The event roster for the 2021-2022 Civil War and Living History reenacting season is currently posted. Construction began in 1672 while Florida was still part of the Spanish Empire, although later it was controlled variously by GreatBritain, the Confederate States, as well as the United States. Only three U.S. soldiers survived, and only three Seminole warriors were killed. If you have not gotten into a unit I would be interested in talking with you. Please reach out to me. A Civil War Reenactment is the recreation of past battles for the education and entertainment of both spectators and hobbyists alike. The original Union monument was made of wood that deteriorated, so a replica was recreated at the adjacent cemetery outside the park gates, thought to be its original location. Florida reenactors - Facebook Olustee isnt a particularly famous battle; only Civil War buffs probably have heard of it. An Authentic Re-enacting Unit Located in Florida, fighting as the Florida Brigade when gray, and the 2nd Wisconsin when blue. Two would be wise. Participants often stay in character throughout the event, sleeping in period-appropriate tents and eating food cooked over an open fire. Tearing down Confederate statues is like the Taliban blowing up the Great Buddha statues in Afghanistan, or ISIS destroying archaeological sites in Iraq. Natural Bridge Battlefield Historic State Park is the site of one of Florida's most significant Civil War conflicts. The annualreenactment of the Dade Massacre is hosted on site at theDade Battlefield Historic State Park. The reproductions are made by Armisport (cheapest), Euroarms, and Navy arms (most expensive). Flint locks were outdated by then. When looking through our list of reenactment groups, be sure to really think about what is important to you. It wasn't until the early 20th century that reenactments became a popular form of entertainment. Formal retreatfor Final Volley and Thanks. (850) 245-2157, Or send an email to: The store provideda much-needed service for eventparticipantsand also servedas a fundraiser for a charitable cause. From my home in Fort Lauderdale, I forget that I live in a state that was part of the Confederacy. Without a Civil War reenactment, the Olustee Battlefield State Historic Park is a lovely, quiet place. Then press 'Enter' or Click 'Search', you'll see search results as red mini-pins or . Learn more in ourCookie Noticeand ourPrivacy Policy. The battle ended with 2,807 casualties and the retreat of Union troops to Jacksonville until the war's end just 14 months later. Marshes, lakes and scrub provide habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. Civilian Groups & Organizaitons - The Homefront Herald Magazine The weapons used during the Civil War used percussion caps. There is no camping available at Olustee Battlefield State Historic Park:. Battleground Reenactment & Guided Tours | Florida State Parks On this historic rail bed turned greenway, visitors pass by native plants and wildlife, diverse scenery and backyard Florida culture. Civil War reenactment in Florida ends after 40 years. More than 10,000 cavalry, infantry and artillery troops fought a five-hour battle in a pine forest near Olustee. By using this site, you agree to its use of cookies. Slouch hats were used by Confederates about 80% of the time. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. I, Eighth Regiment Connecticut Volunteers, Company A, Incorporated, 11th Regiment Connecticut Volunteer Infantry, Company G, Fourteenth Regiment Connecticut, Van Dyke's Howitizers 1st Florida Artillery. Many reenactment groups, museums, and militaria collects accurately portray the history of previous conflicts which may include the display of flags and logos deemed sensitive to some. Lt. The original Fort Foster was built during the Second Seminole War as a military resupply depot and defense forthe bridge crossing on the Hillsborough River. Hiking at Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park: A one-mile trail with interpretive signs follows the battle lines. I receive a small amount of compensation when you purchase from my links at no additional cost to you. This post may include affiliate links from which we earn modest commissions. The living history weekend features a Civil War-era battle reenactment on Saturday at 1:30 p.m., as well as the reenactment of the Battle of Olustee on Sunday at 1:30 p.m. Period music concerts and crafts, lectures, battlefield surgical practices and the lives of both white and black civilians during the war are portrayed by reenactors. Its an imposing tower that looks like part of a castle. I just subscribed to your on-line newsletter to make sure I don't miss any future newsletters Bonnie. Explore Florida's oldest statepark and one ofFlorida'slargest Civil War battles. Visitors can enjoy a meal at the picnic area or take a walk along a mile-long trail that has interpretive signs describing the events of the battle. Whether you are looking for a unit to join or to invite to your next event, the directory below will have what you are looking for. Reenactors - Florida Muzzleloaders Association Pawnee Guard: St. Andrews Bay Salt Works Raid, The Florida Frontier Guards: Seminole War Reenactments, Florida State Parks Living History Events, Copyright