Abernathy shares story of UC’s role in the war

The Gen. Otho French Strahl Camp 176, Sons of Confederate Veterans, conducted its monthly meeting recently at the Obion County Museum on Edwards Street in Union City.
Lt. Commander John Abernathy opened the meeting by leading the pledge to the U.S. flag and the SCV Flag Salute. Compatriot Bob Nichols led the opening prayer.
Abernathy gave a very interesting and informative talk about Union City and its role in the War for Southern Independence. Union City was in its infancy having come about due to the junction of two major railroads, Nashville/NW and Mobile/Ohio. Union City was the home to Camp Brown, a Confederate training camp where thousands of troops from several surrounding states came for equipping and training. Camp Brown was located across the field from the entrance to Discovery Park, just north of the Old Brown Shoe factory. There were four battles — March 1862, December 1862, July 1863 and March 1864 — with three Confederate and one Union victory. Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest won one battle with the use of Quaker guns (logs) without firing a shot.
During other business:
• New member John Blankenship was presented his certificate of membership.
• Members received an update on the cleaning  of the Chambers-Holmn Cemetery across the road from Memorial Gardens. Another work day is needed to complete this project. Compatriot Tommy Jernigan sprayed to kill the vegation recently.
• Heard the camp is awaiting further information regarding the hosting of a Tennessee Scenic Views display at the Obion County Public Library, if arrangements can be made. It includes 23 pictures of Tennessee views which are to be preserved for future generations to enjoy. November is the targeted date for the display to be at the library.
Nichols closed the meeting in prayer.
There were 15 members and one guest in attendance.
The Sons of Confederate Veterans is the nation’s largest Southern heritage, history and honor organization open to all male descendants of a Confederate soldier who served honorably in the War for Southern Independence.
For more information, call 1-800-MYSOUTH or visit the website SCVCAMP176.ORG.

Published in The Messenger 10.25.12

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