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November 16, 2011 | 11:02 AM
New Lenox residents were recently able to learn more about the Civil War than what they were taught in history class.
The New Lenox Public Library hosted An Evening with Robert E. Lee Thursday, Nov. 10. New Lenox resident Robert Mestas, dressed in Civil War garb, spoke as if he was the Confederate general while giving his presentation.
"I'm basically giving the perspective of the war through Lee's eyes rather than through typical politically correct history, which was the history of winners," Mestas said.
During his presentation Mestas gave facts about the Civil War from Lee's perspective and explained why the war was not started to free slaves. Mestas said that although slavery was an issue, the southerners did not fight to keep people in slavery, but to defend their land and homes.
"The war was fought for one reason; because the south was invaded," Mestas said. "Four percent owned slaves, so why did the other 96 percent go to fight? I don't know how history got so confused. I challenge anyone to find where [Abraham] Lincoln says they were fighting the war for slaves."
During his presentation, Mestas explained the south wanted to be left alone, as Lee's fellow soldiers refused to cross the Potomac River to invade land and homes of others. The southern army was merely defending its land.
"In 1860 a man's duty and devotion were tied to his home state, which was at that time free and independent," Mestas said.
Mestas began giving presentations as Lee a few months ago, and was inspired to do so because this year is the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. He said he has always enjoyed learning about history, particularly the Civil War, and has read as much as he can about the war, which is how he obtains information for his presentations.
"I've been intrigued with Robert Lee and why he was not only loved by his own men, but respected by the other side," Mestas said. "As I began to research him, I cannot think of anyone with more integrity and honor who I would want to emulate than Lee."
During the second half of his presentation, Mestas showed the Civil War artifacts he has been collecting for the past 10 years. Muskets, a Calvary saber, cannon balls, photographs, a sword, an 1850 Army pistol and Civil War buckles were some of the artifacts he showed and discussed.
New Lenox residents Frank Mulhall attended the presentation with his fiancé, Linda Delost, because he enjoys learning about the Civil War. His great-great grandfather, who moved to the United States from Dublin, Ireland, fought in the Civil War, he said.
Mulhall said he appreciated Mestas' perspective of the war because he and Delost plan to move to Tennessee.
"There were a few things I didn't know that I do now," Mulhall said.
Mulhall said he also attended because the presentation was the day before Veterans Day. He served as a gunner with the U.S. Navy in the Vietnam War from 1970-1972.
Frankfort resident Jim Hardy said he has read many history books and that he enjoyed Mestas' presentation.
"His presentation was very accurate," Hardy said. "He has to read a lot of books to be able to do that."
For more information or to order a copy of Mestas' video, Depending the Heritage, visit www.defendingtheheritage.com.
Tags: New Lenox Library
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