Chris O'Brien
When does a hobby become an obsession? I ask this because my 'hobby' for the last twenty years has been American Civil War Living History - or as some like to term it, 're-enactment'.
Although I have had a healthy interest in the War Between the States since I was 10 years old, it is only since I became ensnared in the 'little details' and the life of the common soldier that I have developed a hunger for more and more information on this fascinating subject.
There is, I hope, no bias here, as the unit I belong to portrays both sides and all theatres of the war. I contribute to many Living History forums and enjoy the 'cut and thrust' of discussions that range from the minutiae of what rations a soldier would carry to the politics of Reconstruction and the causes of the war.
My other interests include an almost fanatical devotion to my favourite Football (Soccer) team, Liverpool FC, a wide-ranging taste in Rock and Indie music and a love of alternative lifestyles and nightclubs.
I travel to Europe frequently and am a confirmed Francophile, but my first love is the United States. I have visited many of the Battlefields in the South, particularly those pertaining to the western armies and I am looking forward to a visit in March 2009 to Louisiana to partake in a week-long campaign recreating General Richard Taylor's attempt to drive General Nathaniel Banks' Yankees out of the 'Howling Wilderness'.
Latest Articles
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Henry Wirz was Hanged for War Crimes in 1865
Henry Wirz was tried by a vindictive Federal Court Martial despite his claim he was 'only following orders.' He was the only Confederate to be executed for War Crimes.
Feb 5, 2009
- Chris O'Brien
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The Life of Boston Corbett
From evangelism to insanity, from instant celebrity to a hole in the ground, English-born Sergeant Boston Corbett became known post Civil War as 'Lincoln's Avenger' .
Feb 3, 2009
- Chris O'Brien
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