What an Event! Over 1500 people came to see our reenactors put on
a show, and they were thrilled with the performance. More than 130 reenactors,
including, soldiers, civilians, and sutlers, took Gorman Heritage Farm back to
the summer of 1863. In addition to the battle, visitors were treated to
exhibits and activities in our gardens, on the trails, in the pastures and
inside our Interpretive Building. There was truly something here for everyone!
Gorman Heritage Farm would like to thank photographers
Gene Miller, Leon Harrison and
Jim Crotty for their
work. Seeing the reenactment through their practiced eyes was not only a
thrill for us, but it also provides a historical record of the event from
multiple points of view.
The Pasture was transformed into a military encampment
from days gone by.
Equipment was made ready.
Guests were invited to visit the encampment and talk to
the reenactors.
Soldiers mustered in ..
Lee Stegmann, a "Long Hunter" demonstrated his skills
with a rifle.
He also demonstrated his skill as a cook! Lee
treated visitors to samples of roasted hams, beef and chicken
Perhaps Lee's greatest claim to fame is his dad, Roy
Stegmann, who again delighted the crowds with his portrayal of Farmer
George Brown.
It was business as usual in the camps
... this woman drew water from the farmyard tap.
Kids (and their parents) had fun in the potato patch -
searching not only for potatoes, but for valuable treasure as well!
Reenactors in period attire lent an air
of authenticity to the event.
Bright sunshine was no problem for a wide-brimmed
bonnet!
Visitors had the opportunity to learn about the
Underground Railroad through an interactive exhibit. Here, buyers
bid at a "slave auction".
Our buyers were actually affiliated with abolitionist
groups - after buying all of the slaves (visitors to the exhibit), they
put them onto the Underground Railroad and led them to freedom in Canada.
Kat Warnow served as one of our buyers.
The soldiers marched through the farmyard on their way
to the battlefield.
The sharpshooters took their places.
Guns blazed!
On Sunday, the Rebels were routed!
The victorious Union defenders fired a gun salute for
the crowd.
There were lots of people to meet
and greet at the event ... Evendale's finest were on hand for safety.
President and Mrs. Lincoln strolled the grounds!
Musician Greg Jowaisas delighted the crowd with his
collection of traditional American music.
These reenactors appreciated Greg's performance!
Entertainment at Saturday evening's "Members Only"
dinner was provided by Polkin' Fun, a traditional dulcimer group.
Photographers Gene Miller (left) and Leon Harrison,
along wit Jim Crotty (not pictured) provided a photographic record of the
weekend's events.
GHF members who attended Saturday's dinner were treated
to a spectacular night firing!
Our vendors enjoyed a profitable weekend as well.
Author Rick Baumgartner displays some of his
work, available through
Blue Acorn Press