Welcome to the Civil War Roundtable of Gettysburg. "The most important Roundtable, in the most important small town, at the most important battlefield, in the most important country in the world."
—Joe Mieczkowski, past president

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Meeting date: March 28, 2024

SPEAKERS

Monthly Meeting Notes


The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
Adams County Historical Society Events Center (in-person) and Live-streamed
January 25, 2024

President Bruce Davis opened the meeting at 7pm.

  • A new member spotlight series called “5 Good Minutes” kicked off with Bruce interviewing long-time member Dale Molina. Dale is the co-author (with Conrad Richter) of The Brutal Murder of George J. Bushman, an article that can be found in Volume 21 (2015) of the Adams Co. History Series about the horrendous killing of Licensed Battlefield Guide George Bushman in the fall of 1918. Dale spoke about the details of the murder and the young murderers. She also displayed a painting that one of the murders painted while in jail.
  • The group recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
  • Lynn Heller announced that we had 58 people attending in person, with 2 new members. There were also several people watching via live-stream. Lynn asked that any member who has not received the Signal Station Newsletter by email please let her or Jaimee Umstattd know so that your email address can be added or corrected. Lynn went on to announce the winner of the next Cal Doucette Award: Wendy Allen. Wendy is a prominent and prolific artist of Abraham Lincoln, the Founder of 100 Nights of Taps, and an officer in the Lincoln Fellowship. A tireless supporter of Gettysburg, Wendy chose to accept the award during our May 23, 2024 meeting.
  • The Preservation Basket was passed.
  • Dave Diner reported on the organization’s financials. A 2023 year-in-review shows that we have $23,350 in our accounts, after a net income last year of $5,899.84. High numbers in dues paying members and the success of the Reynolds Wood Pen Set sales were credited for our recent influx of funds. Dave went on to announce that the Board is proposing an amendment to our by-laws in the form of adding the position of Events Coordinator. The announcement will be made again at our next meeting and voted upon during our April 2024 meeting.
  • Nominating Committee Chairman Rip Engle took to the podium to announce that he will be joined on the Committee by Linda Seamon and Ted Hirt. He further announced that Board elections will be held during the April 2024 meeting. Any member who is interested in seeking a seat on the Board is encouraged to speak to Rip, Linda, or Ted.
  • Roger Heller reminded us of the upcoming speakers:
    February 22, 2024: Bruce Davis will present “Defending O. O. Howard.”
    March 28, 2024: Allen Thompson will present on his book, In the Shadow of the Round Tops. (Allen will have copies of his book available for signing.)

Michele Hessler introduced this month’s speaker, Codie Eash.

  • Codie Eash serves as Director of Education and Museum Operations at Seminary Ridge Museum and Education Center in Gettysburg, and is a 2014 graduate of Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania, where he earned a bachelor degree in communication/journalism and held a minor in history. In addition to museum tours and interpretation, he lectures for National Park Service sites, historical societies, Civil War roundtables, educational groups, and other organizations. He has published articles and essays in local newspapers, regional magazines, and national history journals. Codie is a founding contributor to Pennsylvania in the Civil War, writes book reviews for Civil War Monitor, and serves as a member of the Gettysburg Magazine editorial board.
  • Codie presented The Summer of 1869: Gettysburg’s First Blue-Gray Reunion. Just six years after the Battle of Gettysburg, and four years after the end of the Civil War, the Gettysburg Battlefield Memorial Association attempted to bring together United States and Confederate veterans once again at the site of the conflict’s bloodiest battle. Though it paled in both size and fame to other more prominent gatherings, for several days in August 1869, several dozen Union officers and a handful of their former Rebel adversaries congregated in the first joint Blue-Gray reunion in Gettysburg history. Codie took our attendees on a fascinating ride covering the subjects the veterans discussed, the controversies they debated, and the legacy of an underrated, consequential moment regarding the collective memory of the Civil War. At the conclusion of his presentation, Michele presented Codie with a Certificate of Appreciation and Bruce concluded the meeting at 8:28p.m.

-Respectfully submitted by Recording Secretary Veronica Brestensky


The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
Adams County Historical Society Events Center (in-person) and Live-streamed
November 16, 2023

President Bruce Davis opened the meeting at 7pm.

  • Bruce announced to the group that turning 73 isn’t for the faint of heart and he invited the attendees to loosen up their vocal chords and sing ‘Happy Birthday’ to him. He commented “You might say it takes a lot of nerve to invite people to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ to you, it does, and I have it.”
  • Bruce visually introduced the group to the Book Award starting with Steve Frenchin 2009 for Imboden’s Brigade in the Gettysburg Campaign. He ran down each winner with a photo of their book and a photo including 2010 winner Sickles at Gettysburg by author James Hessler who was present this evening. It was announced that Jim’s book has sold out of it’s 4th printing. Bruce culminated with the 2022 Winner. The winner being If We Are Striking for Pennsylvania Vol. 1 by Scott Mingus and Eric Wittenburg. The Winner was announced at the October 26th meeting. Therese Orr, the Chair of the Award Committee came up to the podium to present the physical award to Scott Mingus. This was the first time she had ever been available to deliver the award personally. Scott graciously accepted the award saying, “Thank you, this project started about 10 years ago when J. David Petruzzi, a good friend of mine, contacted me and said, you want to do a Gettysburg Campaign Day by Day book, and I said, Sure, I’d be happy to do that. So, I started working on it and working on it and working on it. J. David parted ways with the project. I ended up taking it on myself. A few years ago I brought Eric on as the partner to make the thing happen. So, we’re grateful.”
    The book’s co-author Eric Wittenburg was not in attendance due to a “significant health crisis”. However, Eric sent a written statement in with Scott to be read in his absence.

    Eric’s note said, “I regret a significant health problem has kept me from being there in person evening. Please know that I am with you in spirit and all of the messages of support you sent have been received and have given me the strength to face this health crisis. The good news is that I should make a full 100% recovery. Thank you for recognizing the work that Scott and I did on If we are striking for Pennsylvania. When Scott invited me to assist him on completing this magnificent project I jumped at the opportunity. Helping to tell this epic saga is one of the great accomplishments of my life and one for which I am very proud. Many thanks to Scott for including me on this project. We set out to accomplish something on a vast scale and we accomplished what we set out to achieve and that is telling the story from the military, civilian, political, and even international perspectives. Weaving all that together in what a collab narrative was a great challenge I am proud of what we have done together in doing so. It’s not my first Bachelder Coddington Award, I am grateful for you recognizing the work Scott and I did on this project. Thank you, I look forward to seeing you all in person very soon.” Photos were taken.
  • Raffle tickets were sold prior to the meeting for a chance to win a copy of the winning book and it was at this time the winning ticket was pulled. Scott signed the book and it was given to the winner #482.
  • Lynn Heller welcomed guests to the meeting including Scott’s family, Debbie Mingus was in attendance with the entire family. She announced the Holiday Banquet will be 12/6 and that upon arrival Mary Diner with the checking everyone in upon arrival. Attendees a raffle ticket at the welcome table.
  • Roger Heller announced it has been a momentous year for our Roundtable. He thanked everyone for making it a great year. Moving into the Adams County Historical Society location has been a positive move for the organization thanks to the members. As a reminder the guest speaker at the Holiday Banquet will be Jill Titus, author of Gettysburg 1963. The first two meeting of 2024 will offer speaker Codie Eash for the First Blue & Gray Reunion 1869 on January 25, 2024. On February 22, 2024 Bruce Davis will speak ‘In Defense of Oliver Otis Howard’ to which Roger quipped, “Good luck with that.” Bruce replied, the talk will be passionate.
  • Dave Diner delivered the financial news. He stated this has been a banner year since he became treasurer. Total Assets $23,796.93. Net Income $6346.72 due to a combination of Dues, New Members, and Pen Set Sales. We have signed the 2024 contract to meet at the ACHS facility for meeting. The Passing the Preservation Plate has accrued $1,278.16 this year. We have donated $1000 to The Lincoln Cemetery Project which Jean Green accepted last month. There are currently a total of 40 spots reserved for the Holiday Banquet.

Vice President, Michele Hessler, introduced tonight’s speaker, Janet McCabe.

  • The presentation, The Story of Rufus Weaver, will focus on the work of Dr. Rufus Weaver to recover and return to the South the remains of Confederate soldiers killed at Gettysburg, as well as his years-long efforts to get paid for his labors.
  • Janet McCabe earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Virginia and a Master of Business Administration degree from the Amos Tuck School at Dartmouth College. Although she spent her professional career in the financial services industry, she has been fascinated by the American Civil War since her father took her to her first battlefield when she was eight years old. She currently serves as a docent at the George Spangler Farm and Field Hospital outside Gettysburg, and her retirement goal is to become a Licensed Battlefield Guide there. Her recent article on removing the Confederate dead from Gettysburg was published in the April 2022 issue of Civil War Times magazine. Since that was published, she has written an article about Confederate General James Henry Lane, based upon some unpublished letters she was fortunate enough to discover, and an article based on some unpublished correspondence between a Union cavalryman and a Virginia gal, both of which she hopes will be published soon.
  • At the end of Janet’s presentation, she concluded “Although he may not have gotten all the coppers he was owed, he ended up getting a lot of bronze with his name on it.” Janet took some questions and was given a Certificate of Appreciation.
  • Bruce concluded the meeting, reflecting on Janet’s shared images of Rufus Weaver’s very detailed disinterment records. He hypothesized that he was being very detailed because it was the last time someone would have recognized the significance of that former grave. That historical record although not appreciated by all, it is appreciated by the likes of us. Bruce thanked everyone again for coming together and accomplishing some really great things this year and looking ahead to more great things in 2024.

The meeting was concluded at 8:05pm.

-Respectfully submitted by Jaimee Umstattd


The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
Adams County Historical Society Events Center (in-person) and Live-streamed
September 28, 2023

President Bruce Davis opened the meeting at 7pm.

  • Bruce began the meeting by continuing his popular “Chronicles” segment of the Round Table’s history. Today’s edition was the 21st Century, Part 1. Bruce reminisced about first assuming the Presidency for our group. He highlighted the fact that Dave Joswick was the long-time editor/publisher of the then bi-monthly Round Table newsletter, called The Angle. At Bruce’s request, Dave and his wife Linda (our current webmaster), met with Bruce to discuss the future of the newsletter among other things. Bruce walked away from that meeting at the Joswick home feeling supported, encouraged, and two friends richer. Unfortunately, Dave Joswick (July 15, 1951-October 18, 2020) passed away during Covid. His untimely passing left many voids for family, friends, and the Round Table organization. Since Dave’s passing, the newsletter fell by the wayside and the group turned to a secure email system to deliver updates and communications. Recently, Bruce approached new Board Member Jaimee Umstadtt to gauge her interest in becoming the editor of a new newsletter for our group. In true Jaimee fashion, she enthusiastically and graciously offered to spearhead the new project and got right to work. Bruce, noting that it was not the intention to replace Dave’s fine legacy, but, rather to begin a new chapter in group communication, called Jaimee to the front to unveil the new incarnation of the CWRTG’s newsletter, The Signal Station. We were informed that the plan for now is for the newsletter to be a quarterly publication, highlighting past and upcoming events, member spotlights, artifact show and tell, a letter from the President, book reviews, photos, quotes, and the like. Jaimee asked and encouraged members to submit contributions for upcoming editions. If you are not receiving the Round Table’s current email, please let us know so that your email can be added to the list so that you can ensure delivery of The Signal Station.
  • Bruce noted that since 2009 our organization has awarded the Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg’s Distinguished Book Award, annually. Book Committee Chairwoman, Therese Orr, was unable to join us tonight. However, Committeewoman Brenda Ritterputsch came forward in behalf of the Committee to update us about the status of the award. Brenda noted that the recently defunct Robert E. Lee CWRT of New Jersey had been the organization responsible for awarding the annual Bachelder-Coddington Literary Award, a highly coveted and prestigious prize awarded for Civil War literature. She went on to note that our organization was approached by Licensed Battlefield Guide John Zervas in behalf of the Robert E. Lee CRWT Book Award Committee with the proposition that our group take over the task of selecting the Bachelder-Coddington winner. As a result, and in recognition of the fact that this award would now become ours to give, Brenda officially announced the new name of our annual book award: The Bachelder-Coddington Distinguished Book Award of the Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg. The purpose of the award is to recognize the book published in the previous calendar year that best adds to our knowledge of the military or civilian experience of the Gettysburg Campaign, or to our understanding of the history of the National Military Park. Brenda announced this year’s recipients: Scott Mingus and Eric Wittenberg, co-authors of “If We Are Striking For Pennsylvania”: The Army of Northern Virginia and the Army of the Potomac March to Gettysburg, Volume 1: June 3-22, 1863. The award will be presented to the authors during November’s meeting. Congratulation, Scott and Eric!
  • Lynn Heller came forward to recognize the 5 guests and 2 new members in attendance. She also announced the revival of Cal Doucette Award. Created in 2012 after his untimely death, the award, named in memory of Cal Doucette — prolific volunteer, living historian, long-time CWRTG member and Board Member — recognizes “outstanding individuals who engage in activities which enhance the visitor’s experience to the Gettysburg National Military Park, for the community, and those that contribute to the learning about Gettysburg and the Civil War.” Lynn explained that the most recent award winner has been selected by the Committee. However, at the request of the recipient, the award winner will not be revealed and the award will not be presented until the May 2024 meeting. Finally, Lynn reminded us that this year’s Holiday Banquet will be held on WEDNESDAY, December 6 at the Dobbin House. (Please note this is a minor departure from the normal Thursday meeting day.). Registrations should be open by next meeting and online registration will be available, as well. Please be sure to quickly reserve your seat, as this year’s event will be capped at 95 attendees to avoid overcrowding.

Bruce then led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance.

  • Dave Diner came forward to update us on the financials, and while he was doing that, the Preservation Basket was passed around for donations. Dave reported that we began the year with a balance of $17,450.21 and our balance as of September 28, 2023 is $22,838.81. He further noted that dues collection (based upon the number of members we have; NOT the monetary amount of the dues) has been the highest of any year since he became Treasurer and our membership continues to be robust. Also, the Reynolds Woods Pen Set fundraiser was a huge reason for our increase in income/the balance. The pen sets are all but sold out and Dave recognized Roger Heller for spearheading this amazing fundraising effort! 190 pen sets have been sold for a gross income of $9,750.00. $4,783.00 was spent on the pens and the engraving. Therefore, the fundraiser netted us $4,967.00 in net income. That sum alone represents over a year’s worth of normal income, meaning that we will be able to cover increased expenses in rent, insurance, and the like without having to raise dues!
  • Roger Heller then came forward tell us about upcoming meetings:
    10-26-2023 (Thursday): Dennis Doyle: Illinois Regiments at Gettysburg. 11-16-2023 (Thursday)**: Janet McCabe: The Story of Rufus Weaver
    **Please note that, due to Thanksgiving, this meeting will occur on the THIRD THURSDAY of the month.
  • Roger then recognized several people for the success of the Pen Set fundraiser: Greg Allen for making a large purchase of the remainder of the stock of pen set wood, Dave Diner for his impeccable record keeping throughout the project, Rip Engle for acting as the shipping agent for the project, Michele Hessler for being the top salesperson, and anyone and everyone who bought, sold, or gave a set as a gift! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Vice President Michele Hessler introduced tonight’s speaker, Dr. Brad Gottfried. Retired from a 40 year career in higher education, Brad is a Gettysburg Licensed Town Guide, an Antietam Certified Guide, and the author of 18 Civil War books. Brad and his wife, Linda, have 4 children and 4 grandchildren. Brad has two other works that will be published in the next year.

  • Brad’s presentation, “Lee Invades the North: A Comparison of the Antietam and Gettysburg Campaigns” led our members through a detailed look at the similarities and differences of Lee’s 2 campaigns north of the Mason-Dixon Line. The talk was informative and eye-openingon many levels.      Brad covered everything from the numbers of soldiers, regiments, and casualties to the numbers and types of cannon involved in both campaigns.
    At the conclusion of his presentation, Brad fielded several questions from the audience.
  • There were 52 people present for tonight’s talk and many more participants via the live-stream.

The meeting concluded at 8:19pm

-Respectfully submitted by Recording Secretary Veronica Brestensky


The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
Adams County Historical Society Events Center (in-person) and Live-streamed
May 25, 2023

President Bruce Davis opened the meeting at 7pm.

