the telegraph keymajorkey1920ksscv.org/newsletter/dectelekey15.pdf · continued from page 1 no camp...

The Telegraph KeyMajor Thomas J. Key Camp #1920Sons of Confederate Veterans7325 Oakview StreetShawnee, Kansas 66216

reminder!

There will be no January meeting.

Lee/Jackson Banquet is January 23!

VOL. 16, NO. 11 DECEMBER 2015

The Telegraph Key- . . . . . / - . . - . . . -- . . - . . - . -- . . . . . / - .- . - . --

THE OFFICIAL DISPATCH FOR THE MAJOR THOMAS J. KEY CAMP #1920KANSAS DIVISION, SCV • JOHNSON COUNTY, KANSAS

Major Thomas J. KeyCamp Officers

CommanderJames D. Thornton

1st Lt. CommanderJohn Weir

2nd Lt. CommanderJames L. Speicher

AdjutantSteven Crawford

Communications OfficerSteven Crawford

Historian and ScrapbookDan Peterson

Web MasterJohn Weir

Newsletter EditorJohn Kirchmeyer, Jr.

Media CoordinatorLane Smith

Cadet Member CoordinatorLee Crutchfield

The Commander’s CornerThomas J. Key Camp Commander, Jim Thornton

www.MajorKey1920KSSCV.org

Washington and Lafayette. Lee and Jackson. Four generals, two friendships, and two wars for independence waged against seemingly insurmountable odds and an industrially powerful opponent. What is the difference? In the first war for independence, also known as the American Revolution, the friendship survived and the underdog was victorious. In the second war for independence, also known as the War for Southern Independence, or the War of Northern Aggression, the friendship perished and the underdog was defeated.

Washington was approximately 20 years older than Lafayette. Lee was approximately 20 years older

than Jackson. In spite of the age difference, the friendships and mutual respect grew. Washington came to depend on Lafayette’s enthusiasm and surprising tactical abilities. Lee came to depend on Jackson’s spiritual guidance and extraordinary tactical skills. Lafayette respected the leadership of his commanding officer and knew when to follow orders, and when to offer his opinion. The same was true of Jackson.

In other words, the success of one depended on the other. The two friends combined and leading the forces together, were more powerful than one of the pair on his own. In technical terms, these two friendships were a symbiotic relationship. One could not succeed without the other.

In the War of Northern Aggression, Lee and Jackson had grown so close and so respectful of each

Continued on Page 2

Reminder:The Key Camp will be not be holding a January meeting. Get ready for the Lee/Jackson Banquet on January 23!

The Commander’s CornerContinued from page 1

No Camp Meeting for January

2 www.MajorKey1920KSSCV.org

DECEMBER 2015 DEO VINDICE

The Key Camp will meet not have a regular camp meeting for January 2016. Instead, we ask you to join us at the 2016 Lee-Jackson banquet on Saturday, January 23, 2016 at the Abdallah Shrine Temple located at 5300 Metcalf Avenue.

The Lee-Jackson banquet serves as an opportunity for us to gather in a formal setting and is the only fundraiser for the Key Camp, which takes on the form of an auction.

If you haven’t already done so, start cleaning your closets, garages, basements, storage lockers, or anywhere you’ve stashed items no longer used or for which you no longer have a purpose – they do not have to be related to the war.In years past, compatriots have donated items such as a garden trellis, wine decanters and glasses, World War II ammo boxes, etc. Even fishing gear would be a great auction item.

other that they could anticipate each other’s battle strategy and tactical maneuvers. They became a “well-oiled machine,” as the saying goes. When Jackson died, the machine broke. The main drive unit, Lee, was still powerful and functional, but the power take off unit, Jackson, was removed and the machine could not function at full capacity.

Although there were other generals and field commanders at Lee’s disposal, time was against Lee developing the close, symbiotic working relationship he had developed with Jackson. Longstreet, Hill, and Ewell all served as advisors to Lee, but the tactical skills and exraordinary ability of exploiting a small advantage that Jackson had were sorely missing. That working relationship between the two friends could not be replaced.

Symbiotic friendship is an amazing concept. Two persons grow so close that it takes both of them working together, respecting each other, and anticipating each other to achieve a common goal. One cannot do it alone by themselves. Washington could not have achieved his success without his friend and confidant, Lafayette. Lee, sadly, did not achieve the results desired because of the loss of his friend and confidant, Jackson.

Can you imagine the history books? The United States of America, friends and heroes of independence Washington and Lafayette. The Confederate States of America, friends and heroes of independence Lee and Jackson.

If only…

Left: George Washington and Marquis de Lafayette at Valley Forge.

Right: Thomas Jonathan “Stonewall” Jackson and Robert E. Leeat Chancellorsville

GRAND TOTAL:

SORRY!NO LATE ORDERS

5. MOSSY OAK BREAKUP CAMOUFLAGE CAPSIZES Adjustable Sub TotalPRICE EACH $17.00

6. TWILL CAP W/ VELCRO CLOSURESIZES Adjustable Sub TotalPRICE EACH $14.00 Grey

Sons of Confederate VeteransOrder Form 2015

/2


3www.MajorKey1920KSSCV.org

A Look Back: 2015Key Camp Year in Review

The year 2015 dawned under a cloud of uncertainty for the Major Thomas J. Key Camp #1920 of the Sons of Confederate Veterans. For the first time in nearly 15 years (since the founding of the camp actually) the Camp would be under new leadership. James Speicher had announced before the October 2014 camp elections that he was stepping down and would not accept nomination or re-election.

Compatriot Jim Thornton was elected Commander, Compatriot John Weir 1st Lt. Commander, Compatriot James Speicher 2nd Lt. Commander, and Compatriot Steve Crawford as Adjutant. No one knew what to expect.

The new command staff would take their oath of office at the 2015 Lee-Jackson Banquet and the sabre of command would be passed. The banquet was a smashing success with an outstanding meal catered by Hy-Vee and a riveting presentation given by Cassy Gray as the guest speaker. Awards were presented and a special presentation was made to Spike for his years of leadership and service to the Camp. With that, the position of Camp Commander was handed off from Spike to Jim, and 2015 was underway.

