGS Every lady would have worn stockings. Basic black and white knee socks are always safe and inexpensive to start with. You can also make your own. Original stockings would have been wool, cotton or silk and were overthe-thigh, held up with garters.

Sew It Yourself Difficulty Level: Moderate Free Instructions – Search “Stockings” on thedreamstress.com

Buy It Originals-By-Kay.com HamiltonDryGoods.com/socks/

COLLAR AND CUFFS Collars are not optional on 1860s dresses. Cuffs were nearly always present as well, though not always visible.

Collars are tacked on to the dress and can be easily removed for laundering. They are nearly always white.

Buy It EnsemblesofthePast.com TreadleTreasures.etsy.com Originals-By-Kay.com Somewear in Time on Facebook Fashionable Sew-ciety Civil War Clothing on Facebook Cont. Page 14

Sew It Yourself Difficulty Level: Moderate KayFig II: Research Pattern 651-A KayFig II: Research Pattern 651-C

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BOOTS Used or “good enough to pass” new boots can be as low as $20. Look for leather, very low heel or no heel, square toes. Both button-up and lace-up styles were common. No zippers, logos, or obvious plastic or nylon pieces. Plain everyday boots would generally be brown or black.

Buy Period Correct American-Duchess.com Fugawee.com BlockadeRunner.com DRESS 1860s styles aimed for the “hourglass look.” The top of the dress (the “bodice” or “body”) was well fitted with dropped shoulders. The waist was defined and sat smoothly on the corset underneath. The waistline was just below the modern bra line. The skirt was very full, usually worn over a cage or hoop skirt, and the hem touched or nearly touched the ground. Slightly shorter hems for work dresses or outdoor hiking are permissible. For most types of outfits (including everyday cotton dresses) the bodice and the skirt fabric matched.

If you’ve never sewn an 1860s dress, even if you’re an accomplished seamstress, it is recommended you join one of the reenacting forums listed on our website for discussion on period sewing methods. These methods will make a big difference in how the dress fits, sits and looks.

Sew It Yourself Difficulty Level: Moderate-Hard Past Patterns 700 Use Cotton or Wool Fabric - 2-3 yards for the bodice, 5 yards for the skirt Notions - thread, hooks & eyes, piping cord

Buy It EnsemblesofthePast.com Originals-By-Kay.com Somewear in Time on Facebook Debra DiFranco on Facebook

For pictures, descriptions, tips, patterns and more, visit our website! https://cwdress.blogspot.com Heather Sheen Reprinted with permision.

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The Victorian Fencing Society The clash of swords could be heard in clubs, dueling grounds and battlefields throughout the 19th century.

Today in Dallas, Texas, the Victorian Fencing Society recreates the form, fashion and training in the art of fencing as it was practiced in the 1800’s.

Modern fencing has its roots in the 19th century. During that era fencing was still considered a martial art, though it was also practiced as a form of exercise and entertainment. Three distinct styles of fencing had developed during this period with the foil and dueling sword for civilians and the saber for the military.

The foil was the light triangular practice blade for the dueling sword, a thrusting weapon which had a sharp point but no cutting edge.

From the beginning of the 19th century it evolved in to an academic practice that emphasized skill and form rather than practical application. The actions used were regulated and the target area was limited to the front of the torso, between the belt and the collar bone.

cont. page 18

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By the mid-19th century a more practical practice weapon for the dueling sword was established by those amateurs dissatisfied by the conventions of the foil. Referred to as the epee de salle (school sword, as opposed to the epee de terrain for the dueling ground), it copied the sturdier blade and guard of the dueling sword. Much of the regulations were dispensed with and the target was the entire body.

The military continued to train with the saber, a weapon used for both cutting and stabbing. Though its use was becoming less common on the battlefield, cavalry and officers continued to carry and train with the saber well in to World War One. The fencing outfit was simple, with a wire mask to protect the face, a leather glove on the sword hand and a fencing jacket made of canvas or cotton to protect the body. Men wore trousers and women long skirts or bloomers.

Many treatise and manuals on fencing were published in the 19th century. The Victorian Fencing Society uses these to recreate the style of training from the period.

