Events Section

Civil War Events Oct.–Dec.

Originally published October 2017 · pp. 40–42

Oct. 6-8, Virginia. Period firearms competition

The North-South Skirmish Association 136thh National Competition near Winchester. Over 3,000 uniformed competitors in 200 member units compete in live-fire matches with muskets, carbines, breech loading rifles, revolvers, mortars and cannon. The largest Civil War live-fire event in the country. Free admission, large sutler area, and food service. For more information visit the N-SSA web site: www.n-ssa.org or e-mail [email protected].

Oct. 7, North Carolina. Tours and Living History

3rd annual Reunion and Remembrance. Bennett Place State Historic Site. Take a special guided tour around the farm where you will learn about the years 1865 to 1890 from living historians and actors portraying people who lived through that tumultuous time in our history. This event gives voice to black and white, soldier and civilian. Program is Sat. 10-4. Tickets will be required. 2 guided tours –11:30 a.m. and at 2 p.m. Activities all day long. Cost $3 per Adult and $2 per child. For more information; 919-383-4345, [email protected], www.bennettplacehistoricsite.com.

Oct. 8, Ohio. Headstone Dedication

The Civil War Round Table of Holmes County will present a headstone dedication of 12 Union gravesites at the Oak Hill Cemetery in Millersburg, Ohio at 11 a.m. There will be an official Sons of Unions Veterans ceremony for the deceased soldiers. Music by the 73rd OVI Band. For information; contact Forrest Chanay at 330-276-6202 or email: [email protected].

Oct. 13-15, Kentucky. Reenactments, Living History and Encampments

Civil War Days weekend at Columbus-Belmont State Park. Schools, scouts & groups are encouraged to plan field trips. Battles are at 2 p.m. both Sat. and Sun. Festivities include Ghost Walk on Fri. evening and a Civil War Ball on Sat. night featuring 52nd Regimental Band. Sun. morning service in period style by Rev. Alan Darley followed by a memorial ceremony. All activities are free. For Information; 270-677-2327 or [email protected].

Oct. 14, Pennsylvania. Ball

The Friends of the Laurel Hill Cemetery will again ‘resurrect’ the Gravediggers’ Ball. This black-tie or masquerade event will be held at the Ballroom of the Sugar House Casino at 1001 N Delaware Ave., Philadelphia, Pa. and will include cocktails, dinner, dancing and musical entertainment by an 11-piece dance band. All proceeds go towards the continued restoration and preservation of historic Laurel Hill Cemetery, burial site of General Meade and many Civil War veterans. $200 donation per person (Meade Society Table - $180 discounted). For information; 215-228-8200, or visit theundergroundmuseum.org.

Oct. 14, Virginia. Art on the Battlefield

Painting, drawing, photography has traditionally been a significant part of capturing history, particularly that of the Civil War. We continue this artistic tradition by inviting artists to find inspiration at our battlefields and historic homes. Artists will be working all over the Park throughout day. Pre-registration is encouraged for participating artists. For information; 804-861-2408, pamplinpark.org/things-to-do/ special-events.

Oct. 14-15, Virginia. Living History

The Battle of Bristoe Station Anniversary Weekend and Luminary. 11-4 daytime demonstrations, Evening Luminary begins at 7 p.m.; Free, $5 suggested donation. Join Battlefield Park staff for the 154th Anniversary of the Battle of Bristoe Station. Tour a Civil War encampment, watch artillery firing demonstrations, and tour the site of the third and final battle that took place in Prince William County. On Saturday evening, visit the battlefield for a rare treat to see over 2,000 luminary candles for every soldier who died at Bristoe Station. Living history vignettes will be located across the battlefield and self-guided tours will lead visitors to meet the men and women who made history here. Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park, parking lot is located off Iron Brigade Ave., Bristow, Va. 703-366-3049.

Oct. 14-15, Virginia. Living History

Please join us for the 153rd Anniversary of the Battle of Cedar Creek which will be held on the actual battlefield of Cedar Creek located at 8437 Valley Pike, Middletown, Va. Regular registration (by July 31) is $20, late registration (by Sept. 30) is $25 and walk-ons price is $30. For more information; http://ccbf.us/?page_id=994.

Oct. 19, Massachusetts. CWRT Jubilee Dinner

The Olde Colony Civil War Round Table will hold their annual Jubilee Dinner at Lombardo’s. 6 Billings Street, Randolph, MA. Guest speaker Michael Chesson, Ph.D. will speak on “The Richmond Bread Riots”. For tickets and more information; contact Bob Hearsey at 781-828-3183.

Oct. 20-22, Virginia. Symposium

21st Annual National Civil War Symposium: Generals we Love to Hate. Seven outstanding scholars discuss topics surrounding these controversial and contentious Civil War Generals. Friday evening through Sunday afternoon. Speakers include Steve Engle, A. Wilson Greene, John Hennessey, Sam Hood, Brian Jordan, George C. Rable and Dr. Craig Symonds. Reservations are required. For information; 804-861-2408, pamplinpark.org/things-to-do/specialevents.