document.write(new Date().getFullYear())2021 VISIT FLORIDA. You may use this event information any way you see fit, all I ask is that you give. North Florida Artillery Historical Foundation, Incorporated, Georgia Division Reenactors Association Roster. Member groups receive a link to their group page or can have a group page designed for them. I'm in Florida but might as well be on the far side of the moon from . Avoid the blue speckle-ware that is sold by certain sutlers, it is not period and looks ridiculous. There are cavalry runs with horses, pyrotechnics, big guns it looks like a real battle.. At Olustee, a state park near Lake City, that history comes alive each year when the largest Florida Civil War reenactment is staged, the Battle of Olustee, with gun smoke, booming cannons and cavalry. We enjoy portraying members of both sides of the war as a tribute to our heritage from the north and the south. Love the Civil War Era. A reenactment is held every February. Despite the smaller scale of this reenactment, the beach landingis a dramatic introductionto the land battle. The civil war reenactment groups locations can help with all your needs. Their articles have been published in the Sun Sentinel, the Miami Herald, the Orlando Sentinel, The Guardian and Visit Florida. 8 Living History Historical War Reenactments in Florida - Backroad Planet History comes alive every February at the annual Civil War Reenactment of the Battle of Olustee. Not all reenactment groups will offer the same experiences. If there are any group that would be willing to have me dress and reenact with them for this event. Programs are offered throughout the weekend, including the program Saturday at 11 a.m. on the participation in the Civil War of people of color. Duane, just saw your comment and question. We are currently following the 160th Anniversay events and invite you to join us! If you have an interest in history and would like to experience what it felt like to be there, then consider contacting us. . We are a group of like minded Civil War Units. THE CIVIL WAR CIVILIANS SOCIETY OF FLORIDA, out of Florida, is a civilian group that represents families during the American Civil War. TheBattle of Bowlegs CreekHeritage Festival is an annual event tomemorializePolk Countys only Civil War battle. We also witnessed some impressive cannon fire. We travel and camp together. African-American reenactors are less common, but because of the three colored units in Olustee, Grzelak said black reenactors from around the country participate. Grzelak, who grew up in Miami and now lives in Orlando, is a Union reenactor; 30 years ago he formed his own unit, the Unions 17th Connecticut. Violators of our copyright will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Make sure when you buy your bayonet that you try it on the musket and that it seats firmly and locks into place. This park tells the story of Florida's largest Civil War battle, which took place Feb. 20, 1864. Not just known for the history of the famous battle, visitors to Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park can see abundant animal and plant life in this wild and wonderful place. 5815 Battlefield Trail Road Certified Visitor Information Centers North Central Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Northeast Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Central West Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Central Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Central East Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Southwest Florida, Certified Visitor Information Centers Southeast Florida, Florida Travel and Vacation Guides - United States, Exchange Rates, Conversions, And Processes, Hillsborough River State Park & Fort Foster Historic Site. Anyone who loves reenacting in the great state of florida! BOOK TIP: "The Illustrated Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era". Battle of Olustee Reenactment | Florida State Parks It was a Confederate victory; Union forces retreated to Jacksonville. Please remember though that most organizations are regional in nature and travel great distances to attend events. Reenactors come from all over the country and visitors include people fascinated by the Civil War and those whose ancestors fought at the battle of Olustee, Thomas said. Reenactment Groups - Milsurpia This list is far from an exhaustive list. However, these reenactments were not open to the public. All rights reserved. Shelter There are two acceptable forms of shelter for enlisted infantry, the A-Frame tent or the shelter half.The A-frame, or Wedge Tent, was designed to sleep four soldiers during the Civil War, but really will only accommodate two modern-day reenactors comfortably. A Battle of Olustee Ball event takes place the night of the reenactment, where participants dance the night away in period dress. My first impression was thatthe rendezvouswas amere excuse for adults to play Dress-Up and Cowboys &Indians. I would eventually learn, though,that living history events and historical war reenactments arefar more than childhood games. If you want to have your event listed, contact me. Historical reenactment groups and living history groups offer an insight into how men and women lived in past times. Civil