Showing results by author "Robert Talbott" in All Categories

This memoir is from a middle-aged Missourian who was part of the strange yet fascinating world of Civil War reenacting. I tell of my first taste of black powder, "seeing the elephant", fighting heat, rain, cold, mud, politics, movie stars, and live fire. From dog and pony show events to the 125th anniversary spectaculars involving thousands of participants, I reveal the inside skinny on the hobby, as I saw it, with plenty of humor to tickle the funny bone.

It was a world turned upside down, where brother fought brother. But with an evil gray menace threatening the nation, could the heroism of a rag doll save the Boys in Blue against: The Rebel Swamp Gas Menace!

Here is a tale of John Henry’s birth. From the lowest swamp lands of Louisiana, he was formed. Blessed with life by magic and the love of a slave girl, he began his adventures in the understanding of life. From plantation home to a New Orleans slave market, and up the Mississippi River on a riverboat, this adventure has it all. Comedy, drama, pathos, and regret.

While on the search for missing comrades, John Henry and his pards stumble on a paradise on earth. A beautiful Garden of Eden bursting with enough crops and livestock to feed Uncle Billy’s army for months. But the property is owned by Kate Bradley and her lovely daughters, who reside in a nearby home converted into a hostel for guests. An invitation to wine and dine in the company of these ladies is too tempting to resist. While the soldiers are easily seduced, John Henry is suspicious from the get go.