And what a year it became! The Key Camp participated in no less than 14 community events during the course of the year and did not shy away from controversy when it raised its ugly head and threatened to demean the

good name of our ancestors. With pride and dignity, the men of the Key Camp continued to promote the Sons of Confederate Veterans calmly, peacefully, and diplomatically. From militaria shows, to parades, to school educational opportunities, the men of the Key Camp promoted the truth and good name of the Southern soldier and the Confederacy.

Beginning just three weeks after the Lee-Jackson Banquet, the Key Camp took part in the Leavenworth Militaria Show, Brookside St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Kansas City St. Patrick’s Day Parade, spring workday at Mine Creek, Missouri History Day for area schools at Lone Jack, Confederate Memorial Day at Higginsville, the Kansas Division SCV Reunion, SCV National Reunion, Key Camp Family Picnic, Civil War Day for area schools at Lone Jack, Mine Creek Heritage Days, Shawnee Indian Mission Fall Festival, Veterans Salute 2015 at Mid-Continent Public Library, fall work day at Mine Creek, and the Ottawa Veterans Day Parade and Celebration.

A huge event for the SCV had been planned for early April, but was sadly washed out by heavy rains and storms.

The Key Camp was to have partnered with the Brigadier General William Steele Camp of Leavenworth and the Leavenworth Historical Society for a huge display and presentation on the war which was to be held

on the grounds of the Leavenworth County History Museum. The Key and Steele Camps had planned to set up a complete campsite on the grounds, including horses. The Key Camp had also planned a large display of James Speicher’s artifacts collection on the museum veranda. Publicity had been huge for the camp and its participation, but the event was completely canceled due to the weather and was never rescheduled.

Probably the most significant event of 2015 involving the men of the Key Camp was a large, two-page feature article about the Sons of Confederate Veterans in the October 11 edition of the Kansas City Star by reporter Sarah Gish (http://www.kansascity.com/living/article38191017.html).

The article focused on comments from several compatriots of the Key Camp. The reporter even attended the camp picnic for first-hand observations and conversation with the membership. The Key Camp did the SCV proud in the article. It was a fair piece and the compatriots who were involved should be thanked and congratulated for participating with diplomacy and honor. Compatriots provided the SCV with rare positive press in these dark times.

The year 2015 began under cloudy, uncertain skies, but turned out to be quite a bright, sunny year.

Sons of Confederate VeteransPlease return your order WITH PAYMENT to John Bolton:

11416 W 105th St. Overland Park, KS 66214Thank you for your order. To serve you better, please read the following:

Products are available only in color and size indicated. ALL ITEMS are custom and cannot be returned for sizing error. We suggest that, when in doubt, order the next larger size. All orders will be produced together and delivered as soon as possible.

Please complete your form to avoid mistakes. Make all checks payable to: Thomas J. Key Camp #1920 Any questions contact John Bolton: 913-859-0614

Name: Daytime Phone:

1. LONG SLEEVE DENIM SHIRTSIZES S M L XL 2XL 3XL Sub TotalPRICE EACH $33.00 $33.00 $33.00 $33.00 $37.00 $39.00 Light Denim

2. SHORT SLEEVE POLOSIZES S M L XL 2XL 3XL Sub TotalPRICE EACH $26.00 $26.00 $26.00 $26.00 $30.00 $32.00 Athletic Grey

3. FLEECE ZIP VESTSIZES S M L XL 2XL 3XL Sub TotalPRICE EACH $29.00 $29.00 $29.00 $29.00 $33.00 $35.00 Black

MAJOR THOMAS J. KEY#1920CAMP



Order Form 2015

4. DUCK CLOTH INSULATED HOODED JACKETSIZES S M L XL 2XL 3XL Sub TotalPRICE EACH $98.00 $98.00 $98.00 $98.00 $102.00 $104.00 White


Page 1/2



The Last Man Out: The New Mexico CampaignPart 3 of a Series Researched and Written by Compatriot Charles Walthall

The First Movement South from Santa Fe to TexasCaptured, Paroled, Marched Out, and Exchanged

There appears to have been two major movements of captured Confederate soldiers out of New Mexico. There also appears to have been two smaller movements of men out of the Territory. Two movements were northeast, and two were southeast.

Sibley’s StragglersThe first minor movement appears to be the sick and wounded that were able to follow Sibley out of the Territory. I’ll refer to them as the stragglers. The prisoners captured at Socorro hospital (and fit to travel) were (sent south and) paroled at Ft. Craig on 23 April 1862 (page 127 WWTTx). Those unable to travel were transferred to the Hospital at Santa Fe (page 127 WWTTx). The sick and wounded Confederates found south of Peralta by Union troops following the Confederates appeared to have been assisted in leaving the Territory. The primary destination for these troops was the General Hospital at Franklin.

The Conf. sick at Dona Ana, Las Cruces, Mesilla, and Fort Fillmore (that were unable to travel on April 23) were all sent by Col. Steele, CSA, to the hospital at Franklin before Aug 21,1862 (page 294, WTTxC). Once at Ft. Bliss, Col. Steele found it difficult to provide food for his command, and for the sick and wounded at the hospital at Franklin. In order to secure food, Captain Cleaver was ordered out with

a detail to rustle some cattle along the Rio Grande below Fort Fillmore on June 27, 1862, and subsequently killed in a skirmish with Mexicans (page 310 WTTxC).

Two paroled Conf. soldiers escorted by Cpt. Howland (US) arrived at Dona Ana, Aug 1, 1862. Those men were James Kennedy and John Saxon. (page 293-294, WTTxC) After Col. Steele abandoned the post at Ft. Bliss, whatever men that were left behind were captured by General Carleton, US, when he arrived to re-capture the post at El Paso. At Fort Bliss on July 8, 1862, (Jno. A. Kirgan), reported that the sick (able to be moved) have been sent to San Antonio. There are still 150-200 sick in the hospital (at Franklin) (page 312, WTTxC). The movement of the sick, and wounded must have been tough on the soldiers involved. These men in particular of the 5th Tex. are singled out as examples of the sick and wounded who made it out and later died, or died en route on the move:• Pvt. Hugh Kolb died in a wagon at

Los Lunas on April 17, 1862• Pvt. Wm. Mitchell at Franklin on

May 6, 1862• Pvt. David Jones at the Franklin

Hospital on May 9, 1862• Pvt. Allison died at Dona Ana 16

May 1862• Pvt. John V. Norman died at Fort

Bliss 27 May 1862• Pvt. James Allison died at the

Franklin Hospital May 30, 1862

After capturing the hospital at Franklin, and Ft. Bliss, Gen. Carleton sent a detail on to Ft. Davis. Ft. Davis was recaptured by Union forces without contest on August 27, 1862.

