Major Belle Reynolds Tent #4

Major Belle Reynolds Tent #4

Projects & Activities

First Project: Volunteer work for Shiloh National Military Park:

Members of Tent #4 working on site.
Double click on pictures to enlarge.
Project Volunteers Web Page

Tent #4 members worked each Monday and some other days from July 13 until August 20, 2001 ( 224 hours of volunteer work) on the Shiloh Archeological Research Design Testing of Mound A, with the United States Department of Interior National Park Service, Southern Archeological Center for the National Park Service of Tallahassee, Florida.
The Shiloh Indian Mound Group National Register and National Historic Landmark site is the largest late prehistoric Mississippian period site in the Tennessee River Valley, and one of the largest mound groups in the National Park system land in the country. (For more information and a daily calendar of project work and pictures of all volunteers go to the Shiloh Archeological Project web site: http://home.centurytel.net/shiloh2nmp/shiloh2nmp/

November 10, 2001 Tent #4 met at Christy's Restaurant at 12 P.M. then at 2 P.M. Tent #4 went on a tour of the Cherry Mansion in Savannah, Tn. The headquarters of General Grant before the battle of Shiloh. Mrs. Guinn was such a gracious host. And a great time was had by all.

December 8, 2001 Tent #4 met at Shoney's Restaurant Meeting Room in Corinth, Mississippi. Tent #4 had lunch then our meeting with Christmas gift exchange afterwards.. Then we went on a tour of the Historical Homes of Corinth. We met at the First Methodist Church where our Tent group picture was taken by a member of the Corinth Preservation Commission. It was a GREAT DAY!

February 2002 a book was compiled of Tent #4 's ancestors named "A Proud Heritage, Our Union Civil War Legacy". Each year this book will be added to with new members and genealogical data. A copy was donated to the DUVCW National Headquarters.

March 2002 Certificates for members of Tent #4 were made and given to each member.

April 6-7, 2002 Tent #4 had a space with the vendors at the Shiloh National 140th Battle Re-enactment with some members dressing in period dress. One table was for answering questions about the DUVCW and recruiting new members. Which was a GREAT SUCCESS! In March Tent #4 members met and quilted a Patriotic Quilt. Donations were taken and the quilt was given away Sunday evening. Sandra Sharpe of Jackson, Tn. was the PROUD winner. Another table had patriotic crafts that were sold for a fundraiser that the proceeds of which will be used on several upcoming projects that will be posted at a later date.

June 3, 2002 Tent #4 started doing volunteer work again on the Shiloh Archeological Research Design Testing of Mound A, with the United States Department of Interior National Park Service, Southern Archeological Center for the National Park Service of Tallahassee, Florida. We will be working one day a week until September.
(Details and pictures will be added later.)

June 9, 2002 Tent #4 held a wreath laying service at the Union burial site at the 140th Anniversary of the battle of Parker's Crossroads "Living History & Battle Reenactment on the original battlefield. This burial site was only discovered a few of years ago. The Civil War Band "Olde Towne Brass" from Huntsville, Alabama started the service with a song, members of Tent #4 (Sisters Rita Antle, Peggy Burkhead, Reita Burress, Joan Nash and Sybil Woodley) performed the Memorial Day Service for Union Veterans, Sister Pat Latham laid the wreath while some members of the 48th Tennessee and a Federal Unit stood at attention, the band played another song, Sister Joan Nash's three grandchildren along with a friend (Kate, Mamie, Len Nash and Rachel; who are re-enactors) sang a song written about a Union soldier entitled "Andersonville", Firing of Military Salute by Union Re-enactors, the memorial closed with the distant sound of "Taps", Sister President Rita Antle gave closing remarks and Thanked everyone for attending. It was a very touching service. We would like to THANK everyone that helped to make this day such a GREAT success!
Parker's Crossroads web site: " http://www.parkerscrossroads.com "
Olde Towne Brass web site: " http://www.otbrass.com "

September 2002 Tent #4 purchased 6 books on Women of the Civil War and presented them to 6 libraries in 3 different states.

September 21, 2002 members of Tent #4 presented a program for the Lawrence County, TN Genealogical Society on the proper procedure to document your ancestors genealogy and other documentation for joining The Daughters of the Union Veterans of the Civil War. Members demonstrated the proper use of Civil War clothing for women and were dressed in historically correct apparel of the time period.

October 25,2002 members of Tent #4 took part in a Trades Day at Traveller's Rest Mansion, the historic home of John Overton in Nashville, Tennessee. The Headquarters for the Battle of Nashville. They were in period clothes and were in the ladies upstairs parlor to answer questions of the over 800 children that toured that day.

December 9, 2002 members of Tent #4 had Dec. meeting, Christmas party and a luncheon at the General's Quarters in Corinth, MS. Members dressed in period attire. The General's Quarter was used as a hospital during the Civil War. A wonderful time was had by all.

