Blog Post: June 27

We're playing a bit of catch up on the blogs and photographs -- look below and you'll see that our most recent photos have been uploaded to Flickr this morning.

On June 27th, we visited the Wilson's Creek National Battlefield and learned all about the first major Civil War battle west of the Mississippi River. As you'll read below, the students learned that communication is key both in battle and in everyday life. From there, we traveled to St. Louis and went up into the famous Jefferson National Expansion Memorial (or as it's more commonly known, the St. Louis Arch.) After a trip up and down the arch, students toured the museum and ate dinner before returning to our hotel for the evening. Below are their impressions of the day's activities:

Lorie S.
Missouri’s location as a border state was confusing because the land would constantly be changing sides so you never knew if they were Union or Confederate. At Wilson’s Creek I learned that it is very important to have good communication because if you don’t have good communication things won’t go as you hoped they would. The St. Louis Arch was so cool! We got to be 630 feet in up in thei air and see the orange sunset go down behind the beautiful city. All that topped off with the rain and lightning.

Taylor B.
Missouri’s status as a border state led to confusing battles because the state wanted to stay neutral in the conflict. From the battle at Wilson’s Creek, I learned that you should always communicate. At the arch, I was okay with going up but coming down was a different story! I thought it would be a free drop until Ezra told me it went slowly. I will never forget this experience.

Heaven T.
Missouri’s status as a border state led to confusing battles early on because many of Missouri’s citizens wanted to stay neutral in the conflict. From the battle at Wilson’s Creek I learned that Union General Nathanial Lyon was the first major general to die in the Civil War. This battle also taught me that if you do not pay attention things can go very wrong. At the St. Louis Arch I felt scared at first but when I got up there it felt magical!

Lisesette D.
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because they wanted to stay neutral in the conflict. The lessons I learned from my experiences at the Wilson’s Creek Battle Site are to always communicate and plan ahead to fight well. This battle also tells me that the importance of communication and consistency in my own life is important. For example, in school communication is important because if you had an assignment you would have to communicate to your teacher and fellow students. My feelings and experiences at the St. Louis Arch was great although I was pretty scared! But I still had fun.

Angelina
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because they wanted to stay neutral during the conflict. From the battle at Wilson’s Creek I learned that you should always plan ahead and figure out a way to communicate with each other. I also learned that the Union Army lost this battle due to poor communication, lack of matching uniforms and common flags. The St. Louis Arch is so pretty. Have you ever thought about how hard it would be to build the arch?

Sissi
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because they wanted to stay neutral in the conflict. A lesson I learned from the Battle of Wilson’s Creek was to always plan ahead and communicate well. The significance of communication helps in our lives today through school projects and when you are planning things with friends. I was very happy yet scared at the St. Louis Arch. It was so high up and it felt like we were falling forward. But it was cool because it was so big!

Jensen M.
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because no one knew if the state was for the Rebels or for the Yankees since it was a border state. From the battle at Wilson’s Creek I learned that you have to communicate and if you don’t communicate it was it very confusing. If you don’t communicate you will never know your next move. In order to be prepared you must always be communicating. At the St. Louis Arch I was in complete awe. It was very neat and cool. At the top you could see everything. The ride up was awesome, you were in a little pod that went really slowly. When we left the lights on the arch made it look like it was falling! (But it really wasn’t!)

Cheyene M.
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because nobody knew who was for the South and the North. At Wilson’s Creek I learned that it is very important to be sure of your actions. I also learned that the Union Army lost the battle due to poor communications, lack of matching uniforms and no common flags. The St. Louis Arch was very amazing. It was enormous! It was one of the neatest things I’ve ever seen.

Jade T.
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because they were on the boarder and some were for the North and some were for the South. I learned that at the Battle at Wilson’s Creek even though the soldiers were on different sides, they all went to the same hospital at the Ray family home. I also learned that if you are on a team it’s always good to have the same uniforms and the same plan. The St. Louis Arch was so amazing! I had a great time. It was so thrilling to be up that high.

Claudia M.
Missouri’s location caused confusion at the battle sights because the soldiers were wearing different outfits. From the battle at Wilson’s Creek, I learned that team work and communication is very important when doing a big job. I also learned that you have to depend upon your friends and work together and know who is on your side. At the St. Louis Arch it was pretty boring but it was a pretty cool experience. Going up was boring and looking down wasn’t scary at all.

Bryttnee L.
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because the state was by water and it was easy to bring in supplies. At Wilson’s Creek, I learned that communication is the key to a lot of accomplishments. Teamwork is also a shining star in a war. At the St. Louis Arch it started to rain and I don’t like being up high in storms so I was a bit afraid. But in the end I was glad I went!!

