To the editor:

Congratulations are definitely due to the Harriet Beecher Stowe Elementary School fifth grade for the Civil War encampment on May 25. Here are just some of the many exhibits which caught my attention:

As I entered Crimmins Field on my left was a row of cannons where a “soldier” explained how they operated and were used in battle.

Farther along on my right were white tents of Confederate soldiers.

As I kept walking I was accosted by the cry “Tour Guide.” I asked the guide what he recommended and he led me to an exhibit of military discipline. He explained how and why various punishments were administered.

Exhibits on food (I was given a recipe booklet), the “housewife” (a sewing kit carried by soldiers) and communications flags were at other locations.

At the medical tent, a leg was being amputated.

Since these are students from the Stowe school, it was especially appropriate that a group of soldiers occupied their down time by dramatizing key episodes from “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.”

Meanwhile, on the field troops were drilling. I was impressed not only with the facts these many students had learned but with the way they were able to demonstrate and communicate their knowledge and understanding visually and verbally.

Of course, such an achievement could not have been accomplished without the leadership and hours of work by teachers and staff. Many parents and community people also contributed skill and guidance to the students. Of special note should be the military music provided by the band and the beef stew for the soldiers’ lunch prepared by parents.

I am very glad to live in a community that fosters this kind of learning. Investing in schools benefits all of us. Not only are we educating future citizens but quality schools attract the kind of business and industry that provide well-paying jobs for current and future citizens.

Pauline (Tinker) Hannaford
Brunswick