We are living historians because we love the history of America. We love that history because we love America itself. A great nation, a nation reunited for nearly a century and a half. Our nation. There are men in our ranks who have fought and even bled for the United States. If you are viewing this site because you are a Klansman looking for recruits, or an event in your area where you can show up for a catchy photo op with some 'rebble sojers', begone. We have no more use for you than the rest of the civilized, educated world does. In fact, we have our own unique axe to grind with you. It is idiots like you, with your abuse of a proud flag, who cause honest men like ourselves to be viewed askance by some of the public. You corrupt and pervert a part of the history of our country that we hold particularly dear, and you revel in your repugnance. Shame, eternal shame upon you.
To the recruit considering our outfit solely out of a sympathy for the 'Lost Cause' or the 'Peculiar Institution', or a general dislike for some minority group or other, rather than a genuine interest in the history of your country, you should reconsider. Be advised that you will find no kindred spirits among the men of Co.K, nor in the ranks of any reputable living history organization. You will not be welcome, you will not want to stay, and you will waste your money and our time.
On the 4th of May, 1865, at Columbus, MS, Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest surrendered his command, of which the 7th Kentucky Mounted Infantry was a part. In his farewell address on the 9th of that month, he gave several instructions to the men, in effect issuing his last orders to the soldiers of his command. He told them to uphold their honor, to obey the law, and to be good citizens of the United States. We can only pay these uncommon 'common soldiers' the respect that is their due by obeying those Last Orders ourselves, and we will do so.