Taylor R.
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because Missouri hadn’t decided if it was Union or Confederate. At the Wilson’s Creek battle site I learned that when the army came in your house they took all of your food supplies and animals. I learned about the importance of communication at this battle site and it relates to my life because if you communicate poorly with friends and family you can drift apart. The St. Louis Arch was very cool! At the top it was fun but it got a little scary. I really liked going to the museum. It was really cool.

Madi B.
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because it was right in the middle of the country. At the Wilson’s Creek battle sight I learned that looks can be deceiving. The St. Louis Arch was very fun. I had a blast but I wanted my sister Chloe to be with me because when we drove by it a couple of years before, we couldn’t go in it and she really wanted to.

Katie
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because it hadn’t yet picked a side. At the battle of Wilson’s Creek I learned that if communication is very bad things can go wrong, which is true in my life today. At the St. Louis Arch I felt kind of scared going up and knowing we were going to be really high up.

Jesse
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because it was so easy to bring in supplies on the river. From the battle of Wilson’s Creek I learned that the Ray family were just down the hill from a war. My feelings at the St. Louis Arch were nervous, scared but excited because the tower would sway 8 inches each way and were in a storm. It also was exciting because it was my first time there.

Devyn P.
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because the state wanted to stay neutral in the conflict. At the battle of Wilson’s Creek I learned that the Union should have communicated more before the fight so they would not have had such a bad fight. At the St. Louis Arch I was really happy and excited because that was the first time I had ever been there so it was a good feeling.

Erika
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because the state hadn’t decided if they were Union or Confederate yet so it was all very confusing. At the Wilson’s Creek battle site, I learned that people used to have to tie ropes for their bed and that the Rays layed General Lyon on their bed after he died as a symbol of respect and honor. This battle taught me that communication is very important because if I, for example, wanted to go to a friend’s house but wasn’t able to communicate with my mom and I went then my mom would be very upset and it would be crazy. Consistency is important too, basically for the same reason. My experience at the St. Louis Arch was amazing. The view was so cool! And the Mississippi River was really wide compared to the river in Alamosa. That was a great experience!

Eledina
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because the uniforms looked the same. From the battle at Wilson’s Creek, I learned that Mr. Ray watched the fight on his front porch. This battle helped me learn that communication is very important and that people get things they need better when they listen to each other. The St. Louis Arch was great!

Skyler
I thought Missouri was confused because they hadn’t found out of they were Union or Confederate. At the Battle of Wilson’s Creek I learned that a lot of people died and one of them was General Lyon, the first general to die in the Civil War. I learned from this battle that communication is important and relates to my life because communication helps me to stay on good terms with my friends. My feelings about the experience at the St. Louis Arch is that it was scary and I was nervous being up so high in the sky and happy to be able to have that experience.

Pilar D.
At the beginning of the war Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles because they wanted to stay neutral. From my experiences at Wilson’s Creek I learned that it is important to communicate and know your own team. The Union lost the battle of Wilson’s Creek because of poor communication and this tells me that it’s very important to be planning ahead and to have a lot of communication.

Alexis G.
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because the state was a good place to take hold of for recruits or supplies. It was such an important place that both sides desperately needed it and more battles took place there than any other state. At the Wilson’s Creek battle site, I learned that General Lyon was the first general to die in the Civil war and was put on the Ray family bed before he was picked up by his troops. From this battle I learned that you always have to have communication with your allies to have good leadership and trust. If both are good then your plan is good. At the St. Louis Arch I was terrified at the top. I am scared of heights and I was glad when the group came down.

Maria S.
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because they wanted to stay out of a national conflict. At Wilson Creek I learned that you really need to plan out your idea and always have a backup plan in case something goes wrong or unexpected. This relates to my life because If you don’t communicate you can never get anywhere. You have to explain to others about what you want to do or what you feel like. The St. Louis Arch was so cool! I felt like I was flying. I was in a small pod with Mr. Steve and 4 other people. We fit though.

Bennett T.
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because some people wanted to side with the Union and other with the Confederacy. At Wilson’s Creek I learned that communication is imperative in situations of high importance. I also learned that staying informed is very important for making good decisions. At the St. Louis Arch I felt awe, amazement and a little bit of nervousness and fear.

Austyn J.
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because Missouri was with the Union but people in Missouri fought against the Union. At Wilson’s Creek I learned that if people are shooting then shoot back and to use better communication. When I was at the St. Louis Arch I thought that it was big and I felt sick.

Dalton B.
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because each regiment wore different colored uniforms. At Wilson’s Creek I learned to always have good communication. At the St. Louis Arch I felt nervous!

Fernando
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because Missouri entered the Union as a slave state in 1820. At Wilson’s Creek I learned that you should always keep your kids down in the basement when there’s a war in your front yard. I also learned that you always have to do the things your boss/commander tells you, for example, your uniforms, command flags and communication all need to be consistent.

