Volunteers needed for Lombard Civil War event

If you've ever dreamed of dressing up in Civil War attire, the Lombard Historical Society might have the perfect opportunity for you.

The organization is seeking volunteers for its annual Civil War Re-enactment, which runs July 24-26, in Four Seasons Park.

Historical Society Executive Director Natalie Troiani said that includes people who are willing to don period clothing to mingle with the crowd and ask for donations.

"It's a fun way to enjoy the re-enactment and help out the organization at the same time," she said.

Other volunteers also are needed to sell water, run information and gift shop tents and help with setup and cleanup for the event, which draws hundreds of professional re-enactors and about 4,500 spectators each year.

Anyone interested in helping is asked to attend one of two volunteer training sessions this week at the Carriage House, located behind the Victorian Cottage at 23 W. Maple St. The sessions are scheduled for 6 to 7 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m. to noon Saturday.

During the sessions, interested volunteers will get a full explanation of the event and have a chance to sign up for shifts. Volunteers must be 16 or older. Service hours are available for students.

The organization also is looking for volunteers who can help after the re-enactment is over, including museum greeters, special event volunteers, committee volunteers and gardening volunteers. People interested in those roles also should come to a training session, or reach out to Nicole Lewis, director of education and exhibits, at nicolelewis@lombardhistory.org.

This year's re-enactment begins with the screening of the movie "Glory" July 24 at the park. Live skirmish and battle re-enactments occur twice a day July 25 and 26 and living history interpretations take place throughout the weekend.

On Sunday, July 12, the society also is hosting a program at 2 p.m. in the Carriage House called "Civil War Medicine: Hollywood Versions." Dr. Gordon Dammann will take a look at how Civil War medicine is presented in several films, including "Gettysburg," "Dances With Wolves" and "Gone With the Wind." The presentation is part of the society's Second Sunday series, which are free and open to the public.

For information on volunteering or any of the organization's upcoming Civil War events, visit www.lombardhistory.org or call (630) 629-1885.