News Summary
The Huntington Beach Historical Society will host the 32nd annual Civil War Days reenactment at Central Park this weekend, offering a free, immersive experience of America’s Civil War. The two-day event features battle reenactments, historical speeches, and period demonstrations, attracting both enthusiasts and families. Guests can engage with historical figures and enjoy food vendors, fostering community appreciation of history.
Huntington Beach to Host 32nd Annual Civil War Days Reenactment This Weekend
The Huntington Beach Historical Society is set to host its 32nd annual Civil War Days reenactment at Central Park this weekend, providing visitors with a comprehensive and immersive experience of America’s Civil War. The event will take place over two days, featuring various activities such as recreations of famous battles, historical scenes, and interactions with figures from the Civil War era. Notably, the event is free to the public, allowing families and history enthusiasts to enjoy a weekend filled with educational and entertaining activities.
Engaging Activities and Historical Reenactments
Attendees will have the opportunity to witness historical highlights, including Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address and Gen. Robert E. Lee’s surrender at Appomattox. Scheduled events include reenactments of battles taking place at 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Sunday. Additionally, the reading of the Gettysburg Address is slated for 2 p.m. on Saturday and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, while the reenactment of Lee’s surrender is set for 3 p.m. on Saturday and noon on Sunday. A period-specific church service and various lectures on topics such as the Emancipation Proclamation and the contributions of Black soldiers during the war will also be part of the schedule.
Community Participation and Historical Significance
Darrell Rivers, vice president of the Huntington Beach Historical Society, highlights California’s historical ties to the Civil War, noting that although the state was a pro-Union stronghold, there were supporters of secession. Many soldiers from California left to fight in the war, and after its conclusion, numerous veterans settled in the state, forming groups such as the Grand Army of the Republic. Participation in the reenactment extends beyond the core group of about 50 reenactors from the Huntington Beach Historical Society, as numerous enthusiasts from across the country come to take part in the event each year.
Rivers, who has participated in the reenactment since its inception in 1993, dresses as both Union and Confederate figures, including notable characters like John Rawlins and a Confederate infantry commander. The event aims to honor the diverse contributions of various groups during the Civil War, such as Native Americans, African Americans, and Irish Americans, vital to the historical landscape of the era.
Experience the Civil War Era
The event also includes demonstrations showcasing mid-19th century professions and trades, as well as period attire and tools. Attendees can engage with historical figures, watch weaponry demonstrations, and immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the Civil War period, complete with horses and the sounds of muskets and cannon fire.
Logistics and Additional Information
Free parking is available at the Central Library, while paid parking can be found at the Huntington Beach Sports Center. Food vendors will be present at the event, with proceeds benefiting the Huntington Beach Historical Society. For those interested in viewing the full schedule of events, further details can be found on the Huntington Beach Historical Society’s website.
This weekend’s Civil War Days event not only serves as a platform for education and engagement but also fosters a sense of community and historical appreciation among attendees of all ages. The Huntington Beach Historical Society invites everyone to join in and experience this unique historical reenactment.
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Huntington Beach Civil War Days
- Wikipedia: Civil War Reenactment
- Orange County Register: Civil War Days Reenactors
- Google Search: Civil War Days Huntington Beach
- Los Angeles Times: Historical Figures Battle Reenactments
- Encyclopedia Britannica: American Civil War
- Orange County Register: Civil War Days History Alive
- Google Scholar: Civil War Reenactments in California
- Los Angeles Times: Civil War Reenactors Bring History to Life
- Google News: Civil War Huntington Beach
- Orange County Register: Experience the Civil War
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