Founded in 2011 by Jonathan Carr, the Victorian Fencing Society meets at the Fencing Institute of Texas, a modern Olympic style fencing facility located in Carrollton, TX. Jonathan Carr has over 30 years of fencing experience. He started fencing in 1984 under the tutelage of two Hungarian emigrants and has been coaching fencing since 1997. Our primary manuals of study come from the Fencing volume of the Badminton library published in 1889 by Walter H. Pollock, F.C. Grove and Camille Prevost, Foil and Sabre by Louis Rondelle published in 1892 in Boston, and Alfred Hutton’s treatise on Saber called Cold Steel published in 1889.

The VFS trains in a variety of styles associated with the nineteenth century. Besides the staples of the foil, dueling sword and military saber, we have also explored such things as singlestick, bartitsu, 18th century smallsword and look to start studying bayonet.

Members train at the club and perform demonstrations at events and conventions around the state and country. The VFS often exhibits at the Farmers Branch Historical Park and the Dallas Heritage Village. We have also done demonstrations for the Dallas Museum of Art, the Landmark Inn in Castroville, Dickens on the Boulevard in Oklahoma, Calvert Texas 150th Celebration, A-Kon Convention in Fort Worth, the steampunk convention Teslacon in Wisconsin, and for 18th and 19th century reenactments.

We hold free monthly salons for anyone interested in trying fencing and discussing history of the 18th and 19th century, as well as an annual Grand Assault of Arms each November, a competition to showcase the various styles of fencing we practice.

The society is open to all individuals interested in studying the history of fencing in the 18th & 19th century.

No experience is necessary. Check out our facebook page for recent activity.

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Winston Churchill: Swordsman and Statesman

(Published by Jonathan Carr for the Victorian Fencing Society Blog September 2, 2016) Fencing helped to build the character of Winston Churchill (1874-1965). From a young age he felt he was destined for greatness and invincible in battle. But the future Prime Minister of Great Britain was not an exemplary student at school. He enrolled at Harrow in 1888, and it was probably his family name that helped him to get through his academics. However, Winston excelled in subjects that appealed to him such as English and History, and he took an interest in athletics. This pursuit prompted him to write a letter to his mother Lady Randolph about a desire to take up fencing.

“I want to learn fencing. I go to the Gymnasium a great deal and I think it would be so much better for me to learn something which would be useful to me in the army, as well as affording me exercise and amusement. I’m sure, since I have been working well, you will not hesitate to sign the enclosed order and return it by post.”

Described as a small and delicate boy at 5 foot 6 inches tall with a 31 inch chest, fencing gave Winston the chance to prove himself. He took to fencing with great enthusiasm and soon became the best fencer in his school. He was gratified to earn the honor of representing Harrow in a tournament at Aldershot. The winner would be England’s public-school fencing champion.

He wrote: “My fencing is now my great employment out of school as now that I represent the School it behoves me to ‘sweat up’.”

Winston crossed foils with boys from several other schools such as Eton and Winchester. He beat them all, winning the Public Schools Fencing Championship in 1892.

He wrote home proudly: “I have won the fencing. A very fine cup. I was far and away first. Absolutely untouchable in the finals.”

Winston displayed his knack for self-promotion and attention that would follow himself in later years by having photographs made showing himself in fencing gear with his awards.

After his victory the school newspaper the Harrovian reported: “His success was chiefly due to his quick and dashing attack, which quite took his opponents by surprise.”

And the paper added: “Churchill must be congratulated on his success over all his opponents in the fencing line, many of whom must have been much taller and more formidable than himself.”

At 18 years of age, Winston entered Sandhurst Military Academy where he showed particular skill with horses and graduated eighth in his class of one hundred and fifty. He was commissioned as a Cornet (Second Lieutenant) in the 4th Queen’s Own Hussars in 1895.

Now in the military, Winston would be armed with a sharp sword. He would serve with the 4th Hussars, and is seen photographed with two models during his service. The light cavalry sword and the heavy cavalry sword (Light cavalry was less armored and served for scouting and skirmishing. Heavy cavalry were more heavily armed and armored, used to directly engage enemy forces.)

The light cavalry pattern saber had a slightly curved steel blade 35 1/2 inches long, suitable for both cutting and thrusting. It weighed about 2 pounds. The grip was of wood covered in fish skin and bound with silver wire. The hand-grip was protected by a steel three-bar hilt.

In 1896 light cavalry officers adopted the heavy cavalry pattern sword. It was only slightly heavier and of similar length, though straighter. The grip protection was a scroll bar made of steel.