  • Bruce recounted our pre-covid meeting that featured author Janet Croon who wrote: “The War Outside My Window.” He related that the title made him think of our new meeting location in the Battlefield Overlook Event Room at the Adams County Historical Society. And he went on to note the many historic monuments and locations visible from the window-fronted room, including Barlow’s Knoll and Howard Avenue. Bruce also took this opportunity to remind the members that our organization will be one of eleven that will participate in the July 1, 2023 Flag Raising Commemoration on Barlow’s Knoll at the 17th Connecticut Flagpole, marking the 160th Anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg. All are encouraged to attend and gather at 8:45am, with the program beginning at 9am.
  • Bruce then led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance.
  • Lynn Heller announced that we have 50 attendees present, including one new member and one guest. Additionally, several viewers joined us via Facebook live-stream.
  • The Preservation Basket was passed.
  • Dave Dinner announced that we began the year with $17,463 in our accounts. We currently have $20,395, including $2,685 in our preservation fund. The net income so far this year is $2,931.
  • Roger Heller updated us on our upcoming programs:
    • 6- 22-2023 (Thursday): Pete Miele, Executive Director of the Seminary Ridge Museum and Education Center, will lead an outdoor tour of “The Attack of Scales’ Brigade on July 1, 1863” Meet at Seminary Ridge, program begins at 6pm. (Rain date: 6-29-2023)
    • 7- 27-2023 (Thursday): LBG Larry Korczyk will lead an outdoor tour of The Wheatfield. This will be Part I. Part II will be given in 2024. Roger noted that each tour will stand alone, but since the action here is so complicated, two tours are necessary to cover all the information. The program will begin at 6pm.
    • 8- 31-2023 (Thursday): Hon. LBG Carol Reardon will give us a special tour of the Spangler Farm. The program begins at 6pm.
  • Roger noted that the upcoming outdoor tours will all begin at 6pm and last 90 minutes or more. Please make sure to check our website (cwrtgettysburg.org) or our Facebook page for weather-related updates. Also, these special summer tours are free for members. Non-members are welcome, but we recommend a donation be made to assist in providing these great events.

Vice President Michele Hessler introduced tonight’s speaker, Ron Kirkwood, author of Too Much For Human Endurance: The George Spangler Farm Hospitals and the Battle of Gettysburg, published by Savas Beatie, LLC in hardcover in 2019. Both hardcover editions sold out and it’s now in its second paperback printing after the first edition sold out. The book is also available in audio and E-reader formats.

  • Ron Kirkwood is retired after a 40-year career as an editor and writer in newspapers and magazines including USA TODAY, the Baltimore Sun, Harrisburg Patriot-News, and York Daily Record. He edited national magazines for USA TODAY Sports and was National Football League editor for USA TODAY Sports Weekly. He won numerous state, regional and national writing and editing awards during his career and managed the 32-person copy desk in Harrisburg when the newspaper won a Pulitzer Prize in 2012. Kirkwood is a Michigan native and graduate of Central Michigan University, where he has returned as guest speaker to journalism classes as part of the school’s Hearst Visiting Professionals series. Ron has been a Gettysburg Foundation guide at the George Spangler Farm Civil War Field Hospital Site since it opened in 2013. He lives in York with his wife of 46 years, Barbara.
  • Ron presented “George Spangler: The Most Important Farm in the Battle of Gettysburg — Part 2.” He last spoke to us in January 2020 where he focused 90% of his talk on the details of the hospital role of the farm and 10% on the military role related to the farm. Tonight he flipped the script and spent 90% of his presentation focused on the military role that the Spangler Farm played during the Battle of Gettysburg. He explained how Granite Schoolhouse Lane was “Meade’s Main Street” and served several corps or parts of corps in getting troops to and from the front. He went on to note that 6 of the 7 corps of the Army of the Potomac were placed on or passed through the Spangler property during the battle 160 years ago. Nearly every facet of the AOP that one can think of used or benefitted from the Spangler Farm, including infantry, artillery, cavalry, signal corps troops and stations, headquarters, the advance and retreat of troops, medical care, and even prisoner movements. Ron seemed to convince the group that the 166 acre Spangler Farm was the most important farm property from July 1-3, 1863 (and beyond, including the 5 weeks and 2 days that the property continuously served as the 11th Corps hospital).
  • At the conclusion of his presentation, Ron fielded several questions from the audience. He was then presented with a Certificate of Appreciation and honorarium by Bruce.

The meeting concluded at 8:09pm

-Respectfully submitted by Recording Secretary Veronica Brestensky


The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
United Methodist Church (in-person) and Live-streamed
March 23, 2023

President Bruce Davis opened the meeting at 7pm. 

  • Bruce continued his series “The Chronicles of the Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg” with “The Methodist Edition.”   Bruce noted that the United Methodist congregation has graciously hosted our meetings from September 2021-tonight.  The change in meeting location from the GAR Hall to the Church was necessitated due to space constraints and the need to distance socially in returning to in-person meetings following the height of Covid.  In our “hour of need” the Methodist Church came to our rescue and will forever be a part of our organization’s history.  To extend our sincere thanks and gratitude, Bruce plans on attending Sunday’s service to present a certificate of appreciation to the congregation.
  • The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by the group.
  • Lynn Heller reported that 43 members and several guests were in attendance and noted  several participants viewing our live-stream.
    Treasurer, Dave Diner reported that we have $3,719.96 in revenue and $1,459.62 in expenses for a net income this year of $2,260.34.  The account balance is $19,724.06.
  • Bill Myers, Chairman of the Nominations Committee, recognized committee members Lynn Heller and Linda Seamon and reminded members that anyone interested in serving on the Board should speak to any of them after the meeting.  Elections will be held during April’s General Membership meeting, April 27, 2023 at the Adams County Historical Society.
  • Roger Heller informed us that we have 9 Reynolds Witness Tree pen sets available and an additional 77 more sets that will soon be engraved and available for sale.  Once these 86 sets are sold, all the sets will be spoken for.  So…get yours soon, before it’s too late! 
  • Roger Heller announced our upcoming speakers:
    • 4-27-2023: LBG James Hessler, speaking about George Armstrong Custer, from Gettysburg to Little Big Horn.  This will be our inaugural meeting in our “new home” at the Adams County Historical Society.  Excitement is boiling over!
    • 5-6-2023: Special Saturday tour: Kendra Debany will lead a walking tour of McAllister’s Mill.  Please park in the old Mulligan McDuffer’s Miniature Golf parking lot.  The tour will begin at 9:30am and end at noon.
    • 5-25-2023: Ron Kirkwood, author and historian, will present Part 2 of “Spangler Farm During the Battle of Gettysburg.”
  • The Preservation Plate was passed around.

Bruce asked Michele Hessler to come forward to introduce tonight’s speaker, Tom McMillan.

Tom McMillan, a lifelong student of the Civil War, has served on the Board of Trustees of Pittsburgh’s Heinz History Center, the Board of Directors of the Friends of the Flight 93 National Memorial, and the Marketing Committee of the Gettysburg Foundation.  His previous books are: Flight 93: The Story, The Aftermath, and The Legacy of American Courage on 9/11 and Gettysburg Rebels: Five Native Sons Who Came Home to Fight as Confederate Soldiers, winner of the Bachelder-Coddington Literary Award in 2017.  Tom recently retired after a 43 year career in sports media and communications, including 25 years as VP of Communications for the NHL Pittsburgh Penguins. He and his wife, Colleen, are volunteer battlefield ambassadors at Antietam.

Tom’s presentation on his book Armistead and Hancock: Behind the Gettysburg Legend of Two Friends at the Turning Point of the Civil War was part dual biography and part Civil War history.  He took us on a deep dive of the friendship between Confederate General Lewis Armistead and Union General Winfield Scott Hancock — a friendship that has been heavily dramatized in popular novels and the movie Gettysburg.  Based on years of research and previously untapped sources, Tom’s book provides new information and fresh perspectives to reverse decades of misconceptions about an amazing story of two friends that has come to define the Civil War.

Following Tom’s presentation, he fielded questions from the audience.  And Bruce presented him with a certificate of appreciation and an honorarium and the meeting concluded at 8:09pm.

-Respectfully submitted by Recording Secretary Veronica Brestensky


The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
United Methodist Church (in-person) and Live-streamed
February 23, 2023

President Bruce Davis opened the meeting at 7pm. 

  • Bruce continued his series “The Chronicles of the Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg” with Part 9: 1996-2000.  During today’s presentation, Bruce noted that there was no increase in dues expected in the foreseeable future. However, he encouraged members to bring a friend and extend a hearty welcome to potential members, as new membership will ensure that dues remain constant and help cover added expenses incurred in our upcoming move to the new Adams County Historical Society’s facility. The first meeting in our new space at the ACHS will be April 27, 2023. Bruce also took the opportunity to once again acknowledge the extremely generous hospitality extended to us by the United Methodist Church in allowing us to use their sanctuary so that we could continue to meet as a group in a space that allowed for ample room and technology during Covid woes.
  • The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by the group.
  • The Preservation Plate was passed around.
  • Lynn Heller reported that 40 members and 5 guest were in attendance and noted several participants via live-stream.
  • Bill Myers, Chairman of the Nominations Committee, reminded members that anyone interested in serving on the Board should speak to him after the meeting.
  • Treasurer, Dave Diner, provided the following figures:
    • $17,463.72 to begin the year $19,005.29 current balance
  • Roger Heller announced our upcoming speakers:
    • 3-23-2023: Author Tom McMillan, speaking about the Armistead-Hancock relationship.
    • 4-27-2023: LBG James Hessler, speaking about George Armstrong Custer, from Gettysburg to Little Big Horn.  This will be our inaugural meeting in our “new home” at the Adams County Historical Society.  Excitement abounds!
  • Roger also reported that an additional 13 Reynolds Witness Tree pen sets sold this week. He thanked Jim Hessler and Eric Lindblade, co-hosts of the Battle of Gettysburg Podcast, for advertising the sets on their website.  Roger noted that only 21 sets of the original 100 remain available.

Bruce then introduced tonight’s guest, the Rev. Dr. Nancy Jill Hale. In his introduction of Reverend Hale, Bruce revealed that it was actually Rev. Hale that led him to the idea of seeking out permission to use the sanctuary in this church. He explained that in September of 2021, he attended a Civil War themed service led by Rev. Hale over Labor Day weekend. In the midst of the Omicron variant outbreak of Covid, it was simply out of the question for the CWRTG to return to the cramped confines of the GAR Hall and securing an alternative had been weighing heavily on Bruce and members of the Board. It was during Rev. Hale’s service, Bruce confessed, that he perhaps began to pay more attention to the amenities of the space than the ongoing service. In approaching Reverend Rick Smith, Bruce quickly received generous permission to use the sanctuary. Bruce noted that Rev. Hale, indirectly and probably unbeknown to her, played a big role in enabling our group to not only continue, but thrive in a time when Covid claimed several round tables.

The Rev. Dr. Nancy Jill Hale is a United Methodist pastor serving two churches near Bellefonte, PA. She is also a Union chaplain re-enactor and has led CW Divine Services at Gettysburg and other locations. Her novel, Faith and Duty, is the account of a fictional chaplain’s struggle to reconcile his faith with his sense of duty to the men in his regiment and his nation.  She is currently working on a book about Union chaplains who were at the Battle of Gettysburg. For the past three years, Nancy has sounded Taps at the National Cemetery in Gettysburg as part of the 100 Nights of Taps program. Rev. Hale has five Civil War veterans in her family tree, three of whom fought at Gettysburg.

Reverend Hale’s presentation: For Honorable Living and Hopeful Dying explored the evolution of military chaplaincy from the Revolution to the Civil War, when chaplains were officially recognized by the U.S. Government and Army. The program covered specific chaplains, including the four who were awarded the Medal of Honor for bravery. She also covered the roles, duties and privileges of the chaplaincy and delved into the moral and theological dilemma for soldiers and chaplains alike. Several questions were fielded following Rev. Hale’s presentation. And Bruce presented Rev. Hale with an honorarium and the meeting concluded at 8:20pm.

-Respectfully submitted by Recording Secretary Veronica Brestensky


The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
United Methodist Church (in-person) and Live-streamed
January 26, 2023

President Bruce Davis opened the meeting at 7pm.

  • Bruce continued his series “The Chronicles of the Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg” with Part 8: 1991-1995.
  • The Pledge of Allegiance of recited by the group. The Preservation Plate was passed around.
  • Lynn Heller reported that the Holiday Banquet was a resounding success and she noted that it was largest group event for such a gathering. She also thanked donors that provided items for the raffle. Lynn also recognized one new member and 3 guests in attendance tonight.
  • Bill Myers was introduced as the Nominations Committee Chairman. He recognized Nominations Committee members Lynn Heller and Linda Seamon. Bill announced that the election for upcoming open Board positions will be held in April and encouraged anyone who was interested in putting his/her name forward for the spots to speak with any of the Committee persons after the meeting for more information.
  • Treasurer, Dave Diner, provided the following figures as 2022 year-end numbers: Beginning balance: $15,780
    Ending balance:   $17,463
    The ending balance reflects the following: $13,007 in the operations fund, $1,942 in the preservation fund, and $2,513 in the reserve fund.
    Dave noted that the +$1,683 difference between the beginning and ending balance was directly attributable to the on-going Reynold Witness Wood Pen Set sales and reminded the group that there are still some sets available for sale.
  • Roger Heller announced our upcoming speakers.
    2-23-2023: Rev. Nancy Jill Hale, speaking about Chaplains in the Civil War
    3-23-2023: Author Tom McMillan, speaking about the Armistead-Hancock relationship. Roger also reminded the group that our first meeting in our “new home” at the Adams County Historical Society will occur on 4-27-2023.

Bruce then introduced tonight’s guest, Licensed Battlefield Guide, Chris Army. Chris’s presentation covered The Pipe Creek Line. Attendees learned what the Pipe Creek Line was, what impact it had on the Battle of Gettysburg, and what it taught us about MG George Gordon Meade’s leadership. At the conclusion of Chris’s talk, he graciously answered several questions.

Chris was presented with a plaque and honorarium by President Davis and the meeting concluded at 8:20pm.

There were 48 attendees in person and several watching the live-stream.

-Respectfully submitted by Recording Secretary Veronica Brestensky


The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
United Methodist Church (in-person) and Live-streamed
November 17, 2022

Vice President Peter Miele opened the meeting at 7pm. (Bruce Davis is out-of-town celebrating his birthday. Happy Birthday wishes were extended to our amazing President!)

  • Harper Luskey, daughter of this month’s speaker led the Pledge of Allegiance.
  • Treasurer, Dave Diner, provided the financials for our organization.
    Lynn Heller updated us on the Holiday Banquet, indicating that 89 are already signed up. She also reminded us that the Reynolds Witness Tree Pen Sets are still selling (and quickly).
  • After our December 1st Holiday Banquet, we will welcome LBG Chris Army on January 26 as he presents on Meade’s Pipe Creek Circular.
    35 members attended in person and we welcomed 2 guests, Catherine Mangello and Rick Fogel.
  • The Preservation Basket was passed.

Dr. Brian Luskey (WVU Professor and author of Men Is Cheap: Exposing the Frauds of Free Labor in Civil War America) was then introduced and presented an interesting talk entitled: Mercenaries or Patriots? Bounty Men in the Union Army.

Pete presented a Certificate of Appreciation and Honorarium to Dr. Luskey and a Question and Answer session was held before the meeting was adjourned at 8:13pm.

-Respectfully submitted by Veronica Brestensky


The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
United Methodist Church (in-person) and Live-streamed
October 27, 2022

President Bruce Davis opened the meeting at 7pm by continuing his presentation on the history of the Round Table. Today’s edition, part 6, covered 1986-1990.

  • During the presentation, Bruce reminded us that his second term as President is coming to an end in 2023 and elections will be held in April 2023. He asked that members consider running and also noted that we have openings on the nominations committee.
  • Bruce also announced that the Round Table’s new “home” will be the Adams County Historical Society beginning in April 2023 when they open their new facility/museum. Meetings will continue to be held the 4th Thursday of each month.
  • We were reminded that the initial run of 50 of the Reynolds’ Witness Tree Pen Sets are almost all sold. A second run is in the works and orders are still being accepted.
  • Also mentioned during Bruce’s presentation is the fact that that our old meeting space — The GAR Hall on Middle Street — will be holding an open house on November 12 from 1pm-4pm to celebrate its 200th anniversary.
  • It was announced that member Jeanne Thierolf passed away recently. Condolences to her husband, friends, and family were expressed. She was remembered fondly for her commitment to the Round Table and will be missed. May she Rest In Peace.
  • Bruce then led the group in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
  • The Preservation Basket was passed.
  • Lynn Heller welcomed 2 guests: Bill from Greencastle and Don from Harrisburg. She also welcomed new member Steve from Maryland. Lynn went on to remind us about the Holiday Banquet on December 1st, 2022 at the Dobbin House with Kent Masterson Brown. She also requested items for the raffle and encouraged us to solicit donations for the raffle from local businesses. Finally, she listed the menu and it sounded like a can’t miss event!