January 2003, Tent #4 presented the book: "They Fought Like Demons... Women in the Civil War" to Duel and Linda Grubb in Memory of Gertrude Janeway. In the nice Thank You card, they said "if the home of Mrs. Janeway is placed on the historical landmark registry of Tennessee and made a place of interest to visit, we will make the book available there."

May 26, 2003, Tent #4 took part in the Memorial Day Ceremony at Fort Donelson National Battlefield and Military Cemetery. Tent #4's two new DUVS Delphie Sutherland and Chasity Massey by special invitation had the honor of Laying the wreath while dressed in Civil War period clothes. All members were will received and asked to pose for many pictures.

In June 2003 Tent #4 started a new project of marking all Union soldiers graves buried in Lawrence Co., Tn. with wooden plaques reading "Union Civil War Veteran 1861-1865" on one side and the Daughters of Union Veterans emblem on the other with an American flag on top. Beulah Harwell and Dot England had the honor of placing the first plaque on their grandfather's grave, William Rudy Moore, in Hughes Cemetery. At this time there are 62 known Union graves in Lawrence Co. (Click on link in blue to view) Other counties will be added.

June 21, 2003 Tent #4 held a wreath laying ceremony at Shiloh National Military Park at the Ninth Indiana Infantry Monument located southern end of Wicker field next to the Bloody Pond. President Mavis Sutherland welcomed everyone with several descendants of the Ninth present. Pledge of Allegiance was lead by Secretary Sybil Woodley with Alex Sutherland as flag bearer. Special Remarks from Ranger Tim Smith about the Indiana Monuments. Jr. Vice Pres. Reita Burress told of the Ninth's heroic bravery in battle. Sr. Vice Pres. Pat Latham and Guard Yolanda Elkins read poem "Boys In Blue". Kim Thompson and husband Greg sang "The Battle Hymn of Republic". Chasity Massey and Wanda Collier placed the wreath, and Benediction was given by Chaplain Rita Antle. It was a very meaningful ceremony. Later Tent #4 had a picnic with lots of fun and food!

July 27, 2003 Tent #4 presented the program for the Lawrence County, TN Historical Society at the Old Lawrenceburg Jail and Museum. The program was about Civil War dress customs & styles and the Women of the Civil War.

Front row: Lydia Thompson, Anna Burress, Phoebe Thompson
Back row: Reita Burress, Delphie Sutherland, Mavis Sutherland

July 4, 2003 Tn. Tent #4 was invited to participate in the Lawrenceburg Liberty Days. We had a booth displaying handmade reproduction Civil War hats for sale. And a table where anyone could register any Union ancestor buried in Lawrence Co. Also some members were dressed in Civil War outfits and rode in a horse and carriage in the Liberty Day parade. It was a very hot day but everyone enjoyed the day! The picture of the horse and carriage, with Tent #4 members, with the Union guard (picture right side below) made the main page of the Lawrence County Pilot Club 2004 calendar. What a honor and good publicity for the DUVCW!

August 23, 2003 Tn. Tent #4 had the honor to lay a wreath at Stones River National Battlefield at the Hazen Monument. Ranger Jim Lewis made the Introduction. President Mavis Sutherland Welcomed everyone. Reita Burress told about the Hazen Brigade and Private James Franklin Deemer of Co. "D" 9th Indiana that helped to build this monument during the Civil War and 15 of his descendants were present. The names of the Fallen Soldiers buried around the monument were read by Gregg Thompson. Kim Thompson read the poem "Boys in Blue". The wreath was placed by the DUVS of Tent #4, Chasity Massey and Delphia Sutherland. The 6th Kentucky US Vol. Infantry performed the 21 Gun Salute. There was a good number attended.

For the second year on October 23,2003 members of Tent #4 took part in a Trades Day at Traveller's Rest Mansion, the historic home of John Overton in Nashville, Tennessee. And the Headquarters for the Battle of Nashville. They were in period clothes and were in the ladies upstairs parlor to answer questions.

November 10, 2003 members of Tent #4 were asked to have the program for Buffalo River Chapter of the National Society of Daughters of the American Revolution. The program was a demonstration of Civil War era clothing and the flexibility of using a basic wardrobe to become several different outfits. And stories of women who served in the Civil War along with pictures and articles.

December 8, 2003, members of Tent #4 had the Dec. meeting, Christmas party and a luncheon at the General's Quarters in Corinth, MS. Some members dressed in period attire. The General's Quarter was used as a hospital during the Civil War. A wonderful time was had by all. A perfect way to end a GREAT YEAR!

January 14, 2004, Beulah Harwell did a program for the Buffalo River Chapter of the National Society of Daughters of the American Revolution about her and Dot England's grandfather Private William Rudy Moore of Company "A", 46th Illinois Infantry. His life during and after the Civil War. His move from Illinois to Tennessee.

