The day was rainy but enthusiasm and spirits were high at the Civil War Dinner at Rockwood Manor on April 27. It was a sold-out event with every table full. The reenactors were rained out, the History Mobile had a major breakdown and didn’t make it, but the atmosphere was pure Civil War era with some guests in period costumes and author Sharyn McCrumb and her family dressed to represent characters from her books. Rockwood’s long windows and wide porches gave way to views of rain and green fields that could have held any of these characters. The music echoing through the house from the foyer made it even more special.

Sharyn’s after dinner presentation, held in the manor house due to rain, was given in a hushed and eerie atmosphere, rain pounding, as she told of the days and events of yesteryear. It was a special, very personal as well as informative presentation of people and the times. It was so enthusiastically received that Sharyn finally had to end as her voice began to fail. All in all, it was an evening of sharing and historical magic. Our special thanks to Frank Drummond and Rochelle for sharing Rockwood Manor and being such avid NRHS supporters.