Several individuals made announcements:

  • Jeff Greenawalt: Beginning November 7th at 7pm, for 5 consecutive nights, the History Consortium will be hosting presentations concerning the impact of the Civil War on communities. The sessions can be viewed on the Adams County Historical Society’s YouTube page. December 8th at 7pm, also on the ACHS YouTube page, Jeff will be speaking on popular songs of the Civil War. November 18th at 4pm Jeff will present a live program at GettysGear on Baltimore St. covering Civil War songs. December 3rd at 11am Jeff will do another live show at GettysGear covering Christmas Carols.
  • Steve Smith: The Harrisburg and Hershey Civil War Round Tables team up 2 times each year for a tour. This fall, the tour is covering Mosby’s Confederacy. The tour is this Saturday (October 29, 2022) and costs $95. Steve said that a few seats opened recently and encouraged those interested to grab a flyer.
  • Pete Miele: 24 Hours on the Ridge returns for its second year! November 2nd at 5pm through November 3rd at 5pm, the Seminary Ridge Museum and Education Center will remain open with special programming including speakers, tours, and movie screenings.
  • Treasurer Dave Diner demurred on giving a full report due to the number of speakers, however, he assured us, “We’re good!” in the financial department.
  • Roger Heller update us on upcoming programs:
    • November 17th: Brian Luskey will present Mercenaries of Patriots? Bounty Men in the Union Army. *Please note this is the 3rd Thursday due to Thanksgiving.
    • December 1st: Kent Masterson Brown will present at the Holiday Banquet at the Dobbin House.

Tonight’s speaker, Tom Vossler, retired U. S. Army Colonel and Licensed Battlefield Guide, spoke about his book Battle Tested! Gettysburg Leadership Lessons for the 21st Century. The book was co-authored with Jeffrey D. McCausland. Tom educated the group on several leadership principles and lessons based upon specific examples and vignettes from the Battle of Gettysburg.

  • A couple questions from the audience were fielded after the talk.

Bruce presented a Certificate of Appreciation and Honorarium to Mr. Vossler and the meeting concluded at 8:38pm.

-Respectfully submitted by Veronica Brestensky


The Gettysburg Civil War Roundtable
United Methodist Church (in-person) and Live-streamed
September 22, 2022

President Bruce Davis opened the meeting at 7pm by continuing his presentation on the history of the Round Table. Today’s edition covered 1981-1985.

Bruce then led the group in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

  • Treasurer, David Diner reported that, to date, we have had $4,202.65 in income and $5,322.79 in expenses. It was noted that the expenses included the upfront costs associated with the Reynolds Wood Pen Set fundraiser. We have overall assets in the amount of $14,660.42.
  • The Preservation Fund basket was passed around for the first time since Covid.
  • Bruce presented a $500.00 donation from the Round Table to Jaimee Umstattd, Supervisor of the Children of Gettysburg 1863 Museum, to assist in their mission to educate “children of all ages” about Gettysburg and the Battle through the eyes of the town’s children. Museum Manager, Bethany Yingling was also in attendance.
  • Roger Heller spoke about the Reynold Witness Tree Wood pen set fundraiser that is officially underway. The sets are selling for $50.00 each and come with a certificate of authenticity. If a purchaser would like their set mailed to them, that can be arranged for an additional $10.00. Dave indicated that 10 sets were already sold this evening.
  • Roger, on behalf of Lynn who could not be present tonight, introduced a few visitors and they were welcomed by our members. Roger also updated the group on the Holiday Banquet and confirmed that it will return to the Dobbin House this year on Thursday, December 1st after a Covid hiatus. Kent Masterson Brown will be the speaker. Tickets are $37.00 per person. Finally, a request for donations for raffle items was made. If you have an item or know of a business that would like to donate, please contact Lynn Heller at lynnheller7677@gmail.com or 717-398-2072.
  • Roger went on to detail upcoming speakers:
    October 27: Retired Col. Tom Vossler will speak about Leadership Lessons from Gettysburg for the 21st Century.
    November 17: Dr. Brian Luskey will present Mercenaries or Patriots?: Bounty Men of the Union Army
  • Bruce introduced LBG Mary Turk-Meena, Esq. who presented her research on the Joint Committee on the Conduct of the War: Ambitious and Jealous Politicians and Military Leaders Fight over Control of the Civil War.

There were approximately 45 people at the meeting. The next meeting will be Thursday, October 27, 2022 at 7pm.

Meeting adjourned at approximately 8:40pm

-Respectfully submitted by Veronica Brestensky


The Gettysburg Civil War Roundtable
United Methodist Church (in-person) and Live-streamed
May 26, 2022

President Bruce Davis opened the meeting at 7pm by continuing his presentation on the history of the Roundtable. Today’s edition covered the years 1976-1980.

Board Member Lynn Heller introduced one guest and handed out copies of our summer outdoor program lineup.

Vice President Peter Miele spoke about the Seminary Ridge Museum and Education Center’s 2022 summer sunset tours schedule.

Committee Reports

Treasurer, David Diner reported that, to date, we have had $2,689.71 in income and $670.00 in expenses. We have overall assets in the amount of $17,830.66.

Board Member and Program Director, Roger Heller gave details about the upcoming Outdoor Summer Walking Tour Schedule:

  • June 23 at 6pm: Dr. Jennifer Murray: George Gordon Meade’s Leadership on July 2, 1863. (Meet at PA Memorial). (Rain date: June 27).
  • July 28, at 6pm: LBG James Hessler: Iverson’s Brigade (Meet at Peace Light). (Rain date: August 4)
  • August 25, at 6pm: LBG Therese Orr: Benner’s Hill. (Rain date: August 29)
    Each walk is expected to last at least 90 minutes and start promptly at 6pm. The programs will NOT be live-streamed this year.

Bruce introduced Cooper Wingert who gave a fascinating talk on: The Underground Railroad in South Central Pennsylvania. Cooper noted that this is his first in-person presentation since the pandemic began and he expressed his pleasure in being able to be here with us tonight. After
a brief Q&A, Bruce presented Cooper with a plaque of appreciation and honorarium.

Bruce concluded by thanking the United Methodist congregation for their continued hospitality. We plan on resuming our meetings here in September 2022 (after the conclusion of our summer battlefield walks).
There were 32 people at the meeting. The next meeting will be Thursday, September 22, 2022 at 7pm. (The summer outdoor tours for June, July, and August are noted above.)

Meeting adjourned at approximately 8:02pm

Respectfully submitted by Veronica Brestensky


The Civil War Roundtable of Gettysburg
General Meeting
April 28, 2022

President Bruce Davis opened the meeting at 7 p.m. with Part 4, the 1970’s history of the Gettysburg Civil War Roundtable.

He then invited all to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance.

Lynn Heller welcomed two new guests to the meeting.

A special thanks and Plaque of Appreciation was given to Eleanor Bilz, outgoing Recording Secretary.

Committee Reports

Treasurer’s Report: David Diner reported that we have an overall total of $17,869.50.

Program Report: Roger Heller announced that there will be two programs in May:

  • Saturday, May 14, 9:30-12, Larry Korczyk will give a tour of the US Regulars Hill aka Day’s Hill. This program will not be streamed as it is meant for paid members only. However, if non members wish to attend, it is requested that a donation be made to the Preservation Fund.
  • Thursday, May 26, 7 p.m. at the United Methodist Church, guest speaker is Cooper Wingert, speaking on the Underground Rail Road in South Central Pa.

In June, July and August, the outdoor programs will begin at 6 p.m. Roger will elaborate on these at the May meeting.

New Business

Elections were held and our newest Board Members are Veronica Brestensky, Recording Secretary and Board Members Roger Heller and Gary (Rip) Engle.

After some technical difficulties, Bruce introduced our guest speaker, Mike McDonnell, from Canada. Mike spoke on Fighting for the Cause, Canadians in the American Civil War. After a brief Q&A session, Bruce awarded Mike with a Plaque of Appreciation and an honorarium.

All business being complete, the meeting closed at approximately 8:30. There were 35 people present. The next meeting will be on May 26th at 7 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Eleanor Bilz


The Civil War Roundtable of Gettysburg
Monthly Meeting (via Zoom and in person)
March 24, 2022

Chairman Bruce David opened the meeting at 7 p.m. with the continuing history of the Roundtable from 1965 to 1970.

Lynn Heller introduced two guests to the meeting and one new member.

David Diner, Treasurer, reported that we have had a good income from membership dues with an overall total income this year of $1,978.11.

Richard Mancini, Nominating, indicated that we have a full slate of candidates for the openings and that elections will be held at our April meeting.

Roger Heller, Program Director, announced that on April 28th, Mike McDonnell will speak on Canadians in the Civil War. As an aside, there was some concern that he would not be able to enter the United States due to COVID restrictions, but that is no longer an issue at this time. On May 14th, 9:30-noon, Larry Korczyk will take the us on a tour of Day’s Hill. Cooper Wingert will speak on May 26th on The Underground Railroad in South Central Pennsylvania.

Bruce then introduced Sue Boardman, who spoke on the Snyder County Boys. After a brief Q&A, he presented her with a plaque of appreciation and an honorarium.

The meeting ended with the Pledge of Allegiance as we had some technical difficulties in the beginning of the meeting.

There were approximately 40 people at the meeting.  The next meeting will be on April 28th at 7 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Eleanor Bilz

The Civil War Roundtable of Gettysburg
Monthly Meeting (via Zoom and in person)
February 24, 2022

At 7:00 p.m., Chairman Bruce Davis opened the meeting at the United Methodist Church and asked for a moment of silence for the people of the Ukraine.

He then continued with five minutes of the history of the Gettysburg Roundtable.

Lynn Heller welcomed new visitors to our meeting.

Richard Mancini announced candidates for the April elections.

David Diner reported that we have a total of $17,705.76. The increase was due mostly to in increase in new members.

Roger Heller told the membership that Sue Boardman will speak at our March meeting on Snyder County Boys and in April we will hear from Mike McDonnell, on Canada in the Civil War (assuming he can travel here from Canada).

Bruce then introduced tonight’s speaker, Scott Hartwig, Writings about Antietam. After the talk, Bruce presented Scott with a plaque of appreciation.

The meeting ended at 8:35 p.m. There were 40 people present. Our next meeting is March 24th.

Respectfully submitted by Eleanor Bilz


The Civil War Roundtable of Gettysburg
Monthly Meeting (via Zoom and in person)
January 27, 2022

Chairman Bruce opened the meeting the United Methodist Church of Gettysburg. He has been going through the archives and in each meeting this year he will chronicle the origins of this… “most important round table in the most important small town, at the most important battlefield, in the most important country in the world.” Our roundtable was established in 1957 at the GAR Hall by G. Henry Roth. Bruce gave a brief history of the first decade and will follow up at each meeting.

Bruce then invited the membership to stand and recite the Pledge of Allegiance.

Lynn Heller welcomed three guests who attended this meeting.

David Diner gave the Treasurer’s Report. We had income of $4,119.05, mostly from membership dues and expenses of $3,545.08. Our end of year balance is $15,780.56.

Richard Mancini, Nominating Committee, announced that elections will be held in April and the open slots comprise Recording Secretary and Board Member positions. Anyone interested should email Richard.

Roger Heller, Program Chair, announced that on February 24, Scott Hartwig will speak on Antietam and on March 24, Sue Boardman will speak on the Snyder County Boys.

Bruce then introduced our speaker, Douglas Douds who spoke on Staff Officers of the Army of the Potomac, Part 2, followed by a Q&A session. Afterward, Bruce presented him with a plaque of appreciation and an honorarium.

33 members and 3 guests attended. Next meeting will be on February 24th.

Respectfully submitted by Eleanor Bilz


Civil War Roundtable of Gettysburg
Monthly Meeting
December 2, 2021

The meeting was called to order by Bruce Davis at 7 P.M. via Zoom. This meeting would have been held at the Dobbin House, at our annual Holiday Banquet. However, due to the high incident of COVID, it was decided to forgo the banquet.

Thanks to Peter Miele who is running the streaming. Questions and comments can be made in the Chat box and viewers are encouraged to do so.

Treasurer’s Report by David Diner. We have a balance of $15,509. Just a reminder that 2022 dues are now being accepted by check or via PayPal.

Roger Heller reminded everyone that we meet on the 4th Thursday of each month at the Gettysburg United Methodist Church on High Street, 7 p.m.  Our next meeting will be on January 27th and our speaker will be Douglas Douds, speaking on Staff Officers of the Army of the Potomac. On February 24th, Scott Hartwig will speak on Antietam. We have a full line-up for the year with one Saturday morning talk and three summer outdoor meetings.

Bruce then introduced Therese Orr, who announced the winner of this year’s book award. Three books were read and reviewed by her committee and the winner is Bradley M. Gottfried who wrote The Maps of the Cavalry of the Gettysburg Campaign. Therese then asked for readers who lives locally who would be interested in reading five books for review in 2022.

Bruce then introduced our guest speaker, Kevin Pawlak, who spoke on Lincoln and the Emancipation Proclamation. Kevin is an historian site manager for the Prince William County Office of Historic Preservation and a Certified Battlefield Guide at Antietam National Battlefield.

After the talk, Bruce thanked Kevin and then read an 1863 poem by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow called I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day, and wished everyone a blessed holiday, peace and goodwill.

The meeting ended at 8:15 p.m. There were 22 participants linked into zoom as well as those streaming in.

Respectfully submitted by Eleanor Bilz


Civil War Roundtable of Gettysburg Minutes of Meeting
November 18th 2021
United Methodist Church of Gettysburg

The meeting was called to order by President Bruce Davis at 7 PM

Bruce Introduced musician Ivan Franz, who offered information of how the bugle was used in the Civil War, and the fact that both North and South used the same bugle calls, which often resulted in much confusion. Ivan played Scott’s Tattoo, which was played every evening in camp at night before ‘lights out’.

Lynn Light Heller reported on guests and members at tonight’s meeting. She welcomed one new member, two guests, one who was invited by member Bill Meyer, and another a friend of the speaker. There were 30 attendees present.

Dave Dinner gave the Treasurer’s report:

Financial Position as of 11/18/ 2021

Investment Fund: $2,500.00; Operational Fund: $19,056.50; Preservation Fund: $2,650.50.
Total cash and bank accounts:$15,206.59

Net Income Year to date: 1/1/21 - 11/18/2021

Income:

Donations received:

$1,115.00

Interest income:

$19.82

Membership Dues:

$1903.74

Plaque Applications:

$500.00

Total Income: $3538.56

Expenses:

Field Trip expenses

- $150 (n/a)

 

Insurance:

$1528.00

Misc Expenses.

$ 199.99

Post Office & Post Office Box Rental

$121.00

{ total expenses}

Preservation Fund Expenditures

$750,00

 

Printing and copying.

- $41.28 (n/a)

 

Speakers Fees and travel

$1.100.00

 

Total Expenses: $3,507.71

Overall Total: $30.85

Dave announced that it is now time to pay 2022 dues which go from Jan 1 - Dec 31. Information can be found on the web page: cwrtgettysburg.org.

Roger Heller: Programs
December 2 will be a ZOOM meeting 6 PM Kevin Pawlak
January - Doug Dowds
February - Scott Hartwick
Complete list and information found on our web page: cwrtgettysburg.org.

Bruce announced that the church has extended their hospitality to us for our meetings through next year.

He also read am article from the Gettysburg Times “100 years ago”…….In 1921 the Corporal Skelly GAR Post 9 (our former home) held its annual banquet for Civil War survivors. 55 veterans were in attendance,
Our Civil War Roundtable began meeting there in 1957.

Bruce introduced the speaker for tonight’s program, Scott Rosenau. Scott holds a Masters Degree in History from Rutger’s University. Scott and his wife Julie live in York, PA.( Prior to his talk, there was a malfunction in the AV system, which was technically worked out by I.T. church member, Larry.)

Scott's topic: Lincoln and the Founding Fathers, in which he discussed how the Founding Fathers, especially Thomas Jefferson and George Washington inspired Lincoln’s ideas that culminated in The Gettysburg Address. Q & A followed.