Chris B.
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because Missourians needed supplies. And St. Louis is the gateway to the west. Plus it has rich farmland and other natural resources. At Wilson’s Creek I learned that you must have good communication because sometimes good communication can mean life or death. This relates to my life because in France, the only way I could call my mother was with a calling card. If we didn’t coordinate our calls and I didn’t call her she would have been worried about me. At the St. Louis Arch I was so excited to be at the top! I was in awe at the top because it was so amazing and it had a great view.

Will M.
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because at the beginning of the war they could have been either Union or Confederate. From the battle of Wilson’s Creek I learned that you should not separate your army. I thought the St. Louis Arch was amazing!

Tristan A.
At the battle of Wilson’s Creek I learned that a lot of people died. At the St. Louis Arch I thought about how cool the arch was and how awesome the people who built it were.

Nathaniel
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because it was right in the middle of the south and the north so people said yes to secession and some people said no. At Wilson’s Creek the main problems were that the soldiers did not have the same uniforms, there were no common flags and there was too much smoke to see the battle. At the St. Louis Arch I felt like I went back in time.

Kevin V.
At the battle of Wilson’s Creek I learned that you need to be able to communicate well or the result could be disastrous. At the top of the St. Louis Arch I was extremely scared but it was still fun.

Tristan H.
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because they didn’t know if the other states would stay with the Union or join the Confederacy. At the Battle of Wilson’s Creek I learned that if you don’t communicate with everybody then you risk dying on the battlefield. I thought the St. Louis Arch was cool and very high up! We rode the elevator all the way up to the top.

Luis M.
At the Battle of Wilson’s Creek I learned that there was confusion on the battlefield because of smoke and because the uniforms of the Union and Confederate soldiers looked the same early in the war. I also learned from this battle that you have to know where your soldiers are and how they’re feeling or you won’t know what is going on in the battle. Communication is important in my life because if someone is waiting to pick me up from school but they didn’t know where I was we would both be lost. I liked the St. Louis Arch but at the same time I didn’t like it. It was nice because it was cool but it wasn’t like I expected it to be.

Jared E.
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because they couldn’t decide whether to go to the Union or to the Confederacy. At Wilson’s Creek I learned that the Union lost because the commander though that the Confederate soldiers were really the Union soldiers but was mistaken. I thought the St. Louis Arch was very cool because it was built very long ago.

Tommy
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because it was in the Midwest. The lesson I learned at Wilson’s Creek was that it is best if each side wears different uniforms and can tell each other apart, and that communication is very important – without communication you can have bad consequences. At the St. Louis Arch I felt scared because it was swaying!

Anthony G.
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because some people wanted slavery and some people wanted abolition. At Wilson’s Creek I learned that communication is key to finding ways to give and get information and is very important whatever the situation. I thought the St. Louis Arch was a very interesting and fun experience.

Lanny M.
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because some people were slave owners and some people were not. At Wilson’s Creek I learned that communication is the key to finding ways to give and receive information, and that it is very important no matter what the situation. This relates to my life because I got to school and if you do not communicate you will not learn or make friends. I liked when we saw the sun set at the top of the St. Louis Arch.

Joe K.
Missouri’s location as a border state led to early and confusing battles at the beginning of the war because Missouri wanted to stay neutral. At the battle of Wilson’s Creek I learned that communication is key because without it, people don’t know what you are saying. I thought the St. Louis Arch was beautiful because of how big it was.

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Blog Post: June 26

Lissette
I learned that at the Battle of Honey Springs there were Indians fighting on both sides. The difference between the Battle of Honey Springs and most other Civil War battles is that Honey Springs had a lot of different soldiers involved and the others didn’t. I would like to tell my family about the living history re-enactors that we met at Honey Springs.

Erika
I learned many interesting things about the Battle of Honey Springs. One thing that Native Americans fought on both sides. This never happened in any other battle before. The Battle of Honey Springs is different than other Civil War battles because Native Americans were on both sides. My experiences so far have been great. We’ve been to many cool places. There were some rough spots, especially pitching tents but we FINALLY get a hotel [in St. Louis]. I can’t wait for D.C. It feels like it should be our ninth day [when we are in D.C.] But it will be fun.

Alexis
At Honey Springs, I learned that thousands of Indians fought on both sides against their own tribes. This is different from other Civil War battles because the Indians hadn’t fought with the armies before. I would like to tell my family and friends back home about how many different battle tactics could work with the land around Honey Springs. Because of our survival game [“How would YOU survive the Civil War”] I learned how hard it was during the years of being a soldier.