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Winston would rarely us the sword in battle, though he recognized its usefulness to the British campaigns in the North West Frontier (Pakistan and parts of Afghanistan) and the Sudan (Northern Africa).

Eager to see adventure and action, he entered his military career as a junior cavalry lieutenant and a war correspondent. While in the North West Frontier in 1897 he showed a rash desire to make sure he made a name for himself, riding a grey charger so that he stood out. The Afghans knew they were no match for the British using regular formations in battle. Instead, they relied on guerilla tactics and ambushes. This often resulted in fierce hand to hand combat.

During the Mamund Campaign in 1897 Winston engaged in a scene reminiscent of Indiana Jones. He was confronted by a sword wielding enemy who had just finished hacking at a wounded officer. As he later wrote in his book: “I forgot everything else at this moment except a desire to kill this man. I wore my long cavalry sword well-sharpened. After all, I had won the Public Schools fencing medal. I resolved on personal combat a l’arme blanche. The savage saw me coming. I was not more than 20 yards away. He picked up a big stone and hurled it at me with his left hand, and then awaited me, brandishing his sword. There were others waiting not far behind him. I changed my mind about the cold steel. I pulled out my revolver, took, as I thought, most careful aim, and fired. No result. I fired again. No result. I fired again. Whether I hit him or not, I cannot tell. At any rate he ran back two or three yards and plumped down behind a rock. The fusillade was continuous. I looked around. I was alone with the enemy. Not a friend was to be seen. I ran as fast as I could. There were bullets everywhere.”

Winston was also at the Battle of Omdurman in 1898, participating in one of the British Army’s last full-scale cavalry charges. The young officer wrote of the hand to hand fighting that occurred: “It was the kind of fighting they thoroughly understood. Moreover, the fight was with equal weapons, for the British too fought with sword and lance as in the days of old.”

Winston suffered from an old shoulder injury, though, and made more use of his pistol than sword.

Such exploits helped to make a name for himself, and aided his rise in politics to become one of the best known statesmen in the 20th century.

WW1: Churchill (center) with his Royal Scots Fusiliers at Ploegsteert. 1916.

Source: Public Domain

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Just a Simple Photo Shoot

Just a Simple Photo Shoot Timothy Phillips It is amazing how attempting to indulge in a little creative photography can lead one down a rabbit hole. Ten or so years ago I got the crazy idea to enter a Smithsonian Magazine photography contest, and stumbled across what looked like a fine source of material: the Fort Phantom Hill Rendezvous.

The various activities of frontier life depicted there caught my interest sufficiently to send me to Mitch Baird at Fort Griffin State Historic Site. A quick entry into the Old Fort Griffin Regiment ensued, and the game was permanently afoot. A kit composed of most of a frontier army uniform at my first event has mushroomed into several impressions with more stuff than a small trailer can haul.

Of course, a collection of display stuff is rather useless without the knowledge to use it, so a personal research library must be accumulated. Our computer room/office is well on its way to being filled with books on everything from the origins of the Comanche Nation to artist blacksmithing and the how-to’s of Spencerian Script. More volumes have been suggested or given along the way, to the extent I cannot find the time to read all the newer ones. This has also led me back to the classroom to audit a couple of history classes at McMurry University, opportunities for learning that have been absolutely delightful.

My first full season on the Texas Forts Trail began as a costumed lecturer on artefacts of Victorianera life. That did not take long to morph into a sort of first-person act as a generic infantry sergeant on the Texas prairie of 1874.

Any self-respecting soldier needs a proper firearm, but why stop at one? And those weapons need to be functional. Functional firearms need ammunition, which leads to reloading, bullet casting, and practice at the range.

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Living History Showcase At this time what I consider to be my life-long curse moved to the fore: my endless curiosity. Might as well go whole-hog and attempt to live in the 19th century. I began to learn to cook in the camp, shave with a straight razor, and use some of the speech idioms of the Victorian Age, thanks to the ultimate living historian, Henry Crawford. I have added a few impressions along the way: Civil War cavalry of the Western Theater, the Old Campaigner, and blacksmith. With a Grand Army of the Republic medal in hand, another impression may surface: Civil War Veteran.

I began working on the bugle a few years back and, with the loss of Greg Hector, I have become the bugler for events out west. Thank heaven for helpful band directors! (I still have a ways to go, and there is no place to hide when you play solo.)

