Tazewell County Genealogical and Historical Society

“Civil War Living History – Up Close and Personal" is the headline for the April 13 general meeting at the Tazewell County Genealogical and Historical Society. The program, presented by Ted and Dawn Henry, will be an overview of the Civil War, not necessarily politically correct by today’s standards, but what it was about for the soldiers in the 1860’s. They talk about the life of a Cavalry soldier, the field musician’s contribution to the effort, as well as the woman’s place in the war. Ted Henry portrays Dudley Wickersham, the Commander of the 10th Illinois Volunteer Cavalry Regiment® in Civil War re-enactments while Ted’s wife, Dawn, portrays Margaret, the wife of Dudley Wickersham, along with Chief Bugler Frederick Miller. The regiment participates in upwards of 10 re-enactments a year all over the Midwest, each lasting 2-3 days, which includes a “school day” for middle school students to come to the camps to learn about the Civil War era. For re-enactments, the regiment sets up camp and lives as the Civil War soldier would have lived when waiting for orders to move out. This allows for families to participate. The camp is comprised of Civil War period canvas tents, and the food is prepared over a wood campfire with only the tools available in the 1860’s. The regiment, consisting of mounted troopers, dismounted troopers and civilians, participates in parades and presentations for schools and civic organizations. This year the regiment will set up camp at two schools for Lincoln Bicentennial Commemorations. They also sponsored and hosted the Grand Ball at the Governor’s Mansion in Springfield which was the kickoff event for the State of Illinois Lincoln Bicentennial.

Ted Henry is a retired nuclear scientist from the State of Illinois. Dawn is a retired insurance claims adjuster. They reside in northern Woodford County. The meeting, which is open to the general public, will be held on Tuesday April 13, 2010 at the Society’s Erlicher Library, located at 719 N Eleventh St, Pekin, IL. The program will begin promptly at 7:00 PM, with a business meeting immediately following. The building is handicapped accessible with ample parking available.