Confederate soldiers charged up the hill, screaming and firing as Union reinforcements returned the volley. The battle raged as a young girl asked her mother for another piece of popcorn while her brother ate cotton candy. They were at the annual Civil War Reenactment, Oct. 6-7 at Kearney Park.

More than 10,000 people watched over 1,500 Union and Confederate soldiers from the National Civil War Association as they portray the second Battle of Fredericksburg (May 1863). Historical figures such as President Lincoln, Frederick Douglass, and Harriet Tubman made public appearances with various speeches.

“I was really excited to go and see the different battles and meet the dressed up characters,” Chris Burford. ’04, said. “I am really glad that Mr. Hall recommended us go to this.”

Demonstrations of camp life, field hospitals, a pay station, and a working telegraph office were on display. Also, people dressed as well-known artisans of that day gave illustrations of their daily work habits and hands on demonstrations were available to children of all ages.

“The civil war revisited provides a realistic and accurate account of perhaps our nations greatest struggle,” Jon Hall, American history teacher, said. “It is important for us to look into internal conflict on the events that tore our nation apart; and to grasp ways to help prevent such occurrences from happening again.”

The event showed realistic costumes, weapons, food and crafts and for many, this was the first time the reality and pain of war was so real.

“The event was enlightening to me,” said Colby Hunter, ’03, said. “I got to watch someone’s leg get cut off, and the sharpshooters won!”

This is not only a time for learning but also a time for food, fun and fellowship. A wide array of food booths were open and for an extra payment, attendees could dine like a general in a VIP tent. Food, beverages, hot dogs, hamburgers and Kettle Korn was on sale.

“It was a really neat treat for us students to get a good look at America in the 1800’s,” Caleb Janca, ’02 said. “To see them fight on the battle field was so realistic. It was awesome for me to see what the battle would have looked like.”

The cost for the events were $7.00 for adults, children $5.00, kids 12 and under $3.00. Students arriving on a bus or van were admitted free.