This has led to one of the most important things at events: the opportunity to teach respect for the flag and the nation on school days. I had found it rather irritating in the past that, when the artillery salute was rendered, grade school children spend so much energy discussing it that no one could hear “To the Color� or even notice the flag being raised. When things are explained to them, and they can become part of the ceremony, dramatic changes occur.

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“I began working on the bugle a few years back ..............This has led to one of the most important things at events: the opportunity to teach respect for the flag and the nation on school days�

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Living Historian

Our ceremonies also bring out the old veterans to relive their days in uniform, and to regale us with their stories of those times. It is gratifying to see their eyes brighten at such times, and I need to get busy and record these personal histories.

I was rather disturbed early on by the absence of Indians at events on the Forts Trail, since they were an essential part of the Frontier. In the last couple of years they have begun to participate in some events, and I have made friends with some of the Lipan Apache Band of Texas.

That is probably the best part of this entire endeavor: the friends I have made along the way. There are many top-notch people out here, and to the north and east, doing living history and they are most of the best I have ever known. In addition to their friendly campfires, they have made it possible for me to visit important but little known historic sites, and at least one sacred Indian site.

Here is one final thought. I rode in Fredericksburg’s Armistice Centennial parade November 11. In the course of conversation with Fort Martin Scott’s sergeant, I took notice of the old veterans all about, especially B17 pilot Sam Smith and Jimmy Doolittle’s copilot Dick Cole. I remarked that I felt inadequate in the midst of such character and courage because, unlike them, I have never done anything. He deiagreed saying that I was standing in for those that can no longer walk amoung us. Hobby inded! This thing seems to be taking on aspects of a quest.

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Billy the Kid – He Lived!

By Sue Land July 1881 newspaper headlines screamed “The Kid Is Dead! Marshall Pat Garrett shoots and kills notorious gunfighter William Bonney alias Billy the Kid” Billy was only 21 years old.

December 1950 newspaper small printed notice reads “William Henry Roberts better known as Brushy Bill to the local residents of Hico, Texas, dies on the streets of Hico from a heart attack.” Brushy Bill was 2 days away from being 91 years old.

October 2014 there is more news. A young writer Daniel A Edwards brings a newly printed novel to Hico, Texas titled “Billy the Kid An Autobiography, The Kid’s Identity Revealed” William Henry Roberts II, born in Buffalo Gap, Texas on December 31, 1859, orphaned at the age 3, raised by a maternal aunt until her death at age 14, sheltered by the outlaw queen Belle Starr, deputized by the Pinkerton Agency and Judge Issac Parker, trainer of wild horses, lived in the small town of Hico, teller of wild west stories and now shown to be Billy the Kid the most famous of all gunfighters of the old west.

Brushy Bill’s last wish was to be given the pardon Governor Lew Wallace had promised Billy the Kid in 1881. Hollywood made Billy famous and always told the story of his death from the one Marshall Pat Garrett instigated. In 1950 the only attempt to set the story straight failed but, thanks to Mr. Edwards the truth was finely told.

It seems the facts have always been there regarding the death of Billy the Kid but no one bothered and Hollywood made lots of money on the death of the Kid. What was the truth? Well, there was a shoot out and someone did get killed. Pat Garrett was hunkered down hidden in a dark room waiting for the Kid. The figure that showed up at Pete Maxwell’s door had his back toward Garrett, it was dark outside and dark in the room. Garrett shot without ever seeing the face of the man he was killed. Garrett walks out past the face down body yelling “I’ve killed Billy the Kid.” There was another man there that night, Deputy Marshal Poe, he rolled the body over, looked up at Garret and told him he (Garrett) had killed the wrong man.

You would have thought the story of Billy the Kid’s death would have ended right there with the shooting of the wrong man but no, Garret insisted it was Billy and without letting anyone else see the body he buried Billy the Kid. But, like I said the story did not end there, one hundred and thirty-three (133) years later the newspaper story of that day was discovered. The description of the young man killed read “black hair, dark complexion, and black beard” out beside the description was “Billy the Kid?” It seems Billy had light hair had light complexion and barely had peach fuzz, NO BEARD. Also discovered was Deputy Marshal Poe’s statement that Garret had killed the wrong man.

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So one hundred and thirtythree years later those that keep America’s history are going to right the wrong done throughout those years.

However, there is a kicker.

