For several years, my wife and I have attended the Civil War Remembrance at Greenfield Village on Memorial Day. This is a well put together look at the Civil War era in this country featuring military actions, camps and music from a few thousand re-enactors. Its not the largest gathering of its sort in the US, but thanks to the unique setting it is diverse and fascinating.
Behind the scenes at the cavalry encampment.
Model A Omnibus at the cavalry encampment. A typical Greenfield Village non-sequitur. So I guess they are re-enacting a 1930s re-enactment?
The artillery encampment.
Cavalry melee training. Its fascinating to watch the various levels of capability for both riders and horses. Some of the horses really rebel at close quarter fighting and gunfire. Its not uncommon to see a rider with their hands full.
Artillery demo. There were three guns this year, two smooth bore and one rifled. They make an impressive racket when fired together. One of the teams present has won the national live shooting drills the last couple years.
The infantry re-enactors fire a volley at the crowd.
And follow up with a bayonet charge.
And of course it wouldn’t be Greenfield Village without Model T rides through the encampments. (?)
We always have a lot of fun with this event. But obviously, there’s something deeper and more important to Memorial Day. We remember the men and women who have given everything for the safety and security of those of us at home.
Plane Dave 
Looks a really great event to see!
It’s definitely a great way to spend Memorial Day!
Reenactment is the best tool in teaching!
Nice picture!
Yeah it’s a unique tool. Even as much as I read, I still pick up something new every time I see a reenactment.
I can believe that. It puts a whole new perspective to it all.
The presence of old cars and buses may seem incongruous but I think all history deserves to be remembered and they serve to show that. Especialy on this special day.
Absolutely.
The whole theme of the The Henry Ford (of which Greenfield Village is part) is American progress and innovation. The setting includes houses, shops and factories from colonial period through the 1930s. It makes it an interesting and unique setting for a range of such events.
I loved your reporting of this reenactment activity. Everyone should have the learning opportunity these events afford.
Thank you! I loved seeing all the families with kids present. I worry about the next generations learning about what it to build this country, and honoring all the sacrifice. An event like this gives me a little hope.
Great pictures, Dave. Looks like great fun.
Thanks! Yeah it was fun.
“So I guess they are re-enacting a 1930s re-enactment?” Very meta Dave. Your time in the Chuckverse has taught you well.
It did strike me as amusing!
We always go there the day after Thanksgiving but I may have to change that now. I had no idea about this!
Be sure to allow plenty of time, it does draw a crowd!
But its fun and worth it.
I figured it would be crowded. I’ll definitely try next year.