WISCONSIN HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Civil War Weekend Overview

What is Civil War Weekend?

This annual special event brings the American Civil War to life. Held the last full weekend of September, Civil War Weekend is two action-filled days of battle re-enactments, military drills, medical demonstrations, period music, food, and more. The weekend spectacle involves more than 500 re-enactors. Each year features a different historic scenario crucial to the outcome of the war.

Programs and activities abound for children and adults alike. Interact, explore and engage your entire family in the experience.

Civil War Weekend will be held September 29 and 30, 2018. It will be the 28th year Wade House has hosted this event.

Experience the clash of arms between Union and Confederate troops at Civil War Weekend. Watch hundreds of soldiers – cavalry, infantry and artillery – struggle across the field in this re-enacted conflict depicted with startling accuracy and passion.

Experience this 1860s clash of arms between Union and Confederate troops at Civil War Weekend. Watch hundreds of soldiers — cavalry, infantry and artillery — struggle across the field in this re-enacted conflict depicted with startling accuracy and passion.

Activities run from 9 am-5 pm Saturday and 9 am to 4 pm Sunday.

Re-enactor Information
Frequently Asked Questions

SAVE THE DATE!

Dates: September 29 and 30, 2018
Time: Saturday 9am – 5pm
and Sunday 9am – 4pm
Location: Wade House Historic Site

Cost

Adults $15
Students/Seniors (65 & older) $13
Children (5-17)
(children under 5 are free)		 $8
Family (up to two adults and two or more dependent children 5-17) $40

2018 Schedule of Events

Activities

  • Watch Authentic Battle Re-enactments

    Watch as hundreds of soldiers – cavalry, artillery, and infantry, clash at Brawner’s Farm in 1862. In between the action, visitors can access the battlefield for a close-up look at the soldiers, horses and equipment. Union and Confederate armies skirmish 11am daily, followed by a high-intensity, full-scale battle at 2pm.

  • Explore Camp Life

    Interact with Union and Confederate soldiers while you learn about 1860s camp life – the food, the lodging, and the fellowship. Participate in demonstrations of military drills and medical scenarios while you tour the military and civilian camps.

  • Tour the Site

    Your admission includes tours of the historic buildings on site, including the first floor of the Wade House stagecoach inn, Dockstader Blacksmith Shop, Herrling Sawmill, and the Wesley W. Jung Carriage Museum in the Visitor Center.

  • Meet President Abraham Lincoln

    Listen as President Lincoln updates you about the war effort and new trials to come. Fritz Klein, one of America’s premier Abraham Lincoln presenters, will speak throughout the day.

  • Listen to Period Music

    Hear the music of the Civil War brought to life. Costumed re-enactors perform military and popular tunes of the era. The Regimental Volunteer Band of Wisconsin will perform in camp and lead the Union forces to the battlefield.

  • Visit the Family Tent

    Join us for games and crafts in the Family Tent, located near the Food Court. Play 19th century games, including stilts, hoop and stick, and graces. Set up a Civil War tent and learn to drill like a soldier.