January 22, 2004, Beulah Harwell did a program for the Lawrence County Historical Society about her and Dot England's grandfather Private William Rudy Moore of Company "A", 46th Illinois Infantry. His life during and after the Civil War. And his move from Illinois to Tennessee.

January 29, 2004 Tent #4 purchased the book "Scholastic Encyclopedia of the Civil War" by Catherine Clinton and donated it to the Ethridge Elementary School in Lawrence County, TN. This school was ranked in the top 10 elementary schools in the state of TN.

A member of Tent #4 transcribed the Dickson, Giles, Hardin, Hickman, Lawrence, Lewis, Maury and Wayne County, Tennessee 1890 Union Veteran Census. URL: http://home.lorettotel.net/~lcarchives/archvies.htm Links are on this web page. Several members of Tent #4 ancestors are mentioned here. This a GREAT source of Union men in the South.

At the March 13th Tent #4 meeting Judy Weaver suggested starting a Civil War Tombstone Photo Project. It was decided that members of Tent #4 will offer to go and take pictures of tombstones for anyone that has a Civil War ancestor buried at Shiloh National cemetery or any other cemetery in the area. Anyone needing a picture of their ancestor's tombstone or monument at Shiloh National Park can contact any Tent #4 member and give name, address, name of ancestor, location, place of burial and type of picture( digital or regular) needed. We will be looking forward to hearing from anyone needing our help!

Memorial Day Observance, Monday May 31,2004 at Shiloh National Cemetery was attended several members of Tent #4. The Memorial address was given by, Major General (Retired) George L. Gunderman US Army. Pictured with with some of the members that was in attendance.

Sallie Cox wasn't pictured above.

July 24, 2004, Tent #4 was represented at the Opening Ceremony for the Corinth Civil War Interpretive Center at Corinth, MS.

Andersonville Prison and Cemetery National Historic Site, Saturday, October 2, 2004 Tent #4 had the Honor of having a Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Tennessee Monument inside the prison stockade honoring prisoners of all wars. The Welcome was given by Reita Burress, Mavis Sutherland lead the Pledge to the Flag, the Memorial as given by Judy Weaver descendant of Private Isaac Brokaw Wallace Co. "F" 11th Iowa Inf. a prisoner there for 7 months that survived. Pat Latham read the poem "Whispers In The Wind", Judy Weaver and Mavis Sutherland placed the wreath, and Rita Antle had the Benediction. Thanks to Lead Ranger Joan Stibitz for all her help and support. Tent #4 was in the Andersonville Fair parade. Thanks to Peggy Sheppard for the invitation and the luncheon provided by Andersonville! Sunday October 3, 2004 we attended President Jimmy Carter's Sunday Class and Worship Service at Maranatha Baptist Church, Plains, GA. What a wonderful weekend!

For the third year, October 22,2004 members of Tent #4 took part in a Trades Day at Traveller's Rest Mansion, the historic home of John Overton in Nashville, Tennessee. The Headquarters for the Battle of Nashville. They were in period clothes and were in the ladies upstairs parlor to answer questions of the over 700 children that toured that day.

For Tent #4's Christmas project we are collecting and sending a package to a soldier in Afghanistan. Tent members either donated items or money to purchase needed items to be sent October 13,2004.

Our Christmas Party December 4, 2004 at the home of President Reita Burress was enjoyed by all that attended.

2005

January Tent #4 donated $50.00 to the American Red Cross emergency relief effort to the victims of the earthquake and tsunami devastation in Southern Asia and Eastern Africa.

April Tent #4 was at the Grand Junction, Tennessee Civil War reenactment. We had a tent space with vendors and sold bake goods , glassware and crafts. We answered questions about the DUVCW for recruiting new members. The day was beautiful and we had a great day with a lot of success. Proceeds of which will be used on several upcoming projects that will be posted at a later date.

May 14, 2004 Tent #4 held a Wreath Laying Ceremony in honor of James Willis Jaggars, Co. "I", 1st Alabama Cavalry, father of our own Real Daughter, Sister Naomi Moore at Cedar Creek Cemetery, Morgan Co., Alabama. Cedar Creek Baptist Church was so kind to allow us to use their fellowship hall (because of rain) and several of their members attended as well. President Pat Latham gave the Welcome, Pledge of Allegiance was lead by Treasurer Sybil Woodley, Special remarks were made of Secretary Rita Antle about the 1st Alabama, President. Pat Latham presented Sister Naomi with a beautiful corsage and Chaplain Reita Burress had the Benediction. Jean Garner gave a few remarks on the family members present there of the 1st Alabama Cavalry. Reporters from two newspapers covered the event. We had a good turnout and a great time even through the rain forced us indoors. Benton Moore, the grandson of James Jaggars braved the rain and placed the wreath.

Family members and Tent #4 members

May 28th Tent #4 had the privilege of volunteering at the Cherry Mansion, in Savannah, TN (Headquarters of General Grant before and during the battle of Shiloh). We greeted the tour groups as they arrived and were pleased to be asked to have a pictures taken. We enjoyed our day and the owner said we were a "HIT" and she asked us back for another later date.

