[Archived] Civil War Recruiting Day at Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site, February 9, 2013

Saturday, February 9, 1-4 p.m.

The Civil War Sesquicentennial is the perfect time to pursue or simply learn more about the popular field of Civil War reenacting. Find out about this fun hobby on Saturday, February 9, 2013, when Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site presents “Civil War Recruiting Day.”

Soldiers and civilians of the 3rd U.S. Regular Infantry, Company K, will be on hand between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. to talk about period clothing and equipment, demonstrate drills, and explain the variety of roles that military and civilian interpreters can portray. 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, February 23.

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, 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, an extensive system of Union forts built to protect the Federal capital during the Civil War. The Museum offers changing exhibits, tours, and interpretive programs throughout the year. Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site is located at 4301 West Braddock Road in the City of Alexandria.

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