The movement of the stragglers is summarized in this accounting in the journal of Wm. Randolph Howell, Co. C., 5th Texas Cav: April 16 – July 15, 1862:April 16, 1862…Some of our boys are taken prisoner by Federal pickets…(near Connelly’s Ranch)May 7…go to the hospital this morning! (at Las Cruces) (109) The official records indicate that Howell was in the hospital at Las Cruces from May 7 – 23 1862 with chronic hepatitis (158).May 23…Leave for El Paso in wagon with the sick of our regiment. Travel 20 miles and camp on the Rio Grande…May 24…arriving at Hospital in Franklin about sunset…May 25 – June 9…At Hospital in Franklin (the official records indicate that Howell was at the Hospital at El Paso from May 24 – June 10, 1862 with intermittent fever and hepatitis (159).June 9 – 19…moved my baggage to the escort camp beneath the beautiful cottonwood shade trees, below Fort Bliss…June 21…passed Smith’s Ranch…June 22…camp just below Fort Quitman…June 23…arrived at Eagle SpringsJune 24…arrived at Van Horn’s Wells

You are cordially invited to the 15th Annual Lee-Jackson Banquet Sponsored by the Major Thomas J. Key Camp #1920

Sons of Confederate Veterans

6:00 PM, Saturday, January 23, 2016

The Abdallah Shrine Temple 5300 Metcalf Avenue

Shawnee Mission, KS 66202 (Metcalf just south of I-35)

$25.00 per Person – Cash Bar

Coat and Tie / Business Casual / Confederate Uniform / Period Attire

PLEASE SUBMIT RESERVATIONS BY JANUARY 13, 2016

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

15TH ANNUAL LEE-JACKSON BANQUET Sponsored by the Major Thomas J. Key Camp #1920

Sons of Confederate Veterans Saturday, January 23, 2016

Reservation Confirmation

(Please Print Names – Use Reverse Side for Additional Names)

Compatriot Name: ___________________________________________

Name of Guest: ____________________ Name of Guest: __________________


TOTAL Number Attending: ________

TOTAL Amount Enclosed: # attending x $25.00 = $__________________

Mail This Form and Payment To: Adjutant Steve Crawford

5943 Catalina Fairway, KS 66205-3110

Upcoming EventsSaturday, January 23, 2016 • Shawnee Mission, KS

» Lee-Jackson Banquet

Abdallah Shrine Temple 5300 Metcalf Shawnee Mission, KS 66202

The 2016 Lee-Jackson Banquet is quickly approaching and will once again be held at the Abdallah Shrine Temple. Please plan on attending...and keep a lookout for items or artifacts we may be able to use for the auction.

SAVE THE DATE: Friday and Saturday, February 5-6, 2016 • Columbia, SC

» Stephen Dill Lee Institute – Reconstruction

Columbia Marriott 1200 Hampton St. Columbia, SC 29201

The Stephen Dill Lee Institute will be held at the Marriott Hotel located very near the State Capital in the heart of downtown Columbia. For more information, including registration details and speakers, visit www.stephendleeinstitute.com/events.html.

SAVE THE DATE: July 13-17, 2016 • Richardson, TX

» SCV Annual National Reunion

For more information, including registration details, lodging, and event schedule, visit http://scv2016.org/registration.html.

The Telegraph Key

The Telegraph Key is a newsletter published for the Major Thomas Key Camp #1920 of the Sons of Confederate Veterans (SCV). The SCV is a non-profit organization with a patriotic, historical, and genealogical orientation and is not affiliated with any other organization. Opinions in this newsletter reflect the views of the writers and are not necessarily a statement of the views of the SCV, the Kansas Division, the Kansas Brigades, nor any other camp. Comments and articles are solicited.

E-mail comments, article ideas, and suggestions to John Kirchmeyer at [email protected].

Key Camp Website Resources

Key Camp: www.MajorKey1920ksscv.orgSCV National: www.SCV.org





June 26…arrived at Dead Man’s Hole…12:20 am…June 27…pass Barrel SpringsJune 28…camp just below Fort Davis…June 30…arrive at Barilla Spring…July 1…arrive Leon Holes…proceed to Ft. Stockton…July 2…remain near Fort StocktonJuly 3…camp on the Pecos River…July 4…camp at Pecos Spring…July 5…pass Fort Lancaster……July 6…arrive at Howard’s Spring…July 8…Devil’s River…July 9…pass Fort Hudson…arrive at Yellow Bank…July 10…cross Devil’s Creek for the last time…July 11…Elm Creek…Pedro Pinto…pass Fort Clark…Maverick Creek…July 12…Turkey Creek…Nueces…pass Uvalde…(see white women and signs of Civilization)…July 13…cross the Sabinal…July 14…pass through D’Harris…camp near Castroville.July 15…breakfast at Castroville…in sight of San Antonio by 2 pm…

Note: All references are from the general text unless annotated by page number (source: Westward the Texans, Thompson, Texas Western Press, 1990)

Official Record regarding the wounded at Franklin (El Paso) near Ft. Bliss, TexasBGen. James Carleton, US, reported on September 1, 1862, that: …“I found on my arrival here some twenty-odd sick and wounded soldiers of the C. S. Army, whom I was ordered by General Canby, commanding the

Department of New Mexico, to make prisoners of war. These men, at their earnest solicitation, I sent to San Antonio on their parole. They have been furnished with rations of subsistence for forty days and with such medicines and hospital stores as were necessary for them on the road. I have also furnished two wagons for the transportation of those who are unable to walk, and I have sent an escort of one lieutenant and twenty-five rank and file of the First California Volunteer Cavalry to guard them from attack by Mexicans or Indians until a sufficient force from your army is met, to whom they may be transferred, or until they reach some point near San Antonio, where from thence onward they can travel with safety. From that point the lieutenant is ordered to return with his party and all the means of transportation belonging to the United States with which he instructed for the use of his escort and benefit of these prisoners…”

After securing the Post and the Hospital, Gen Carleton dispatched troops forward toward Ft. Davis: “…Captain Roberts’ company (E, First California Volunteer Infantry) and Captain Pishon’s company (D, First California Volunteer Cavalry) will be ordered by Colonel West to proceed without delay to Franklin, Tex., where Captain Roberts’ company will take post…).”

