Some New News About an Old War.
1. WATER WITCH-- The April 5th Columbus (Ga) Ledger-Examiner reports that people were touring the newest exhibit at the National Civil War Naval Museum in Columbus. The Water Witch is a full-scale waterline replica of the 160 foot side wheel Civil War steamer that saw service in both Union and Confederate navies. The replica is described as being in "meticulous detail."
It was captured by a Confederate raiding party, but later burned and sunk to prevent capture.
2. KA IN TROUBLE WITH AKA-- The April 29th Birmingham (Al) News reports that alumnae of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority (black) have asked the University of Alabama to shut down the Kappa Alpha Order Fraternity's (white) annual Confederate celebration where members dress in uniforms and carry the flag. Young women also participate in period attire.
Evidently, the parade passed by the AKA house. The AKA's said the KA's are celebrating a romanticized view of the Old South and meant no offense, but need to learn what it means to be black. They want the celebration permanently ended.
The Kappa Alpha Order was established in 1865 at the Washington and Lee University where Robert E. Lee had accepted the college presidency. (It was called Washington College at the time.)
As you can imagine, there were lots of comments.
3. CHARLESTON HARBOR-- The May 2nd Columbia (SC) the State reports that some new discoveries about Fort Sumter and Charleston Harbor will be revealed that weekend at a program at the Charleston Museum. I've seen no follow up on it.
4. MONITOR SANCTUARY-- On April 30th, the NOAA announced that there was going to be a public meeting concerning the Monitor National Marine Sanctuary. Again, no follow up on it.
Won't It Be a Wonderful Day When You Can Fly the Flag and Not Get Hassled for It. --Blockade-R
The Battle of Fort Fisher, N.C.
