AIKEN --- Just five years after becoming a volunteer, Daniel Williams, of Graniteville, says he's probably spent more than $7,000 in equipment so he can be "authentic" for this weekend's Battle of Aiken reenactment.
But his investment goes much deeper than money.
Days before the public visits the battleground, he saws logs and makes space in his shelter for as many of his fellow soldiers as he can fit. His neighbor in the trenches is Donald Christopoulo of New Ellenton. With more than 15 years of experience, the history buff can't even bring to words how special the last weekend in February has become in his life.
"They're like family," Mr. Christopoulo said. "Until you've done this, you don't understand what it's like. It's like being in the military, but it's not as dangerous as the battle your ancestors fought in and there aren't real bullets."
Each year, about 1,000 re-enactors huddle together in winter quarters. While some modifications are modern, they keep the wooden shelter humble and bare. Men bring a couple of blankets and sleep between five and 10 men per shelter. Those who stay in the comfort of home are usually teased the next day at roll call.
The re-enactment began Friday and lasts until today on Powell Pond Road off South Carolina Highway 19.
Mornings start with a 7 a.m. roll call where soldiers are expected to be in full dress. With the rain this past weekend, boots and pants legs are probably muddier than usual.
Bathing isn't usually part of the weekend either, Mr. Christopoulo said.
"We could go the whole weekend usually without it; we just wipe off our faces in the morning and head out," he said.
After quick bathroom breaks and a modest breakfast made over an open fire, soldiers present colors, then drill. They keep the precision of a traditional unit. Throughout the weekend, re-enactors also attend chapel, recreate hospital scenarios and have pass-in-review inspections.
The new re-enactors always stand out, Mr. Christopoulo said, because they "act goofy or ask a lot of questions."
Even after five years, Mr. Williams still says he has much to learn from veterans who have been on the field for more than 20 years.
"The main things are explained, but you can't really prepare yourself for it until you head out to the field," Mr. Williams said.
After the day's battle, the men head back to their shelters and share stories over a fire and relive the childhood play of war.
"It's just a way to make friends," Mr. Christopoulo said.
Reach Julia Sellers at (803) 648-1395, ext. 106, or julia.sellers@augustachronicle.com
BATTLE OF AIKEN
- Celebrated the last week of February each year
- The 1865 battle began Feb. 11 when Lt. Gen. Joseph "Fightin' Joe" Wheeler surprised a Union calvary detachment that marched and rode into Aiken. The battle took place near First Baptist Church on Chesterfield Street and Richland Avenue.
- It drove federal troops back to Montmorenci.
- The battle lasted three days.
Source: BattleofAiken.org; Pete Peters, organizer
The Augusta Chronicle ©2012. All Rights Reserved.
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