Civil War reenactment groups meld into ‘Iron Gray Mess’
By Scott Nicholson
nicholson@wataugademocrat.com

The Civil War remains an abiding interest among historians, and a group of “living historians” helps bring events to people around the country.

The Blue Ridge Living History Society, a local group that performs Civil War reenactments, has joined with two other regional associations to form the “Iron Gray Mess,” and has been recreating battles, encampments and drills at national parks.

Tudd Dean, one of the local organizers, said the group is recruiting in the hope of expanding its membership rolls, which currently numbers 45 people.

The group, which staged a reenactment of Stoneman’s Raid through Boone several years ago, currently represents three units of the Confederate army.

The most recent addition is the 165th New York Zouave, one of the three Union impressions recreated by the group.

The Zouaves are recognizable for their colorful uniforms, including baggy red pants, fez hats, and short blue vests.

But the uniforms were more than just showy, they represented what was considered the finest fighting force of its era.

“They were considered the best trained and drilled and had the highest morale,” Dean said.

“They were the elite special forces of their time and the French Army was the premiere army of the world.”

The Zouaves were French soldiers in North Africa who initially learned battle techniques from a local tribe.

Some toured America and gave drill demonstrations before the start of the Civil War, and both armies ended up copying the style for some companies.

With the assortment of equipment, the group has been able to perform a variety of roles.

“It’s been real exciting,” Dean said.

“We’ve been doing a number of national park living history events. You have to be asked, and you have to do a good enough impression and drill for park programs.”

The group has participated at a Gettysburg recreation the past four years, acting as North Carolina troops. An event at King’s Mountain is coming up at the end of May, and Dean said the group is planning a drill and encampment in Boone this July. Dates and location for the event are as yet undetermined, but Dean said soldiers from the flatlands enjoy a chance to visit the cool mountains.

That relief is helpful for troops wearing authentic gear. Wool was the primary uniform material and was known for its weight and thickness, though Southern soldiers often relied on a cotton-wool blend.

Confederate soldiers actually were more comfortable in battle because of a lack of wool, but all of them give new meaning to the “heat of battle.” All equipment must be authentic to the period, or a replica made from extant materials. During events, soldiers are also “in character,” and respond to questions as if they were soldiers of the 1860s. One group member even writes letters of camp events in a period style.

The group has equipment for east and west Confederate soldiers and also can change uniforms to reflect three different stages of the war. Uniforms varied widely and Confederates used all shades of gray. The group also has civilian attachments that include women and children, though young soldiers playing the fife or drum can start as early as age 12. Tyler Dean, Tudd’s son, has been attending events for 11 years and is now a unit corporal.

Dean also emphasized that those who like the easy life of creature comforts will have to set them aside when they’re in a group event. The group uses the “progressive style” of recreation, meaning they only camp with the things they carry in their packs, and also haul their own rations.

“We drill, we wear the correct uniform per event and the correct weapon, whether it’s a reenactment or a history event,” Dean said, adding that the discipline creates a level of camaraderie that is contagious.

“Our attitude and enthusiasm is second to none. I coached football for 30 years, so I know a little something about that.”

Members of the unit come from all walks of life, including students, former military personnel and history buffs, and members often hold educational events at schools and libraries. “Our drill has gotten so good that sometimes we even amaze ourselves,” he said, adding such dedication is what has made the group successful and sought after. “We do them and we do them correctly. A lot of people are on the same page.”

Dean said new recruits are welcomed and allowed to borrow uniforms and gear, so they can learn without a big financial investment.

Dean said interest in the hobby rises and falls, usually depending on how much the Civil War is depicted in movies and popular culture.

The group has been around for 11 years, and Dean said a lot of hard work, dedication and a love of history has led to the widening recognition.

The Iron Gray Mess took its name from a group of draft horses that was described as standing unflinching in a cannon attack. Dean said the horses were so well trained that they didn’t abandon their posts even at the risk of death.

To learn more about the group, contact Tudd Dean at tudd@skybest.com or (828) 297-1307.