Civil War Encampment Retreats To James A. Garfield Historic Site

The James A. Garfield National Historic Site will host its fourth Civil War Encampment  July 20-21 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. between the house and visitor’s center.

The encampment will honor Garfield and the regiments of northeast Ohio’s service, as well as the 150th anniversary of the war, said Scott Longert, park guide at the site.

The event is free.

“It’s a great opportunity to learn about history and what the country was like for the people and the obstacles they faced during the war,” Longert said.

During the two-day event, visitors can see actors from both the Union and Confederate sides, including the 7th and 8th Ohio Volunteer Infantry regiments, which were based out of northeast Ohio, Longert said.

Attractions include a firing demonstration, music from Camp Chase Fifes and Drums, a Civil War uniform exhibit by the Ohio National Guard and a mini militia where kids can play with wooden weapons, put on Civil War equipment and learn to march, he said.

“There’s fun for all ages and in an authentic setting,” Longert said.

For those not interested in the war aspect of the time period, there will also be actors who portray Abraham Lincoln, Frederick Douglas and others to show civilian life during the war.

Food will be sold by Cub Scout Pack 75 and Civil War merchandise will be sold by the historic site.

Parking will be available Saturday at Faith Lutheran Church and Sunday at the Mentor Medical Building, 8224 Mentor Ave., where a shuttle will take visitors to the park.