Oct. 28, Virginia. Seminar

Shenandoah University’s McCormick Civil War Institute annual fall semester seminar and tour with Prof. Jonathan A. Noyalas—”Love Not, the One You Love May Die”: The Battle of Milford (Overall’s Run) and the Front Royal Executions, September 1864. (10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.) Beginning at 10:30 a.m. with a lecture at Samuels Library in Front Royal (330 E. Criser Road) followed by an afternoon car caravan tour of sites associated with the Battle of Milford and Front Royal Executions. Lunch not provided. $25 registration fee, pre-registration required. To register contact: [email protected] or 540-665-4587. For more information: [email protected].

Oct. 28-29, Alabama. Skirmish

Old Baker Farm is Alabama’s oldest active working farm. Located approximately 25 minutes south on Hwy. 280 from Birmingham in Harpersville. All branches invited to the Cotton-Picking Celebration and Skirmish. Firewood, hay, water and powder for artillery. Sutlers welcome. For info; Jimmy White, 205-594-0136, [email protected]

Oct. 28-29, Virginia. Evening Tour

Voices from the Shadows: A Walk Through Hallowed Ground Experience the Park after dark as costumed guides lead you on a spine-chilling tour of the Park’s historical sites. Listen to haunting stories from the 19th century as you embark on a hair-raising tour by lantern light. Reservations required. For information; 804-861-2408, pamplinpark.org/things-to-do/special-events.

Nov. 4-5, North Carolina. Reenactment

The 1st N.C. Volunteers / 11th N.C. Troops proudly present the 31st Annual Battle Reenactment of Fort Branch, in Hamilton, N.C. Seven original cannons on site. Battles both days at 1:30. Confederates and Federals needed. Registration begins at noon Friday. Usual amenities. Saturday – morning tactical that evolves into 1:30 spectator battle, evening BBQ meal, and dance. Sunday – morning church service and 1:30 spectator battle. All proceeds go to Fort Branch preservation and restoration! For information; www.fortbranchcivilwarsite.com U.S. units: 252-756-3382, [email protected], Howard Lee, 108 Regalwood Rd., Greenville, NC 27858 C.S. units: 919-732-6986, [email protected], Lee Gordon, 383 St. Mary’s Rd., Hillsborough, NC 27278 For specific details on the 2018 events, please contact: Josh Stalls, 252-217-2610, [email protected].

Nov. 10, Pennsylvania. U.S. Marine Corps Birthday Observance

Will be held at the grave of General Jacob Zeilin, 7th Commandant of the Marine Corps; a Veterans’ Day Tour follows ‘Servicemen Killed in Action’ Tour - at Laurel Hill Cemetery, Philadelphia at 11 a.m. Keynote speaker. Marine Corps Ceremony. Honor guards, flags ad wreaths welcome. For information; 215-228-8200.

Nov. 11, South Carolina. Photography Seminar

Take a journey through the depths and dimensions of Civil War in Charleston, when Civil War photo expert Bob Zeller presents a program using original period photos. 3-D glasses to be provided at no charge, to show the photos the way they were meant to be seen. Participants will view some of the city’s most famous photographs, many reproduced directly from vintage original, 150-year-old, glass-plate negatives. Presented by the Fort Sumter-Fort Moultrie Historical Trust and the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon. This free program will be held in the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon from 1-3 p.m. For information; fortsumertrust.org, oldexchange.org.

Nov. 11-12, Virginia. Civil War Show

MKShows presents the “Original Richmond” Capital of the Confederacy Civil War Show in Richmond for collectors and history enthusiasts. Located at the Richmond International Raceway, 600 E. Laburnum Ave., Richmond, Va. 23222. Free parking. Over 350 tables. Adults $10, Children under 12 are free. Sat. 9-5 and Sun. 10-3. For information, www.MKShows.com. Email Mike Kent at [email protected].

Nov. 17, Pennsylvania. Remembrance Day Ball

Friday, November 17 at the spacious Eisenhower Inn with plenty of dance space for all with the largest ballroom in Gettysburg. Free parking, discount hotel room block, Photographer on site, Adjacent Lounge. Banquet begins at 6:30 p.m. and Ball commences at 8 p.m. Attend one or both events! The Susquehanna Travellers Band and caller Tom Mack for your enjoyment. Immediate seating, light refreshments and a professionally run event for your enjoyment. For information, www.GettysburgBall.com, 712-310-9383 or [email protected].

Nov. 17-18, Pennsylvania. Dinner and Ball

The 15th Annual President’s Day Dinner & Ball will be hosted at the Hotel Gettysburg on the Square beginning with a reception and three course dinner. Friday night there will be a “Fancy Dress” or masquerade ball and Saturday will feature a re-creation of the 1860 Prince of Wales Ball. See our website at www.remembrancedayball.com for full details including photos from previous years. For Information; John Newbold at [email protected] or call 717-420-5145.

