Fundraising Projects

Originally published February 2017 · p. 27

OLUSTEE, FLA.—Department of the South (D.O.S.) is at the 25% goal of reaching $5,000 for a future walkway between the monuments at Olustee, Fla. Several years ago the State of Florida was approached by the Sons of Union Veterans about erecting a monument to Union troops who fought at Olustee. This was met by opposition of the United Daughters of the Confederacy as well as the local reenacting community. Jeff Grzelak who has participated in all of the Olustee reenactments as well as lead the effort to erect the current Union Monument in 1991 stated “we already have a Union Monument that lists all of the participating units as well as the original inscriptions of the first monument at Olustee made of wood in 1866…” The SUV was challenged that if they want to do something positive for Olustee wait until after the new museum is built or donate to the project. Several years have gone by and no action has been taken so far by the SUV. Grzelak even suggested that they raise money to built a walkway/ trial uniting the monuments. Well the D.O.S. is no longer waiting and has joined forces with the Dept. of the Gulf (D.O.G.) and the local AZTEC CLUB this past year by asking everyone who has ever participated in the Olustee reenactment to donate $1 for each they have attended. So far over $1,250 has been raised. While the exact details and path have yet to be determined the reenacting community has stepped up to support the project. Hopefully the name of the participants and casualties can be engraved perhaps on pavers or bricks. If you wish to donate make your check payable to the Dept. of the South, 7214 Laurel Hill Drive, Orlando, Fla. 32818 or email [email protected] NASHVILLE, TENN— Planned for July 7, 2017. A national trucking organization has contacted an event meeting planner about hosting a Civil War themed banquet dinner next Summer in Nashville. The event coordinator has contacted Jeff Grzelak of the Dept. of the South to coordinate reenactors & living historians who would be interested in donating their time to raise over $10,000 for historic preservation. North & South as well as civilians are being asked to consider this worthy and unique opportunity. If you or your group would be interested please contact Jeff H. Grzelak at [email protected] or call 407497-5485. You can decide what project to donate to depending on the participation of your group.