Taylor R
Some of the interesting things I learned about the Battle of Honey Springs are the different bullets that they used. The thing that was different about the Battle of Honey Springs was that American Indians fought on both sides. I would like to tell my family about all of the different hikes that we went on. The Civil War game affects the way I view soldiers because it helps me imagine what was going on.

Cheyene M.
I learned that at the Battle of Honey Springs, Indians fought on both sides of the battle. This battle was different from others in the Civil War because it was the most diverse battle. I would like to tell my family and friends that it is really interesting learning about all of the history. The game helps me understand what the soldiers needed to survive and why they needed it.

Claudia M.
What I learned at Honey Springs that seemed interesting was that Indians were fighting on both sides. The Battle of Honey Springs was different from most other battles because they had Indians fighting on both sides. I would like to tell my family and friends back home that going to all of these battle sights is amazing because even just standing there is being a part of history! The Civil War survival game makes me feel like I’m an actual soldier because I’m doing what they were doing and I’m seeing what they saw.

Jade T.
At the Honey Springs, I learned that there were about 3,600 African Americans fighting. The other thing I learned was that Native Americans fought on both sides. What was different about the Battle of Honey Springs was that when the Confederates were supposed to retreat the middle charged forward and was shot. I would like to tell my family and friends that I’m learning a lot and having fun and that I can’t wait to come home and tell them everything. The Civil War survival game helps me to understand the Civil War because we know what they need to survive and we understand why.

Mandi B.
I learned that at the Battle of Honey Springs, many different people fought: Indians, African Americans and whites. This was what made the Battle of Honey Springs different from other battles. I would like to tell my friends and family that we have been on the road a lot, learned some interesting things on the way and that I am making lots of friends! The Civil War survival game makes me really think of how it was like to not be prepared and how best to handle that situation.

Heaven T.
At Honey Springs, I learned that this battle was different than other battles because American Indians fought on both sides, each hoping that victory would mean better life for their native people.I would like to tell my friends and family that I have learned a lot so far about the battles and that I’m having lots of fun camping and learning about history. Our Civil War game helps me to understand more about how it was very important for soldiers to have everything they need.

Klara C.
Honey Springs was a horrible time for the Confederates. Just because of one rainstorm the Confederates had wet gun powder which didn’t give much accuracy with their firearms and once they were in trouble, reinforcements were too late to defend their army. The difference between Honey Springs was that it was one of the most intercultural battles fought. There were African Americans, whites, Hispanics and many more different cultures from around the world

I really think that this trip is an opportunity of a lifetime. When we got to a fort that was used as a battlefield I can’t believe that I am walking on a land of history. I’ve heard of the Civil War since second grade and now I am walking on the battlefields where they actually took place.

The survival game shows me what the soldier went through and also they never wanted too much weight so you have a limited amount of space to store your equipment. This is amazing. I miss you, Mama. Daddy and Scampi.

Katie
Some of the interesting things I learned about Honey Springs was that the Confederates should have won because they had more men but the Union had the latest technology. The Battle of Honey Springs was different from other Civil War battles because there were Indians in this battle. I would like to tell my friends and family that this had been really fun so far and I can’t wait to take a shower! Our Civil War survival game makes me know, feel and see how poor the soldiers were.

Angelina
I learned that at the Battle of Honey Springs, American Indians and Oklahomans fought on both sides of the conflict. This battle was different from others in the Civil War because it was the first battle to have African Americans fight. I would like my friends and family back home to know that I have had a really fun trip so far. I think it’s really cool learning about all the battles. Our Civil War survival game helps me to understand what life was like for the soldiers.

Bryttnee L.
Some interesting things I learned at Honey Springs was that the army soldiers would hear a gun fire and they would sometimes run and hide. Honey Springs was different from most other Civil War Battles because of the way the soldiers set up the plan to victory. I would like to tell my friends and family back home about the long bus rides and the adventures outdoors. Our Civil War survival game has helped me view the sights and battles by helping me understand what the soldiers carried and went through.

Pilar D.
The interesting things that I learned from Honey Springs was that all the soldiers had a very hard time during the Civil War. The difference between Honey Springs and many other Civil War battles is that Honey Springs had Indians fighting on both sides. I would like to tell my friends and family that these experiences are so cool and that I’m learning a lot of new things. The Civil War survival game affects me because it makes me feel the way that soldiers did.

Devyn
One really interesting thing that I learned today was that Indians fought against other Indians at the Battle of Honey Springs. The difference between this battle and other Civil War battles is that the first African American soldiers fought in this battle. I would like to tell my friends and family that this experience is really fun and I can’t wait to learn more. The Civil War survival game has helped me learn about how hard life was for the soldiers.