Ivan gave a history of how TAPS came to be written, followed by playing a lovely rendition of TAPS on his trumpet.

Bruce concluded the program by reading a passage from the book November, Lincoln’s Elegy at Gettysburg, by Kent Gramm.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 pm

Respectfully submitted,
Lynn Light Heller, for Ellie Bilz


Civil War Roundtable of Gettysburg Minutes of Meeting
October 28, 2021

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by President Bruce Davis.
Bruce gave a brief history of the Methodist Church, mentioning that before our old “home”, became the GAR, it had been a Methodist Church at the time of the battle.

  • The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
  • Bruce thanked Pastor Rick Smith and Methodist hosts for their hospitality and assistance.
  • Peter Miele, Director of the Seminary Ridge Museum made an announcement about “24 Hours on the Ridge”. 5 pm November 4th - 5 pm November 5th. The museum will be open for free activities….Cupola tours, exhibits, special guests, music, refreshments, and a midnight showing of the movie “Gettysburg”! All donation will be in support of the Adams County Annual Giving Spree.
  • Treasurer: Dave Diner: Investment Fund: $2, 500.00; Operational Fund: $10, 906.94; Preservation Fund: $1,900.50. Dave reminded everyone that since we are not passing a “preservation basket” at our meetings, anyone who would like to make a donation to that fund can mail in a check to CWRT Gettysburg, P.O Box 4236, GB 17325 and designate “preservation”.
    He also read a thank you note from Andrew Dalton, CEO of ACHS, thanking us for the $500.00 donation we recently made to the Capital Fund for their new museum.
  • Programs: Roger Heller: Announced the upcoming programs which can be found on our web page: cwrtgettysburg.org., and reminded everyone that the November meeting is one week earlier - on Nov 18, and the December meeting is on Thursday, Dec. 2.
  • Lynn introduced one new member and three guests.
  • After an introduction by Bruce, Dr. Brad Gottfried gave a poignant power point program about the Prisoner of War Camp at Point Lookout. Located in Southern Maryland, it was the largest Confederate POW camp in the North during the war, He spoke of the many desperate problems encountered by those held prisoner there, the attempts to remedy them, and some of the daily activities of the prisoners. During the time it was open, 52,000 men passed through the gates. It is estimated that 3000+ died.
  • Q & A and book signing followed.
  • Bruce ended the meeting by reciting the words of a famous Civil War song “When This Cruel War is Over”

The meeting was adjourned at 8:15PM

This meeting was also ‘live-streamed’ and can be viewed via our Facebook page or web page.

Respectfully submitted,
Lynn Heller, for Ellie Bilk.


The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
September 23, 2021
Gettysburg United Methodist Church and via Zoom

The meeting was called to order at 7 PM by President Bruce Davis, who asked all in attendance to please turn cells phones off.

The beautiful sanctuary is spacious, social distancing was no problem, and almost virtuously everyone was masked.

Bruce recited a history of the “Methodist connection” to our roundtable. For many years, we met in the GAR Hall, which in Civil War times, was the Methodist Episcopal church. When the congregation outgrew it, they used the monies collected from Pastor Jesse Bowman Young’s many talks for the construction of a new church. As it turns out, Brother Young subsequently enlisted in the Union Army, and on July 2nd. found himself on the staff for General Humphreys on the Emmitsburg Road. Bruce read from Young’s account of the fighting that occurred as Humphrey’s line was being assaulted by Confederate forces.

Bruce welcomed everyone and said how nice it was to be in person again, and how lovely it was to see everyone in this lovely setting.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Bruce gave a synopsis of how we came to be meeting at the GB United Methodist Church. When he first seized upon the idea, he contacted our Board … we said go for it ... he contacted Pastor, Rick Smith, who contacted his Board. They said yes! Bruce contacted our Board. We said heck yes! And here we are.

Bruce introduced Pastor Rick Smith, who came to the podium and cordially welcomed us all and said he was happy to have us meet in the sanctuary.

Reports:

  • Dave Diner, Treasurer: Total Income: 2,675.50; Total expenses: 2,807.71; Investment funds: 2, 500.00; Operational Funds: 10, 173.88; Preservation Fund: 2, 400.50
  • Roger Heller, Programs: October 28 - Bradley Gottfried - The Prison at Pt. Lookout; November 18 - Scott Rosenau - Union and the Founders of the Nation; December 2 - Kevin Pawlak - Lincoln and the Emancipation Proclamation

NOTE: Out of COVID 19 safety concerns, we will NOT be holding our annual Dobbin House Holiday Banquet this year. We are on their calendar for December 1, 2022.

Bruce introduced our speaker for the evening, Zach Fry, PhD. Assistant Professor of History at Ft. Belvoir, VA. Zack’s talk was based on his 2020 book: A Republic in the Ranks, which details the heated debate over war aims and loyalty within the Union Army. Zach hi lighted the political dissection, especially concerning Me Clean & the Peace Democrats.
His talk was followed by a Q & A.

At the conclusion of the evening, Nancy Davis at the piano, played God Bless America, for which all the attended rose and sang along.

Zach was kind enough to sign all books purchased.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:30. 39 people in attendance.

Respectfully submitted,
Lynn Heller, for Ellie Bilz. 9/ 24/21


The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
Summer Outdoor Meeting
August 31, 2021

Stuart Dempsey led a discussion on Little Round Top on the 16th Michigan Volunteers. There were approximately 25-30 members in attendance.

Our next outdoor event will be with Charlie Fennel at Culp’s Hill, Saturday, September 18, 9:30-noon.  Meet at Spangler’s Spring parking area.

Our next round table meeting will be September 23. Zachery Fry will speak on politics in the AOP.


The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
Outdoor and Zoom
July 22, 2021

Therese Orr presented on Frances Irsch and the 45th NY. There were approximately 30 people present.

Our next outdoor meeting will be on August 26 (rain date August 31). Stuart Dempsey will present on the 11th Corps.


The Civil War Roundtable of Gettysburg
Battlefield Walk
June 24, 2021

Today is the first of three summer battlefield walks. Larry Korczyk led us on a walking tour of Biddle’s Brigade at Gettysburg. Since it involved moving to different sites, the video portion was broken into two parts.

Attendance for the walk included 30 people. Video views comprised 207 for the first portion and 133 views for the second half.

Next talk will be on July 22 by Therese Orr on Frances Irsch and 45th New York.


The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
May 27, 2021
(via Zoom)

Chairman Bruce Davis opened the meeting at 7 p.m. However, due to technical difficulty, we could not present the May speaker, Sue Boardman. However, Ms. Boardman will present in early 2022.


 

The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
April 22, 2021
(via Zoom)

President Bruce Davis opened the meeting at 7 p.m.

Acknowledged that through Peter Miele’s efforts, we are celebrating one year anniversary of steaming the Round Table meetings. We hoped to keep the organization alive during the pandemic and thanks to the support of the membership, this has happened. We have an opportunity to steam throughout the country. We will continue to live stream events when we go back to meeting in person in Gettysburg. We had concern for membership renewal, but many have renewed and new members are welcome.

  • David Diner gave the Treasurer’s Report. $1451 in income; $1071 from membership dues. Our expenses this year were $458.
  • Roger Heller spoke on upcoming events. Our speaker for May 27th is Sue Boardman on Snyder County Boys. June begins our outdoor events. Roger asks that you bring a folding chair, wear a mask, if possible, and bring water.
  • June 5th at 9:30-12 Dean Schultz will take us on a walking tour of Lost Avenue. Please park at his office at 1621 Baltimore Pike.
  • June 24th (rain date June 29) Larry Korczyk will speak on Biddle’s Brigade at Gettysburg. Please park at the paved lot on Country Club Lane and we will carpool to the tour site.

Election Results: Michele Hessler read off the results of the election of Board members as follows: Bruce Davis, second term as President for two years; Peter Miele, second term as Vice President for two years; Treasurer, David Diner, Recording Secretary, Eleanor Bilz, Corresponding Secretary, Linda Seamon. Three Year Terms: Lynn Heller and Leon Reed.

Bruce then introduced our Speak Carolyn Ivanoff who spoke on Clara Barton, Civil War and the Creation of Missing Soldiers Office. Peter reminded folks to submit any questions in the “comments” section.

After a brief Q&A session, Peter mentioned we had viewers from Lexington, Kentucky, Hattiesburg and Meridian Mississippi, Oregon, Indiana and St. Augustine, Florida.

Next meeting is May 27th. We had 259 views and 12 people on Zoom.


The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
March 25, 2021
(via Zoom)

Chairman Bruce Davis opened the meeting at 7 p.m. He hopes that with the vaccine, we will be closer to having in-person gatherings. However, we will continue to live-stream these events even when we go back to in-person presentations. It’s great to have people from all over joining us. Peter noted that we are live-streaming in Massachusetts, western Maryland, Niagara Falls, Canada, New Jersey, South Dakota, etc.  We are committed to streaming on-line in the Fall via our new Round Table Zoom Account.

  • Bruce thanks Peter Miele for his technical assistance. Peter is also Executive Director of the Seminary Ridge Museum and encouraged folks to visit it and the Cupola, where General Buford observed the first day’s battle.
  • Treasurer, David Diner, gave his report: Starting balance $15,206, with dues, plaque fees and the refund from the bus company from our cancelled field trip, we now have a balance of $15,995. The issuance of 1863 plaques on the civil war building in town has been a project of the Round Table since the 1960’s. There are over 600 plaques in town. We don’t usually ask for donations; however, we are buying new equipment for continued live-streaming and will have a monthly cost for our Zoom account. We welcome checks payable made to The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg. We also have a link set up on our web page for membership and the ability to pay through PayPal.
  • Members received a report from the Nominations Committee on Monday. Election of officers will be held next month through e-balloting.
  • Roger Heller reported on our Speaker Program. Carolyn Ivanoff will speak on Clara Barton and the Missing Soldiers Project. Sue Boardman will speak in May on The Snyder County Boys. On June 5th there will be a members’ event from 9:30-12 noon. Dean Schultz will take us on a tour of Lost/Neill Avenue, which is on Wolf’s Hill. Members will meet at the Bakers Farm (on Baltimore Pike). We will have three battlefield-walk programs this summer and hopefully back into the GAR Hall in September. Roger will soon start work on the 2022 speakers’ program.

Therese Orr then introduced our Book Award Winner and March speaker, Cory M. Pfarr. Cory works for the Department of Defense. He is the author of the award-winning Longstreet at Gettysburg: A Critical Reassessment (McFarland Publishers, 2019), in addition to John Quincy Adams's Republicanism: 'A Thousand Obstacles Apparently Stand Before Us' (Massachusetts Historical Society, 2014). He is an associate editor for North & South Magazine, a member of the Society for History in the Federal Government, has written articles for North & South Magazine and Gettysburg Magazine, and appeared on the Pennsylvania Cable Network and C-SPAN American History TV. He lives in Fallston, Maryland with his wife and three kids.  

Cory’s presentation is on The Creation of a Scapegoat and Perpetuation of a Lie.

After the presentation, Bruce welcomed questions. He thanked Cory and then encouraged the vaccination shots so we can get back to the GAR Hall.

Respectfully submitted by Eleanor Bilz


The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
February 25, 2021 (via Zoom)

Chairman Bruce Davis opened the meeting at approximately 7 p.m. by introducing himself and our speaker, Gene Schmiel.

  • David Diner, Treasurer, reported that we have an income of $719.98 from dues; expenses are $449.99; surplus for 2021 is $269.99 with total assets of $15,476.58.
  • Bruce then invited viewers to join our membership. Our speakers’ presentations will be streamed and archived even when we are back to in-person meetings.
  • Roger Heller, Programs Chair, reported that at our next meeting on March 25th, we will hear from Cory Pfarr on Longstreet at Gettysburg. He is our Book Award winner. On April 22, Carolyn Ivanoff will speak on Clara Barton and the Missing Soldiers Project. We will have an outdoor program on June 5th from 9:30-12:00 meeting at Bakers Farm. Dean Schutlz will take us to Lost Avenue on Wolf Hill. June, July and August meetings will be on the battlefield and we hope to be back at the GAR Hall in September.
  • Bruce sent out a notice on elections. Our Nominations committee will have a proposed slate of officers for our March meeting and voting will be by email in April, in keeping with the spirit of the By-Laws.

Bruce then introduced Gene Schmiel who spoke on the Jacob Cox and the Battle of Franklin. This was followed by a Q&A session.  Bruce then thanked Gene, Peter Miele (who is our technical expert for these presentations) and Roger.

Our next meeting is March 25th. There were 137 views.

Respectfully submitted by Eleanor Bilz


The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
January 28, 2021 (via Zoom)

Chairman Bruce opened the meeting at 7 p.m.  It’s been two months since our last meeting and we all miss the GAR Hall.  However, given how cold and windy it is tonight, we may be fortunate to be meeting online from the comfort of our homes.

  • Treasurer’s Report: David Diner reported the results of 2020. Our staring balance was $14,742 and our closing balance was $15,206 an increase of $464.00.  We have a C/D of $2,500; operating funds $10,056 (from dues); and the Preservation Fund has $2,650 (from donations). Our primary source of income is from membership dues.
  • New memberships are welcome from all over. We will do live streaming through May, meet in person on the battlefield during the summer, and hopefully be back into the GAR Hall in September - the programs streamed online as well.
  • Speaker Program: Roger Heller reported that at our next meeting of February 25th, our speaker will be Gene Schmiel on General Jacob Cox and the Battle of Franklin.  Our March 25th meeting will feature our Book Award winner, Cory M. Pfarr, who will speak on Longstreet at Gettysburg.

Bruce then introduced Peter Miele, Executive Director of the Seminary Ridge Museum and Education Center, and has produced our on-line programs. His talk tonight is on W.W. Keen, a young medical student during the Civil War who went on to be a pioneer in treating issues of the nervous system.

After a short question and answer period, Bruce closed our meeting.  The next meeting is on February 25th.  There were 384 views tonight.

Respectfully submitted Eleanor Bilz and Bruce Davis


The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
December 3, 2020 (via Zoom)

Chairman Bruce Davis opened the meeting at 7 p.m. and welcomed all to what would have been our Holiday Banquet.

  • Treasurer’s Report: Dave Diner
    Starting balance: $14,742
    Present balance: $14,563
    Loss: $179
  • We have been receiving membership dues. Total revenue $3775, expenses $3954. Dues can be sent to our post office box or through PayPal. For those who live out of town, we will continue to stream these meeting once we are able to meet again in person.
  • Speaker Program: Roger Heller
    January 28: Peter Miele, is Executive Director of the Seminary Ridge Museum and a member of the Board of the Civil War Round Table and the technical director for our meetings. He will speak on W.W. Keen, a medical student during the Civil War who went on to do great things.
  • February’s speaker is Gene Schmiel on the Battle of Franklin.
  • March will be our Book Award winner, Cory Pfarr. Cory spoke briefly on Zoom, thanking us for the honor.

Bruce then introduced our guest speaker. Wayne Motts first spoke in 1991 and has made between 8 and 9 presentations to our Round Table. He is CEO of the National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg. The topic is the story of Captain Samuel Mills Sprole, One Union Officer at Gettysburg, “His Place was Clearly “in” the Insane Asylum.

  • After his talk, Wayne answered a few questions, which were facilitated by Peter through the chat room. Peter mentioned that we had viewers from California, Maryland, Michigan and Ohio.
  • Bruce ended the meeting in following through with the Captain’s story, by saying that a lot of people are feeling stress these days, especially with winter upon us and everything shutting down. He hopes the vaccine will come soon and encourages everyone to be aware of their own mental health. Get help if you need it and remember that everyone is feeling the same way right how.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and a joyous holiday season.

318 views on line. Next meeting January 28th.

Respectfully submitted by Eleanor Bilz


The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
November 12, 2020 (via Zoom)

Vice President Hilda Koontz opened the meeting at 7 p.m. After welcoming everyone, she introduced Dave Diner who gave the Treasurer’s report.

  • Treasurer's Report: Our opening balance at the beginning of the year was $14,742.; expenses were $3,854. Income from dues are $2,738 and our present balance is $13,626.
  • A letter was sent to the membership via US mail which included a form to renew annual membership. The dues are the same as last year. You can renew via US mail or through PayPal.
  • Hilda said we will be back to meeting in person at some point but will continue to live stream our programs.
  • Roger said our next meeting will be on December 3rd.  It would have been our Holiday Banquet but we will still have our scheduled speaker, Wayne Motts, who will share brand new material, never presented before.  In January 2021, our own Peter Miele will speak on Dr. W.W. Keen, a surgeon from the First Battle of Bull Run through 1864 and then continued his training in Europe, ultimately treating Franklin Roosevelt when he first contracted polio.