Cherry Mansion Grant's desk

Memorial Day, May 30, 2005 members of TN Tent #4 attended serves at Shiloh National Park. The address was given by Brigadier General David E. Greer. Judy Weaver and her husband James that have moved to CA were here and attended.

June 18th, 2005, TN Tent #4 met at Ruby Tuesday's in Corinth, MS. we then went and toured the new Corinth Interpretive Center. Everyone enjoyed the tour and a GREAT time was had by all.

October 1 & 2, 2005, Tent #4 was invited back to the Cherry Mansion in Savannah, TN. Members greeted tour groups and answered questions. Everyone enjoyed both days. We have been invited back again.

In October for the fourth year, Tent #4 was invited back and took part in a Trades Day at Traveller's Rest Mansion, the historic home of John Overton in Nashville, Tennessee. The Headquarters for the Battle of Nashville. Some members were in period dress and were in the ladies upstairs parlor to answer questions of the over 1500 children that toured in the two days we were there. One TV station and Tennessee Crossroads was there filming the event.

Tent #4's Katrina Relief fund was a GREAT success. Due to our members generosity we were able to send a $100 donation to the American Red Cross on behalf of Tent #4, DUVCW .

Our Christmas Project this year was to choose a resident from the Tennessee Veterans Home from the Angel Tree and purchase Christmas gift form him.

December 10, 2005 Tent #4 had our Christmas party and December meeting to elect 2006 Officers at the Cherry Mansion in Savannah, TN. A wonderful time with a lot of fun was had by all.

2006

January 30, 2006 members of Tent #4 went to David Crockett School in Lawrenceburg, TN and did a presentation on Civil War dress, uniforms, flags, and facts about the little drummer boys of the Civil War with a display of a Civil War battleground and painting of a drummer boy. A GREAT time was had by all with a lot of questions and interest. We then toured and viewed the students projects they had done on the Civil War. (Which were all very impressive!) One of their own students (Casey Staggs) dressed in period dress with us.

Tent #4 donated 2 books to the David Crockett library. One 16 Stories of children in the Civil War and the other , Facts of the Civil War.

May 6, 2006 Tent #4 went to the Sunbridge Nursing Center in Decatur, Alabama and had our meeting with our Real Daughter, Sister Naomi Jaggars Moore. After our regular scheduled meeting we met with residents of the home and Sister Jean Garner gave a wonderful talk about Naomi's father and times in the south during the Civil War. President Rita Burress told about Tent #4 and the DUVCW, Sister Kim Thompson and her six year old daughter, Lydia, sang some beautiful songs of the Civil War period. Then the residents requested songs and Dr. Shaen Sutherland, Sister Mavis' husband, helped lead the singing. Tent #4 gave all 167 residents US flags with bases in Honor of all Veterans of all wars. Sister Mavis lead the benediction. I don't know who enjoyed ourselves more, the residents, Naomi or members of Tent #4 but I know we all were BLESSED by our time together.

May 29th members of Tent #4 attended the Memorial Day Service at Shiloh National Cemetery and Park. As usual the service was very moving. Afterwards we met and had lunch together. A great time was had by all.

DUV Delphie Sutherland was pleased to be asked by Major Belle Reynolds Tent 4 TN, to present

a book to the Lawrence County Library. The book was presented to the Assistant Librarian, Debbie Ryder.

It is a project of the Tent 4 TN to present a book to the library every year. Most years we present two. It

has always been appreciated by the Library. Delphie is the granddaughter of Sister Mavis Sutherland, press

secretary and Chaplain of Tent 4 Tennessee.

November Tent #4 was invited and attended a Civil War Reenactment at Appleton, TN on Sugar Creek which is thought to be the last battle fought in TN during the Civil War.

November 18, 2006 Sister Jean Garner presented our Real Daughter, Sister Naomi Moore a large box of candy from TN Tent #4 for her birthday. Sister Naomi. She was very happy with her gift.

December 9, 2006 TN Tent #4 members met in Decatur, Al at the Cracker Barrel Restaurant for our Christmas lunch. We had decided this year to do our Christmas party a little different. Instead of us exchanging gifts we all each purchased a gift for our Real Daughter Sister Naomi Moore. After our lunch we went to the Sunbridge Care Center and met with Naomi. The Tent purchased her a fiber optic Christmas tree for her room and we let her open all her gifts. She was so touched and excited that she once said "It will take me all year to get over this. You all have made my life worth living." We took the ribbons and bows from her gifts and decorated her her Christmas tree with them. After our party with her we all went to the recreation room and sang Christmas carols with the residents. Sister Kim Thompson sang some special Christmas songs also. Each resident attending was given a patriotic Christmas card from Tent #4. Our time there made Christmas more special for all of us.

