Fort Granger
In May of 2006 the Western
Independent Grays again hosted an event at Ft.
Granger
in Franklin, Tennessee. The Hoosier
men of the Pumpkin Patch always enjoy the Granger event, as the fort itself was
constructed by the 84th
Indiana
as part of a ring of defenses about Nashville. The PPM's
experience at this year's event was improved by the addition of new members Matt Lowe and Mike
Potts.
A well put together garrison style event allows us to experience the side of the soldiers life while not on active campaign.
Interesting components of this years event were the building and use of
brick bake ovens, drill on artillery pieces, as well as an Officers' School of
Instruction and Examination for Justin, then serving as Captain, commanding
company D.
The
highlight of the event by far, however, was the opportunity to serve in a
working fatigue party to rebuild part of the earthen wall that had eroded away
over time. The dirt was moved and
packed by hand in baskets and canvas sacks with the aid of three reconstructed
wheel barrows. The ability to
participate in these perfectly recreated scenarios is what gives our type of
Living History its research and educational aspect.
Though all were working for the common goal of
preservation of the site, a natural rivalry arose between the three
companies. As a result of the rivalry, quite a few good natured jabs were thrown back and forth among the
men throughout the weekend. When the dust settled, Company
D, the Company composed of Mid-westerners including the PPM, won the day
moving 129 loads during their allotted duty rotation. This accomplishment
was a mere 10 loads shy of
besting the rest of the Battalion combined.
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