If you have ever wondered what a comfortably retired old fart does in his spare time, let me share a recently completed project that took a couple of months with you.

My great grandfather, Benjamin H. Downing, was a 1st Lieutenant during the Civil War with the 49th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry [[visit him here at http://tinyurl.com/282wgr3

Some time ago I acquired the complete roster of all the companies of the 49th PVI. They were in a number of historic battles, including Gettysburg and The Wilderness. Two members earned particular distinction: William B. Blatt became the very first battle casualty to be buried at Arlington, and Charlie King was the youngest soldier to be killed in the Civil War. He was a 13-year old drummer.

About twelve percent of the regiment was found on Findagrave.com, and you can look them over at http://tinyurl.com/28bpfef

Anyway, that's what old retired farts do for entertainment.