2007

March 17, 2007 members of TN Tent #4 had a space with the vendors at the Shiloh 145th Battle Re-enactment with some members dressing in period dress. We had DUVCW; "Our Proud Heritage " and applications available and answered questions about the DUVCW for recruiting new members. Which was a GREAT SUCCESS! We also sold bake goods and Civil War period handmade hats to sale. The National DUVCW President, Patricia Mullenix had her business tent "The Ladies' Parlor" there for the weekend and we all got to meet her. Which was such an HONOR! She is such a Walking Encyclopedia of Civil War and DUVCW history and information, and such a nice lady! She gave the Tent a book "Civil War Union Monuments" which will be treasured and will be used often by all our members. The CW hats we had left over we gave to Sister Pat to sale in her shop with the money made to be donated to the National Building fund. As you can a GREAT time was had by ALL and the day was a wonderful success! Money made will be used for other Tent projects through the year.

National DUVCW President: Patricia Mullenix in the middle.

March 31, 2007 members of TN Tent #4 went to Shiloh National National Park to attend the Living History event. One of our members and DUV, Sister Sara Ann Hoover, her father and mother were participating. It was such a learning experience. And a GREAT time was had by all. It's so wonderful to see a young girl like Sara so interested in history and the Civil War. Wish we had more young ladies like her!

April 23, 2007 National President Patricia Mullenix and National Treasurer Barbara Stone met with Tent #4 members in Ethridge, Tennessee at the home of Tent President Reita Burress for a luncheon. What a GREAT time was had by all. Before the luncheon some visited the Amish community. Just wasn't enough time to be together!

May 28, 2007 members of Tent #4 attended the Memorial Day Observance at Shiloh National Military Park. It was a special service with a larger than usual attendance. Park superintendent, Haywood Harrell announced that a wreath from the Woman's Relief Corps, Auxiliary of the Grand Army of the Republic and Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War was placed on an unknown soldier's grave and that was done each year. We met a Member At Large of the the DUVCW while we were looking at the wreath. She lives in the middle TN area and her cousin had been in contact with Tent #4 about joining our Tent. What a nice surprise. She is pictured with us on the left end. Afterwards we had lunch together with a grand time had by all!

June 23, 2007 Tent #4 had a Tombstone Laying Ceremony in Honor of our Real Daughter, Eula Pearson Laymance's father, Bugler, Charles Melvin Pearson CO. "M", 1st New Hampshire Heavy Art.; at Carpenter Cemetery in Morgan County, Tennessee. The day was perfect with the setting of the cemetery over looking the mountains in the distance. President Reita Burress, Welcomed everyone and Thanked the family for allowing us to be apart of such a special time in their family. Secretary Rita Antle lead the Pledge of Allegiance, Special Remarks were given by grand-daughter, Sister Dusty Nichols and the reading of the Poem "What Do They Say?" written by our National President Pat Mullenix. Becky Ruppe, Morgan County Executive was the Guess Speaker with a wonderful message, Past Presidents of Tennessee Tent #3, Lucinda Heatherly, of Knoxville, Tennessee ( Jeanie Watts and Jane Ayers )honored us with Laying the Wreath and reciting a beautiful poem and prayer. The Reading of one version of Taps was read by Sr. Vice President, Pat Latham, Jim Sutton of the Roane County Honor Guard played TAPS wonderfully with help from Bill Bardill. The program ended by our Chaplain Mavis Sutherland having the Benediction. Sister Eula was given a Tent #4 membership and Real Daughter certificate and flag along with a small gift for her birthday which was a few days before. There was a very good size crowd present with several family members, along with more Tent #3 members and Dr. Doug Fidler of Pellissippi College. Dian Sutton placed flowers from the Roane County Muscular Dystrophy Assc. on the grave along with an arrangement of flowers that Tent #3 placed also. The Tent and chairs was provided by Schuberts Funeral Home of Sunbright, Tennessee. It was a very special day for everyone.

Bill Bardill, Jim Sutton, Reita Burress,                              Sisters Reita, Mavis, Dusty, Bernice                            Becky Ruppe, Morgan
Dr. Dough Fidler, Dusty Nichols, Pat Latham,                    (Dusty's sister) Pat, Rita, sitting:                                 County, TN Executive
Rita Antle, Jeanie Watts, Mavis Sutherland,                      Real Daughter: Eula Pearson Laymance
Jane Ayers, Lee Petry, Tent #3 member,
Becky Jolly Tent #3 President

December 8,2007 Tent #4 members met at the Rippavilla Plantation in Springhill, TN for a tour of the historic home. The home was completed in 1855 by Nathaniel Cheairs and was used as a Civil War hospital. It was beautiful and we all enjoyed ourselves. We then went to J.W. Ray's Steakhouse for lunch and exchanging Christmas ornaments. We had so much fun and as always eat too much. We also elected our 2008 new officers. Some members then toured President James K. Polk Home in Columbia, TN.