War Reenactment Groups - Milsurpia When:April. Company B is a family orientated Civil War reenacting group that attends events in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey and Virginia primarily. Copyright 2023 Florida Rambler Media. free for those pre-school age and younger. In fact, some of the movie scenes were filmed at the Olustee reenactment. I've been always interested in being a living historian. Experience the sights and sounds of history during the first full weekend of March when thousands of visitors attend the annual Natural Bridge battle reenactment. Colonialweapons demonstrations are on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at scheduledtimes throughout the day. 1 talking about this. **We honor the legacy that was set before us by Col. Robert Niepert. FRONM - Google Sites We are made up of women, men, and children. The eventwas mutually beneficial, butwearing period clothing was a non-negotiable requirement. My first experience as a living history reenactor was as a volunteer. Jacksonville FL 32226, 3400 S.E. Mess Kit Each soldier needs to eat. There are several monuments at Olustee Battlefield State Historic Park: The largest Confederate one was erected in 1912 before a crowd of 4,000 including many Confederate veterans. After securing horses, they continued to pull the train all the way back to Jacksonville. Thank you for visiting and God Bless America and God Bless our history. Stroll through a living village, watch skilled craftspersons at work, observe folk artists creatingone-of-a-kind pieces,and even better, watch cavalry gallop across a field and tremble at a cannons blast! Barbara Witt A Short History of Florida in the Civil War. The Battle of Bowlegs Creek was the final skirmish in a Union campaign to stop the flow of Jake Summerlinscattle to Confederate troops. During Civil War Heritage Days, Fort Zachary Taylor and the surrounding areas transform into a lively 1861 community comprised of Union and Confederate soldiers, craftsmen and townspeople. The latter looks no different and will not rust. We support Hardy's Brigade, Florida Battalion, Liberty Guards, PACS and 4th Brigade US. They are very careful not to re-fight the Civil War: Yes, we may play Dixie from time to time, that is because we are in the south and it represents the local heritage, the Blue-Grey Armys policy statement says. The first major public reenactment was held in 1911 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg. Historical reenactment groups and living history groups offer an insight into how men and women lived in past times. We are a family-oriented group, and encourage the participation of family members in our camp. VISIT FLORIDA is a service mark of the Florida Tourism Industry Marketing Corporation, d/b/a VISIT FLORIDA, registered in the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. The Leon Riflesare American Civil War reenactors who have formed an organization that does Living History as a hobby. You are visiting this site because you are fascinated with the American Civil War. Read more Reenactment Camp Battle Civil war James Permane began reading about the Civil War at a very young age, finding he was drawn to learn as much as he could about our nations greatest conflict. Overlooks and stops of interest tie together a rich story along this corridor. Civil War reenactment in Florida ends after 40 years - WJXT List of Florida Union Civil War units. So, a few years ago, when the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War asked to place a more prominent Union memorial within the park boundaries, people objected, partly because the United Daughters of the Confederacy originally donated the park land to Florida. Where:Dade Battlefield Historic State Park,Bushnell In 1912, when many living Civil War veterans still attended reunions, the battlefield became the state's first historic site. Authentic campsitesare open to the public. Parking: No public parking is available at the state park during the Civil War reenactment weekend. Colored Troops took part in the battle, including the now famous 54th Massachusetts. Florida Civil War Reenactments 2023 - milsurpia.com There should be no adornments or brass letters or numbers on the hats. Your browser is not supported for this experience.We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari. Olustee is the largest Florida Civil War reenactment and one of the largest in the Southeast. WW2 Reenactments 2023 - Milsurpia Musket & Bayonet The two most common weapons used by reenactors are the Enfield and Springfield muskets. It has grown over the years, and some people, like Grzelak, come back every year. I enjoyed learning how to throw a tomahawk at one of the living history stationsduring the event. Civil War and Reenacting in Florida discussion group - Facebook State Road A1A North The real unit spent the end of the war guarding the St. Johns River in Florida. THE U.S. MUDDY RIVER BATTALION is a Civil War Reenactment umbrella organization of company level units that have come together to . The Second Seminole War was the setting for theDade Massacre. For more than 100 years, Olustee has welcomed visitors to walk its grounds and remember one of our nations bloodiest conflicts. You can find civil war reenactments all over the country 12 months out of the year. Yes, the Confederates may have won the Battle of Olustee, but America won the war.. Join U.S. Civil War groups Related topics: American Civil War American Civil War History American History American Civil War 1861-1865 Military History How to find civil war reenactment groups near me. Civil War Reenactment Groups The American Civil War, fought between 1861 and 1865, continues to live on in the form of living history reenactments. It is best to keep them as plain as possible. 