All business being concluded, Hilda introduced our speaker, Gene Barr, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry. His talk was on a Civil War Captain and his Lady, letters exchanged during the war.

Hilda closed the meeting at 8:00. There were 165 intermittent views during the presentation.

Respectfully submitted by Eleanor Bilz.

The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
October 22, 2020 (via Zoom)

Meeting opened “live” at 7 p.m. Bruce Davis introduced himself. He then mentioned the passing David Joswick, a long-time member of this group. He produced our newsletter, The Angle. Bruce first met Dave and his wife Linda when he first took over his job as President. Dave’s contributions for this group were many and varied. Our sympathy to Linda and their family.

  • Treasurer’s Report: Dave Diner reported that we have a balance of $13,620.00 and expenses of $1122.00. Membership fees are not in yet. Dave asked that members start to send in their dues. Also, if anyone wants to make contributions to the Preservation Fund, simply note it on their checks.
  • Since we are live-streaming, we have many folks from around the country joining our group. Once we go back to in-person meeting, we will continue to live-stream. Cost for membership is $30.00 per person or $45.00 for a family.
  • Viewers were reminded that the Chat box is available to say hello and for questions to the speaker after the presentation.
  • Bruce mentioned that on November 7th, Peter Miele, Executive Director of the Seminary Ridge Museum and Education Center along with Hilda Koontz, is hosting the second annual research round table: The Long Shadow of the Civil War: Drug Abuse and Mental Health Issues.
  • Roger Heller reminded everyone that November 12th and December 3rd are out of sync meeting dates due to holiday events.  On November 12th, Gene Barr will speak on A Civil War Captain and his Lady which covers 75 letters written during the course of the war. December 3rd would have been our holiday banquet. However, the presentation will be on-line. The speaker is Wayne Motts, CEO of the National Civil War Museum. He will speak about an officer of the 4th US Regulars in the Wheatfield at Gettysburg who simply left the field. Wayne will explore this man’s personal struggles. This information is unpublished and not yet presented anywhere.

Bruce then introduced tonight’s speaker, Douglas Douds, Licensed Battlefield Guide and fighter pilot. His talk is on Staff Officers and their impact on the Battle of Gettysburg.  A question and answer session followed.

All business being complete, Bruce ended the meeting at 8:20 p.m. with 180 views on Facebook.

Next meeting is November 12th.


The Civil War Round Table of Gettysburg
Summer “Outdoor” Sessions (via Zoom)
2020

June 25th Richard Goedkoop, Culp’s Hill Memorials 327 views

July 23rd Jared Frederick, The Uses of the Battlefield in the 30’s and 40’s 152 views

August 27th Charles Fennell, The Other Side of East Cemetery Hill 278 views

  • An important announcement was made that our elections, which should have taken place last April, but were postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will take place via mail in or through the on-line link in our next newsletter.

The Summer meetings were presented on ZOOM and are avaiable online at https://www.facebook.com/CivilWarRoundTableOfGettysburg/live/

You do not need to be a member of FaceBook to view the videos.


May 28, 2020

  • President Bruce Davis opened the meeting at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom. He spoke about the author Gregory A. Coco, specifically A Strange and Blighted Land on the history of Adams County after the Civil War and how it affected the people living there. The aftermath of the battle put a great tax on the people particularly in caring for the wounded. Every building was used as a hospital, especially the churches. The suffering of the town folk did not end when the battle was over. Of course, things eventually got back to normal then, and so will it be for us soon, when the coronavirus eventually dissipates.
  • Bruce then introduced tonight’s speaker, James Broomall, Director of the George Tyler Moore Center for the Study of the Civil War. Mr. Broomall spoke on the Manliness and Community in Confederate Camps.

During the break, Roger Heller spoke about our summer outdoor program.

  • This year we will have no rain dates as the programs will be Zoomed via Facebook.

Our programs are as follows:

  • June 25th Richard Goedkoop, Culp’s Hill Memorials, which will be a virtual tour.
  • July 23rd Jared Frederick, The uses of the Battlefield in the 30’s and 40’s, from the Great Depression through WWII.
  • August 27th, Charles Fennell, The Other Side of East Cemetery Hill, the events on July 3rd.

Treasurer’s Report:

  • Total Assets: $14,841.15
  • Income: $1,596.15
  • Expenses: $1497.33
  • Overall total $98.82
  • Peter Miele let everyone know that our meetings are on the website for viewing at any time. In fact, after our first summer program, we can use the video’s virtual tour to walk Culp’s Hill and see the memorials on our own
  • Peter also noted that we have visitors not only from here in Gettysburg, but from as far as Los Angeles, California, New Jersey and Virginia.
  • The talk being finished at 8:10 p.m., there was a brief Q&A session.

Bruce closed the meeting at 8:20 p.m. There were 296 views as of the close of the meeting.

Respectfully submitted by Eleanor Bilz.


April 23, 2021

  • Due to the circumstances of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), all activities have been suspended. In order to continue with our Speaker’s Program, tonight’s speaker was presented via ZOOM, live on Facebook.
  • President Bruce Davis opened the meeting with a copy of the April 25, 1957 Gettysburg Times which featured a front-page article on the newly created Gettysburg Civil War Round Table. It listed the name of the officers and committee members and noted that the topic of the meeting would be on how the small town of Gettysburg was affected by the events of the battle. Bruce noted that the date of the first meeting was 63 years ago and invited all to sing Happy Birthday to the Round Table.
  • This meeting was unique as it enabled viewers from all over the country to observe, including our own Chuck Teague, who recently moved to Texas.

Bruce introduced our speaker, Mary Turk-Meena. She was a music major, who went on to law school, and after a 35-year practice in corporate law, was licensed as a Battlefield Guide in 2016.  She will tell us about the Joint Committee on The Conduct of the War.

  • During a brief loss of contact with Ms. Turk-Meena, Bruce spoke of the uncertainty of our upcoming programs. He asked that viewers check the Round Table website for updates.
  • Thanks to Peter Miele, who was running the broadcast, the program was able to finish and Peter was able to ask Ms. Turk-Meena questions which were sent in.

Bruce showed her the Plaque of Appreciation, which would normally be presented to her while Lynn Heller would be taking their picture. Since she lives in the area, Bruce will get the plaque to her.

Meeting ended at approximately 8:30. 43-50 people were watching the broadcast.


January 23, 2020

President Bruce Davis brought the meeting to order at 7 PM, and requested all turn their cells phones off.

  • He related that Historian William C. “Jack” Davis had been the presenter at the Gettysburg Civil War Roundtable Holiday Banquet 50 years ago, whose subject that evening was the Confederate General John C. Breckinridge. After the war Breckenridge spent a 3 year exile in Cuba. At one point he happened to see an American Flag floating over a ship in the harbor. It gave him a great feeling of sadness…” I realized in all its terrible force the fact that I had no flag, no country, but was an outcast and a wanderer over the earth”.
  • Bruce then asked us to begin a new decade of the Civil War Roundtable of Gettysburg by pledging allegiance to our flag, our country, our home. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
  • New members were introduced: Nancy Lee, Marilyn Fitzgerald, Tim Neal, and Larry Drennan.
  • Lynn Heller was acknowledged for her work in planning the 2019 Holiday Banquet.

Announcements:

  • March 28, 2020 - The National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg will host the 2nd Annual Custer Symposium “From Gettysburg to Little Big Horn”. Organizers include RT members Jim Hessler and Wayne Motts. Check out the National Civil War Museum Web site for more information.
  • The Civil War Institute at Gettysburg College is holding its 2020 Summer Conference on June 12 -17, offering discounts to Roundtable members. Promo cards will continue be available at future Roundtable meetings.
  • Peter Miele announced that The Seminary Ridge Museum will hold a Symposium on March 21, 2020, entitled “Monuments and Memories from the Civil War”. Ticket information will soon be available on the museum Web page, with a discount for RT members.

Committee Reports

  • Treasurer’s Report: Dave Diner: All income $8,906; Expenses $8177.16. Total net income:
    $729.72. Dave stated that we are in good shape financially.
  • Nominating Committee: Al Ferranto reported that there will be 3 Board Positions opening up this year. Al will announce the candidates at the March meeting, and voting will occur at the April meeting. Anyone interested in becoming a candidate please contact Al.
  • Show and Tell: Al Ferranto: Presenters are scheduled for February and March. Openings available for April and May. Interested persons should contact Al.

Show And Tell

  • Member Patti Barr displayed a large Commemorative Military Memorial which has been in her family for a very long time. It honors her Civil War ancestor Wilhelm Morlock, who fought in 18 battles during the war and amazingly was never wounded. Morlock’s regiment the 74th Pennsylvania saw desperate action during the Battle of Gettysburg.

  • The Preservation Basket was passed.
  • The Book Raffle was conducted by Deb Novotny who raffled off 3 books.

Bruce introduced the speaker for the evening Ron Kirkwood, whose topic The George Spangler Farm, based on his recently published book Too Much for Human Endurance: The George Spangler Farm Hospitals and the Battle of Gettysburg.

  • Ron related a compelling overview of life on this family farm turned field hospital during the 5 weeks it was in operation, including some of the notable soldiers among the 1900 wounded who were treated at the two hospitals on the Spangler property.
  • At the conclusion of his talk, there was a Q & A, followed by the presentation to Ron of the Certificate of Appreciation and an honorarium.

Bruce announced that the next meeting will be held on February 27. The Speaker will be Dr. Ashley Luskey, Assistant Director of the Civil War Institute at Gettysburg College. Her talk will be “ The Richmond Bread Riots”.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 PM with 68 in attendance.

Respectfully submitted Lynn Light Heller for Eleanor Bilz, Recording Secretary.


October 24, 2019

 

  • President Bruce Davis opened the meeting at 7:00 p.m. with a short reading from Dr. Carol Reardon’s 1997 work, Pickett’s Charge in History and Memory, regarding the Confederate flags captured by the Philadelphians at the Angle and ending with “Southern men don’t care who keeps the flags—the past went down in war, and we recognize now the banner of our fathers.” At that point, Bruce invited all to stand and recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
  • The battlefield preservation envelope was then passed around.
  • Bruce welcomes guests and new members. We had visitors from Gettysburg and many states including Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, and New York.

Committee Reports

  • In the interest of time, the committee reports were not called, but the Treasurer’s report to be listed for the record.
    Treasurer’s Report: We have total assets of $12,961.85 down from last year’s assets of $13,912.61. The $950.76 deficit is due to a decrease in membership dues.
  • Just a few announcements included the flyer for the December 5th holiday party, with a request for volunteers to ask merchants for contributions toward our door prizes, and a reminder that our November meeting will be held on the 21st, due to the Thanksgiving holiday.

Cal Doucette Achievement Award

  • Lynn Heller, Chair of the Cal Doucette Achievement Award Committee, introduced Susan Doucette, widow of Cal Doucette. Lynn explained that this award recognizes people who do something special for the Gettysburg community. It is given in memory of Cal who was an extremely active member of the community. This year’s recipient is Ron Rock. Ron’s acceptance speech was very short. He thanked Mrs. Doucette for attending and said he enjoyed and had fun doing all of the things he was praised for doing. Lynn gave examples of Ron’s achievements including his efforts in cleaning up the brush in the National Park, including the National Cemetery. He has been a volunteer at the information desk at the Visitors’ Center, a job he thoroughly enjoyed. He was part of the Park watch and told visitors many stories of the Gettysburg Civil War hospital.

Bruce ended the business portion of the meeting at 7:20 p.m. and introduced our speaker, Janet E. Croon. Janet holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science, Modern European History, and Russian Language and Area Studies from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and a Master’s Degree in International Studies from the University of Dayton. She has been teaching International Baccalaureate History for nearly two decades and living in Northern Virginia developed a deep interest in the Civil War. The War Outside My Window: The Civil War Diary of Leroy Wiley Gresham, 1860-1865 is her first book. In a glowing review for historynet.com, Rick Beard makes note of Professor Croon’s superb editing and annotation of the diary, compared by yet another reviewer, Meg Groeling, to that of Anne Frank. She comes to share a powerful, doomed voice from the past.


September 26, 2019

  • The meeting was called to order at 7 PM by President Bruce Davis, who asked that cell phones please be turned off.
  • Bruce gave a brief review of our April speaker James Pula’s talk about the 11th Corps at Gettysburg, and included a quote from one of O.O. Howard’s writings: “ When the broken regiments were emerging from Gettysburg upon the open ground just north of the cemetery, my aid, Lieutenant Rogers, was standing by my side, both of us dismounted; a colonel passed by murmuring something in German - his English was not at his command just then; fragments of his regiment were following him. Seeing the color sergeant and guard as they came between me and the stone wall, near the edge of the city…I called out: ‘Sergeant, plant your flag down there in that stone wall’ Not recognizing me the sergeant said impulsively: ‘All right, if you will go with me, I will!’ There upon I took the flag and accompanied by Roger, the sergeant and his men, set it up above the wall. That flag served to rally the regiments, always brave and energetic, and other troops.”
  • Bruce then said:” As we begin our new fall season of the Civil War Roundtable of Gettysburg, let us rally around the flag, pledging our allegiance. The Please of Allegiance was then recited by all.
  • Bruce then greeted the attendees and acknowledged the guests. He then asked members who have joined over the summer to stand and be recognized.

Sharing

  • Lynn Heller reported on the Holiday Banquet, which will be held at The Dobbin House on Dec. 5th. Registration flyers will be available at the October meeting and will be included in the November newsletter. Anyone wishing to donate to the door prize table, please notify Lynn or Roger. Also, anyone interested in volunteering to request donations from businesses in town, please see Lynn. Lynn has letters to be handed out to the business owners about the banquet and door prize tables.
  • Bruce reported that the Presbyterians have invited him to preach on October 14. He will be exploring the 19th century Calvinism that informed the faith life such diverse personages as Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain, Harriet Beecher Stowe, and Thomas J. Jackson. The services will be live streamed and then offered OnDemand via the Gettysburg Presbyterian web site.
  • Peter Miele reported that the final Sunset at the Seminary Tour will be held on October 11 at 6 PM. He also spoke of a special program to be held on November 2. Please see attached flyer with the information about this interesting topic.
  • Ron Rock reported that on September 28, 2019, there will be a special Songs and Stories of a Civil War Hospital at Christ Lutheran Church. The program will honor Horatio Howell, the Chaplin who was shot and died on the steps of the church during the battle. 75 of his descendants will be in attendance.

Committee Reports

  • Programs: Roger Heller reported on the October 24th meeting. The speaker will be Jan Croon, author of “The War Outside My Window.”
  • Cal Doucetter Achievement Award: Bruce mentioned that also at next month’s meeting we will be presenting the Cal Doucetter Achievement Award.
  • Treasurer’s report: Dave Diner: year to date total is down $1,034.92. We had purchased AV equipment and for the GAR Hall rental. Investment Fund: $2500.00; Operational Fund: $8394.30; Preservation Fund: $1983.39. Overall total: $12,877.69.

Show and Tell

  • Warren Wilde presented the compelling Civil War experiences of Charles Maryon, of the 83 New York, which he joined in 1862, and whose monument - 83 feet high - is on Oak Ridge. He fought with the 83rd in all the major battles, including Gettysburg, where he was captured and exchanged. He went on to fight in the overland campaign. After the war, one of his sons, Thomas, had a daughter, Eleanor, who had a son James. James is Warren Wilde’s father.
  • The Preservation basket was passed.
  • Deb Novotny conducted the book raffle. 6 lucky winners went home with books.

Bruce introduced the speaker Michael K. Shaffer, a Civil War historian, author, newspaper columnist, instructor, and battlefield guide. Mr. Shafer teaches courses at Kennesaw State University and at Emory University. Mr. Shaffer presented a very informative talk, based on his book: “ Thomas Wallace Colley’s Recollections of Civil War Service in. The 1st Virginia Cavalry”. A Q & A followed.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 PM.

Respectfully submitted,
Lynn Heller, in the absence of Sect. Eleanor Bilz.


