Date: Sunday June 29, 2008
Organization: Battlefield Equestrian Society
Where: Manassas National Battlefield Park, VA
Phone: 571-220-9234
Website: http://battlefieldequestriansociety.org/
LIVE THE HISTORY!
The Black Horse was initially formed in Fauquier County in 1859 as an independent volunteer cavalry company. The unit guarded John Brown at Harper’s Ferry prior to his execution. With the secession of Virginia from the United States, it was mustered into the service of the Commonwealth of Virginia in May of 1861. At 1st Manassas, it initially guarded the commander but was later released to pursue the retreating Federals. As part of a squadron composed of the Black Horse Troop, Captain Payne and the Chesterfield Troop, Captain Ball, under the overall command of Lt. Col. Thomas T. Munford, it pursued the Federals to Cub Run and captured ten rifled cannon, their caissons, and forty-six horses. The company later became Company H of the 4th Virginia Cavalry Regiment. The 4th Virginia Cavalry was comprised of companies from Prince William, Chesterfield, Madison, Culpeper, Powhatan, Goochland, Hanover, Warren, and Buckingham counties, some of the finest sons of the “old Dominion”.
The roster of the Black Horse included a great many young men from the oldest and most established families of Fauquier County, in the heart of Virginia's horse country. Many had honed their skills for years before the War in foxhunting and at the jousting tournaments held in Fauquier Springs, and rapidly adapted those skills to the needs of cavalry in wartime. The Black Horse served from First Manassas to Appomattox Court House, participating in every major battle and campaign that involved the Army of Northern Virginia and never surrendering their colors. The unit produced three brigadier generals and numerous post-war elected officials.
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The present Black Horse is a group of living historians established for the purpose of challenging our horses and each other in accurately reenacting and honoring cavalrymen of the past. We attempt to equip and train as authentic, disciplined Confederate cavalry. The unit was founded in 1972 and currently has 25 members. The Black Horse participates in Civil War battle reenactments, living histories, presentations for the public, and films. Strong emphasis is placed on developing skills of a cavalryman, and members are expected to attend drills and hone their skills.
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Upon arrival, treat yourself to coffee and doughnuts and meet the members of the infamous Black Horse Cavalry. All riders must be in the saddle at 9 am and ready to ride. Upon mounting, you will receive an historical overview presented by Terry Treat, Black Horse Commander and then enjoy a brief demonstration that reflects the authenticity and dedication to the unit and its history. You will then be divided into small groups based on your preferred ride speed and assigned a minimum of two reenactors per group. Now, take a deep breath, relax and enjoy the adventure. Be prepared to be in the saddle for 2-3 hours. Upon your return, lunch and refreshments await you. This is a wonderful time to enjoy the company of the Black Horse and your group companions.
Directions
Visit battlefieldequestriansociety.org for directions, event information, application and waiver
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