Back by popular request! The Salem Museum will be hosting its second annual Civil War Saturdays on August 4 and 11.
This year’s programs will include re-enactors portraying cavalry soldiers, general infantry, and a disagreement that takes place at a Southern supply depot between soldiers and civilians.
The Museum will also feature talks and documentaries that explore significant individuals and battles of the war. All events are open to the public and admission is free, but donations are appreciated.
On Saturday, August 4, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., visitors will be able to experience a Civil War era living history. Re-enactors, including the living history group New River Rifles, will portray infantry and cavalry soldiers. The re-enactors will be giving demonstrations, interacting with visitors, and answering questions. At noon, the Museum will be screening the film Shiloh: Fiery Trial. This new National Park Service film captures the story of this decisive two-day battle from the perspectives of its commanders and the common soldier, and told with a gritty realism that puts the viewer inside the action.
Civil War Saturdays continue on Saturday, August 11, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with civilian and military living history re-enactors, a talk and book signing by Tom Perry at 11 a.m. about Jubal Early, and a screening of the film Chickamauga! High Tide in the West at 1 p.m.
A Civil War bonus talk is scheduled for Monday, August 20 at 7 p.m. Tom Perry, a widely recognized authority on General J. E. B. Stuart, will present J. E. B. Stuart and His Brothers in the Civil War.
After 26 years in its location, the Salem Museum is getting a new entrance. As part of ongoing work to widen and improve East Main Street, the entrance to the Salem Museum is moving slightly to the east (away from downtown Salem). Visitors will use the entrance to Oakey’s Field to get to the Museum. This work is projected to be completed in time for Civil War Saturdays, but is dependent on the weather.
-Submitted Frances Ferguson, Salem Museum & Historical Society Executive Director
