Highlights Archives
Northern Virginia, 1861: A Call to Arms
The year is 1861, and the Civil War has just begun. Northern Virginia is the scene of numerous clashes between Union and Confederate troops. The denizens of this region, and much of the nation, would not know peace until four more bloody years of warfare had elapsed. The wooded hills and valleys of Wade House in Greenbush may never have seen the fierce combat that the famous battlefields of the East and the South witnessed, but they provide an authentic setting for one of the biggest and best Civil War encampments and battle re-enactments in the Midwest — the Wade House Civil War Weekend on Saturday and Sunday, September 26-27. This year the event's focus will be the year 1861 and the early months of the war. In a scene reminiscent of what took place in those dark days, Union and Confederate armies will battle at 11 a.m. each day, followed by a second skirmish at 2 p.m. In between the action, spectators may access the battlefield to get an up-close look at the men, horses and equipment that characterized the daily lives of Civil War soldiers.
Abraham Lincoln to Make an Appearance
On the occasion of the bicentennial of Abraham Lincoln's birth, renowned character actor Fritz Klein will portray the nation's 16th president as he ponders the prospect of secession, war and the trials to come. Plan to arrive early — programs begin at 9 a.m. each day. Explore the camps of each army on your own, and learn about 1860s military life. See a traveling variety show performed by an authentic 1860s theater troupe. Experience the music of Abraham Lincoln in Song, a presentation of Lincoln's favorite music performed by Illinois musician, Chris Vallillo. You'll also have a chance to stroll through the camps of sutlers, or civilian merchants who shadowed troop movements to hawk their goods to soldiers. You can browse the sutlers' tents, stocked with 19th-century reproduction items, and watch as they demonstrate their many talents. Many other activities, their times and locations are detailed in a downloadable schedule of events (PDF 501KB).
Many Other Historic Attractions to Enjoy
Make a day of it and visit the site's historic and popular attractions, from the 1860s Wade House stagecoach inn and nearby blacksmith shop to the working, water-powered Herrling Sawmill and the Wesley Jung Carriage Museum, which houses one of Wisconsin's largest collections of hand- and horse-drawn carriages and working wagons. The day's admission includes all the site's many features.
Food and drink vendors of all sorts will be on hand to help satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst. Admission to Civil War Weekend is $12 for adults, $6 for children 5-17, $10 for students and senior citizens or $32 for families (two adults and two or more dependent children).
:: Posted September 21, 2009
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