May 23, 2019

  • The meeting was called to order by President Bruce Davis at 7 PM.
  • He requested all cell phones be turned off
  • Bruce read a passage from the second volume of Bruce Catton’s 1952 “Army of the Potomac” trilogy, Glory Road.
  • The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
  • Guest Steve Feldman from York was introduced.
  • Bruce reminded the attendees that next month we will begin our outdoor summer programs. All begin at 6 PM
    • June: National Park Cannon Shop
    • July: The Peach Orchard, with Jim Hessler August: East Cavalry Hill

Sharing

  • Peter Miele presented an overview of the Seminary Ridge Museum Summer Tours, which will be held at 7 PM on the grounds of the museum on 4 Fridays: June 7, July 5, August 9, Sept. 6.
  • Bruce announced that this year’s Holiday Banquet will be at The Dobbin House on Thursday, Dec.5

Committee Reports

  • Programs: Roger Heller: Roger gave directions for the June summer program at the cannon shop, and said that meeting places for the July and August programs will be announced in the July newsletter. He also thanked everyone for attending the Spring Field Trip to Aldie, Middleburg, and Upperville.

Show and Tell

  • Hilda Koontz presented a Show and Tell about Victorian mourning practices, especially the clothing worn by women in mourning. Initially, women wore completely black outfits, and as time went on in the mourning process, would enter “half mourning”, which included adding color to the clothing they wore. She had a young girl’s half mourning bonnet to exhibit, which was made of fine black lace and pink embroidered flowers, and was 150 years old.

  • The Preservation basket was passed.
  • Hilda conducted her last book raffle and thanked everyone for their participation. 4 books were raffled. Deb Novotny will become the Book Raffle Maven in September.

Bruce introduced the speaker, Jeffrey Stocker, who spoke about the very diverse and unique 153rd Pa Volunteers, and their actions at Chancellorsville and Gettysburg. His talk was followed by a Q & A. Bruce then presented him with a Certificate of Appreciation and an honorarium.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 PM


April 25, 2019

  • President Lynn Heller opened the meeting at 7 p.m. She asked that all cell phones be turned off and we recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
  • Lynn announced that elections for new officers would take place later in the meeting and gave a brief farewell address.
  • She then welcomed a guest at our meeting, Beverly Mellow.

Sharing

  • Hilda Koontz shared her experience at Penn State. They had a family day and she was well received when giving her presentation on Female Spies during the Civil War.
  • Lynn said she had flyers on up-coming events at the Civil War Institute.
  • Al Ferranto announced the slate of new officers: Bruce Davis, President, Hilda Koontz, Vice President, Linda Seamon, Membership Secretary, and new Board members: Peter Miele and Joe Mieczkowski. He then asked if anyone in the membership wished to be considered. No one stood. Therefore, Barbara Fenfrock moved that the new slate be accepted. Al seconded and all were in favor.
  • Lynn then introduced Bruce and his wife to the membership. They are both pastors. He has been a pastor for 44 years. They recently moved to Gettysburg and he was so impressed on how our meetings are run with such enthusiasm that he wished to be a part of it.
  • Hilda gave the findings of the Audit Committee’s Review of the roundtable’s finances for 2019. All is in order and we are in good shape.
  • Lynn asked if anyone is interested in joining any of our committees.

Show and Tell

  • Kurt Kramer presented Show and Tell. He has letters from his wife’s mother’s family. One was written to David Augustus Wright by John C. Breckenridge in 1860, responding to an invitation to speak in New London, Connecticut. David Wright was an attorney in New London, Ct. and graduate of Yale University. The others were written to David from Horacio Wright regarding Cedar Creek in 1864 on Sixth Corps stationery. One letter was dated April 14, 1865. As Horacio wrote of his achievements, little did he know that President Lincoln would be shot that same evening at Ford’s Theatre.
  • Hilda Koontz then present our out-going President with a plaque of appreciation and a gift certificate for art supplies. Thank you, Lynn for four years of service. She then moved on to the Book Raffle. Since only one person bought tickets, he had his pick of the books.

Committee Reports

  • Treasurer: Dave Diner reported total expenses $2,450.23; Total Assets are $14,771.46.
  • Recording Secretary: Eleanor Bilz: All minutes are on the website.
  • Program Committee: Roger Heller reported that on May 11 we are having our field trip. Please be in the Walmart parking lot, behind Wendy’s, by 7:45. The bus is leaving at 8:00 a.m. May 28 speaker is Jeffrey Stocker who will speak on the 11th Corps, 153rd Pennsylvania.

Lynn then introduced tonight’s speaker, James Pula. Mr. Pula is a Professor of History at Purdue University Northwest, and Editor of Gettysburg magazine. He is the author of many books, including “Under the Crescent Moon with the Eleventh Corps in the Civil War.” He has received awards and prizes for his writing, and he spoke tonight on the 11th Corps at the Battle of Gettysburg.


March 28, 2019

  • President Lynn Heller opened meeting at 7 p.m. with a welcome to all, asked that all cell phones be turned off or on mute, and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was recited.
  • New members, the Wilsons, were welcomed.
  • Two trivia questions were asked:
    • What year was the first roundtable meeting: 1958
    • Regarding the statue of Lincoln at the College, what is he doing: signing the Emancipation Proclamation.

We had three “shares.”

  • Wayne Motts announced that the National Civil War Museum would have a book-signing kick-off for Private Confederacies, by Dr. James J. Broomall, at 1 p.m. this Saturday.
  • Peter Miele announced the Annual Legacy Weekend at the Seminary Ridge Museum. April 13-14.
  • Lynn Heller showed a picture of our ever-active Barbara Finfrock in the Gettysburg Foundation Magazine.

Show and Tell

  • Show and Tell was presented by Dan Orr. He had an ambrotype photo of Patt Farrington, an Irish immigrant, who came over in 1860 and joined the 2nd New York State Militia in 1861. Dan had letters from Patt to his family.
  • Al Ferranto asked that Wayne Motts and Peter Miele bring in items from their respective museums for future Show and Tell.

  • The Preservation Envelope was passed.
  • We have two nominations for recipient of the Cal Doucette Achievement Award. Lynn will Chair the committee and Hilda volunteered to join her. Lynn asked for anyone else who wishes to be on the committee to see her.
  • Book Raffle: Hilda pulled 4 tickets for books. Deb Novotny will be taking over this position.

Committee Reports

  • Treasurer’s Report: Dave Diner reported that our net income is $480.90 and our total assets is $14,393.70.
  • Nominating Committee: Al Ferranto announced the current slate as follows:
    • President: Bruce Davis
    • Vice President: Hilda Koontz
    • Membership Secretary: Linda Seamon
    • Board Members: Peter Miele, Roger Heller and Joe Mieczkowski
    He will accept any other names submitted.
  • Book Committee: Larry Plymire introduced the winner of the 2018 Gettysburg Roundtable Book Award, Jeffrey Hunt, author of Meade and Lee After Gettysburg. He presented Mr. Hunt with an award made out of witness tree wood in the shape of a cannon.
  • Recording Secretary: Eleanor Bilz All minutes can be found in our web page.
  • Membership Secretary: Linda Seamon. As of this month, no more newsletters will be sent to non-members (those who have not renewed their membership).
  • Program Committee: Roger Heller announced the next speaker for April is James Pula. Our scheduled speaker for May is ill and will not be able to present. Instead, we will have Jeffrey Stocker who will speak on the 153 Pa. Volunteers at Gettysburg. Our May 11 field trip is fully booked. We are leaving the Wendy’s parking lot at 8.00 a.m. Please be there by 7:50.

All business being complete at 7:30, Lynn announced our Book Award speaker, Jeffrey Hunt who spoke about his book Meade and Lee After Gettysburg and what prompted him to write it.

Respectfully submitted by Eleanor Bilz


February 28, 2019
  • President Lynn Heller opened the meeting at 7 p.m. She asked that cell phones be turned off and we recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
  • Guests and new members were welcomed. Among the guests were John from Middlesex, NJ and two sophomore students from Gettysburg College, who are students of our speaker. Also introduced was a new member, Annette.
  • It was discovered that Charles Pike, who, upon his death, requested that donations be made to our Roundtable, was a member of the York Civil War Roundtable. He never visited our Roundtable but loved Gettysburg…thus his request.
  • Lynn has been asking and continues to ask for bios from our Board and our membership. Tonight, she introduced a member of our Roundtable, Ted Hirt. He lives part-time in Washington, D.C. and part-time here in Gettysburg. From 1979 to 2016, he was an attorney in the Justice Department’s Civil Division. He has been a Civil War “buff” for decades and remembers attending the July 1963 Gettysburg reenactment. He is a member of the reenactment unit Battery B of the First Rhode Island Light Artillery. One of his collecting interests is of documents from the Washington, D.C. area’s Civil War forts, hospitals, and camps.
  • Lynn announced that in the lobby there are information sheets for Seminary Ridge Museum, including discounts for our members; info on a Symposium on the 75th Anniversary of D Day at Gettysburg College on March 30th; a Roundtable questionnaire; and Civil War Institute conference June 14-19.
  • Glen Hayes, of the Gettysburg Preservation Society is continuing his efforts to preserve a small portion of Camp Letterman from development.
  • An opportunity to become involved: Chair of the Cal Doucette Achievement Award. Deb Novotny volunteered to do the Book Raffle, as Hilda will be leaving her position.
  • Our $500.00 donation to the GAR Hall will be used to repair the deteriorating front door, instead of for half of a window, as originally designated.
  • If anyone has ideas about recipients for a Preservation Project, please see Lynn. At this time the Preservation envelope was passed.

Show and Tell

  • Show and Tell tonight was Doug Cooke. He told the story of Jim Lane, who brought his unit to protect Pres. Lincoln at the onset of the Civil War. They used a particular style 1855 rifle, of which only 180-190 were made. Doug has one of those rifles, though not necessarily Jim Lane’s rifle.

  • Hilda raffled off books and shared information on the Third Annual Abolitionists’ Day event on March 2, at the Rec Park.

Committee Reports

  • Treasurer, Dave Diner. We have an income of $1,292.47 which includes receipts from the upcoming field trip, membership dues and preservation fund. Expenses of $881.17 include GAR hall rental, gifts and awards, postage and speaker fees and travel with a total $411.30. With existing assets, our overall for February 2019 is $14,323.91.
  • Recording Secretary, Eleanor Bilz. All minutes are posted on our web page.
  • Membership Secretary, Linda Seamon. 2019 membership forms are in the lobby. Members who do not renew their membership by March 2019 will no longer receive our newsletters.
  • Nominating Committee, Al Ferranto. We need a President and Vice President, a membership secretary, and two executive board seats. Al assured the membership that the President would be supported by the Board members and that it is a great honor to be President of the Gettysburg Roundtable.
  • Program Committee, Roger Heller. We have 21 paid up people for our trip. There are only 25 seats on the bus. Our speaker for March is our book award winner, Jeffrey Hunt. His book is Meade and Lee After Gettysburg. April’s speaker is Dr. James Pula, 11th Corps at Gettysburg.

All business being competed at 7:20 p.m., President Lynn Heller introduced our guest speaker Peter Carmichael, Professor of History at Gettysburg College, and the Director of the Civil War Institute. After completing his doctorate at Penn State U., under Dr. Gary Gallagher, Professor Carmichael went on to teach at several universities. He is the author of four books, many articles, and a frequent lecturer. His lectures have been covered by PCN and C-Span.


January 24, 2019

  • President Lynn Heller opened the meeting at 7 p.m. She thanked Mary Diner for making and presenting the Roundtable with a banner which will be hung from the podium during our meetings. This banner was first given to us at our holiday banquet in December. She then asked for cell phones to be muted or turned off and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
  • Lynn then welcomed guests and new members, reminded members that in case of inclement weather to check the website for cancellations and that a flash email would be sent to those members who have provided email addresses.
  • Elections are coming up. We have three openings for officers and two for board members. Most importantly is the request for a new president. Lynn emphasized that the Board would be on hand to give complete support to anyone who wishes to undertake this position. She said that our roundtable should not be without a president.
  • Lynn reminded the members that because of a contribution in our name to the Eisenhower Society, we are notified of upcoming events. Flyers are in the lobby regarding a March 30th symposium at Gettysburg College on “The 75th Anniversary of D-Day".
  • Hilda shared with us that she will be giving a presentation on February 19th on mental health during the Civil War, most like PTSD today. This will be at the Shippensburg Civil War Roundtable.
  • Lynn then introduced Peter Miele, Chief Operating Officer and Director of Education at the Seminary Ridge Museum. In collaboration with our roundtable, he is offering a 20% discount on membership to the museum and half price admission to our members. He is trying to get the word out to bring more people in to keep the museum functioning.
  • Lynn had been asking for short bios from Board members in order to made them known to our members. At this time, she introduced Dave Diner, our treasurer. Dave grew up in Cincinnati and met his wife, Mary, at Ohio state. She served eight years in the army and retired as a Captain of Field Artillery and Dave served 30 years in the JAG Corp and retired as a Colonel. He was the senior lawyer for US Forces in Afghanistan from 2006-2007. They moved to Gettysburg in 2014.
  • Hilda held the book raffle and collected $42.00 to go toward the preservation fund. Hilda’s position will become available in April for anyone interested in taking over.

Committee Reports

  • Treasurer: Dave Diner make a report on finances for the year ending in 2018.
    Income: $9,946; Expenses: $7,113; Total Balance at end of 2018 is $13,912. We have a much higher balance than the year before since we increased membership dues, donations totaled $1069. and three speakers donated back to us their honorarium.
  • Membership: Linda Seamon reminded everyone that dues for 2019 are due and those who do not rejoin the roundtable will no longer receive our newsletter.
  • Program: Roger Heller announced our next month’s speaker, Dr. Peter Carmichael, who will speak on The Civil War Letters of David and Mahala Beem. Our field trip is May 11 with Kevin Pawlak who will take us through Aldie, Middleburg and Upperville, Va. We have to use a small bus for it will be the first 25 who sign up. The cost is $45 per person with lunch on your own.
  • Plaque Committee: Deb Novotny There is nothing new to report.

  • All business finished, President Lynn Heller closed the business portion of the meeting at 7:25.

Lynn then introduced our speaker. Dr. Paul Kahan is an author, lecturer and leading expert on the political, diplomatic, and economic history of the U.S. in the 19th century. He has degrees in modern American history and literature, medieval/renaissance studies, and music. He earned a Ph.D. in US History from Temple University. His topic for presentation is Amiable Scoundrel: Simon Cameron, Lincoln’s Scandalous Secretary of War.


October 25, 2018

  • President Lynn Heller opened the meeting at 7:00 p.m.
  • Lynn asked that cell phones be turned off.
  • Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
  • Lynn welcomed new guests and new members and recognized the volunteers in our membership. They included Park Service, Soup Kitchen and Gettysburg Cares.
  • Lynn asked if anyone was interested in forming a Refreshment committee. We had one volunteer who then asked for assistance. However, there were no takers at that point.

Sharing:

  • Ron Rock explained that in order to donate to the Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors, Inc., there will be a sandwich sale at the Christ Lutheran Church on November 17.
  • Warren Wilde submitted pictures for an article in Preservation and Progress magazine. These were honeymoon pictures of his parents which showed parts of the Battlefield then and now and how well the Battlefield has been preserved.
  • Barbara Finfrock was mentioned in the same edition, stating that an endowment was being made in her name.
  • The Preservation Envelope was passed.
  • We are still looking for someone to chair the Cal Doucette Achievement Award Committee.
  • Lynn is asking for a short bio from the membership and Board in order to acquaint everyone which each other.
  • After passing out a questionnaire, a suggestion was made to have Cooper Wingert as a speaker. However, he is unavailable as he is studying in Brisbane, Australia.
  • Our Holiday Banquet will be on December 6 at 6 p.m. at the Dobbin House. Reservations must be received by November 28 and there will be no refunds as per contract obligations.

Show and Tell:

  • Dick McGeary talked about a relative of his, Sgt. John Abbott. He was a farmer who fought for the Union and ultimately gave up his life for his country.

Committee Reports:

  • Treasurer: Dave Diner reports as follows: Income and Dues: $5,232.35; Total Expenses: $4,091.80; Total Assets: $12,219.94.
  • Book Committee: Larry Plymire gave a brief overview of the book committee and asked for new readers. He reported that the recipient of the 2018 Distinguished Book Award has been chosen at the October Book Committee meeting. The winner will be announced at the Holiday Banquet.
  • Recording Secretary: Eleanor Bilz, all minutes are on our web page.
  • Membership Secretary: Linda Seamon reports that membership dues are due and Roger reiterated that the 2019 membership form must be used as it has the current cost.
  • Program Committee: Roger Heller reminded membership that the November meeting will be a week earlier due to conflict with Thanksgiving. Our next meeting is November 15. The talk will be on the Battle of Franklin. Carol Reardon will speak at our banquet. The newsletter will have the info and payment form regarding the banquet.
  • Nominating Committee: Al Ferranto. We will need candidates for President and Vice President. Al had nothing to report.
  • Plaque Committee: Deb Novotny/Kendra Debany had nothing to report.