2008

April 14, 2008 Tent #4 was represented by sisters Reita Burress and Tonya Bradley at Travellers Rest Mansion, Headquarters for the Battle of Nashville, TN. The event was a reenactment of occupied Nashville as it was during the Civil War. Everyone had to try and earn $100 by performing different task so they could purchase a train ticket out of Nashville north. Old and young alike had a enjoyable and educational time. time.

May 26, 2008 members of Tent #4 attended Memorial Day Service at Shiloh National Cemetery. It was a very touching service. With guest speaker Lieutenant Colonel Bernard Lindstorm, District Commander, Nashville Corps of Engineers.

Tent #4 had our September meeting with one of our Real Daughters, Naomi Jaggars Moore in Decatur, AL. at the Sunbridge Care Center. She was proud to have us and to be able to attend a DUVCW meeting. We presented her with a basket full of her favorite, Chocolate Candy.

Members of Tent # Sister Laura Schmidt and Reita Burress attended a luncheon in Lawrenceburg, TN for the Annual Liberty Fest, honoring Cammie King, better known as "Bonnie Blue Butler" child star in the Legendary film "Gone With The Wind" when Cammie was 5 years old She gave a wonderful talk about her experiences and memories of all the film stars. There were people attending from several different states that follow "Gone With The Wind" events that are called "Windies". They had on display one of the original chairs from the movie along with a large collection of Bonnie Blue Butler dolls. Also Sister Reita's eight year old granddaughter (Anna Burress) attended a Mother and Daughter Tea Party with Cammie where the young ladies wore their Civil War outfits and learned to dance period dances..

May 25, 2009 members Sisters Rita Antle, Pat Latham, Mavis Sutherland and Reita Burress of Tent #4 attended Memorial Day Services at Shiloh National Park. The Memorial address was by Tennessee State Representative Vance Dennis which was very interesting. Afterwards we had all had lunch together.

Tent #4 donated a Civil War children's book to Lawrence County, Tennessee library

October 22,2009 members of Tent #4 took part in a Trades Day at Traveller's Rest Mansion, the historic home of John Overton in Nashville, Tennessee. The Headquarters for the Battle of Nashville. They were in period clothes and were in the ladies upstairs parlor to answer questions and doing other projects. There was over 900 children that toured during the event.

May 31, 2010 members Sisters Rita Antle, Duveen Ferguson, Marie Paulk, Sybil Woodley and Reita Burress of Tent #4 attended the Shiloh National Park memorial Day Observance. The Memorial Day address was given by Major General Jackie Dan Wood. afterwards some members had lunch together. Another wonderful day!

July 24, 2010 Sisters Tonya Staggs Bradley and Reita Burress along with Judy Long (she is working on becoming a new Tent #4 member) took part in the 3rd Annual Civil War Encampment at Traveller's Rest Mansion, the historic home of John Overton in Nashville, Tennessee. The Headquarters for the Battle of Nashville. They were in period clothes and were in the ladies upstairs parlor to answer questions and doing other projects.

Saturday, October 23, 2010 Tent #4 Ma jor Belle Reynolds had a Wreath Laying ceremony at the Burdick Cemetery near Houston, Alabama in Winston County. We were honoring Captain Fernando "Frank" Cortez Burdick. He joined the Union Army first with Co "A" 22nd Illinois Volunteers. After he was discharged he then joined Co "A" First Alabama Cavalry. Tent President Rita Antle welcomed over 30 family members and other visitors. The Pledge of Allegiance was lead by Secretary Reita Burress. Duveen Entrekin Ferguson gave special remarks of her GG- Grandfather's life and Jean Garner read the moving poem: "What Do They Say?" written by passed National DUVCW President Patricia Mullenix. The Laying of the Wreath was done by Duveen Ferguson, her daughter Brandi Burdette and Sallie Cox the gg-granddaughters and ggg-granddaughter of Fernando Burdick. The Benediction was given by Sallie Cox. It was a beautiful day and a privilege for our Tent to have the HONOR of being able to take part in this event.

December 4th, TN Tent #4 Major Belle Reynolds had their Christmas party and December meeting at the home of Sister Reita Buress in Ethridge, TN. Sisters attending were Rita Antle, Reita Burress, Landy Elkins, Dueveen Ferguson, Pat Latham, Judy Long, Mavis Sutherland and Sybil Woodley. It was so good to have such a large group together again. And it was another wonderful gathering with a grand lunch and Christmas ornament exchange. Tent #4 has had another GREAT year with lots of wonderful memories!

May 31, 2011 TN Tent #4, Major Belle Reynolds (Detached) attended the Memorial Day Observance at Shiloh National Park and Cemetery. This year was one of the best I've been to over the years. The speaker Lt. General (ret) Harold A. Cross, Adjutant General, Mississippi National Guard was outstanding. I only wish every American could have heard his speak on the clost of Freedom. Sisters Marie Paulk, Pat Latham, Duveen Ferguson, Reita Burress and Rita Antle in attendance.

