[Archived] Civil War Recruiting Day February 25 at Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site

Now that the Civil War Sesquicentennial commemoration is underway, here’s your chance to get involved firsthand! Learn more about portraying the lives of persons who experienced the Civil War at Fort Ward’s “Recruiting Day.”

Find out about this fun hobby on Saturday, February 25, when Fort Ward Museum and Historic Site’s “Recruiting Day” gives you the chance to explore Civil War reenacting. Between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., soldiers and civilians of the 3rd U.S. Regular Infantry, Company K (right), will be on hand to talk about a soldier’s uniform and equipment, demonstrate drills, and explain the roles of military and civilian reenactors. Visitors can also inquire about how to join local reenactment units and learn what kind of clothing and equipment a novice reenactor requires. Admission is free. The snow date is Saturday, March 3.

Nearly 50,000 men, women and children across the United States enjoy the hobby of Civil War reenacting.  As individuals, couples and families, reenactors take on the roles of persons who fought as soldiers between 1861 and 1865 or who were part of the civilian homefront.  In addition to learning more about their national heritage, reenactors can employ dramatic and interpretive skills; converse with the public; and perform activities such as campfire cooking, drilling, needlework, medical care and setting up camp.  Reenactors can pose as soldiers, clergy, politicians, laborers, doctors, farmers, sutlers (merchants), sailors, journalists, photographers, schoolchildren or civilians from almost any 19th-century walk of life.    

Fort Ward is the best-preserved fortification in the Defenses of Washington, which were built to protect the Union capital during the Civil War. The museum offers changing exhibits, tours, lectures, and interpretive programs throughout the year. Fort Ward Museum and Historic Site is located at 4301 West Braddock Road.

For more information, visit www.fortward.org or call 703.746.4848.