Sissi
One interesting thing that I learned about the Honey Springs battle was that the soldiers travelled cross county on foot and didn’t have horses to carry them. Honey Springs was different from other battles because of the involvement of American Indians who fought against each other, and that usually doesn’t happen. I would like to tell my friends and family that this trip is a good opportunity to learn new things and prepare us for the next years. The Civil War survival game affects the way I view the Civil War because it shows us what the soldiers went through and makes me think about if I could actually survive these conflicts and troubles.

Jessee
One of the most interesting things I learned today was that no Nebraska soldiers fought at the Battle of Honey Springs. The difference between Honey Springs and other Civil War battles was that Honey Springs had many different cultures of people fighting. I would like to tell my family and friends thank you for helping me with my homework to go on this trip. And I miss you and that I love you. And I would like to tell my family and friends that I can’t wait to see them on the Fourth of July. And that this experience is really awesome. I think the Civil War survival game helps us figure out what the troops felt like being away from their family and meeting new people.

Lorie S.
I thought the Battle of Honey Springs was interesting because it was one of the most multi-cultural battles fought throughout the way. The Battle of Honey Springs was different from other Civil War battles because it was a very multi-cultural battle. I had some amazing experiences so far! I have always wanted to travel basically everywhere so this is awesome! Get to go through ten states and see many historical sites. The bad thing is my camera has problems so I’m not getting many good photos.* The Civil War survival game helps me understand the soldiers’ living conditions and struggles better. It helps me imagine myself as a Civil War soldier during that time.

Maria S.
Yesterday we went to Honey Springs. We learned many interesting facts from Civil War re-enactors but the most interesting fact I learned was that American Indians fought on both sides of the battle. About 3,600 American Indians fought in the way, along with Kentucky’s Colored Volunteer regiment.

We took a hike around the battle field. It was a really green place with trees and grass. I think the Battle of Honey Springs was the most interesting battle of all that I have learned about on this trip.

Jensen M.
Today I learned that Honey Springs was the most diverse battle. It’s amazing how many ethnicities fought in the battle. The biggest difference between this battle and many others in the Civil War was diversity. You had Native Americans fighting and the 1^st Kansas Colored Volunteers fighting. I would like to tell my friends and family that this trip is very fun! Everyone is so nice and we are having a blast. The Civil War game helps me understand what different supplies you need at each battle.

Ellie
Today I learned that soldiers at Honey Springs didn’t carry anything that they didn’t need and that they didn’t have tents. What was different about this battle than most other Civil War battles was that the soldiers would go right up to each other and fight. I would like my friends and family to know that the Civil War was for freedom. The Civil War survival game has taught me about how soldiers got paid and that they can only carried what they needed.

Taylor B.
I thought it was interesting that there was a trail near Honey Springs that no one has used so there are trails from the Civil War. In the Battle of Honey Springs, I learned that Indians fought on both sides. I would like to tell my friends and family that it was a very interesting and historical site. Playing our Civil War survival game has made me realize that it was very hard for soldiers to survive.

Skyler S.
The interesting things I learned today was that American Indians fought on both sides of the Battle of Honey Springs. It also was interesting that the confederacy immediately marched in and forma alliances with the tribes. This battle was different because American Indians fought on both sides of the conflict. What I liked so far is getting to go on hikes, going on the bus with my friends and getting to know kids in Colorado and Texas. I also like learning all about the Civil War.

Jared E.
Today I learned that Honey Springs is really dense and had the most ethnic groups at the battle than any other battle. This battle was different because Indians from the same tribe fought each other on different sides of the conflict. I would like to tell my friends and family that it was very hard to sleep with all the noise and it was very hot!

Joe K.
Something interesting about Honey Springs is how the soldiers arrived at Honey Springs. This battle is different because the Union had more modern weapons. The experience that I would take home with me is that some soldiers never had rifles. The Civil War game changes my view because it makes me think like a soldier.

Tommy
Honey Springs was like a jungle to me because it was hot and buggy. I learned that the Battle of Honey Springs was different because the Confederates outnumbered the Union 2 to 1 and that Indians from the same tribe fought against each other. I would like to tell my friends and family that I would not want to fight in the Civil War.

Fernando
I learned that at Honey Springs, American Indians fought on both sides of the conflict. This battle was different from others during the Civil War because the Unions left the frontier in Indian Territory.

Coleton B.
The most interesting thing I learned was that Indians were on both sides of the war. This battle was different from others during the Civil War because there were African American soldiers fighting. If I could tell my friends back home something I would tell them about the tents and food. I’ve learned from our Civil War game that we have to use our supplies and surroundings.

Kevin V.
Today I learned that Indians battled on the both sides at Honey Springs. I would like my friends and family to know that I am having fun! Our Civil War game helps me to understand about the struggles of the soldiers.

