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People Seen
People Seen
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by Tom Keener
The Allen Heritage Guild presents a Civil War camp replete with soldiers, both Union and Confederate, tents, campfires and flags, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, May 23 and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, May 24, at the Allen Heritage Village, 400 E. St. Mary Drive. Free admission. Using period uniforms, equipment and weapons, the Collin County Civil War Living Historians explain the story of an average soldier.
Unit commander Alan Joyce states, "Our goal is to humanize the history books. Typical history books describe regimental movements, casualties and victories, but we discuss the lifestyle and challenges and what went on behind the scenes." If you converse with a soldier, he will not be able to recall events past 1864.
For 50 cents, a person can shoot a rifle—safety glasses will be provided. Parents must be present for a child shooting a rifle.
Children of all ages can learn drilling methods, formations, proper rifle handling, manual of arms and unit movement at no charge. This will be in proper 1860s manner.
Many activities are planned for the day—a military court martial is held each day; Dutch Oven Cooking Society will dig holes in the ground and cook in cast iron pots; and Page Thomas will provide blacksmith demonstrations. A medical station is featured hourly. There is discussion about general medical practices such as blistering, leaching, bleeding and sanitation habits that often caused dysentery, leading causes of death and how wounds were handled. In a period that lacked knowledge of bacterial theory, probable gangrene was a dreaded reality. Faux amputations will also be illustrated.
A camp is established so that visitors can get a view of a Civil War soldier’s life. This includes everyday activities and drill demonstrations. The soldiers will display their equipment and firearms and will discuss their use. The re-enactors will be available to discuss aspects of the war as well as answer questions about historical re-enacting.
Allen Christian Church and St. Mary Baptist Church will be open—visit the stained glass windows featuring Jesus as the Good Shepherd with 12 toes.
For more information, call Tom Keener at 214-509-4911.
Tom Keener is the cultural arts coordinator with the Allen Public Library. |
