My hometown celebrated the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War last Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday with bands, concerts with special guest, country singer and actor, Trace Adkins, re-dedication of memorials, wreath laying, and parades. Overall, it is estimated 4,500 people showed up for all the events.
One of the highlights was a pair of camels portraying "Old Douglas" who was in the Siege of Vicksburg. Here are a few pictures I took of Abraham and Richard on Saturday afternoon before the big concert featuring The Mississippi Symphony Orchestra at 7 p.m.
Company A of the 43rd Mississippi Infantry had a camel, an honest-to-goodness real camel, and his job was to carry band instruments."
Old Douglas played a minor role in the Siege of Vicksburg, but the
animal was so well remembered that veterans still shared his story at
Civil War reunions.
Douglas was killed during the siege and he had a headstone at Soldiers' Rest in Cedar Hill Cemetery. (see below)
Abraham the camel is considered the photo-bomber of the pair.
Say Cheezz!
How do you like my teeth?
Did you know that I want spit on you!
Park Ranger, Adam Wilson, with 10-year-old Abraham.
17-year-old Richard portraying "Old Douglas!"
Doug Baum, owner of Texas Camel Corps, talks about the history of “Old Douglas” during the Siege of Vicksburg. - at Vicksburg National Military Park.
Richard
plays the role of Old Douglas quite convincingly. Old Douglas was
killed by a Union sharpshooter at the siege of Vicksburg. Not to worry
however, Richard is fine, he’s just resting after a long day on the
battlefield. - at Vicksburg National Military Park.
A camp site near the camels.
Taken January 20, 2012
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