Old Economy Village will be closed Easter Sunday
A Day in the Life: Civil War Living History at Old Economy Village
Saturday, 17 May 2025
Step back in time for A Day in the Life: Civil War Living History at Old Economy Village! This immersive event brings the Civil War era to life through living history, hands-on activities, and historical crafts. Experience a mustering of new recruits, participate in musket drills, and explore the cabinet and blacksmith shops. Visit the print shop for historical printing and enjoy a period fashion show. Visitors are encouraged to dress in any era and join this unforgettable journey into the past!
Free with Regular Admission​
Event Schedule:
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10:00 AM - Mustering of New Troops at Store Building:
Join us in the historic store for a muster (gathering) of the public! This will be your introduction to the day’s activities and an opportunity to learn about the importance of military drills and discipline during the Civil War.
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10:30 AM - 11:00 AM Musket Drill for New Recruits outside Granary:
Gear up and be part of the action! Visitors will be invited to participate in a drill using wooden muskets, just like soldiers did in the 1860s. No firing, but you’ll experience the rhythm and precision of military formations and maneuvers as they march through the garden, cobblestone street, and various spots across the site.
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11:00 AM - 11:30 AM Infantry Drill at Soldier's Camp
Watch reenactors in period uniforms demonstrate military formations, maneuvers, and tactics used by Civil War soldiers, showcasing their precision and discipline with muskets and flags.
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11:30 AM - 1:30 PM & 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Mustering of New Troops at Store Building and Musket Drill for New Recruits (Repeat Session):
Another opportunity to drill with the wooden muskets and participate in the military march! Perfect for those who couldn’t make the earlier session, or for anyone who wants to experience more.
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1:30 PM - 2:30 PM Infantry Drill at Soldier's Camp
Watch reenactors in period uniforms demonstrate military formations, maneuvers, and tactics used by Civil War soldiers, showcasing their precision and discipline with muskets and flags.
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2:00 PM Civil War Fashion Show
See history come alive with a special Fashion Show! It’s your chance to learn about the clothing styles worn by both soldiers and civilians during the Civil War era, and you may even want to take inspiration for your own attire. Visitors are invited to dress in any era—feel free to wear your own historical costume and join the fun!
Ongoing All Day:
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Chat with reenactors and learn more about the lives of soldiers and civilians during the Civil War.
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Explore the historic site of Old Economy Village and discover its many hidden stories.
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Visit the Print Shop to see Civil War-themed items being printed!
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Try your hand at Civil War letter writing in our School Room!
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There will also be ongoing demonstrations in the Cabinet and Blacksmith Shops, showcasing the creation of items soldiers and civilians would have used. Learn about how craftspeople relied on hand tools during the Civil War.
Join us for a day full of history, hands-on activities, and a chance to see what life was really like during the Civil War! We look forward to seeing you there!