From Franklin: “…Captain Pishon’s company will march to Fort Stockton, in Texas, as a guard to some prisoners of the Confederate Army who are to be sent to Texas on parole…”

Part 4 of this series will appear in the January edition of the Telegraph Key.

Four New Compatriots WelcomedMen officially join the ranks of the SCV, Key CampAt the December 3 meeting of the Major Thomas J. Key Camp #1920, four new compatriot were officially welcomed into the ranks of the Sons of Confederate Veterans. Compatriots Matthew Brady, Mark Erwin, John Lester, and Matthew Sewell were presented their certificates of membership, lapel pins, and membership wallet cards. Key Camp Chaplain Carl Linck and Commander Jim Thornton conducted the ceremony and presented the men with their membership memorabilia.

The men and their Confederate ancestors are:

• Matthew Brady: Sergeant JamesA. Brady, Company B, Thomas’ Legion (North Carolina).

• Mark Erwin: Private Hamilton W.Haskins, Company F, 28th Regiment, Alabama Infantry.

• John Lester: Private MatthewWoodward, Company E, 1st Regiment, Missouri Cavalry.

• Matthew Sewell: Private AndrewJackson Lasseter, Company K, 57th Regiment, Georgia Infantry.

Other Meeting Notes

Following the certificate presentation ceremony, the Key Camp was given a presentation on the Battle of Black Jack by Jeff and Kathleen Quigley, site managers and members of the Black Jack Battlefield Trust Board.

According to Mr. Quigley, some historians consider the Battle of Black Jack to be the first true battle

of the War of Northern Aggression. The Battle of Black Jack took place on June 2, 1856, when abolitionist forces led by John Brown attacked the encampment of Henry C. Pate near Baldwin City, Kansas. Brown and 29 others met Henry Pate and his band of militia and fought the battle of Black Jack. This started after Brown’s two sons were captured and held prisoner by Pate for their involvement a few weeks earlier in the Pottawatomie Massacre.

The five-hour battle went in Brown’s favor and Pate and 22 of his followers were captured and held for ransom. Brown agreed to release them as long as they released Brown’s sons.

The site of the battle is located near U.S. Highway 56, about three miles east of Baldwin City, and is near the area of the Robert Hall Pearson Memorial Park, designated by the state of Kansas in honor of one of Brown and Shore’s fighters who gave a handwritten account of the battle. Signs are placed throughout the battle site pointing out where the battle started and ended.

According to Mr. Quigley, private efforts are underway to preserve and enhance both the Pearson Memorial Park and the Ivan Boyd Prairie Preserve across the road, as well as the battlefield park.

Wanted:Male Descendants of Confederate Soldiers

The Key Camp is currently recruiting new members to honor and affectionately memorialize our Southern ancestors and their brave deeds. We are making progress, but we must always be thinking of recruiting.

Our camp actively recruits at events in which we participate. If you know of someone who may be interested in defending his ancestor’s good name and heritage, talk to him about the Sons of Confederate Veterans.





The South’s Soliloquy by Abijah CrainYou have called me a Rebel, so I was. In doing so you have endeavored to cast a reflection upon my character. If it be a reproach, a crime, it is part of my soul, my religion; it is inseparably nailed and clinched to that immortal spirit of mine. God gave it, legions of armed host cannot snatch it from me. They can and have taken life, yet it lives another life more glorious. That of being a Rebel, if it be a crime I will nourish it; if a reproach, I will love it. Only call me that. Let it be my name.

These locks will not grow gray brooding over such dishonored steps. Chains of the bitterest bondage may rust and wear to the very bone which in itself is no part of man, yet the soul free and unfettered acknowledges no such tyranny. My honored hear

not the clanking chains of the living. Living ears hear not the glorious shouts of those who fortune favored with death rather than chains. The bosoms of the living groan under the weight of oppression, whilst I know there is a bright united wreath gone to the patriots’ home whose bosoms heave with ecstasy o’er the name for which they died. For me they weep; over my misfortunes they lament. Whilst the bones of my deeds bleach a thousand fields, the bones and marrow of my living canker with chains in every hamlet. My people like autumn leaves have fallen and you call me Rebel. I weep for them yet will deny not the name. Oh Greece, thou art fallen; Rome a desolation! Fallen under an

oppressor’s heel, my fields which had fed and clothed the world are barren wastes; bought and sold; gone to fill other purses. My council chambers that once rang with the voice of the great and good are now filled with serf and slave, my wealth squandered; my people in almost hopeless bankruptcy.

Oh God be thou a shield for my people! Turn the wrath of thou enemies like the broken and distorted waves to whence they came. Be an arm of strength to my people oh God! Pluck them from the evils and dangers that encompass them. We adore thy chast’ning hand. All we ask is to spare us from the wrath of our enemies.

Night rules the day,‘Tis all darkness,Wretchedness and despair is ours.

I speak to the winds that drive on unmindful,The rolling surf heeds not my moans.Where is hope?

Can there be hopeIn the tree that is cut down?Will its tender branches put forth again?

My rivers march on with slow and hopeless pace,My mountains like courses slain.The happy songs of the birds are hushed forever.

Yes, Dixie, thou art an insulted grave.By feet of Tyrants trod.A hero once, but now a slave,A sacrifice to God.

Your Lions fell on every field,Bright pyramids of bones.Freedom shrieked to see them yield,Their laurels and their crowns.

Raindrops wear the massive stones,And break the towering spires.Alone will last that heap of bones,Of Southern Heroes, Sons, and Sires.