  • President Heller closed the meeting at 7:30.

Lynn introduced our speaker, Wayne Motts. He is CEO of the National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg and a 30-year Licensed Battlefield Guide at the Gettysburg National Military Park. Prior to his talk, he introduced Randy Hartlaub, who is a first-person reenactor of Rev. William Corby. He gave a brief overview of Rev. Corby’s role in Gettysburg in providing guidance and services to the Irish and any other soldiers. Wayne then commenced his program on the role of chaplains during the Civil War. He is donating his honorarium to the National Civil War Museum.


September 27, 2018

  • President Lynn Heller open the meeting at 7 p.m. by welcoming members and guests. She reminded everyone to shut off their cell phones. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Lynn then introduced the guests.
  • Veterans were asked to rise and be recognized for their service.

Sharing:

  • Roger Heller shared that Lynn Heller spoke to 25 people in York when she showed them her photos of the Gettysburg Battlefield. Scott Mingus will be speaking on Oct 1 on “Flames Beyond Gettysburg...” Flyers on the counter, and a mention of a bookstore in Cashtown which deals with history and the Civil War. Flyers on the counter.

  • The Preservation Envelope was passed around.
  • Hilda called the book raffle. All monies go to the Preservation Fund.
  • Lynn told the membership about four donations received in the name of the late Charles Pike. No one seems to know who he is, but he apparently loved our Roundtable and requested these donations to our Roundtable in his obituary.
  • We are still looking for someone to chair the Cal Doucette Achievement Award Committee. See Lynn if you are interested.
  • Lynn again asked for a short bio from each member of our roundtable in order to introduce them to the membership.
  • Roger and Lynn attended a Roundtable Congress at The National CW Museum in Harrisburg in August, which included roundtable representatives from around the country. The emphasis was on creating a roundtable and recruiting membership. Our roundtable exceeds the standards put forth.
  • A membership questionnaire was distributed and we value all input.
  • Glen Hays, Chairman of the Camp Letterman Committee for the Gettysburg Battlefield Preservation Association has reported that their efforts to preserve 17 acres of the site resulted in 170 groups nationwide sending letters to S&A Homes, which holds title to this land. Glen is confident that S&A is sincere in their efforts to consider the request to preserve these 17 acres from development.
  • Our Holiday Banquet at The Dobbin House will be held on Thursday, Dec. 6th. At our September Board meeting, a suggestion was made that we ask for volunteers to visit local businesses and ask if they would contribute a gift card, etc. for our door prizes. Lynn will pass out a sign-up sheet and official letter to hand to the business owners.

Show and Tell:

  • Ted Hirt brought in a map of Camp Henley and showed us the present location of his house and children’s school, a camp requisition, and letters home talking about the weather and camp life in general. See Al Ferrante if you are interested a presenting at future meetings.
  • Upcoming programs: Scott Mingus as was mentioned under “shared” items, and Edward Ayers, 2018 Gilder Lehrman Lincoln Prize Laureate lecture on Oct. 3 at Gettysburg College. Flyer on counter.

Committee Reports:

  • Treasurer: Dave Diner: Total Assets $11,839.83
  • Book Committee: Lynn reporting for Larry Plymire: Book Committee meeting in Cross Keys on October 9th.
  • Recording Secretary: Eleanor Bilz: Minutes are on our Web Page
  • Membership: Linda Seamon: 2019 January-December dues are due now.
  • Program Committee: Roger Heller: Lynn thanked Roger for three outstanding Summer Programs. He announced the October and November programs.
  • Nominating Committee: Al Ferranto: Nothing to report. Lynn added that we will need a new President and Vice President in the Spring.
  • Show and Tell: Al Ferranto: Speakers for October and November are in place.

  • Business portion of meeting ended at 7:25

Lynn introduced our speaker. Dr. Peter D’Onofrio is the President of the Society of Civil War Surgeons, which educates the general public and re-enactors about the life, times and role of Civil War medicine. He spoke on the background, procedures and personnel that led to medical advancements, emphasizing the impact on the subsequent development of American medicine.


Summer “On the Field” Meetings 2018

June 28: Jarrad Fuoss
Confederate Sharpshooters in the Gettysburg Streets
Approximately 50 attendees

July 26 Benjamin Neely
The Battle for the Seminary
Approximately 40 attendees

August 23 Paul Shevchuk
Camp Colt
Approximately 35 attendees


May 26, 2018

  • The meeting was called to order by President, Lynn Heller at 7 P.M.
  • Cell phones off or on mute
  • The Pledge of Allegiance was recited
  • Thanks to Lynn and Roger Heller for the refreshments. Refreshment sign up sheet was passed.
  • Welcome new guests and members.
  • Several members shared Civil War related events.
  • Lynn read the letter we received from HGAC President Anne Zabawa, thanking the roundtable for their $500.00 donation to window repair at the GAR.
  • Lynn presented Scott Mingus with a check for $500.00 as a donation to the York County History
    Center. This was at the request of Scott, in lieu of payment to him for our Field Trip on Saturday.
  • Preservation donation envelope was passed.
  • Lynn announced that post cards with information about the Civil War Institute’s June seminar
    are at the desk in the kitchen.
  • Lynn asked the members to send her a short biography of themselves, so that she could
    introduce one member per meeting, when that member is present.
  • Lynn announced that she had sent a get well card from the roundtable to Ed Bearss after he
    had sustained a fall. He has recovered and is back on the field leading tours
  • Doug Cook presented a couple of Spencer Carbines from his collection for “Show and Tell”. He
    gave a brief history of their use in the Civil War and at Gettysburg.
  • The book raffle was conducted by Hilda, with the proceeds going to Preservation. 6 books were
    raffled.

Committee Reports:

  • Treasurer: David Diner: Investment Fund: $2500.00
    Operational Fund: $8, 397.78
    Preservation Fund: $1705.39
    Total assets: $12,603.17
  • Financial Committee Report: Lynn read the Annual Audit report done by this committee. All
    finances are in order.
  • Book Committee: Larry Plymire: Reading and reviewing in progress. Larry encouraged any
    member interested in joining the committee to contact him
  • Nominating Committee: Ron Rock read the slate of new officers and Board members.
    David Diner: Treasurer: renewing - May, 2020
    Eleanor Bilz: Recording Sect. renewing - May 2020
    Hilda Koontz; Board - renewing - May 2021
    Bill Myers: New Board member: - May 2021
    • No additional nominations were offered from the floor, and Roger Heller made a motion that
      nominations be closed; Seconded by Larry Sherfy. The members voted in favor.
    • Ron Rock asked for a vote from the members to accept the new slate. Members voted in favor.

    • Al Ferranto will assume the Chair of the Nominating Committee, as Ron is stepping down.
    • Cal Doucette Achievement Award: Ron Rock: Ron gave an overview of the mission of this
      committee and spoke about the previous winners. He is stepping down from this committee and
      asked if anyone is interested in becoming Chair, please see President Lynn Heller, who has the
      binder with the information about the history of, and details about running this committee.

      Thank you Ron for all your good works on these two committees.

  • Program Committee: Roger Heller: Roger gave specifics about Saturday’s field trip to
    Wrightsville, spoke about next month’s meeting, and the June battle walk.
  • The business portion of the meeting ended at 7:25.

Lynn introduced Scott Mingus, Sr. who gave a lively and informative talk about Gen. Jubal
Early’s Brigade, and its activities from Gettysburg to Wrightsville prior to the battle.
His talk was followed by a Q & A.

Respectfully submitted, Lynn Heller for Eleanor Bilz, Recording Secretary


March 22, 2018

  • The March meeting of the Gettysburg Roundtable was called to order by Lynn Heller at 7:00.
  • Cell phones off or on mute.
  • The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
  • Thanks to Jason Fretz, who provided and set up refreshments. Lynn asked for help to clean up the kitchen after the meeting, and if anyone would like to join the refreshment committee to help on a rotational basis to see Linda Seamon or Lynn Heller.
  • Welcome to guests and new members.
  • Envelope for Preservation donations was passed. Our roundtable has made a donation to the GAR of $500.00 towards the repair of the deteriorating windows. Lynn thanked everyone for their generosity in contributing to our ongoing preservation fund. We are very lucky to have this beautiful hall to meet in, and the Board of Directors felt it was important that we help in keeping this historic building in good repair
  • Lynn wishes to introduce Board members to the membership, one at each meeting, when that member is present. She asked for a short bio from each Board member. Please send to her email. Lynnheller7577gmail.com. This week she introduced Roger Heller.
  • Lynn asked for anything to share: Larry Korczyk is doing a two-day hike from Heritage House on May 5-6.
  • “Show and Tell” Jim Roth brought in a framed portion of the cyclorama from the Baltimore Street location.
  • Hilda was unable to attend and therefore there was no book raffle.

Committee Reports:

  • Treasurer: Dave Diner was not in attendance: Lynn reported Total Assets: $12,497.61
  • Membership Committee: Linda Seamon not in attendance: Lynn reported three renewal memberships paid at this meeting.
  • Program Committee: Roger reported that Scott Mingus will speak at our next meeting in anticipation of our April 28 field trip. There are five seats left. Meeting at Walmart parking lot, lunch on your own at buffet. May 24 speaker is Brian McEnany on “West Point Class of 1862”
  • Book Committee: Larry Plymire had nothing to report.
  • Nominating Committee: Ron Rock reported on new positions: E. Bilz, recording secretary, D. Diner, treasurer, H. Koontz, 3-year term on Board, Bill Meyers, 3-year term on Board (replacing Ron Rock). Ron is stepping down as Chair of the Nominating and Cal Doucette committees.
    • All interested in assuming either one of these positions, please see Ron or Lynn. There is one candidate for Nominating Committee.
  • Business portion of the meeting ended at 7:20 p.m. 45 members and guests in attendance.

Lynn introduced our speaker for the evening. Paul Bretzger. Paul is from New Jersey and earned a B.A. in Historical Studies from Stockton U. and a Master of Architecture degree from NJ Institute of technology. As he was working as an architect in NYC, he was also researching Gen. Winfield Scott Hancock’s actions at Gettysburg, which resulted in his book, Observing Hancock at Gettysburg, and for which he received the prestigious Gettysburg Book Award for 2017. He has been published in Civil War news, History Net, and Gettysburg Magazine.

Respectfully submitted,
Eleanor Bilz, Recording Secretary


February 22, 2018

  • The February meeting of the Gettysburg Roundtable was called to order by Lynn Heller at 7:00. Approximately 55 members and guests were in attendance.
  • Cell phones off or on mute.
  • The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
  • Lynn thanked Kendra Debany, VP for chairing last month’s meeting.
  • Thanks to Amy and Bill Miller, who provided refreshments.
  • Welcome to guests and new members.

Lynn asked if anyone cared to share:

  • A member visited Andersonville Prison, Museum and Cemetery
  • A member visited Hawaii and an elementary school there with a sculpture of Abe Lincoln

  • Envelope for Preservation donations was passed.
  • “Show and Tell” by Gary Rath who showed Civil War medical supplies including surgical saws, a bottle of quinine, an otoscope using natural sunlight to see inside the ear, surgical knives and an amputation kit.
  • Hilda conducted the Book Raffle. Six books were raffled

Committee Reports:

  • Treasurer: Dave Diner: Total Assets: $12,491.53. Income includes $1246.00 in incoming membership dues.
  • Membership Committee: Linda Seamon: Membership started up again.
  • Program Committee: Roger Heller announced our speaker for next month is the winner of our Book Award, Hancock at Gettysburg by Paul Bretzger. Our April meeting will feature Scott Mingus, who will give a “prep” talk in anticipation of our field trip to Wrightsville and Columbia on April 28. A flyer for the sign-up will be with the next newsletter.
  • Book Committee: Larry Plymire: Lynn asked for any books or reviews for Larry to be given to her.

  • Lynn plans to introduce Board members, and eventually, all members who wish to participate in order to acquaint members with each other. Tonight, she introduced Eleanor Bilz, the recording secretary with a brief bio.
  • Business portion of the meeting ended at 7:25 p.m.

Lynn introduced our speaker for the evening. Tom McMillan works in sports, but his passion is history—especially Civil War History. His day job is vice president of communications for the Pittsburgh Penguins of the NHL. Tonight, he is here to share with us stories from his best-selling book Gettysburg Rebels. We are very familiar with Wesley Culp, but perhaps not so familiar with Henry Wentz, or the Hoffman brothers, who all grew up in Gettysburg, but fought for the Confederacy. This is a compelling true story of the backgrounds and lives of these five young men. Tom is involved in many sports and history related organizations. More than 31 members of his family tree served in the Union Army in the Civil War including eight who fought in the Wheatfield here at Gettysburg.

Respectfully submitted,
Eleanor Bilz, Recording Secretary


November 16, 2017

  • The November meeting of the Gettysburg Roundtable was called to order by Lynn Heller at 7:00. Approximately 55 members and guests were in attendance.
  • Cell phones off or on mute.
  • The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
  • Lynn mentioned that another meeting was taking place downstairs and folks would be walking through.
  • Thanks to Barbara Berkman, who provided and set up refreshments. Lynn asked for help to clean up the kitchen after the meeting, and if anyone would like to join the refreshment committee to help on a rotational basis to see Linda Seamon.
  • Since we recently observed Veterans’ Day, Lynn asked all Veterans to stand and be recognized.
  • Welcome to guests and new members.
  • Envelope for Preservation donations was passed.
  • A thank you note was received from the Adams County Historical Society, which was presented with a donation of $500.00 towards their capital campaign for a new home.
  • Lynn asked if anyone objected to her taking pictures during the meeting

Lynn asked for anything to share:

  • Caitlin Brown has a friend who is selling his library of Civil War Books. It is quite extensive, and Lynn made a copy of the list. Anyone interested should see Lynn for email address.
  • Al Ferranto asked the membership if they are interested in doing a short presentation; please contact him.

Announcements:

  • Lynn announced that we are again making an amendment to our by-laws regarding the term of the Vice President. The term should mirror that of the President. The Vice President will hold a two-year term with an option for renewal on a year-to-year basis for no more than four years. A vote was taken and it passed unanimously.
  • “Show and Tell” by Doug Cooke who showed weapons (guns and swords) used in the Civil War which were also used in the Mexican War. Also, that Gen. Grant was able to gauge battlefield strategy by Confederate officers, such as Gen. Lee, due to their participation in the Mexican War.
  • Hilda conducted the Book Raffle. Two books were raffled.

Committee Reports:

  • Treasurer, Dave Diner: Total Assets: $12,174. Income includes monies for the Holiday Banquet and Preservation Fund. We are actually $255 in the negative for operating expenses but otherwise in sound financial shape.
  • Membership Committee: Linda Seamon: Membership starts up again in January.
  • Program Committee: Roger announced that the Holiday Banquet speaker will be Patrick Falci, (A.P. Hill). January speaker will be George Franks, The Battle of Falling Waters, the last battle of Gettysburg’s campaign.
  • Book Committee: Larry Plymire: 2017 Book Award for books published in 2016 will be announced at Holiday Banquet. He will need new readers for next year. Let him know if you are interested. Committee meets only once a year.
  • Business portion of the meeting ended at 7:25 p.m.

Lynn introduced our speaker for the evening. David Dixon has his B.A. in Political Science, and his Master’s degree in History. He has spent 35 years in marketing with Fortune 500 companies. David has published many articles in journals and magazines. Most have focused on black history, and Union supporters in the Civil War South. His presentation tonight recounts the life of Charles Anderson, who also gave a “Gettysburg Address” on November 19, 1863. His book is entitled “The Lost Gettysburg Address: Charles Anderson’s Civil War Odyssey.” Currently David is writing the first full length biography of Union General August Willich, a German 48er, who distinguished himself in a number of Civil War battles.

Respectfully submitted,
Eleanor Bilz, Recording Secretary


October 26 2017

  • The October meeting of the Gettysburg Roundtable was called to order by Lynn Heller at 7:00. Approximately 55 members and guests were in attendance.
  • Cell phones off or on mute.
  • The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
  • Thanks to Linda Seamon, who provided and set up refreshments.
  • Refreshment sign-up sheet was passed out.
  • Welcome to guests and new members.
  • Envelope for Preservation donations was passed.
  • Ben Neely, Director of Adams County Historical Society was presented with a donation of $500.00 towards their capital campaign for a new home.
  • Lynn asked if anyone objected to her taking pictures during the meeting.

