Winter Lyceum: “From Beetown to Atlanta: The Tale of a Civil War Drum”

Jeff Schave Presents “From Beetown to Atlanta: The Tale of a Civil War Drum”

In August of 1862, Burt Sumner and James Hayden traveled from Beetown to the county seat of Lancaster to enlist and answer President Lincoln’s “Call to Arms.” Serving in Company “C” of the Wisconsin 25th Regiment as musicians, they would march through Tennessee, Mississippi, and Georgia. As a silent witness to these events, Burt Sumner’s snare drum has not had the opportunity to share its stories and experiences. This presentation will attempt to give voice to this rare and unique artifact, and thus share with pride “A Drums Tale.”

Jeff Schave is a retired music and history teacher from Platteville High School. Along with his wife Cindy, he enjoys participating in living history events, including the Platteville Historic Re-enactment. Jeff finds personal satisfaction in researching and writing about the participants and related topics pertaining to the American Civil War. Percussion/drums have always been a considerable part of Jeff’s DNA.