Community Corner

Kids Can Enlist In 'Mini Militia' At Garfield National Historic Site

Children will have some fun and learn about Civil War history as part of Garfield's Mini Militia

is inviting kids from age five to 12 to enlist in the new “Garfield Mini Militia” at 1 p.m. this Saturday.

And, no, parents need not be worried about their children joining this troop.

The most dangerous thing their children will face are a few Civil War-era drills.

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The kids will be dressed in reproduction Civil War soldier uniforms and gear and taught to march and drill like troops from the era. (Parents and guardians are can even bring cameras to take photos of their "soldier.")

This event is limited to 25 children -- so while it is free -- parents should register as soon as possible. They can do that by calling 440-255-8722.

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Additional Mini Militia events will be held on July 14 and August 11; both dates are Saturdays.

Lest there be any concern, there will be no shooting or firing demonstration at this event.

"We are in the middle of commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Civil War," said Todd Arrington, the park's chief of interpretation and education. "The Mini Militia will be fun for kids,but it will be educational as well.

"They will come away from this event with great memories and some basic knowledge about the life and training of Civil War troops."


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