5815 Battlefield Trail Road, Olustee, FL 32072, Admission: Adults $12; school-age children $6; pre-school children free. You should never take the field without a full canteen of water. Avoid plastic buttons and modern shirts. Gold Head is located on rolling sandhills on the north central ridge of Florida with one of the few remaining examples of an old-growth stand of longleaf pines. If looking to dive into reenacting, the number one piece of advice is to speak to a unit before making purchases. When:January (open to the public on Friday and Saturday). Civil War Re-enactment Group - North Florida Artillery Historical The original pitted 10,000 cavalry, infantry and artillery troops against each other in a five-hour battle in a pine forest near Olustee, 13 miles east of Lake City and 50 miles west of Jacksonville. Its not even past.). Many areas are still under construction, so please be patient. But as history buffs who enjoy living history rather than just reading about it, The Leon Rifles sometimes portray other soldiers or civilians from the pages of US history. Civil War reenactment in Florida ends after 40 years - WINK NEWS He's your man to ask. The Battle of Olustee was the only major Civil War battle in Florida. What are you people afraid of? TheAlafia River Rendezvousis an annual event sponsored by the Florida Frontiersmen fraternity. TheBattle of Olusteewas theonly major Civil War battle in Florida. ! The color should be gray, brown, or some earthy color. Scenes for Civil War movies, including the 1989 movie "Glory," have been filmed during the reenactments. Hello very one. They put their cannons and their heart and enthusiasm together in the fall of 2001 at Andersonville, GA. (As William Faulkner famously wrote: The past is never dead. Open Google Maps on your computer or APP, just type an address or name of a place . Military Events in Florida | VISIT FLORIDA Discover charming small towns and insider tips to hidden gems. History comes alive every February at the annual Civil War Reenactment of the Battle of Olustee. Because the Alafia River Rendezvousisan immersive event that requires authenticity, all participants, including volunteers,arerequired to wear period dress. On the afternoon of Feb. 20, 1864, Union troops, in an attempt to interrupt Confederate food supply routes, clashed in a fierce battle with forces at Ocean Pond, near Lake City. New recruits are always welcome! Where:Homeland Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era is a Pulitzer Prize-winning work on the American Civil War. There arescores of living history events and historical war reenactments taking place across the state of Florida year round, but the following eight rank amongmy favorites. Copyright Law. Tactical Reenactment: Some reenactments will be listed as "tactical" or "private". We feel that having family involved enriches the experience and promotes the best values of reenacting. To stop supplies from reaching the Confederates, a series ofUnion assaults were initiated inlate summer 1862. Scottish American Society of South Florida - Living History Event location 47275 Sugarbush Rd . There were occasional conflicts with neighboringSeminoles at the fort, but only one documentedskirmish when the natives attempted to burn the bridge. The Florida Civil War reenactment of the Battle of Olustee includes gun smoke, booming cannons and cavalry at Olustee Battlefield State Historic Park. Colored Regiments (as they were then called) took part in the battle, including the now famous all-black volunteer unit, the 54th Massachusetts, the regiment immortalized in the 1989 movie, Glory. Living history, authentic encampments and reenactors bring Florida history to the forefront during this event at Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park. RetreatingAfrican-American soldiers from the Massachusetts 54th Infantry (featured in the 1989 Academy Award-winning movieGlory), in a feat of superhuman strength,pulled a disabled train with cars of wounded soldiers for three miles back to Camp Finnegan. Gen. Al Hartman,Commander Where:St. Augustine You can stroll the quiet, pine-shaded battlefield trail, picnic and learn about the battle at the visitor center. American Civil War Reenactment Groups - Living History archive Florida's premier resource of news and events for Civil War Reenactors Florida Reenactors Online The author, Bonnie Gross, travels with her husband David Blasco, discovering off-the-beaten path places to hike, kayak, bike, swim and explore. And the 2nd Wisconsin of the Iron Brigade elcome! The best advice is to discuss all purchases with members of our unit. Our unit, based in Tallahassee and North Florida, does this strictly because we enjoy history and enjoy each others company.
