The least convincing Civil War re-enactors ever

After taking Grandma to decorate Grandpa's grave at Glendale Cemetery, we dropped by Woodland, the big old city cemetery downtown, because they often have people dressed in Civil War gear at the G.A.R. section of the cemetery. We weren't disappointed. For crusty veterans of a war 150 years ago, they were spry and friendly. I don't think Rob and I quite fit in.



I'm not sure it was wise to let Rob hold the pistol, but note the good finger discipline -- outside the trigger guard.



No, the sword didn't accidentally go off.

Someone told me once there are seven Civil War generals at Woodland. The one I think more people should know about is Marcellus Crocker. From Wikipedia:

Crocker was born in Franklin, Indiana. He entered the United States Military Academy in 1847, but left at the end of his second year. He subsequently studied law and practiced in Des Moines, Iowa.

With the outbreak of the Civil War, he entered the army as the captain of the 2nd Iowa Infantry in May 1861. He was promoted to colonel of the 13th Iowa on December 30, 1861. Crocker fought with distinction in the Battle of Shiloh in April 1862, where he assumed command of a brigade during the first day. He commanded the "Iowa Brigade" at the battle of Corinth in October, 1862. He was promoted to brigadier general on November 29, 1862.

The following year, he participated in the Vicksburg Campaign, conducting a raid in Mississippi. Crocker had brought his brigade to a high state of discipline, and it was nicknamed "Crocker's Greyhounds" for its swift marching ability. After the re-enlistment of his brigade as veteran volunteers, he assumed command of a division when General Isaac F. Quinby went on sick leave. Crocker led his division into action at the battle of Jackson. On the morning of May 16, General Quinby returned to duty. However it was deemed necessary to retain Crocker in command of the division as it was deploying for battle at Champion Hill. Crocker received praise for his actions in that battle.

Crocker suffered from consumption during his military career. He became very ill en route to join the army of William T. Sherman for the Atlanta Campaign and tendered his resignation, which was not accepted. Instead, he was ordered to duty in New Mexico Territory, where it was thought his health might improve. In December 1864, he felt so much better that he was ordered to report to General George H. Thomas at Nashville.

However, Crocker's condition gradually worsened, and he died on August 26, 1865, in Washington, D.C.. He is buried in Woodland Cemetery in Des Moines, Iowa.

The guy goes from being a Des Moines lawyer to some of the worst battles ever fought in North America, survives them all, and then dies of Tuberculosis. Not a career track I'd want to follow.

There is a Crocker Street downtown named after him.