an incredible event that transforms such mundane objects as paper bags, cups, candles, and some sand into flickering representations of the 23,110 men, killed,wounded, or missing, during the battle of Antietam.





It was quite remarkable how quickly and efficiently the volunteers were able to complete their designated areas. Even more remarkable was how fast they got them all lit, about 45 minutes, and suddenly everything was ready for the proceedings to begin and the sun to go down.
The opening ceremony, which was held at the Maryland monument, included a choir and remarks by the Secretary of the Interior. And then, about five o'clock, a magical thing occurred.





The firewatch is posted in the observation room of the visitor's center; the Rangers watch and wait throughout the night. Eventually around 4:30 in the black of the late fall morning, the candles begin to flicker and die. Some continue to burn, struggling on against the darkness, but by five o'clock it is all over.
Another thirteen-hour battle, against the darkness, comes to an end on the fields of the Antietam Creek Valley.
3 comments:
This event is something that I want to attend in 2007. This year, my sister, who lives in Frederick, drove through. I am in Connecticut, but will try to arrange to go next year. We were wondering about volunteering to set up the candles. Do you know who we would contact about this?
This event is something that I want to attend in 2007. This year, my sister, who lives in Frederick, drove through. I am in Connecticut, but will try to arrange to go next year. We were wondering about volunteering to set up the candles. Do you know who we would contact about this?
I couple of years ago I was one of the re-enactors who stood watch as a federal by a fire near the west woods. It was the year there was about 4 inches of snow on the ground. I must say that with out a doubt this event was one of the most moving and spiritual that I have done in ten years in the hobby. It gave such a perspective on the cost of this battle. Which was my late fathers favorite, where he would bring us as children. I'd like to stand by that fire again sometime.
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