Those same historians will not show that Brushy Bill William Henry Roberts was the Billy the Kid. It seems the only way to prove that is by doing a DNA report between Brushy Bill and a “KNOWN LIVING DESENDANT OF BILLY THE KID” and guess what, there are none. So we nor anyone else will ever be able to prove if Brushy Bill was the Billy the Kid. You know what? I do not need further proof. Every wild west story Brushy ever told in the years following the shooting has been proven as true. A couple of the so called crazy old cowboy tales that were true not crazy were Brushy did work for Judge Issacs Parker in the Indian Territory, he did train horses for the Rough Riders, he did go to Cuba with them and work as a scout.

Was He Shot In Mexico?

The Controversy There have been many debates, stories, and opinions fostered over the years. Several men stepped forward claiming to be Billy the Kid, stating that Pat Garrett did not shoot and kill the Kid that dark night over a hundred years ago

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The Plains on Fire - The Red River War 39th Annual OIW Assembly Nelson Miles characterized the Red River War

as “not only comprehensive, but . . . the most successful of any Indian campaign in this country since its settlement by the whites.“ From a military point of view, the campaign against the Indians was masterfully planned and executed. With the end of the war, the vast plains, once the domain of Comanche, Kiowa, and Cheyenne, was opened to whites. Ranchers, farmers, railroads and towns sprang up over the entire region. The Red River War brought an end to the once powerful plains Indians, yet it is one of the least studied of all the Indian wars campains.

We met in Amarillo to study this almost forgotten war. With Neil Mangum as our guide, we visited Kit Carson‘s greatest Indian fight and the site of George Armstrong Custer‘s greatest Indian Wars victory. With the single exception of George Crook the most recognized names of Indian Wars -Custer, Carson, Miles and Mackenzie -all make their appearance. The legendary Bat Masterson, Billy Dixon and Amos Chapman add to the story.

The Kit Carson fight at the First Battle of Adobe Walls in 1864 was the earliest fight site we visited. This was an engagement between Carson‘s 375 troops and an estimated 2000—3000 Kiowa, Comanche and Southern Cheyenne warriors. The site of the conflict is on a private ranch, not open to the public. For most of us this will be our only chance to visit the First Battle of Adobe Walls which was Kits last fight.

Custer‘s victory at the Washita followed in 1868.

Custer showed, much as Carson, great skill at extricating his command under great pressure. His victory would set a pattern for Indian War tactics -catch the Indians in their village, capture noncombatants, destroy the village and kill the horses.

This proved to be a viable strategy, right up to Little Big Horn. We toured the battlefield, visited the NPS museum and had lunch in Cheyenne , Oklahoma.

Widely considered the opening shots of the Red River war, the 1874 Second Battle of Adobe Walls . After an onsite lecture, we headed back to Borger, Texas to visit the Hutchinson County Museum. Here are some great exhibits, as well as models of the Adobe Walls II site. The Red River War is possibly the largest Indian wars‘ campaign in the history of the U.S. Involving over three thousand soldiers and scouts, the campaign utilised five converging columns to maintain a continuous offensive pressure until a decisive defeat was inflicted on the Indians.

The set piece ot the Red River War is Palo Duro Canyon, the second largest canyon in this country. We were captivated by its beauty and fascinated by its history. Both Miles and Mackenzie fought engagements in the canyon. We stopped to see the visitor‘s center, and the view of the canyon from the rim.

Near this incredible trick of nature, is the largest and the oldest history museum in Texas, the Panhandle Plains Museum. You know that with these credentials, it has to be spectacular and it is.

Billy Dixon‘s legendary shot at the second battle of Adobe Walls wasn‘t his only connection with the Red River War. Almost as miraculous was his performance at the Buffalo Wallow Fight. In this engagement, six men made a stand against over 100 Indian warriors from the pitiful shelter of a small, ten-foot circumference buffalo wallow. Five of them survived and all six were awarded the Medal of Honor, the only battle in our history in which all participants received such an honor.

Article and photos from www.indianwars.net

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Kit Carson’s victory would set a pattern for Indian War tactics -- catch the Indians in their village and kill the horses.

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DFWCG Events Photos by Jennifer Thompson The DFW Costumers Guild hosts several costumed events each year, which range from picnics and museum visits, to festival outings and train rides, our themes ranging from historical to fantasy and sci-fi.

