[/caption]Greetings Cosmic Americans!
As those of you who follow this blog now know very well...this last year has been pretty hectic. Lots of writing, lots of tweeting, and a move across the country. Which means, I have not been doing much in the way of speaking...something that I love to do.
Well, I am happy to say - I am back in the mix. Last night I was honored to speak to the Civil Warriors Round Table in LA's West San Fernando Valley.
First off, I would like to thank the group for having me. It is nice to feel wanted :)
Second, I would like to say that this is one of the best groups I have ever encountered. While the Civil Warriors number few - relatively - they are a raucous bunch...and very knowledgeable. It was a real joy to speak with them for an hour and a half. The question and answer section was about as fun as anyone could hope for at a Civil War meeting.
I discussed the ways Union veterans commemorated their cause - the issues at stake and their insistence that their cause be remembered. The talk, entitled The View From the North, Reconciliation and the Union Cause - went over very well indeed. And the heated discussion that followed made me happy to be a historian.
I managed to get a few plugs in for the blog and other social media tools for historians - so maybe there will be just a smidge of increased activity here at Cosmic America.
Thanks again Civil Warriors - I am looking forward to our next meeting!
Peace,
Keith
PS - a special thanks to Dave, president of the Kalamazoo Civil War Round Table - who made it all the way from Michigan! It was great to have you!!
Sounds like you and I are on the same page. My book "The Won Cause" about the Grand Army of the Republic-the Union Veterans' Organization pretty much says the same thing. It is coming out for Memorial Day which is appropriate. I am following you around via social media. You eat well. : ) Best, Barb
ReplyDeleteBravo! Congratulations, Keith.
ReplyDelete~*~ Emily
Keith- I was fortunate to be present for your excellent presentation last night at the Civil War Roundtable. The "spirited discussion" following the program was indeed a good one. Regarding the motivations for Union Volunteers to enlist in "the cause" I would like to point out to you and the readers of this blog a letter written by my great-great grandfather Pvt. William Beynon Phillips dated March 8, 1863. Of special interet is his note of the date January 1, 1863 as the beginning of "freedom's battle". The letters can be accessed at www.letters1862-1864.blogspot.com
ReplyDelete-Greg Taylor
Thanks - it's good to be back on the speaking train - it has been far too long.
ReplyDeleteThanks Greg - and thanks again for coming to the talk - it was indeed fun for all. I appreciate your link to these letters. It is wonderful that you have this connection to the war and can share it with all of us!
ReplyDeleteYep - we are indeed. I have cited your work on a number of occasions :) Are you coming to the CWI conference in June? I hope to see you there
ReplyDeleteHi Keith!
ReplyDeleteI seem to have misplaced your email address. I mentioned your blog and presentation in our newsletter, and I would like to send you a copy.
Dave Jordan
President, etc.
Kalamazoo Civil war Round Table
P.S. - You don't need to post this comment
Great - I would love a copy - my email is cosmic_america@yahoo.com I can't wait to read it!!
ReplyDelete