Soldiers in grey and blue stand divided on the battlefield, each group willing to sacrifice their lives for the cause.

The skirmish ensues: booming cannons shatter the front lines, the blare of muskets resounds in the air, and the shouts of generals energize the hearts of the troops.

Though once a critical period in history, audiences at The Civil War Revisited will get to experience the battles and wartime atmosphere of the nation’s domestic conflict.

Kearney Park will host the 20th annual reenactment, presented by The Fresno Historical Society and The National Civil War Association.

The event will occur on two days this weekend, Oct. 3 and 4. Gates open at 10 a.m. and the festivities will continue throughout the day. Tickets cost $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 6-12 and free for 5 years or younger.

The 150-acre area will consist of military and civilian encampments, battle reenactments, representations of historical figures such as Abraham Lincoln and Harriet Tubman, musical performances, artisans, outdoor class sessions and other attractions. The event will also showcase an 1860s field hospital representative of those used in the war.

According to the Society’s Web site, The Civil War Revisited is the largest such reenactment in the Western United States and it draws patrons from across the country.

“It’s cool because the people actually live out their parts: they camp out during the weekend and make all their food as if they were in the Civil War era,” Stephen Grimes, ’11, said. “The battles weren’t very realistic, but I still enjoyed them.”

In order to encourage attendance, teacher Bessalee Mendoza says her AP United States History students can receive extra credit points for completing a worksheet at the event.

“I think it is a good opportunity for students to get a more visual concept of what life was like back then,” Mendoza said. “Instead of reading about it, they get to experience it.”

For more information, read the Oct. 19, 2007 article, Reenactment revisits 1860s, or e-mail Mendoza.