Rain doesn't stop Civil War reenactors

Cpl. Mark Raboy, of Shelbyville, leads Company K, 46th Tennessee Volunteer Infantry Regiment, in close order drill. (T-G Photo by John Philleo) [Click to enlarge] [Order this photo]

Event organizer Jerry Smith said the rain hurt the turnout a little bit, but was looking forward to two days of historical fun as of Saturday morning.

"It looks like we're going to have about 150 participants out here," he said, adding that there are Civil War soldier and citizen reenactors from four states participating in the event, which continues today. The reenactment of the battle will take place at 2 p.m.

The reenactors, including nine artillery pieces, 20 mounted cavalrymen, and scores of infantry and civilians, are gathered to celebrate the 145th anniversary of the Battle of Liberty Gap, which is taking place on the property of Albert Crosslin.

Mark Raboy, who lives between Shelbyville and Unionville, has been reenacting for more than 10 years and holds the rank of corporal in the Confederate Company K, 46th Tennessee Volunteer Infantry Regiment.

"I'm looking forward to a good battle," he said Saturday morning after helping his first sergeant lead the company in short order drill. "We're here to honor all the soldiers from both sides, blue and gray. They're all brave men."

Admission to the event is $5 per person, with kids four and under admitted free. Also getting free admission will be all active duty military, police, fire and paramedics who show up in uniform.