Civil War comes to Blackberry Farm

Blackberry Farm will commemorate the 151st anniversary of the American Civil War with a weekend-long event from 9:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16, at 100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora.

Civil War Days will be a full-scale re-enactment, featuring simulated battles between Union and Confederate soldiers. Guest speakers and interpreters will stage numerous demonstrations of 1800s-era war life.

"The stories we'll bring to life go beyond the battles; they're about real people caught up in an unimaginable war - soldiers, civilians, enslaved people - all with a story to tell," facility manager Sandie Gilmer said.

Some examples include cooking demonstrations that highlight the staples of a soldier's diet. "Meet the Lincolns," held each day from noon to 4 p.m., will feature conversations with President and Mrs. Lincoln.

Mrs. Lincoln also will host a "Tea with the Lincolns" each day at 2 p.m.

The battle re-enactment will be staged at 5 p.m. Saturday. A full schedule of events is available at www.foxvalleyparkdistrict.org.

"This event is an opportunity to learn about democracy, sacrifice, heroism and hope - the many ways this war shaped our history," Gilmer said.

Games and toys of Civil War Days will highlight each day from start to finish. All of Blackberry's regular amenities such as the train, pony, carousel and hay wagon rides will be available, along with the Adventure Playground.

Civil War Days is included with regular admission of $5 for adult residents of Fox Valley Park District and $4.50 for seniors and children age 2 and older. Nonresident fees are $8 for adults and $7 for children and seniors.