Lynn asked for anything to share:

  • Hilda shared her participation in public awareness for research on mental health.
  • Lynn has a photography (for sale) display at the Ragged Edge café.
  • Al Ferranto asked the membership if they are interested in doing a short presentation; please contact him.
  • Board members were announced and introduced.
  • Lynn announced that we are again making an amendment to our by-laws regarding the term of the Vice President. The term should mirror that of the President. The Vice President will hold a two-year term with an option for renewal on a year-to-year basis for no more than four years. We will vote at November 16 meeting. Note that this meeting will be held one week earlier due to Thanksgiving holiday.
  • “Show and Tell” by Ivan Franz who demonstrated his antique coronet.
  • Hilda conducted the Book Raffle. Five books were raffled.
  • A request was made for door prize donations for our Holiday Banquet.

Committee Reports:

  • Treasurer, Dave Diner: Total Assets: $10,638.02. Income as of October was 6,269.96; Total expenses were $6061.94.
  • Recording Secretary: Eleanor Bilz: All Minutes are published on the website.
  • Membership Committee: Linda Seamon: Membership starts up again in January.
  • Program Committee: Roger announced upcoming speaker David Dixon on the “other” Gettysburg address. Holiday Banquet speaker will be Patrick Falci, (A.P. Hill).
  • Plaque Committee, Kendra Debany: nothing to report
  • Book Committee Larry Plymire: 2017 Book Award for books published in 2016 will be announced at Holiday Banquet. He will need approximately 12 new readers for next year.
  • Nominating Committee, Ron Rock: All candidates for respective committees have been selected; however, there is still a need for one Board Member.
  • Business portion of the meeting ended at 7:18 p.m.

Lynn introduced our speaker for the evening. Kevin Pawlak is the director of Education for the Mosby heritage Area Association, and he is a Licensed Battlefield Guide at Antietam. He has leadership positions in several Civil War related Foundations, Associations, and Institutes. He is the Author of Shepherdstown in the Civil War, presented on “The Cavalry Battles of Aldie, Middleburg, and Upperville on the Road to Gettysburg.”

Meeting ended at 8:15.
Respectfully submitted,
Eleanor Bilz, Recording Secretary


September 28, 2017

  • The September meeting of the Gettysburg Roundtable was called to order by Lynn Heller at 7:00. Approximately 55 members and guests were in attendance.
  • Cell phones off or on mute.
  • The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
  • Thanks to Jean Kempa, who provided refreshments.
  • Refreshment sign-up sheet was passed out.
  • Welcome to new members, and guests from the Gettysburg Foundation.
  • Envelope for Preservation donations was passed.
  • Lynn announced that we are again making an amendment to our by-laws regarding the term of the Vice-President. The term should mirror that of the President. The Vice President will hold a two-year term with an option for renewal on a year-to-year basis for no more than four years.
  • Lynn also mentioned the Harrisburg Field trip to the Shenandoah Valley in November. Flyers were placed in the lobby.
  • Cal Doucette award was given to Barbara Finfrock, whose efforts, among other things, resulted in the utility lines being removed from major parts of the battlefield and securing the land where the old Home Sweet Home hotel was located.
  • “Show and Tell” by Cyril Ackerman was a framed plaque of the Soldiers Memorial of the 101st Pennsylvania Company K. His interest in this was due to the fact that his wife had relatives mentioned on the memorial. After "Show and Tell", Al Ferranto asked the membership if they are interested in doing a short presentation; please contact him.
  • Hilda conducted the Book Raffle. Four books were raffled.

Committee Reports:

  • Treasurer, Dave Diner: Total Assets: $11,130.46
  • Recording Secretary: Eleanor Bilz: All Minutes are published on the website.
  • Membership Committee: Linda Seamon: 189 with 67 life members.
  • Program Committee: Roger also announced upcoming speakers.
  • Plaque Committee, Kendra Debany: nothing to report
  • Book Committee Larry Plymire: Meeting will be held on October 10 to discuss and decide on 2017 Book Award for books published in 2016.
  • Nominating Committee, Ron Rock: nothing to report.

There were approximately 50 people in attendance; business portion of the meeting ended at 7:35 p.m.

Lynn introduced our speaker for the evening. Kathleen Thompson received her Ph. D in 19th Century History from WVU. She has been a seasonal interpreter at the Fedricksburg and Spotsylvania National Parks, and is a co-editor of Civil Discourse a blog on the Civil War. She spoke on “The Definition and Treatment of Mental Illness in the Civil War.” Lynn then presented her with a framed certificate of appreciation and an honorarium.

Meeting ended at 8:15.
Respectfully submitted,
Eleanor Bilz, Recording Secretary


May 25, 2017

  • The March meeting of the Gettysburg Roundtable was called to order by Vice President Kendra Debany for Lynn Heller at 7:30. Approximately 55 members and guests were in attendance.
  • Cell phones off or on mute.
  • The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
  • Thanks to Jason Fritz, who provided refreshments.
  • Refreshment sign-up sheet was passed out.
  • Welcome to new members, and guests from Vermont and Hanover.
  • Envelope for Preservation donations was passed. It was mentioned that we made a contribution of $500.00 to the Save Historical Antietam Foundation during our field trip last week. Thanks to all who participated in our field trip to Antietam.
  • Kendra introduced Al Ferranto regarding “Show and Tell”. Al will coordinate this. This will begin in September.
  • Hilda conducted the Book Raffle. Five books were raffled.
    Announcements:

Committee Reports:

  • Treasurer: Kendra gave Treasurer’s report in David Diner’s absence:
    Total Assets: 13,260.64
  • Recording Secretary: Eleanor Bilz: Minutes of last meeting are on the website.
  • Membership Committee: Linda Seamon: We added a couple of new members.
  • Program Committee: Roger Heller handed out a sheet with the summer program. Rain dates will be the following weeks, respectively. He also mentioned that the meeting time, starting in September, will be a half hour earlier; the refreshments will be out at 6:30 and the meetings will start at 7:00 p.m.
  • Plaque Committee: Kendra reported that they are meeting on Sunday to see a home on Chapel Road in Cumberland Township.
  • Book Committee: Larry Plymire, members are reading the books.
  • Nominating Committee: Ron Rock, nothing to report.

The business portion of the meeting ended at 7:50 p.m.

Kendra introduced Dr. Brian Jordan. His talk was on trials and tribulations soldiers faced as they returned to civilian life. It is based on his book Marching Home: Union Veterans and Their Unending Civil War. After the talk and a Q&A session, Kendra presented Dr. Jordan with a framed certificate of appreciation and an honorarium.

Meeting ended at 8:30.
Respectfully submitted,
Eleanor Bilz, Recording Secretary


April 27, 2017

  • The meeting was called to order at 7:30 P.M. by President Lynn Heller
  • Lynn announced that our scheduled speaker Carol Reardon was unable to attend our meeting tonight. She had been in the hospital for severe knee pain caused by an arthritic condition and dehydration. but was hoping to present her lecture on Antietam while sitting. However, having only been discharged that morning, she did not feel up to delivering her talk. She sent her best regards to our roundtable & encourages everyone to stay hydrated! Lynn then remarked how fortunate we were to have Gettysburg Ranger John Hoptak as our speaker. John is an expert on the Battle of Antietam having been a ranger there for 8 years.
  • The Pledge of Allegiance was recited
  • Thanks to Deb Novotny for the refreshments
  • Thanks to Linda Seamon and Jean Kempa for setting them up!
  • Welcome new members and guests: New members: Jeanne and Tom Thierolf; Guest: Ken Farmer.

Lynn asked if anyone had anything to share:

  • Cyril Ackerman announced that at the Monterey Pass Visitor’s Center on March 25, 2017, an event was held honoring Medal of Honor recipients. It included a talk by John Miller.
  • Hilda Koontz shared that she recently presented a program on Women Spies in the Civil War
  • Roger Heller shared that he recently gave a talk about Conscientious Objectors in Adams County in York, PA

We have been announcing at our meetings a proposed change in the by laws for the President’s term of office. The vote is to be held at the April meeting.

  • The motion up for amendment: “The President’s term of service will be for two years, and renewal on a year to year basis, for no more than four years.”
  • Motion to second: Roger Heller
  • All in favor by voice vote: unanimous aye Opposed: none
  • Lynn stated: The By Laws stand amended.
  • Lynn thanked everyone who signed up for various committees, and for those who changed their method of receiving the newsletter from ‘snail mail’ to email.
  • The Preservation envelope was passed and returned to David Diner, Treasurer
  • Lynn announced that we will be making a $500.00 contribution to Save Historical Antietam Foundation
  • Lynn asked 3 Trivia Questions. Two members answer correctly and were each awarded a book raffle ticket.
  • The book raffle was conducted by Hilda and Spencer. Proceeds were given to the Treasure

Committee Reports:

  • Treasurer: David Diner:
    Investment Fund: $2,500.00
    Operational Fund: $7,573.68
    Preservation Fund: $3,186.96
    Total cash and bank accounts: $13,260.64

  • Membership Secretary: Linda Seamon: If any members do not receive a newsletter, your membership may have elapsed, and needs to be renewed. Call or email Linda.

  • Audit Committee: Lynn received the annual audit from Linda Seamon. Lynn read the report to the members: “On behalf of the GCWR Audit Committee: Hilda Koontz, Linda Joswick, and Linda Seamon, we submit the following: Receipts, Bank Accounts, and Statements are all in order. The budget that was passed last year seems to be on target so we do not recommend any changes at present. Mr. Diner has done an excellent job of record keeping. On behalf of the roundtable we thank him for his attention to details and all the work he has performed. March, 2017.”

  • Recording Secretary: Lynn for Eleanor Cingire Bilz: The minutes of our monthly meetings and Board Meetings are now posted on our Web Page, gettysburgcwrt.org, beginning with the March, 2017 minutes.

  • Book Committee: Larry Plymire: The members of this committee are busy reading and reviewing CW books published in 2016. The announcement of the 2017 winner will be made at our Holiday Banquet Thursday, December 7.

  • Program Committee: Roger Heller: The speaker for May will be Brian Jordan, and the summer “on the field” programs - for members only - will be Sue Boardman, Caitlin Brown, and John Hoptak. The May 20 bus trip to Antietam is ‘sold out”, but there is a waiting list of 10 people.
  • Nominating Committee: Lynn for Ron Rock: Candidates for the annual April elections are:

Vice President: Kendra Debany
President: Lynn Heller
Membership Secretary: Linda Seamon
Board Members: Dale Molina, Fred Hawthorne

Lynn asked if there were any nominations from the floor: There were none.

Lynn asked for a motion to close the nominations: Roger so moved; Hilda second. All in favor; unanimous aye.

A motion was made and seconded to accept the slate. The new slate of Officers and Board Members is carried, with thanks.

  • The Cal Doucette Achievement Award: Lynn for Ron Rock: A recipient has been chosen by the committee. Lynn announced that Barbara Finfrock is the well deserved winner, and since present at tonight’s meeting, received a hearty round of applause. The award will be announced in the July newsletter and presented to Barbara at the September meeting.

  • Plaque Committee: Deb Novotny: 2 new applications are being reviewed. 10 new plaques will be purchased

Lynn Introduced John Hoptak as tonight’s speaker. John is a full time Ranger at Gettysburg, an historian, and author. He gave a lively, informative, entertaining, and captivating talk about the Battle of Antietam, followed by a Q & A.

The meeting was adjourned at 9 PM, by President Heller. Respectfully submitted by Lynn Heller, for Eleanor Cingire Bilz.


March 23, 2017
  • The March meeting of the Gettysburg Roundtable was called to order by President Lynn Heller at 7:30. Approximately 65 members and guests were in attendance.
  • The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
  • Thanks to Barbara Burkman, who provided refreshments.
  • Thanks to members who stepped up to form Refreshment Committee: Linda Seamon, Jean Kempa and Mollie Back. Refreshment sign-up sheet was passed.
  • Welcome to new members and guests.
  • Shared information: Nunsense Musical still has seats available, Park Seminar still has availability and Lynn shared an article in the Gettysburg Times regarding the Heritage Hall at the Gettysburg Presbyterian Church as it featured three members of the Roundtable, Chuck Teague, Dale Molina, and Eleanor Bilz.
  • Envelope for Preservation donations was passed. It was mentioned that Norm Danis donated $25.00 from the sale of his rifle to the Preservation Fund. Flyers and other items for sale in lobby on counter. We will be making a contribution of $500.00 to the Save Historical Antietam Foundation during our field trip in May.
  • Opportunities for members to serve the roundtable:
    • Someone or persons to help Roger on the Program Committee. Suggest speakers and greet speakers at the meeting.
    • Someone or persons to form an AV committee - set up the projector and lap top at the beginning of each meeting.
    • Someone or persons to help with the Holiday Banquet Door Prize Table. Collect items & set up displays at the banquet.
  • Lynn introduced Al Ferranto to talk about “Show and Tell”. Al will coordinate this. If you have anything of interest such as a relic, photo or family history, you may speak on it for no more than 10 minutes. If nothing is brought forth for a particular meeting, Al will bring in some of his items to display. Every meeting will have a Show and Tell segment. This will begin in September.
  • Hilda and Spence conducted the Book Raffle. Four books were raffled.
  • Lynn’s Trivia Question regarding who is the brother-in-law of General Roger B. Taney, was answered correctly by Larry Sherfy. The answer is Francis Scott Key

Announcements:

Lynn asked if anyone had an old (used) laptop which they would be willing to donate to the Roundtable for use by our guest speakers.

Committee Reports:

    • Treasurer: Lynn gave Treasurer’s report in David Diner’s absence:

      Investment Fund: 2,500.00
      Operational Fund: 8,750.80
      Preservation Fund: 2,951.96
      Total Assets: 14,202.76

    • Recording Secretary: Minutes of last meeting are in the kitchen.
    • Membership Committee: Linda Seamon: There are 17 people from the 2016 membership who have not yet renewed their 2017 membership.
    • Program Committee: Roger Heller announced that Carol Reardon will be speaker for April 27 meeting. She is the guide for our May 20 field trip to Antietam. All seats are filled for this trip and if there is enough interest, another trip might be set up in the Fall.
    • Plaque Committee: Nothing to report.
    • Book Committee: Larry Plymire Nothing new to report.
    • Nominating Committee: Ron Rock In April, the membership will vote on the motion to change the by-laws to allow the President to serve a two-year term, renewable on a year-to-year basis for up to four years. If this passes, Lynn has agreed to continue to serve as our President, since no other names were put forth by the membership. Kendra is candidate for Vice President, Linda is candidate for Membership Secretary, and Dale Molina and Fred Hawthorn are candidates for Board Members.

The business portion of the meeting ended at 7:50 p.m.

Lynn then introduced our evening’s speaker, Tom Ryan. Tom is our 2015 Book Award Recipient for his multiple award winning book: Spies, Scouts, and Secrets in the Gettysburg Campaign. His presentation tonight is based on this book, and he will be telling the story of how intelligent operations influenced the actions or non- actions of Gen. Lee and Gen. Meade. Tom is an historian lecturer, and author, and a veteran of the U.S. Army and U.S. Department of Defense. Following a few questions, Lynn presented Mr. Ryan with a framed certificate of appreciation and an honorarium.

Respectfully submitted,

Eleanor Bilz, Recording Secretary

 

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April 25
Stephen Evangelista
Brown's 25th Rhode Island Battery

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May 23
Lisa Samia
The Nameless & Faceless of the Civil War in Poetry

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June 8 (Saturday 9:30 am to noon)
Fred Hawthorne
Places Every Guide Should Know: Hancock Avenue Edition

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June 27 (Rain date June 28)
Jasan Hileman
Red Carroll's Brigade

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July 25 (Rain date July29)
Larry Korcyzk
The Wheatfield — Part 2

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August 22 (Rain date August 26)
Ralph Seigel
11th Corps Program TBA

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September 26
Derek Maxfield
General William T. Sherman's Civil War

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October 24
Carolyn Ivanoff
We Fought at Gettysburg: the 17th CT Regiment

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November 21
John Heiser
The George Rose Farm of Gettysburg

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December 5 - Holiday Banquet
Charles Fennell
Culp's Hill "Rediscovered"

 


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