SanAngelo, Texas – Members of the Sons of Confederate Veterans (SCV) from Central Texas recently immersed themselves in the art of historical artillery at Fort Concho, participating in the 'School of the Piece' from October 3rd to 5th, 2025. Hosted by the United States Field Artillery Association (USFAA), the event focused on safe operation of muzzle-loading cannons, honoring the legacy of War Between The States -era soldiers while prioritizing modern safety standards.
The SCV, established in 1896 in Richmond, Virginia, as the successor to the United Confederate Veterans, is a non-political, patriotic organization committed to preserving the history and heritage of the Confederate States from 1861 to 1865. It emphasizes education, memorial maintenance, and community engagement, welcoming men with proven lineal or collateral descent from Confederate veterans. With nearly 100 active camps across Texas, organized into regional brigades including Central Texas, the group fosters a deep respect for ancestral sacrifices through activities like this.
Organized by the Loyal Train of Artillery, a USFAA chapter, the three-day course drew 49 participants eager to learn handson techniques on artillery pieces similar to 'The Judge,' such as full-scale 6-pound muzzleloading field guns equipped with limbers and caissons. The program kicked off Friday with registration and a welcoming supper. Saturday included classroom instruction on safety protocols, powder charge preparation, and field drills, ending with the traditional Saint Barbara Dinner in honor of artillery's patron saint. Sunday featured practical exercises, including firing blank rounds crafted the previous day, before concluding with certificates of completion.
The USFAA’s updated training prioritizes safety, emphasizing that these adapted artillery drills are for reenactments, not live fire. Participants learned to use key implements—such as sponges, insulated gloves, lanyards, haversacks, limber chests, linstocks, misfire kits, rammers, worms, thumbstalls, and more—to safely operate muzzle-loading cannons. Muzzle- loading artillery is inherently dangerous and urges caution at all times. Muzzle-loading artillery is, by definition, hazardous, urging good judgment to prevent accidents.
Participants learned critical procedures, such as basic commands for gun crews, mortar drills, rolling powder charges, handling failed primers, and responding to catastrophic failures like incursions or strictest rules for safety.
For SCV members, the training underscores their serious dedication to heritage preservation. Through rigorous programs like this, the SCV continues to safeguard Confederate history with responsibility and reverence. “We’re not just reliving the past; we're ensuring it's done safely and accurately,' said Lampasas Camp Commander Michael Oliver. Looking ahead, the Central Texas SCV Muster will be on October 18th in San Saba County, and will feature a black powder rifle and pistol shoot. Contact Oliver at 254-432-0322 for details and come meet “The Judge” as he is looking for a few good men.