Four New Compatriots WelcomedMen officially join the ranks of the SCV, Key CampAt the December 3 meeting of the Major Thomas J. Key Camp #1920, four new compatriot were officially welcomed into the ranks of the Sons of Confederate Veterans. Compatriots Matthew Brady, Mark Erwin, John Lester, and Matthew Sewell were presented their certificates of membership, lapel pins, and membership wallet cards. Key Camp Chaplain Carl Linck and Commander Jim Thornton conducted the ceremony and presented the men with their membership memorabilia.

The men and their Confederate ancestors are:

• Matthew Brady: Sergeant JamesA. Brady, Company B, Thomas’ Legion (North Carolina).

• Mark Erwin: Private Hamilton W.Haskins, Company F, 28th Regiment, Alabama Infantry.

• John Lester: Private MatthewWoodward, Company E, 1st Regiment, Missouri Cavalry.

• Matthew Sewell: Private AndrewJackson Lasseter, Company K, 57th Regiment, Georgia Infantry.

Other Meeting Notes

Following the certificate presentation ceremony, the Key Camp was given a presentation on the Battle of Black Jack by Jeff and Kathleen Quigley, site managers and members of the Black Jack Battlefield Trust Board.

According to Mr. Quigley, some historians consider the Battle of Black Jack to be the first true battle

of the War of Northern Aggression. The Battle of Black Jack took place on June 2, 1856, when abolitionist forces led by John Brown attacked the encampment of Henry C. Pate near Baldwin City, Kansas. Brown and 29 others met Henry Pate and his band of militia and fought the battle of Black Jack. This started after Brown’s two sons were captured and held prisoner by Pate for their involvement a few weeks earlier in the Pottawatomie Massacre.

The five-hour battle went in Brown’s favor and Pate and 22 of his followers were captured and held for ransom. Brown agreed to release them as long as they released Brown’s sons.

The site of the battle is located near U.S. Highway 56, about three miles east of Baldwin City, and is near the area of the Robert Hall Pearson Memorial Park, designated by the state of Kansas in honor of one of Brown and Shore’s fighters who gave a handwritten account of the battle. Signs are placed throughout the battle site pointing out where the battle started and ended.

According to Mr. Quigley, private efforts are underway to preserve and enhance both the Pearson Memorial Park and the Ivan Boyd Prairie Preserve across the road, as well as the battlefield park.

Wanted:Male Descendants of Confederate Soldiers

The Key Camp is currently recruiting new members to honor and affectionately memorialize our Southern ancestors and their brave deeds. We are making progress, but we must always be thinking of recruiting.

Our camp actively recruits at events in which we participate. If you know of someone who may be interested in defending his ancestor’s good name and heritage, talk to him about the Sons of Confederate Veterans.





The South’s Soliloquy by Abijah CrainYou have called me a Rebel, so I was. In doing so you have endeavored to cast a reflection upon my character. If it be a reproach, a crime, it is part of my soul, my religion; it is inseparably nailed and clinched to that immortal spirit of mine. God gave it, legions of armed host cannot snatch it from me. They can and have taken life, yet it lives another life more glorious. That of being a Rebel, if it be a crime I will nourish it; if a reproach, I will love it. Only call me that. Let it be my name.

These locks will not grow gray brooding over such dishonored steps. Chains of the bitterest bondage may rust and wear to the very bone which in itself is no part of man, yet the soul free and unfettered acknowledges no such tyranny. My honored hear

not the clanking chains of the living. Living ears hear not the glorious shouts of those who fortune favored with death rather than chains. The bosoms of the living groan under the weight of oppression, whilst I know there is a bright united wreath gone to the patriots’ home whose bosoms heave with ecstasy o’er the name for which they died. For me they weep; over my misfortunes they lament. Whilst the bones of my deeds bleach a thousand fields, the bones and marrow of my living canker with chains in every hamlet. My people like autumn leaves have fallen and you call me Rebel. I weep for them yet will deny not the name. Oh Greece, thou art fallen; Rome a desolation! Fallen under an

oppressor’s heel, my fields which had fed and clothed the world are barren wastes; bought and sold; gone to fill other purses. My council chambers that once rang with the voice of the great and good are now filled with serf and slave, my wealth squandered; my people in almost hopeless bankruptcy.

Oh God be thou a shield for my people! Turn the wrath of thou enemies like the broken and distorted waves to whence they came. Be an arm of strength to my people oh God! Pluck them from the evils and dangers that encompass them. We adore thy chast’ning hand. All we ask is to spare us from the wrath of our enemies.

Night rules the day,‘Tis all darkness,Wretchedness and despair is ours.

I speak to the winds that drive on unmindful,The rolling surf heeds not my moans.Where is hope?

Can there be hopeIn the tree that is cut down?Will its tender branches put forth again?

My rivers march on with slow and hopeless pace,My mountains like courses slain.The happy songs of the birds are hushed forever.

Yes, Dixie, thou art an insulted grave.By feet of Tyrants trod.A hero once, but now a slave,A sacrifice to God.

Your Lions fell on every field,Bright pyramids of bones.Freedom shrieked to see them yield,Their laurels and their crowns.

Raindrops wear the massive stones,And break the towering spires.Alone will last that heap of bones,Of Southern Heroes, Sons, and Sires.

Taken from the book Ten Sons of Oliver. The subject, Oliver Crain, is the 2nd great grandfather of Compatriot Matt Brady’s wife. The book credits the soliloquy to Abijah Crain, who would be an uncle or cousin to his wife.

Upcoming EventsSaturday, January 23, 2016 • Shawnee Mission, KS

» Lee-Jackson Banquet

Abdallah Shrine Temple 5300 Metcalf Shawnee Mission, KS 66202

The 2016 Lee-Jackson Banquet is quickly approaching and will once again be held at the Abdallah Shrine Temple. Please plan on attending...and keep a lookout for items or artifacts we may be able to use for the auction.

SAVE THE DATE: Friday and Saturday, February 5-6, 2016 • Columbia, SC

» Stephen Dill Lee Institute – Reconstruction

Columbia Marriott 1200 Hampton St. Columbia, SC 29201

The Stephen Dill Lee Institute will be held at the Marriott Hotel located very near the State Capital in the heart of downtown Columbia. For more information, including registration details and speakers, visit www.stephendleeinstitute.com/events.html.

