Civil War Days re-enacted at Blackberry Farm

Blackberry Farm will commemorate the 152nd anniversary of the American Civil War with a weekend-long event from 9:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 13, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 14, at 100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora.

Civil War Days will be highlighted by a full-scale re-enactment featuring simulated battles between Union and Confederate soldiers at 5 p.m. Saturday. Throughout the weekend, guest speakers and interpreters will stage numerous demonstrations of 1800s-era war life.

"These stories we 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," said Blackberry Farm Manager Sandie Gilmer.

Examples include demonstrations of medical procedures as they were performed in the battlefields, how wool and fabric were dyed for soldiers' uniforms, and crafts such as corn husk dolls.

"Meet the Lincolns" will be held each day from noon to 4 p.m. featuring conversations with President and Mrs. Lincoln, who also host a special "Tea with the Lincolns" each day at 2 p.m.

A full schedule of events and map 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 will also be available, including the train, pony rides, carousel and hay wagon rides, and the Adventure Playground.

Civil War Days is included with daily admission of $5 for adults and $4.50 for seniors and children for Fox Valley Park District residents, $8/$7 nonresidents, free for kids younger than 2.