Spectators assemble to watch the first of three reenactment battles of the weekend. "Review of the First Battle" From the Spectators/Photographers Point of View (Article and photos by Ruben Gusman)   Cloudy but comfortable November skies and temperatures in the high 40's greeted hundreds of enthusiastic spectators who positioned themselves on the high ground overlooking the Bentonville, Arkansas Battlefield. The birds-eye view gave the onlookers a grand view of almost the entire battleground. This event marked the second time the reenactment was held at this location.   The battle began on time with the opening thunderous cannonade of opposing artillery batteries. Confederate skirmishers  coming across the creek set up their lines in front of the approaching Union Army. Federal  Calvalry rushed forward in an attempt to sweep them away but were met with staunch Rebel Cavalry that came to the aid of the skirmishers. With heavy Union Infantry support approaching, the Rebel Skirmishers are forced to withdraw back across the creek where superior Confederate infantry are ready to counterattack. (BELOW): Two large Confederate Infantry Battalions pour out from the creek and overwhelm the outnumbered Frontier Brigade. The Union troops break for the woods where they have constructed a low wall and heavy breastworks. A unique feature of the Bentonville Arkansas Battlefield is the "Spectator High Ground Field of View". Most reenactment events because of usually flat fields, have the spectators positioned at eye level. This site, with it's natural"staduim-like seating" allows for the spectators to get a nice overview of most of the action. While portions of the action are far away, the battles do sway back and forth to allow for some up- close viewing. You can see my position from the photo below. You will need a pretty long lens if you want to photograph a lot of closer up shots. The high ground also creates some interesting photos as you can shoot down on the masses of infantry engaged. Click on the link at the very bottom of the page to view all the photos taken of this first battle. The Confederates getting in position to mount an assualt on the hill. (The photos above and below were taken by the "Second Shooter"-Randy Paris who positoned himself in a grassy knoll on the opposite side of the field.) The final stage of the battle ended with the Confederates attacking the Federals in the hills. The only problem about this phase was that the spectators could not see any of the action. We heard plenty and gunfire and yipping and yacking but had no idea who was getting the better of the engagement. The photo below shows what most of the spectators were "not" able to see. We have however obtained a brief report of what took place from one of the Union privates that fought in the battle. (Read his account below) This first battle lasted about 35 minutes and saw plenty of action as all arms of battle were deployed. There was good intensity and much manuvering as cavalry, infantry, and artillery units all had a vital role to play. It would have been nice if were possible for the spectators to view the final stage of fighting that occurred in the hills. However, as the terrain was very rugged and steep, it may not have been practical to try to set up any spectator lines in that area. It might be better to stage a hill battle tactical when the spectators are not around and then limit any action there during the battles where spectators are present. Overall, however, the first battle was fairly entertaining and left one wanting to see more. VIEW THE ENTIRE PHOTO GALLERY OF THE FIRST BATTLE