Chris B.
I learned that the Battle of Honey Springs was the most ethnic battle in the Civil War and that Indians fought on both sides. I would like to tell my friends that it has been an amazing experience of a lifetime that I think everyone would love. The Civil War survival game makes me think more about how hard the lives of soldiers were.

Bennett T.
I learned today that the Battle of Honey Springs was ethnically diverse, that regiments from Texas participated and that lack of communication decided the battle. I want to tell my friends and family that I am having a lot of fun! There’s so much to learn and I miss you! Our Civil War survival game has taught me that decision today affect you for the rest of your life.

Nathaniel
Today I learned that at the Battle of Honey Springs there were Indians, African Americans and a lot of other people at the battle. I also learned that the Confederates made a lot of mistakes. I would like to tell everyone that I have learned some new things and have seen some amazing places!

Will M.
I leaned that at the Battle of Honey Springs the Union snuck up on the rebels when their powder was wet. I also learned that the Confederates were caught off guard when their gunpowder was wet and they were low on guns. I would like to tell my friends and family that I have enjoyed all the sights I’ve seen!

Anthony G.
I learned that at the Battle of Honey Springs, there were almost 3,600 American Indians and that Honey Springs was the only engagement with large numbers of American Indians that fought on both sides. Our Civil War game has taught me that life must have been very hard for the soldiers in the Civil War.

Tristan H.
I learned that at the Battle of Honey Springs the Union snuck up on the Confederates when they were short on guns and their gunpowder was rained on. I would like to tell my friends and family that we went to a water park and we saw cars planted in the ground that had spray paint all over them and we slept in a tent so far on this trip! I’ve learned from our game that you should just get the stuff you need to survive in the Civil War.

Lanny M.
The most interesting thing I learned about the Battle of Honey Springs was that the First Kansas Colored Regiment participated in this battle. I also learned that there were large numbers of American Indians who fought on both sides of the conflict. I would like to tell my friends and family that it was fun going down the green slide, it was steep and about 100 feet high so I got the butterflies! Our Civil War game changes my whole outlook of battle because if you don’t have the right stuff you will be defeated or die depending on the situation.

Dalton B.
The most interesting thing I learned at Honey Springs was were that the confederates had the Union soldiers outnumbered but they still lost because of lack of technology. This battle was different because it was the most ethnic battle of the Civil War. I would like to tell my friends and family that the trip is awesome and I'm learning a lot!

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Blog Post: June 25

Today we saw Glorieta Pass, or the "Gettysburg of the West." Campers learned all about the battle and it really had an impact on them, as you'll see below. To lean more about Glorieta, please follow this link.

Taylor B.
When I was hiking the Glorieta Path, I was very, very tired. There were a lot of steep hills, I really do think that it would’ve been way much easier without all the extra rocks. I am ready to take a shower after that hot, long and tiring trail.

Lissette D.
From today’s experience something I learned today that I didn’t know before is that Pigeon Ranch was a place to rest.

Angelina R.
I think that it would be pretty hard to fight a battle in [Glorieta Pass]. I also think they would have been really hot.

Alexis G.
I felt like I could see the fighting raging right in front of me [at Glorieta Pass]. I did not know about Peticolas, the man who dressed himself us as the enemy to get across [the battlefield]. I would like to know what he did after.

Madi B.
Today was the third day of our trip but actually the first day of doing things and not just driving. We went and watched a short video at Pecos [National Park]. Then we got back on the bus (I took a small nap) and we went to the Glorieta Pass battle field. It was a long 2 mile hike, it was hot. I got real tired but we learned a lot :)

Cheyene M.
At Glorieta Pass I experienced what it was like to be a soldier at the things they had to do.

Klara C.
I cannot believe how the Confederates had to suffer through the weather and especially losing their supplies to the Union. But they went days without food, ammunition and even horses and mules which meant starvation and defenselessness. Although I would be on the Union side, I do feel sorry for all the suffering the Confederates went though. Hope to see you soon, Mama, Daddy and Scampi.

Jensen M.
The Glorieta Pass battlefield was very amazing. It was interesting to know that a whole supply chain could cause a side to lose. It goes to show the people that are prepared to call the shots.

Sissi
I had lots of emotions when we were at Glorieta Battle site. It was pretty cool seeing where actual men fought back then! I felt a little tired towards the middle/end [of the hike/scavenger hunt]. I was happy that we had snacks and water.  It was good emotions all around and I can’t wait to have more great journeys!

Devyn P.
[I am] excited because that was the first time I have ever heard about [Glorieta Pass]. I learned a lot and how they fought in a lot of trees. I would like to learn more. I also learned that once you have something you should be prepared to lose it, like the Confederates lost Glorieta.

