Welcome to Season 5 of The Wabash Inn Mess.

Starting off our fifth series of twelve episodes, the men of The Mess welcome back author and historian Scott Mingus to share the story of his biographical sketch of Confederate general William "Extra Billy" Smith and to remember our friend and esteemed author of many fine works on the American Civil War, Eric J. Wittenberg, who passed earlier this summer after a determined battle with cancer.

"Extra Billy" as a man, a general, and a politician would be considered just as scandalous today as he was in the era of the War Between the States. Yet his leadership record on the field of battle is still a matter of interpretation to the rearward observer. Scott's work will help the reader unravel some of the shadows intertwined around this complex character.

We also revisit the most recent JohnnyCon, a popular part of NashCon, that was held at the Sheraton Music City in Nashville, TN in mid-August. JohnnyCon features exclusively the games designed by respected creator John Hill, focusing primarily on his Johnny Reb rule set.

We hope this episode brings you up to date with Scott and his work, and that you will seek out well-researched and meticulously crafted volumes for your Civil War library.

You can pick up most books by Scott Mingus and Eric Wittenberg on Amazon or Barnes & Noble, but we highly recommend buying directly from their publisher when possible at:

www.savasbeatie.com

Contributions in memory of Eric Wittenberg can be made to your favorite Civil War centered institution, or to help with his mountainous medical and final expenses you can contribute at:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/please-consider-helping-eric-and-susan-wittenberg

Feel free to contact the men of The Mess with suggestions, criticisms, or questions at:

wabashinnmess@gmail.com

And finally, find The Wabash Inn Mess on the web at:

www.wabashinnmess.com