SAVE THE DATE: July 13-17, 2016 • Richardson, TX

» SCV Annual National Reunion

For more information, including registration details, lodging, and event schedule, visit http://scv2016.org/registration.html.

The Telegraph Key

The Telegraph Key is a newsletter published for the Major Thomas Key Camp #1920 of the Sons of Confederate Veterans (SCV). The SCV is a non-profit organization with a patriotic, historical, and genealogical orientation and is not affiliated with any other organization. Opinions in this newsletter reflect the views of the writers and are not necessarily a statement of the views of the SCV, the Kansas Division, the Kansas Brigades, nor any other camp. Comments and articles are solicited.

E-mail comments, article ideas, and suggestions to John Kirchmeyer at [email protected].

Key Camp Website Resources

Key Camp: www.MajorKey1920ksscv.orgSCV National: www.SCV.org





June 26…arrived at Dead Man’s Hole…12:20 am…June 27…pass Barrel SpringsJune 28…camp just below Fort Davis…June 30…arrive at Barilla Spring…July 1…arrive Leon Holes…proceed to Ft. Stockton…July 2…remain near Fort StocktonJuly 3…camp on the Pecos River…July 4…camp at Pecos Spring…July 5…pass Fort Lancaster……July 6…arrive at Howard’s Spring…July 8…Devil’s River…July 9…pass Fort Hudson…arrive at Yellow Bank…July 10…cross Devil’s Creek for the last time…July 11…Elm Creek…Pedro Pinto…pass Fort Clark…Maverick Creek…July 12…Turkey Creek…Nueces…pass Uvalde…(see white women and signs of Civilization)…July 13…cross the Sabinal…July 14…pass through D’Harris…camp near Castroville.July 15…breakfast at Castroville…in sight of San Antonio by 2 pm…

Note: All references are from the general text unless annotated by page number (source: Westward the Texans, Thompson, Texas Western Press, 1990)

Official Record regarding the wounded at Franklin (El Paso) near Ft. Bliss, TexasBGen. James Carleton, US, reported on September 1, 1862, that: …“I found on my arrival here some twenty-odd sick and wounded soldiers of the C. S. Army, whom I was ordered by General Canby, commanding the

Department of New Mexico, to make prisoners of war. These men, at their earnest solicitation, I sent to San Antonio on their parole. They have been furnished with rations of subsistence for forty days and with such medicines and hospital stores as were necessary for them on the road. I have also furnished two wagons for the transportation of those who are unable to walk, and I have sent an escort of one lieutenant and twenty-five rank and file of the First California Volunteer Cavalry to guard them from attack by Mexicans or Indians until a sufficient force from your army is met, to whom they may be transferred, or until they reach some point near San Antonio, where from thence onward they can travel with safety. From that point the lieutenant is ordered to return with his party and all the means of transportation belonging to the United States with which he instructed for the use of his escort and benefit of these prisoners…”

After securing the Post and the Hospital, Gen Carleton dispatched troops forward toward Ft. Davis: “…Captain Roberts’ company (E, First California Volunteer Infantry) and Captain Pishon’s company (D, First California Volunteer Cavalry) will be ordered by Colonel West to proceed without delay to Franklin, Tex., where Captain Roberts’ company will take post…).”

From Franklin: “…Captain Pishon’s company will march to Fort Stockton, in Texas, as a guard to some prisoners of the Confederate Army who are to be sent to Texas on parole…”

Part 4 of this series will appear in the January edition of the Telegraph Key.



The Last Man Out: The New Mexico CampaignPart 3 of a Series Researched and Written by Compatriot Charles Walthall

The First Movement South from Santa Fe to TexasCaptured, Paroled, Marched Out, and Exchanged

There appears to have been two major movements of captured Confederate soldiers out of New Mexico. There also appears to have been two smaller movements of men out of the Territory. Two movements were northeast, and two were southeast.

Sibley’s StragglersThe first minor movement appears to be the sick and wounded that were able to follow Sibley out of the Territory. I’ll refer to them as the stragglers. The prisoners captured at Socorro hospital (and fit to travel) were (sent south and) paroled at Ft. Craig on 23 April 1862 (page 127 WWTTx). Those unable to travel were transferred to the Hospital at Santa Fe (page 127 WWTTx). The sick and wounded Confederates found south of Peralta by Union troops following the Confederates appeared to have been assisted in leaving the Territory. The primary destination for these troops was the General Hospital at Franklin.

The Conf. sick at Dona Ana, Las Cruces, Mesilla, and Fort Fillmore (that were unable to travel on April 23) were all sent by Col. Steele, CSA, to the hospital at Franklin before Aug 21,1862 (page 294, WTTxC). Once at Ft. Bliss, Col. Steele found it difficult to provide food for his command, and for the sick and wounded at the hospital at Franklin. In order to secure food, Captain Cleaver was ordered out with

a detail to rustle some cattle along the Rio Grande below Fort Fillmore on June 27, 1862, and subsequently killed in a skirmish with Mexicans (page 310 WTTxC).

Two paroled Conf. soldiers escorted by Cpt. Howland (US) arrived at Dona Ana, Aug 1, 1862. Those men were James Kennedy and John Saxon. (page 293-294, WTTxC) After Col. Steele abandoned the post at Ft. Bliss, whatever men that were left behind were captured by General Carleton, US, when he arrived to re-capture the post at El Paso. At Fort Bliss on July 8, 1862, (Jno. A. Kirgan), reported that the sick (able to be moved) have been sent to San Antonio. There are still 150-200 sick in the hospital (at Franklin) (page 312, WTTxC). The movement of the sick, and wounded must have been tough on the soldiers involved. These men in particular of the 5th Tex. are singled out as examples of the sick and wounded who made it out and later died, or died en route on the move:• Pvt. Hugh Kolb died in a wagon at

Los Lunas on April 17, 1862• Pvt. Wm. Mitchell at Franklin on

May 6, 1862• Pvt. David Jones at the Franklin

Hospital on May 9, 1862• Pvt. Allison died at Dona Ana 16

May 1862• Pvt. John V. Norman died at Fort

Bliss 27 May 1862• Pvt. James Allison died at the

Franklin Hospital May 30, 1862

After capturing the hospital at Franklin, and Ft. Bliss, Gen. Carleton sent a detail on to Ft. Davis. Ft. Davis was recaptured by Union forces without contest on August 27, 1862.