Pilal D.
When we went to the Glorieta battle field I felt like I was feeling what the soldiers were feeling. I felt tired walking and I think the soldiers felt tired and sleepy too. I bet the soldiers back then were starving and bored. It’s boring just to be lying around.

Jesse K.
My feelings today were excited because today, June 25th, I could stand right where generals and soldiers stood.

Bryttnee L.
Today I felt respect for the death of the soldier and the history of the land. The feeling of being on a real-life battle field is somewhat weird because of the deaths, but it is a privilege to be able to see it today.

Heaven T.
Today at Glorieta I felt that it must have been hard to fight a battle in all those trees and bushes.

Maria S.
Today we visited the Battle of Glorieta Pass battle field. We took a hike and a scavenger hunt. We were searching for items such as a bullet, ball, army fabric and an army button. We learned much about the Battle of Glorieta Pass. Pigeon Branch was a rest stop for soldiers. The Santa Fe Trail passes through the canyon. Sergeant Alfred Peticolas walked through enemy lines. I really hope to learn much more.

Eledina
I learned that after the way the nurses would go check people for stuff they needed.
Tristan A.
Today I learned what it felt like to be in the position of the soldiers.

Issac B.
Today I felt excited because I was on a battlefield where people fought. I learned that the CSA ran out of food. I would like to know how they ran out of food. The idea of being prepared to life’s challenges relates to my life because if I didn’t have food or water I would die.

Bennett T.
At Glorieta I experienced interest, awe and fatigue. I was interested that [Glorieta Pass] is called the Gettysburg of the West since it stopped. I learned that it looked like a Confederate victory but cut-off supplies caused a Union victory. I would like to learn what gave the Union the idea to attack supply lines. Being prepared relates to my life because you need to make sure your important assets are protected and always have a back-up plan.

Jared E.
Today I was sad and excited at the same time because I was excited to see the battlefield but I was sad to know a lot of people died here. I learned that Brian the photographer’s Great Great Great Uncle was here and saw a dead person and rolled over and the dead guy was actually alive and turned over and shot him but then Brain’s Great Great Uncle shot him in the face.* I learned today that if you don’t have the things to succeed in life you won’t succeed. For example, if you don’t have a screwdriver then you can’t screw in a screw.

Chris B.
I experienced tiredness in my legs from all the walking today as well as fun and excitement just from being here at Glorieta. I learned that a soldier got lost and went behind enemy lines, but eventually returned to his own side. I learned that being prepared is important; when I pack for big trips I have to be prepared for anything that may go wrong.

Mike
When I was hiking today I felt strong like I had a lot of energy and I never felt that way before. I learned that big round bullets were for a rife and I didn’t know that before! I learned that if someone was not prepared for a battle there is a 90% chance that they will die, but if they are prepared there is only a 20% chance they will die.

Leo
The feeling I felt while I was walking on Glorieta Pass was proud. This was one of the hottest places I have ever been to in my life! I learned that soldiers had to walk for very long distances and keep their canteen full most of the time. I also learned that if I’m not prepared for something I would probably get in trouble.

Austyn J.
Today I felt very tired. I learned about how hard it was in the Civil War. I learned that you prepare by keeping your supplies well protected or keeping them far away from the battle.

Kevin V.
At Glorieta I felt very interested! I didn’t know that soldiers were sometimes sent without supplies. I go camping a lot and always remember all my things – being prepared is very important.

Tommy
Today I felt sorry for the troops at Glorieta Pass because it was hard for me and I was just touring, not being a soldier. I learned that the end of the battle was based on the fact that the Union burned the Confederates’ supplies.

Owen C.
Today I learned that whoever controls the resources has the upper hand!

Colteon B.
I felt that it would be terrible to be in the middle of the battle. I learned that the south could have thought out their strategy better—they lost the battle of Glorieta Pass due to losing supplies.

Joe K.
I had mixed feelings about Glorieta Pass but my strongest feeling was for the soliders who had to fight in that dense forests. It would be hard to find the enemy let alone shoot him because you can’t see very far. I learned that Sergeant Alfred Peticolas was part of a Texan group. He found himself in the middle of the Union enemy lines. Taking a coat from a dead Union soldier, he was able to sneak over to the confederate side. I want to learn how many died at that battle.

Anthony G.
I thought that the Confederates were going to win at Glorieta Pass, but the Union broke through the enemy lines and took the Confederates supplies. Then it all changed and the Union won. Today I learned what the soldiers were paid and what equipment they were given. I would like to learn about the guns they shot and how long it took them to travel.

Tristan H.
At Glorieta Pass I felt bad for the soldiers because they had to shoot through trees.