November 5, 2011, TN Tent 4 Major Belle Reynolds (Detached) had a Wreath Laying Ceremony in Honor of Private Joesph Talley Garland, Company "E", 6th US Volunteer Infantry at Macedonia Cemetery in Center, Lawrence County, Tennessee. Private Garland was the ancestor of Sisters Judy Carol Long and Nancy Maynard. Tent President Reita Burress welcomed over 30 family members and other visitors totaling about 50 people. Secretary Rita Antle gave the history of the DUVCW. The Pledge of Allegiance was lead by Chaplain Duveen Ferguson. Vice President Judy Carol Long gave special remarks of her Great- Grandfather's life and Darlene Long Smith read the moving poem: "What Do They Say?" written by passed National DUVCW President Patricia Mullenix. The Laying of the Wreath was done by Judy Carol Long, Darlene Long Smith and Ricky Garland. (All Great-Grand children of Private Garland) The Benediction was given by Chaplain Duveen Ferguson.. It was a beautiful day and a privilege for our Tent to have the HONOR of being able to take part in this event. Judy Carol Long and Ricky Garland were dressed in period dress. Ricky is a member of the Sons of Confederacy and we appreciated him helping us with this service. He and Judy added a special touch to the day.

December 3th, 2011, TN Tent #4 Major Belle Reynolds (Detached) had our annual Christmas meeting and party. It was held at Hagy’s Restaurant in Shiloh, TN. We had a short meeting after a wonderful lunch with lots of good fellowship and so much fun exchanging Christmas ornaments. Members attending were Sisters Reita Burress, Rita Antle, Sybil Woodley, Duveen Ferguson and Judy Carol Long. We had Sybil's daughter and Judy Carol's sister attending also. We drove through Shiloh National Park before hand. Another wonderful end to another year!

Click on photos to enlarge.

May 28, 2012, TN Tent #4, Major Belle Reynolds (Detached) attended the Memorial Day Observance at Shiloh National Park and Cemetery. The Memorial Day Address was given by: Colonel (Ret) Roger Hill of the US Army. Afterwards we all met for lunch. Everyone enjoyed the day.

May 27,2013, TN Tent #4, Major Belle Reynolds (Detached) attended the Memorial Day Observance at Shiloh National Park and Cemetery. This year the Memorial Day address given by Mr. Thomas Parson , Retired US Navy. We had a meeting before the ceremony and afterwards we we all had a nice lunch together. Members attending were Rita Antle, Linda Fitts, Reita Burress, Duveen Ferguson and President of Tent #4 Judy Long. As usual we had a wonderful day!

May 26,2014, TN Tent #4, Major Belle Reynolds (Detached) attended the Memorial Day Observance at Shiloh National Park and Cemetery. This year the speaker for the memorial Address was Lieutenant Colonel David Eldridge, US Army National Guard. He did a wonderful job of reminding us of the TRUE meaning of Memorial Day. Members attending were Sisters Diane Coleman-Horne, Rita Antle, Reita Burress, Judy Long and Marie Paulk. A short meeting was held before and after the ceremony we all went and had lunch and GREAT time together.

September 15,2014, TN Tent #4, Major Belle Reynolds (Detached) hosted a luncheon for the Lawrence County , TN drivers of the Veterans of Lawrence County, staff of the Veterans Officer and the Lawrence County Executive at the Veterans Office in Lawrenceburg, TN. Sisters Rita Antle, Linda Fitts, Jane Wiley, Duveen Ferguson, Joan Nash, Judy Long and Reita Burress all cooked a wonderful meal which everyone was appreciative. The drivers all asked if we would make this a annual events.

August 23, 2014, TN Tent #4, Major Belle Reynolds (Detached) member Diane Coleman-Horne reached out to a veteran's group in Massachusetts to organize a headstone dedication and wreath laying for her great, great grandfather, Civil War veteran Corporal Howland Sampson Bonney,of Company "E" 18th and 24th MA Infantry who is buried at Pembroke Center Cemetery in Pembroke, Massachusetts. Sister Diane Coleman-Horne organized the dedication ceremony at Pembroke Center Cemetery, which drew a group of about 30 friends and family members, including his great, great, great, great grandchildren wearing Civil War-period dresses, representatives of the Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, Company D, as well as Matthew Wallace-Gross, past commander of Satuit Camp 3188, who came with representatives of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War from Scituate, MA.