The movement of the stragglers is summarized in this accounting in the journal of Wm. Randolph Howell, Co. C., 5th Texas Cav: April 16 – July 15, 1862:April 16, 1862…Some of our boys are taken prisoner by Federal pickets…(near Connelly’s Ranch)May 7…go to the hospital this morning! (at Las Cruces) (109) The official records indicate that Howell was in the hospital at Las Cruces from May 7 – 23 1862 with chronic hepatitis (158).May 23…Leave for El Paso in wagon with the sick of our regiment. Travel 20 miles and camp on the Rio Grande…May 24…arriving at Hospital in Franklin about sunset…May 25 – June 9…At Hospital in Franklin (the official records indicate that Howell was at the Hospital at El Paso from May 24 – June 10, 1862 with intermittent fever and hepatitis (159).June 9 – 19…moved my baggage to the escort camp beneath the beautiful cottonwood shade trees, below Fort Bliss…June 21…passed Smith’s Ranch…June 22…camp just below Fort Quitman…June 23…arrived at Eagle SpringsJune 24…arrived at Van Horn’s Wells

You are cordially invited to the 15th Annual Lee-Jackson Banquet Sponsored by the Major Thomas J. Key Camp #1920

Sons of Confederate Veterans

6:00 PM, Saturday, January 23, 2016

The Abdallah Shrine Temple 5300 Metcalf Avenue

Shawnee Mission, KS 66202 (Metcalf just south of I-35)

$25.00 per Person – Cash Bar

Coat and Tie / Business Casual / Confederate Uniform / Period Attire

PLEASE SUBMIT RESERVATIONS BY JANUARY 13, 2016

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

15TH ANNUAL LEE-JACKSON BANQUET Sponsored by the Major Thomas J. Key Camp #1920

Sons of Confederate Veterans Saturday, January 23, 2016

Reservation Confirmation

(Please Print Names – Use Reverse Side for Additional Names)

Compatriot Name: ___________________________________________



TOTAL Number Attending: ________

TOTAL Amount Enclosed: # attending x $25.00 = $__________________

Mail This Form and Payment To: Adjutant Steve Crawford

5943 Catalina Fairway, KS 66205-3110



A Look Back: 2015Key Camp Year in Review

The year 2015 dawned under a cloud of uncertainty for the Major Thomas J. Key Camp #1920 of the Sons of Confederate Veterans. For the first time in nearly 15 years (since the founding of the camp actually) the Camp would be under new leadership. James Speicher had announced before the October 2014 camp elections that he was stepping down and would not accept nomination or re-election.

Compatriot Jim Thornton was elected Commander, Compatriot John Weir 1st Lt. Commander, Compatriot James Speicher 2nd Lt. Commander, and Compatriot Steve Crawford as Adjutant. No one knew what to expect.

The new command staff would take their oath of office at the 2015 Lee-Jackson Banquet and the sabre of command would be passed. The banquet was a smashing success with an outstanding meal catered by Hy-Vee and a riveting presentation given by Cassy Gray as the guest speaker. Awards were presented and a special presentation was made to Spike for his years of leadership and service to the Camp. With that, the position of Camp Commander was handed off from Spike to Jim, and 2015 was underway.

And what a year it became! The Key Camp participated in no less than 14 community events during the course of the year and did not shy away from controversy when it raised its ugly head and threatened to demean the

good name of our ancestors. With pride and dignity, the men of the Key Camp continued to promote the Sons of Confederate Veterans calmly, peacefully, and diplomatically. From militaria shows, to parades, to school educational opportunities, the men of the Key Camp promoted the truth and good name of the Southern soldier and the Confederacy.

Beginning just three weeks after the Lee-Jackson Banquet, the Key Camp took part in the Leavenworth Militaria Show, Brookside St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Kansas City St. Patrick’s Day Parade, spring workday at Mine Creek, Missouri History Day for area schools at Lone Jack, Confederate Memorial Day at Higginsville, the Kansas Division SCV Reunion, SCV National Reunion, Key Camp Family Picnic, Civil War Day for area schools at Lone Jack, Mine Creek Heritage Days, Shawnee Indian Mission Fall Festival, Veterans Salute 2015 at Mid-Continent Public Library, fall work day at Mine Creek, and the Ottawa Veterans Day Parade and Celebration.

A huge event for the SCV had been planned for early April, but was sadly washed out by heavy rains and storms.

The Key Camp was to have partnered with the Brigadier General William Steele Camp of Leavenworth and the Leavenworth Historical Society for a huge display and presentation on the war which was to be held

on the grounds of the Leavenworth County History Museum. The Key and Steele Camps had planned to set up a complete campsite on the grounds, including horses. The Key Camp had also planned a large display of James Speicher’s artifacts collection on the museum veranda. Publicity had been huge for the camp and its participation, but the event was completely canceled due to the weather and was never rescheduled.

Probably the most significant event of 2015 involving the men of the Key Camp was a large, two-page feature article about the Sons of Confederate Veterans in the October 11 edition of the Kansas City Star by reporter Sarah Gish (http://www.kansascity.com/living/article38191017.html).

The article focused on comments from several compatriots of the Key Camp. The reporter even attended the camp picnic for first-hand observations and conversation with the membership. The Key Camp did the SCV proud in the article. It was a fair piece and the compatriots who were involved should be thanked and congratulated for participating with diplomacy and honor. Compatriots provided the SCV with rare positive press in these dark times.

The year 2015 began under cloudy, uncertain skies, but turned out to be quite a bright, sunny year.

Sons of Confederate VeteransPlease return your order WITH PAYMENT to John Bolton:

11416 W 105th St. Overland Park, KS 66214Thank you for your order. To serve you better, please read the following:

Products are available only in color and size indicated. ALL ITEMS are custom and cannot be returned for sizing error. We suggest that, when in doubt, order the next larger size. All orders will be produced together and delivered as soon as possible.

