MORRISTOWN, NJ – Step onto the battlefields of the American Civil War, the struggle that altered the political, social, and economic landscape of the nation, and into the lives of those involved at the Civil War Weekend on Saturday and Sunday, June 21 and June 22. The Second New Jersey Brigade is stationed at Historic Speedwell in Morristown and is the sponsor of this unique two-day event that presents the lives of Civil War soldiers more vividly than textbooks.

From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, the re-enactors lead activities throughout the eight-acre site, presenting the daily lives of soldiers with authentic cooking, dress, and general setup. Enjoy the musket drills, artillery drills, daily mail call, bayonet drills, and a staged skirmish. Marching drills include period instruments as soldiers proudly go into battle. Cover your ears as the massive period cannon takes aim and fires! A Civil War-era Signal Corps demonstrates how important messages were sent between units using colorful flags. Don’t miss the demonstration of a recreated Civil War telegraph station.

Enjoy learning about the basics of battlefield medicine for soldiers who suffered injuries or disease. Visit the medical area where re-enactors care for the ‘wounded’ and demonstrate how these emergency units ran during battles. Around every corner there is something to experience.  

While enjoying your visit to the past, tour the National Historic Landmark Factory Building with an interactive, hands-on telegraph exhibit, and the Vail Home, built more than 200 years ago. Explore the exhibits on the Speedwell Ironworks, a granary full of early farm implements, and watch the enormous 24-foot overshot waterwheel turn in the Wheelhouse. The fee for the Civil War Weekend is $7 for adults; $6 for seniors (65 +); $5 for ages 4 - 16; $4 for ages 2 - 3; and under 2 are FREE. For more information, please call 973.285.6550 or visit morrisparks.net. Free parking and FREE shuttle service available.

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The Morris County Park Commission features one of the region’s best park systems in the state of New Jersey. It currently protects and maintains 18,730 acres at 38 distinct sites plus offers a year-round calendar of events and activities for all to enjoy!