October 11, 2014, TN Tent 4 Major Belle Reynolds (Detached) had a Wreath Laying Ceremony at Corinth National Cemetery, Corinth, Mississippi in Honor of Private Archibald Bradford Lovett, of Company "A", 1st Alabama Cavalry. Private Lovett was the ancestor of our newest member, Sister Jane Wiley. Tent President Judy Long Welcomed everyone. The Pledge of Allegiance was lead by Sister Duveen Ferguson. Siter Jane Wiley gave very touching special remarks of her Great-Great- Grandfather's life and told that his brother Andrew Lovett was buried just in front of Archibald. she ended her remarks by saying: She was so very proud of him for following his conscious and doing his part to keep this Nation; THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. Sister Diane Coleman-Horne read the moving poem: "What Do They Say?" written by passed National DUVCW President Patricia Mullenix. The Laying of the Wreath was carried out by Jane Wiley. The Benediction was given by Sister Joan Nash. It was a rainy and bad day with 100% forecast of rain for the day but the rain stopped and we were able to have a moving ceremony. It was a privilege for our Tent to have the HONOR of being able to take part in this event. Sister Jane Wiley, Diane Coleman-Horne and Judy Long dressed in dress and added a special touch to the day. We were invited to the Corinth Welcome Center after the ceremony. They took pictures of our group and we were asked if they could add photos and have a write up about visit in their Newsletter. We had a great time and appreciated their kindness. It was a nice ending to our special day.

Front tombstone is Andrew Lovett brother of Archibald Lovett with Archibald behind with wreath.

BELLE REYNOLDS DETACHED TENT 4, TENNESSEE. HONOR VOLUNTEERS OF VETERAN SERVICES OFFICE As an outreach program each September the sisters of Belle Reynolds Detached Tent 4, Tennessee prepare and serve a luncheon to honor the volunteers of Veteran Services Office, Lawerence County, TN. These volunteers drive the Veterans to the VA Hospital for medical appointments. The eleven volunteer drivers log four to five trips per week, and sometimes even more. The closest VA hospital is two hours away in Nashville, TN. That means these volunteers are on the road by 6:00 a.m. and back by 6:00 p.m. or later. That makes for a very long day for both the volunteer and the Veterans. The volunteers who drive are Veterans themselves, still serving their country by making sure their fellow Veterans get to their needed medical appointments. It is our pleasure to honor these men and women Veteran Volunteers. Thanks to all those who serve. (Article submitted by Linda Fitts

December, 2015 , TN Tent 34 major Belle Reynolds (Deatached) had a our Christmas lunch at the home of Sister Linda Fitts in Tipersville, MS. It was a wonderful time. Then we all went to Ripley, MS to the nursing home to have our regular meeting with Sister Sybil Woodley. We decided for each Sister to take a Christmas gift to Sybil. She was so touched but not as much as each of us. It was a Special Day for everyone.

May 2016, Major Belle Reynolds (detached) Tennessee Tent #4 attended the Memorial Day Service at Shiloh National Cemetery and Park. As usual the service was very moving. Afterwards we met and had lunch together. A great time was had by all.

BELLE REYNOLDS DETACHED TENT 4, TENNESSEE. HONOR VOLUNTEERS OF VETERAN SERVICES OFFICE For Third year. As an outreach program each September the sisters of Belle Reynolds Detached Tent 4, Tennessee prepare and serve a luncheon to honor the volunteers of Veteran Services Office, Lawerence County, TN. These volunteers drive the Veterans to the VA Hospital for medical appointments. The volunteer drivers log four to five trips per week, and sometimes even more. The closest VA hospital is two hours away in Nashville, TN. The volunteers who drive are Veterans themselves, still serving their country by making sure their fellow Veterans get to their needed medical appointments. It is our pleasure to honor these men and women Veteran Volunteers. Thanks to all those who serve. (Article submitted by Linda Fitts

Diane Coleman Horne (member Major Belle Reynolds, TN Tent #4 (Detached) spent two days at the Olive Branch Library as a docent for elementary students coming to see the display of an original 20star U.S. flag. Mississippi was the 20^th state admitted to the union in 1817. This was only the national flag for one year from 4 July 1818 to 3 July 1819, because new states were admitted. By The Flag Act of 1818, Congress proclaimed that one star for each new state would be added on the 4th of July following the state's admission to the union and there would be a return to thirteen stripes representing the thirteen original colonies. The rare handmade flag took more than a year to restore. It will be on permanent display at the MS Archives in Jackson. MS is celebrating its 200^th anniversary this year! The flag was donated to the state of MS by a man who found it in an antique store in Massachusetts. Knowing Mississippi was the 20^th state, he thought it belonged here. It cost more than $27,000 to restore.

Major Belle Reynolds, Tennessee Tent #4 (Detached) , donated a check to Midsouth Project Package Director, Rickey Pope. The donation went to cover postage for Christmas boxes going to midsouth troops in combat areas.

Memorial Day, May 29, 2017, Major Belle Reynolds (detached) Tennessee Tent #4 attended the Memorial Day Service at Shiloh National Cemetery and Park. As usual the service was very moving. Afterwards we met and had lunch together. A great time was had by all.

Click on photos to enlarge

Other interesting projects are in the works and will be announced later.

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