Private Watkins
2nd Lieutenant
- Joined
- Apr 12, 2014
- Location
- Oklahoma
In reading various CW veterans' memoirs I've noted that there always seems to be an account or two of a prank or practical joke that "the boys" pulled on some poor unsuspecting chap. As such I thought I'd start up a thread to allow folks to share stories they may have come across in their CW readings about pranks, practical jokes, or other tomfoolery.
I'll start with one from David E. Johnston's book The Story of A Confederate Boy in the Civil War:
Hope you enjoy and please share any stories of CW related pranks or practical jokes that you've read about...
(And I hope this is not redundant with some previous thread; I searched and couldn't find one, but if I missed it apologies in advance)
I'll start with one from David E. Johnston's book The Story of A Confederate Boy in the Civil War:
During the period which elapsed between the organization and departure for Lynchburg, the designated place for rendezvous, and while in barracks, "the boys," as we were wont to call ourselves, played many pranks upon each other, one of which is worth relating. A sham or mock election was held for the election of a fifth Lieutenant, the choice falling on a very credulous member of the company, who, after the announcement of his election, became quite anxious to know what the duties of his office required of him, - which we, also ignorant of military duties, were unable to answer. With his consent, it was agreed to refer the solution of the matter to Lieutenant Anderson, who was always full of wit and humor, ever ready with answer, and always enjoyed a good joke. Upon the arrival of the Lieutenant, the question was promptly referred to him, and without pausing he promptly answered, "His duties are to carry water and catch fleas out of the soldiers' beds." This seemed satisfactory to the newly elected fifth Lieutenant, and doubtless as was afterwards demonstrated - for he always obeyed orders and did his duty - he would have proceeded to perform his prescribed duties as explained by Lieutenant Anderson, had not someone told him that it was all a joke and a sell.
Hope you enjoy and please share any stories of CW related pranks or practical jokes that you've read about...
(And I hope this is not redundant with some previous thread; I searched and couldn't find one, but if I missed it apologies in advance)