[Archived] Civil War Artillery Day at Fort Ward, Saturday, October 5

Learn about the role and equipment of Civil War artillerymen in the Defenses of Washington on Saturday, October 5, when Fort Ward Museum presents Civil War Artillery Day. This free living history program is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and will appeal to Civil War enthusiasts of all ages. The event is weather dependent.

The program features reenactors from the 1st Connecticut Heavy Artillery, a Union regiment that was stationed at Fort Ward during the Civil War. The unit will interpret the duties and soldier life of typical artillerymen assigned to forts in the Washington area. Activities will include cannon firing demonstrations in the restored Northwest bastion of the fort, artillery equipment displays, and camp life scenarios. Visitors can also view the Museum exhibit, “The Art of the Artillerymen in the Defenses of Washington,” which features a variety of original equipment and personal items related to this branch of the military service.

Fort Ward is the best preserved of the remaining Union forts in the extensive defense system known as the Defenses of Washington. Fort Ward Museum features exhibits, programs and special events throughout the year. Fort Ward is located at 4301 West Braddock Road in the west end of the City of Alexandria. For more information, call the Museum at 703.746.4848.