Civil War Experience

Old World Wisconsin will showcase the Civil War home front in 1864, a tumultuous time in our nation's history, during its "Civil War Experience" on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 30-31. At that time the country faced the third year of the Civil War, and people were growing weary of the continual battling and the emotional, financial and human toll of the conflict.

As one of the most contentious presidential elections drew nearer, fierce campaigning resulted in mud-slinging and angry tempers on both sides as supporters and dissenters fought their own battles. The Republicans wanted to re-elect Abraham Lincoln and finish the war. The Democrats nominated Gen. George McClellan in the hopes that he would bring a swift end to the war.

Members of the Old Northwest Volunteers will portray soldiers from the Union Army as they demonstrate military drills and camp inspections. Saturday's event will feature raucous campaign rallies and emotion-filled voting, including some political strong-arming. Sunday's event will showcase the more somber side of war, as visitors witness a funeral procession and graveside service.

The deaths of so many soldiers as a result of both the fighting and disease threw the country into a state of perpetual mourning and grief. As families mourned their loved ones, they observed specific mourning rituals and customs to help cope with the loss of so many cut down in the prime of life.

All weekend, visitors may tour the Sanford house in mourning and learn more about funeral customs of the time, many of which originated during this period and are the precursors to those observed today.