Nov. 18, Gettysburg. Remembrance Day Victorian Tea

Held directly after the Remembrance Day Parade at the 1863 Inn of Gettysburg, right on the parade route. Join us for Chef prepared Victorian delicacies, Period entertainments and Living History. Military and Civilians portrayals welcome, ages 12 and up, period attire required. A lovely afternoon break to gather with your friends or make new friends! Sponsored by Civil War Lady by Joy Melcher. Advance tickets only. For information, www. NationalVictorianTea.com or call 712-310-9383.

Nov. 18, Pennsylvania. Remembrance Day Dedication

General Meade & his Generals and the veterans of the Battle of Gettysburg Honor/Dedication Ceremonies during the Remembrance Day Observance. Honoring all commanders and veterans of the Battle. Meet at the General John Gibbon Monument along Hancock Ave. at 10 a.m. then proceed to the General Meade Equestrian Monument at 10:30 a.m. for traditional honor ceremonies and wreath layings. For info; 215- 848-7753 or [email protected].

Nov. 18-19, Florida. Civil War, Gun, Knife & Military Show

The Florida Military Antique Collectors, Inc. presents the Snowbird Collector’s Show with antique arms and military collectibles thru WWII. Modern and used forearms, war medals, etc. at the Araba Shrine Temple, 2010 Hanson St. at Rt. 41, Ft. Myers, Fla. 33901. Admission is $8, parking is free. Dealer set-up on Fri. 11-5 and Sat. 7:30-9. Show hours are Sat. 9-5 and Sun. 9-2. For table reservations and information call Pat at 954-294-2526 or Gary at 847-863-3929.

Nov. 19, Pennsylvania. Civil War Ball

The National Civil War Ball, the official and original ball of Remembrance Day, sponsored by the Sons of Veterans Reserve, the Military Department of the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War, will be held 8-12 p.m., Sat., Nov. 18, at the Eisenhower Hotel, 2634 Emmitsburg Rd., Gettysburg. Dancing and music by the Philadelphia Brigade Band. All dances will be demonstrated by the VDE. Period attired encouraged but not required. Ladies’ cake walk, door prizes, and cash bar. $20/ in advance, $25/door. For information; 740-3693722, [email protected].

Dec. 2, Virginia. Tea and Tidings

Ladies and gentlemen in period dress will teach 19th century etiquette while serving gourmet holiday tea and tasty treats. Attendees will also learn history and holiday customs during the Civil War era, including traditional Christmas carols and stories. Reservations required. For information: 804-861-2408, pamplinpark.org/things-to-do/specialevents.

Dec. 2-3, Tennessee. Civil War Show

MK Shows presents the Middle Tennessee Civil War Show in Franklin for collectors and history enthusiasts. Located at the Williamson County Ag Expo Park, 4215 Long Ln., Franklin, Tenn. 37064. Free parking. 1,000 sale and display tables. Adults $10, Children under 12 are free. Open Sat. 9-5 p.m. and Sun. 10-3 p.m. For info: www.MKShows.com, email Mike Kent at [email protected].

Dec. 9, North Carolina. Candlelight Tour

Annual Christmas in the Piedmont and our signature Candlelight Tour Program at the Bennett Place State Historic Site. Visit during the day and witness how this occasion was celebrated in the Piedmont Carolinas during the Civil War. Living historians will decorate the farm in a typical modest fashion of the time. There will be cooking demonstrations in the kitchen house, Christmas decorations and packages in the main house, soldiers will demonstrate Christmas in the field and of course, a visit with Ole St. Nick. Complimentary hot apple cider and cookies will be available to all along with a bake sale. All proceeds from the sale go towards to continued preservation of the site. Free Program 10-4. Come back later that evening for Candlelight Tour Program. This event will take visitors around the site where they will watch and listen as both soldiers and civilians celebrate the holiday. Family oriented program. Tickets required. Complimentary hot apple cider and cookies will be available. Program runs 6-9 p.m. Cost: $3 per adult and $2 per child ages 5-16. Under 5 free. For info: 919-383-4345, [email protected], www.bennettplacehistoricsite.com.

Dec. 31, Pennsylvania. General Meade Birthday Celebration

The General Meade Society of Philadelphia will mark the 26th annual anniversary of the birth of General George G. Meade, heroic commander of the victorious Union army at the Battle of Gettysburg by celebrating his birthday at Historic Laurel Hill Cemetery, 3822 Ridge Ave., Philadelphia where the he is interred. Parade and ceremony begin at 12 p.m. Military and civilian living historians are encouraged to participate! Visitors and participants will gather at the Gatehouse of Laurel Hill at 11:30 a.m. Parade of Civil War reenactment units, civilians in period attire, heritage groups, and participants will process to the final resting place of the Victor of Gettysburg and memorialize his services to the nation. Champagne toast and reception will follow program. Tour of the cemetery will be offered. For information and registration; Dr. Andy Waskie at 215-204-5452 or [email protected].