Natural Bridge Ruritan Club members recently enjoyed a seminar on the Botetourt Artillery at their monthly meeting. Commander Col. John Manspile, a direct descendant of members of the Mountain Rifles, the original name of the Botetourt Artillery, gave the history behind this Confederate unit from Virginia that served in the American Civil War. The artillery unit played a prominent role in the siege of Vicksburg. He was joined by fellow member Sheldon Shastid. Manspile still collects and builds cannons and is heading to Gettysburg for this weekend’s reenactment. Each April in Buchanan, Botetourt Artillery reenactments are held. Pictured here are long-term Ruritan members Russ and Karen Orrison, Shastid, Manspile, Carol King, Ruritan Treasurer Garnette Teass and Glasgow Ruritan member Sonny Williams and his daughter, Ashley.
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