"Long, Obstinate and Bloody: The Battle of Guilford Courthouse" - A New Bar Has Been Set!

I have to admit that I have spent quite a bit of time anticipating this book. My anticipation was driven by the knowledge of the authors’ previous works as well as a thirst for the definitive Guilford story. Since finishing “Long, Obstinate and Bloody: The Battle of Guilford Courthouse”, I can happily say that I was not disappointed! The authors have crafted a very logical story, taking on many of the myths and larger-than-life characters that have populated this important part of the American Revolution’s Southern Campaign. Specifically interesting to me was how Babits and Howard correlated pension statements with the various known histories, either proving the stories or debunking them. The maps were outstanding and helped me really understand the flow of the battle. While not perfect (i.e., Rockingham County Militia?), I find this book to be both well-written and well-documented. The bar has been raised in regards to the future exploration of key battles. With “A Devil of A Whipping” and “Long, Obstinate and Bloody” written, I now shall be anticipating the next book in what I like to call their “American Revolution Southern Campaign Series”.

Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head.....

The one year I finally make it to the Battle of Guilford Courthouse, it's a washout. My neighbor, Bill Barber, and I arrived Friday afternoon to help our compatriots in the 6th NC set up camp. The unit's truck hadn't arrived yet, so we headed off for dinner and then to the NPS visitor center to hear Dr. Larry Babits and Josh Howard present the findings of their new book on the battle, "Long, Obstinate and Bloody: The Battle of Guilford Courthouse". The presentation was outstanding and you should pick up the book as it dispels myths and brings new, interesting facts to the surface. After spending the night at "Camp Days Inn", we ventured over to camp in the steady rain. Shortly after arriving, the announcement was made that due to inclement weather (100% chance of rain all day!), the battle for Saturday afternoon had been cancelled. So with nothing to do, I visited the sutlers and soon made my way home Saturday afternoon (after grabbing something for supper at Char-Grill in Raleigh). While definitely not a complete weekend, I did have a great time at the lecture Friday night and had a chance to spend time with some old and new friends.