CIVIL WAR ENCAMPMENT WEEKEND
WHEN: 10 AM to 5 PM on Saturday and 10 AM to 4 PM on Sunday, June 23 and 24
WHERE: Historic Speedwell, 333 Speedwell Ave., Morristown
ADMISSION: $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children ages 4 – 16, and children under 4 FREE
Step onto the battlefields of the American Civil War, the struggle that altered the political, social, and economic landscape of the nation, and into the lives of those involved. The Second New Jersey Brigade is stationed at Historic Speedwell in Morristown for a unique two-day event that presents the lives of Civil War soldiers more vividly than dull text books.
The re-enactors lead activities throughout the eight-acre site, presenting the daily lives of soldiers and culminating with a staged skirmish. Soldiers’ camps are a recreation of daily life with authentic cooking, dress, and general setup. Most amazing is the massive period cannon! Watch musket, and artillery drills and firings. Marching drills include period instruments as soldiers proudly go into battle. A Civil War era Signal Corps group authentically demonstrates how important messages were sent between units using colorful flags to signal.
Activities include soldiers preparing for battle, and the basics of battlefield medicine for soldiers who suffered from battle-inflected injuries or disease. Visit the medical area where re-enactors care for the “wounded” and demonstrate how these emergency units functioned during battles. Around every corner there is something to discover.
While enjoying your visit to the past, tour Historic Speedwell, known as the “Birthplace of the Telegraph,” including the National Historic Landmark Factory Building. Recently, an interactive, hands-on exhibit on the telegraph opened to the public and received rave reviews. Don’t miss an opportunity to visit this unique and fun exhibit.
Tour the Vail Home, built more than 150 years ago. See exhibits on the Speedwell Ironworks, a Granary full of early farm implements, and watch the enormous 24-foot overshot waterwheel turn in the Wheelhouse.
A trip to Historic Speedwell would not be complete without a visit to the Gift Shop to select a unique souvenir to take home. Light picnic fare is also available for purchase. For more information, please call 973.285.6550.
FREE parking and FREE shuttle service available.
