'04 Conference Examines
Civil War at Kennesaw

The War Between the States always seems to fascinate the public and members of the Historical Society of the Georgia National Guard. On Oct. 23, 2004 , the “war of Northern Aggression” was once again the theme of your society’s annual conference.

After a long absence, the conference returned to the conference/visitor center at the Kennesaw National Battlefield site. Speakers addressed topics as the Battle of Kennesaw and its impact on the Battle of Atlanta, and Black confederates.

In addition the conference also heard a report by SSgt. Gail Parnelle-Roach, Army Guard historian, on the Georgia Guard’s participation in the 60^th commemorative anniversary of D-Day. Headquarters, Air National Guard historian, MSgt. Clint Smith also gave a presentation on the Air Guard's emphasis on preserving that organization's history.

Stuart Jamison led off the civil war portion of the program illustrating the importance of the Kennesaw and Atlanta Campaigns. He noted that the battle, occurring in 1864 was significant for several reasons: the Lincoln government had to have victory because the term of enlistments were due to expire for many of soliders in the fall of that year; and, with a presidential campaign going on in the north, Lincoln needed a victory to secure re-election.

Taking a unique view of Sherman's southern campaign, Jamison described it as his "retreat to sea." The march, he explained found Confederates to the north and south of Sherman's troops and hence Union forces had no other way to travel.

Following Jamison, E. Joseph Seguin described the weaponry and firing tactics of the Union troops. Creating a "wall of fire" said Seguin was the object of infantry troops facing each other.

The day's final speaker, Charles K. Barrow, described the contribution of "black confederates." The confederarcy he said was a diverse organization comprising people of all colors and faiths. He noted that the army of the confederacy was integrated and many monuments in Georgia and the south are either dedicated to black participation in the war, or include the names of black confederates.

For more information on the Historical Society of the Georgia National Guard and its events, please contact John Hardwick at john.hardwick@ga.ngb.army.mil or B. I. Diamond beryl.diamond@ga.ngb.amry.mil.