Please complete your form to avoid mistakes. Make all checks payable to: Thomas J. Key Camp #1920 Any questions contact John Bolton: 913-859-0614

Name: Daytime Phone:

1. LONG SLEEVE DENIM SHIRTSIZES S M L XL 2XL 3XL Sub TotalPRICE EACH $33.00 $33.00 $33.00 $33.00 $37.00 $39.00 Light Denim

2. SHORT SLEEVE POLOSIZES S M L XL 2XL 3XL Sub TotalPRICE EACH $26.00 $26.00 $26.00 $26.00 $30.00 $32.00 Athletic Grey

3. FLEECE ZIP VESTSIZES S M L XL 2XL 3XL Sub TotalPRICE EACH $29.00 $29.00 $29.00 $29.00 $33.00 $35.00 Black




Order Form 2015

4. DUCK CLOTH INSULATED HOODED JACKETSIZES S M L XL 2XL 3XL Sub TotalPRICE EACH $98.00 $98.00 $98.00 $98.00 $102.00 $104.00 White


Page 1/2

The Commander’s CornerContinued from page 1

No Camp Meeting for January



The Key Camp will meet not have a regular camp meeting for January 2016. Instead, we ask you to join us at the 2016 Lee-Jackson banquet on Saturday, January 23, 2016 at the Abdallah Shrine Temple located at 5300 Metcalf Avenue.

The Lee-Jackson banquet serves as an opportunity for us to gather in a formal setting and is the only fundraiser for the Key Camp, which takes on the form of an auction.

If you haven’t already done so, start cleaning your closets, garages, basements, storage lockers, or anywhere you’ve stashed items no longer used or for which you no longer have a purpose – they do not have to be related to the war.In years past, compatriots have donated items such as a garden trellis, wine decanters and glasses, World War II ammo boxes, etc. Even fishing gear would be a great auction item.

other that they could anticipate each other’s battle strategy and tactical maneuvers. They became a “well-oiled machine,” as the saying goes. When Jackson died, the machine broke. The main drive unit, Lee, was still powerful and functional, but the power take off unit, Jackson, was removed and the machine could not function at full capacity.

Although there were other generals and field commanders at Lee’s disposal, time was against Lee developing the close, symbiotic working relationship he had developed with Jackson. Longstreet, Hill, and Ewell all served as advisors to Lee, but the tactical skills and exraordinary ability of exploiting a small advantage that Jackson had were sorely missing. That working relationship between the two friends could not be replaced.

Symbiotic friendship is an amazing concept. Two persons grow so close that it takes both of them working together, respecting each other, and anticipating each other to achieve a common goal. One cannot do it alone by themselves. Washington could not have achieved his success without his friend and confidant, Lafayette. Lee, sadly, did not achieve the results desired because of the loss of his friend and confidant, Jackson.

Can you imagine the history books? The United States of America, friends and heroes of independence Washington and Lafayette. The Confederate States of America, friends and heroes of independence Lee and Jackson.

If only…

Left: George Washington and Marquis de Lafayette at Valley Forge.

Right: Thomas Jonathan “Stonewall” Jackson and Robert E. Leeat Chancellorsville

GRAND TOTAL:

SORRY!NO LATE ORDERS

5. MOSSY OAK BREAKUP CAMOUFLAGE CAPSIZES Adjustable Sub TotalPRICE EACH $17.00

6. TWILL CAP W/ VELCRO CLOSURESIZES Adjustable Sub TotalPRICE EACH $14.00 Grey

Sons of Confederate VeteransOrder Form 2015

Page 2/2

The Telegraph KeyMajor Thomas J. Key Camp #1920Sons of Confederate Veterans7325 Oakview StreetShawnee, Kansas 66216

reminder!

There will be no January meeting.

Lee/Jackson Banquet is January 23!

VOL. 16, NO. 11 DECEMBER 2015

The Telegraph Key- . . . . . / - . . - . . . -- . . - . . - . -- . . . . . / - .- . - . --

THE OFFICIAL DISPATCH FOR THE MAJOR THOMAS J. KEY CAMP #1920KANSAS DIVISION, SCV • JOHNSON COUNTY, KANSAS

Major Thomas J. KeyCamp Officers

CommanderJames D. Thornton

1st Lt. CommanderJohn Weir

2nd Lt. CommanderJames L. Speicher

AdjutantSteven Crawford

Communications OfficerSteven Crawford

Historian and ScrapbookDan Peterson

Web MasterJohn Weir

Newsletter EditorJohn Kirchmeyer, Jr.

Media CoordinatorLane Smith

Cadet Member CoordinatorLee Crutchfield

The Commander’s CornerThomas J. Key Camp Commander, Jim Thornton

www.MajorKey1920KSSCV.org

Washington and Lafayette. Lee and Jackson. Four generals, two friendships, and two wars for independence waged against seemingly insurmountable odds and an industrially powerful opponent. What is the difference? In the first war for independence, also known as the American Revolution, the friendship survived and the underdog was victorious. In the second war for independence, also known as the War for Southern Independence, or the War of Northern Aggression, the friendship perished and the underdog was defeated.

Washington was approximately 20 years older than Lafayette. Lee was approximately 20 years older

than Jackson. In spite of the age difference, the friendships and mutual respect grew. Washington came to depend on Lafayette’s enthusiasm and surprising tactical abilities. Lee came to depend on Jackson’s spiritual guidance and extraordinary tactical skills. Lafayette respected the leadership of his commanding officer and knew when to follow orders, and when to offer his opinion. The same was true of Jackson.

In other words, the success of one depended on the other. The two friends combined and leading the forces together, were more powerful than one of the pair on his own. In technical terms, these two friendships were a symbiotic relationship. One could not succeed without the other.

In the War of Northern Aggression, Lee and Jackson had grown so close and so respectful of each

Continued on Page 2

Reminder:The Key Camp will be not be holding a January meeting. Get ready for the Lee/Jackson Banquet on January 23!

the telegraph keymajorkey1920ksscv.org/newsletter/dectelekey15.pdf · continued from page 1 no camp...

Documents