Annual Georgian Picnic Page 31

Event Spotlight

18th Century Rococo and Regency costume, delicious food, fun period games, and lively conversation, it’s easy to see why this has become one of our most popular events! Bring your favorite picnic foods, or if you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at an 18th Century recipe! All attempts and interpretations of 18th Century costume are welcome, from exacting recreations to dastardly pirates! Some of our members have been sewing for decades and do enjoy making very elaborate historical pieces, but we don’t expect everybody to like the same thing or have the same amount of sewing experience. Our events are designed for us to have FUN - not as historical reenactments. We have no authenticity rules or guidelines, and we welcome everybody equally, no matter what costume you choose to wear.

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Christi Lee top and Jenifer Thomspom right Jay Ragan bottom

Henry Crawford ‘s presentation of Buffualo Hunters

At Legacy Park Arlington Texas Page 33

Annual Costume Challenge 18th c. Provencal Gal This costume was my most ambitious project to date.

I wondered if I could sew a chemise, quilted petticoat, Caraco (jacket), scarf, and apron in just three weeks?

Would I be able to create all of the historical accessories on a budget?

Cost This did turn out to be my most expensive costume to date. But again the sheer number of elements and layers required for this ensemble also exceeded everything I have ever made or worn previously.

Chemise: $12.00 Quilted petticoat: $21.00 Caraco (jacket): $63.00 Scarf: $12.00 Apron: $3.00 Straw hat: $5.00 Antique lace cap: $20.00 Antique cross necklace: $1.00 The grand total: $137.00 ~ which is still a pretty amazing price for a costume of this detail.

The stays, under petticoat, and stockings were from a previous 18th-century costume.

This is a brief over view of Laura’s very informative research with sources and a complete detailed tutorial. Check her blog for all the details and beautiful photos. https://www.decortoadore.net/2018/10/18th-century-provencal-caraco-and-quilted-petticoat.html Page 34

Timothy Turner Wopanac Tribesman

18th Century Provencal Caraco and Quilted Petticoat Page 35

18th Century Provencal Caraco and Quilted Petticoat Making A Quilted Petticoat A single fabric petticoat is actually quite easy to make. You don’t even need a pattern. I followed the measurement instructions and some of the sewing directions that I found in this tutorial.

The construction process was altered a bit since I was making a quilted petticoat.

I first laid out the bottom fabric (a cotton sheet found at an estate sale for $3.)

A layer of cotton batting was placed next. (I used a 50% off coupon so the cost was around $12.)

The top fabric is placed on last. (My dear friend Dartanyan graciously gifted me this.)

Safety pin all three fabrics together. This is so the fabric does not shift during the quilting process.

Then it was time to start quilting. And quilting.

And quilting. (It took me 3 hours to do the front part of the skirt and 2 hours to quilt the back of the skirt using a sewing machine.

Strong 100% cotton quilting thread was found at Hobby Lobby. (Use a coupon, $1.50.)

The back of the petticoat is tied on first.

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Then the front is tied closed.

Making A Caraco Jacket There were various styles of jackets worn by French ladies in the late 17th century. American Duchess does a grand job explaining the differences between a Caraco, pet en l’ier, Pierrot, and casaquin jacket.

The fabric used is a historic reproduction of Dutch chintz fabric by Den Haan & Wagenmakers Beheer in Amsterdam. It is the “Les Petits Bouquet” pattern in the maroon colorway. I purchased it while I was in France. It was a splurge item for me at $28.00 a meter. I bought 2 meters. The fabric is a generous 56″ wide so I thought 2 meters would be enough for the pattern. I was wrong so I opted to just make a shorter peplum skirt on the jacket.

I made a plain white muslin first of the pattern before cutting into such fabric

During my visit to the Boutis Museum in France where I was allowed to examine 18th and 19th century Provencal jackets, Madame Francine referred to the sweet little creations featuring 3/4 length sleeves and short sassy peplums as caracos. In deference to her amazing talents and knowledge, I too shall refer to the jacket I created as a Caraco.

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Hutchins Metal Art Customs Designs

All of our designs are cut from 12 gauge steel (standard; other options available) using a computer guided plasma cutter to get a precise design exactly like you want! Pieces are usually finished with a flat black paint, unless otherwise specified. Powder coating is available at additional cost. Most pieces are usually finished within a two week period and can be shipped anywhere in the continental U.S. (shipping fees apply). Any previous designs may be purchased, but due to the nature of making custom metal designs, individual consultations will be necessary for most projects. Please contact us with any questions you may have so we can discuss your individual idea!

