Civil War Reenactment of Wisconsin Home Front Activities Set for May 20-22 in Evansville
Civil War history comes to life with the cavalry, infantry, camp followers, President Lincoln and even a military band. Visit the encampment, enjoy the reenactment, all free. May 20-22, Lake Leota Park, Evansville, Wisconsin.
EVANSVILLE, WI, May 08, 2011
Get ready for time travel! Commemorating the 150th anniversary of the start of the American Civil War, the historic community of Evansville,Wisconsin, will host soldiers, officers, wives, musicians, camp followers, horses, tents, artillery, and more. Experience for yourself camaraderie and patriotic fervor Friday through Sunday, May 20-22, in Evansville.The event is Rally 'Round the Flag, a weekend encampment of Wisconsin home front activities similar to those at the outbreak of the Civil War. About 150 reenactors--and more than a few horses--will transform Lake Leota Park. Folks of all ages-from pre-school to old school-will find exciting activities, educational programs, and "famous" people to enjoy. Stroll around campground tents, try your hand at drills, listen to cemetery "talking spirits," and more, for free.
Special guests President Abraham Lincoln, First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln and Senator Stephen Douglas will be on hand to greet and visit with visitors and troops. For people who enjoy a little more excitement, join the crowd for the Friday evening fireworks and artillery fire, or the Saturday patriotic rally and parade.
Every activity is free except for two events on Saturday. Supper with the Troops is $10 per adult and $5 per child age 11 and under. The Military Ball is $30 per person or $20 if in military uniform (any era) or Civil War costume. Tickets will be available at the door.
Many activities will concentrate on or near the re-enactment campground on present-day Lake Leota Park. Joining the encampment are notable groups including Watertown 1st Brigade Band, Company K of the 2nd Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry Regiment, Company D of the 3rd Iowa Cavalry, Battery B of the 4th U.S. Light Artillery, the Historical Timekeepers, the U.S. Christian Commission, and the West Side Soldiers' Aid Society.
Evansville is just south of Madison. The sponsor for this family-fun weekend is Evansville's historical organization, the Grove Society. All kinds of information is available at http://www.ci.evansville.wi.gov/visitors/civilwar.htm. Or just Google Civil War Evansville Wisconsin. Stop by for some fun, and stay for some unique experiences!
Significant historians Brett Barker and Lance Herdegen will present lectures; the 1st Brigade Band will perform at the military ball, and Maple Hill Cemetery spirits from the Civil War will emerge. The activities are numerous, and the fun endless for families. Mark calendars now to experience history May 20-22 in Evansville.