Jerveil
I felt like I was actually there [at the battle of Glorieta Pass] and it was a lot of fun learning things about the battlefield site. One thing I learned that I did not know was that there was a team that fought named the Confederates which didn’t really have uniforms. I would like to learn why the war started. The idea of having supplies helps me because if I was in a war with no supplies it would be bad so I would come prepared and ready to fight.

Dalton B.
I couldn’t believe I was standing where the “Gettysburg of the West” was fought. I learned that the Confederacy could have won the war. Today we learned that the Confederate Army lost the battle of Glireta Pass due to losing their supplies to the north. From this I learned that you always need to be prepared in everything you do.

Nathaniel N.
I felt that Glorieta was a place to remember for all the people who died there. I learned that the Confederates should have been more careful with their supplies. It makes my own life easier if I am prepared, if I wasn’t prepared I would lose.

Will M.
Today at Glorieta Pass I learned what soliders went through. I Learned about both Glorieta and Gettysburg today. I also learned that if you are not prepared you will die by loss of things that you need.

Lanny M.
Today I felt how it would have been as a Confederate soldier in the battle. I learned that the Confederates lost do to lack of supplies. If my life today if you are not prepared for a situation you will not succeed, which is the same as it was in the Civil War days.

* Our camp photographer, Brian, has done some research into his family’s history. He learned that his Great Great Uncle was a Union soldier who participated in the battle at Glorieta Pass. After the battle ended, his uncle was walking through the battlefield and saw a Confederate soldier that he presumed was dead. The man was alive and shot Brian’s uncle in the arm. Brian’s uncle acted in self defense and shot the Confederate soldier. Later in the hospital, the dead soldier’s friends learned what Brian’s uncle had done and began to threaten him. Brian’s uncle explained what happened and all agreed that Brian’s uncle was acting in self defense and the Confederate soldiers backed off. Brian’s uncle survived the war.

Tie a string around your finger ...

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Do you know how to see photos of our cross-country journey?

Although the blog posting is usually one per day, if you have a facebook or twitter account, you can keep up with our multiple posts per day! Log on to facebook and search for "Old Stories New Voices" and then "like" our page! Our updates will automatically show up in your news feed.

If you're more into Tweeting, you can also follow our twitter feed @OSNVSummerCamp

Instead of loading our photos onto the blog this year, we've created a Pro Flickr account so we can upload all of Brian's fabulous professional photographs (instead of Miss Kate's out of focus point-and-shoot photos like last year) Once photos are uploaded, you'll see an update and a link here, on our facebook page and on our twitter feed. So every day you can see what your campers are learning, eating and seeing! Pretty cool, huh??

It's Almost Time ...

It's almost time for camp again!! Old Stories New Voices 2010 is just days away and we hope everyone is getting excited!

Remember to check back here for daily updates from campers as well as cross-posting to our facebook page(Old Stories New Voices), Twitter (OSNVSummerCamp) and flikr account (Old Stories New Voices2010). We'll keep everyone updated as we travel the United States this summer, learning about the Civil War.

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

The Denver Old Stories kids were lucky enough to receive tickets to the wonderful show, KOOZA that was performing here in Denver during the summer and fall.

The show was incredible and we all felt very, very lucky to receive such a wonderful gift.

This is our way of saying 'Thank you!'

Pennsylvania Camp

We went to the Meadowcroft Museum of Rural Living and did all sorts of fun activites and learned a bunch about history. We had to deal with some rain but it did not last for long. We went to the Heinz history center and learned about the civil war. Here are some cool pictures of our adventures.

We had to adjust to a new kind of home. They were nice, bug tents though.

The wilderness was beautiful and we got to check some cool buildings.

We got to learn about the underground railroad from some awesome people.

We also learned about football history at the Heinz History Center.

We became good friends with Abe Lincoln and made plans to hang out later.

Riding horses on the open trail was fun; luckily it didn't rain that day.

We even got to roast marshmellows and hang around the campfire.

Graduation Day

Colorado Historical Society President Ed Nichols congratulates camp

graduates with camp director Lawrence Pacecho, Bobbe Hultin, camp administrator

and Kathy Schultz park ranger in the background.

Sand Dunes Day

After the Sand Dunes we came back to the fort for a fiesta! Luis, Lissette, Claudia and Rae'ven performed for our special guests and then we danced and danced to the wonderful music of the Mariachi San Luis group.

We hiked a new trail in the Sand Dunes National Park with our fantastic park rangers.

Exploring the arts

Today we learned about Hispano folk art and how it evolved from using leftover materials to make pieces of art. This was because the San Luis Valley was so isolated. Mr. Rick talked to us about this and then challenged us to make art out of our trash.

See what we made! We also visited Theresa Vigil and learned about the herbs you can collect in the mountains and what they can be used for.

Then after dinner we were given assignments to play specific people who were important to Ft. Garland. We had so much fun dressing up and acting our parts.