A local Civil War reenactment group not only answers the historical call of duty on the battlefield, they also fight the preservation cause at the Captain Thomas Espy GAR Post 153 in Carnegie.

The post is reopening its doors Feb. 12 since it was restored last spring. The Espy Post has been documented by Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) expert Stuart McConnell, a professor of history at Pitzer College in Claremont, Calif., as one of the most intact GAR posts in the country.

Ken Steinmetz, a member of the 9th Pennsylvania Reserves (Co.A), who will be attending the reopening as a docent, explains the reenactment process:

"The events are scripted. Everything that we do at these reenactments is geared to be authentic-from the uniforms, the equipment and the actual battle itself. Usually, at large reenactments, several thousand spectators are on site."

Another member, Martin Neaman, recalled a favorite memory at a particular event. "Scores of camp fires were being lit in the company streets for the preparation of dinner. At some point, I got up and took a walk away from the camp just to absorb the cool night air. After continuing for awhile, I heard a noise. It was a chomping sound, then I could smell the odor of horses. I had stumbled into a cavalry camp. All of a sudden with the sound, 'Halt, who goes there!' I had been seen and challenged by a sentry, probably because I had my blue coat off and was wearing what was once a white shirt. I ducked, and took off back where I had come from without being captured. I had no idea if it was a Federal or Confederate camp, but I didn't want to be caught by either. Both would have treated me as a potential enemy spy. And all I wanted to do was to enjoy that magic moment when I was transported back into the 19th Century."

Every time the 9th enters battle--or the Espy room--they are transported back to the 19th Century.

Post 153 documents include narratives of battle, biographies and applications. There are also old artifacts such as bayonets, issued gear, bullets and battlefield remnants. The 9th partnered with the library to be the post's keeper. "[We] came to an agreement that we would have our meetings at the Carnegie, Carnegie and assist in the preservation of the post, much like the veterans did in 1906 when 153 moved into the library.

"As time went on, the 9th and the library realized what a treasure the GAR room was. Together, we partnered to maintain it for future generations," said Steinmetz. Two members even united in marriage on location at the Espy Post.

The 9th Pennsylvania Reserves Reenactment Group (Company A) formed in 1980.

"Bill McLaughlin was interested in doing a historical military impression...He attended a Revolutionary War encampment at the Miller Homestead where he met the Bethel Presbyterian historian. He put Bill in touch with Dave Vargo and Bob Connell. They were interested in doing a Civil War impression. After meeting and having some discussions, the three of them formed the 9th," explained Neaman.

"Our group chose Co. A, because the original soldiers from the war were recruited from Allegheny County," Steinmetz said.

The 9th also gave a $10,000 grant for the Espy Post a few years ago. It will reopen to the public on Lincoln's birthday. Neaman and Steinmetz will both serve as docents.

To find out how to join the reenactment group, contact Mike Tommarello at 724-591-3964. For more information on the Espy Post reopening, visit www.carnegiecarnegie.com.