Johnnie Hutchins, owner

jthutch85@yahoo.com (254) 396 - 1243 http://www.hutchinsmetalart.com/

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A Little House Thanksgiving at Farmers Branch Historical Park

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Farmers Branch Historical Park

Crafting Turkeys out of corn Husks.

On The Banks of Plum Creek Chapter 12 “Grasshopper weather was strange weather. Even at Thanksgiving, there was no snow,” “The door of the dugout was wide open while they ate Thanksgiving dinner.”

Laura Ingalls Wilder cont. page 42

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Farmers Branch Historical Park

I was thrilled to be placed in the enchanting turn of the century schoolhouse. This finely dressed young gentleman accompanied me. He took the lead in reading about how Laura Ingalls Wilder celebrated Thanksgiving.

There were heaped dishes of mashed potatoes and of mashed turnips, and of mashed yellow squash, all dribbling melted butter down their sides from little hollows in their peaks ‌ large bowls of dried corn soaked soft again and cooked with cream‌ plates piled high with golden squares of cornbread and slices of white bread and of brown, nutty-tasting graham bread.

There were cucumber pickles and beet pickles and green tomato pickles, and glass bowls on tall glass stems were full of red tomato preserves and wild-chokecherry jelly. On each table was a long, wide, deep pan of chicken pie, with steam rising through the slits in its flaky crust. (The Ladies Aid Pot luck Thanksgiving fund raiser dinner) Chapter 19 Laura Ingalls Gunn

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The Polite Society of American Civil War Civilian Re enactors

Welcome! The Polite Society is a loose national confederation of American Civil War Civilian Reenactors who enjoy participating in civilian activities and events. Military impressions are always welcome...you were once a civilian!

One goal of Polite Society is to meet together at various reenactments around the country at the “Polite Society” tent to be of encouragement to one another, participate in recreated social events hosted during the reenactment and have a “parlour” away from home where we can gather together at events to meet with old, as well as, new friends! (Military is always welcome!)

It is the hope, that through the nurturing of friendships, the participation together in activities and the good conversations shared, that we might truly further the beauty of politeness and good company in our reenacting society.

On the FaceBook page, there will be the sharing period of social information including etiquette, parlour games, social activities, out-of-door amusements, balls and a whole host of wonderful ideas and plans. The group creator and moderator is Karen Duffy (aka: “Mrs. Hamilton).

Joining the page allows you to become a most welcomed member of “Polite Society!” Just comment that you would like to to be a member! https://www.facebook.com/groups/PoliteSocietyCW/ Polite Society - American Civil War Please invite your friends to join and everyone welcome new members to the group! We want this to be a polite, fun and carefree group.

Please, step into the parlour and rest awhile...you are among friends!

“Kindness You Can Depend On!” Karen Duffy (aka: “Mrs. Hamilton) From FaceBook Page Polite SocietyCW

The Texas Chapter Polite Society Join facebook at texas polite society -american civil war Page 43

Sew Pury Workshops Invites you to our Chalk Mountain, TXAntique & Vintage Sewing Machine Restoration-Repair Workshop March 2nd-3rd (9am-5pm) at Chalk Mtn. Lodge #894, 327 CR 198 & Hwy 67 BEFORE

Some of many machines restored by your instructor

Whether it is your great-grandmother’s family heirloom or a machine you picked up at a yard sale, don’t let her sit another day looking sad and shabby! We teach you the necessary methods, tools, and tricks the pros use to bring your jewel back to life and once again be the centerpiece of the room!

This is a two-day workshop in a classroom atmosphere, hosted by Teresa Cotter. Tools and all supplies are provided, as well as lunch both days. We will cover disassembling machines, de-rusting and polishing brightwork, cleaning & polishing paint, reassembly, timing & adjustment, service & maintenance, and making her sew again!

Frozen or rusty machines are always welcome!

Class size is limited to 10. Cost for 2 days is $375 per person and a $75 non-refundable deposit will hold your seat. Everything you’ll need is included in the class fee with the exception of repair parts (if necessary).

Machine condition doesn’t matter but try to bring a complete one. See our website for more information.

Check out our website, find us on Facebook, or call for details or to sign up!

sewpurtyworkshops.com (270) 978-5471