Teaching kids Civil War history

From Cleveland.com: Teaching kids Civil War history

Scott Longert, 58, is a park guide at the James A. Garfield National Historic Site in Mentor. He has his master's in American history from Cleveland State University. On Saturday, the museum will host a mini militia for children ages 5-12. Each child will be issued a coat, belt, haversack and wooden toy rifle. Participants must register by calling 440-255-8722. He spoke with PDQ's Michael Heaton.

Do you refer to yourself as a Civil War re-enactor?

No, I don't. I am basically a park guide for the National Park Service. I have training as a black-powder supervisor, which allows me to bring re-enactors to our site and let them fire muskets. We will be doing that July 14-15, by the way, at our annual encampment.

How long have people been re-enacting the Civil War?

Quite some time. I believe it goes back to the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg.

What is it about the Civil War that fascinates people so much?

We fought among ourselves for the only time in our history. It really was brother against brother. We had a war between states, the freeing of slaves and the assassination of a president all within four years' time.

What will you be teaching the kids on Saturday?

Basically how to properly hold their toy rifle without hitting somebody. They will learn it was tough to wear a wool uniform coat in the summer and carry equipment while marching. The kids will be issued a haversack filled with combs, toothbrushes, wallets and candles just like the soldiers carried. It really is a lot of fun to step back in time and learn how to march in formation.

What is the history lesson to be learned from the Civil War?

That cooler heads should prevail. There has to be away to sit down and iron out your differences rather than have hundreds of thousands of soldiers lose their lives.

What rank of soldier do you dress as?

When I do, it is always as a private. Everybody wants to be an officer.

What is your favorite battle from the Civil War?

Not very well known, but the Battle of Middle Creek, Ky., where Union Col. James A. Garfield won a victory over a larger Confederate force. It was Garfield's only victory as a commander during the Civil War. A small victory, but it did drive the Confederates out of eastern Kentucky and earn a promotion to brigadier general for the future president.

Do you have a favorite Civil War movie?

"Glory," the film about the 55th Massachusetts, one of the first African-American regiments in the war. Denzel Washington was outstanding as a former slave who lost his life at the attack on Fort Wagner in South Carolina.

Have you ever been criticized for glorifying war?

Not that I know of. I try to teach folks about what soldiers and civilians had to endure during that time. It is really about people making tremendous sacrifices for what they believed in.

How can people sign up their children for this event?

Call the James A. Garfield National Historic Site at 440-255-8722 and reserve a spot. We can accommodate up to 25 children per session.

What did soldiers in the Civil War eat?

Definitely not burgers and fries. Generally they had coffee, salt pork, bacon, beans, rice, crackers and whatever they could forage. Many times soldiers went without rations for a day or two. They would find green corn, mix it with flour and bake it. It was like biting into concrete.

If you could go back in time to that period, but you had to stay there, would you do it?

I am very happy in the present. I would miss going to see the Indians play at Progressive Field.

What details in the uniform are the most difficult to make authentic?

The "sutlers," the people who create the uniforms and equipment, do an amazing job. You have to be an expert to spot any flaws. That being said, probably the officer's shoulder boards.

Did they have toilet paper back then?

I was hoping this question would not come up. I am sure there was an early form of it, but the soldiers in the field did without.

If you were going to re-enact another war, which would you choose?

The War of 1812. Not a well-known conflict, but the uniforms and muskets are very cool.