Civil War coming to Sisters Country

Folks in Sisters Country can step through a portal in time to catch a glimpse of life during the greatest crisis in American history - the Civil War of 1861-65.

In the annual Civil War reenactment weekend set at Camp Sherman, there will be demonstrations of everything from blacksmithing to 19th century first aid at the large-scale, outdoor event Saturday and Sunday, May 20-21.

This "living history" is open to the public at the House on Metolius meadow, just north of Camp Sherman, Oregon.

For two days, reenactors present living conditions and circumstances of 1863 America. The public mingles with the civilians and military dressed in authentic clothing. Various presentations and activities take place throughout the day starting Saturday morning, May 20.

Parking opens at 9 a.m., then the morning parade and drill commences. Camp presentations including blacksmithing and mail delivery. Medical practices and a war correspondent (reporter) are available for investigation. A sutler (supplier) tent is open for business selling all sorts of Civil War-era literature, camping equipment, uniforms and weapon reproductions. One can meet the cavalry horses as well.

At 11 a.m., watch the North and South have at it during the morning battle. Around 3 p.m. there will be another battle demonstration. Shortly thereafter are presentations about fashion of the period and how it was back home while the men were away at war. The event closes at 5 p.m. on Saturday and 4 p.m. on Sunday.

General admission is $8; seniors, active military and students, $5. Family maximum is $25. Parking is $5 per vehicle and supports the Boy Scouts.

In the spirit of making history come alive for students, about 110 students, parents, and teachers from Sisters Middle School and from a Sisters homeschool group and schools outside the Sisters area will attend a private School Day on Friday at the Civil War Reenactment. In total, about 700 students, teachers and parents will experience the event.

House on Metolius (http://www.metolius.com) is located off Highway 20 north of Camp Sherman, off road 1420.

The event is put on by the Northwest Civil War Council (http://nwcwc.org) a nonprofit, living-history organization.