Experience Spiegel Grove’s Civil War Winter Camp

Curious what life was like in a Civil War winter camp, without the frostbite? Spiegel Grove in Fremont animates history at the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums’ annual Civil War Winter Camp, returning Saturday, Oct. 25. The day-long event re-creates a Union encampment similar to the one Hayes commanded with the 23rd Ohio Volunteer Infantry but also includes other fun elements like a brass band on horseback and rides in a Ford Model T. 

Visitors can walk the camp and see firsthand how soldiers endured winters in the 1860s. This year, the 2nd Cavalry Brigade Brass Band will perform on horseback twice, and reenactors representing the 5th U.S. Colored Troops will give talks and demonstrations that share the experiences and stories of Black soldiers during the war. 

Visitors can also take free Model-T rides from Firelands Timeless Ts, as a nod to the cars Civil War veterans drove to their reunions. When it’s time to refuel, Roots Poultry’s food truck and a Maumee Valley Heritage Corridor stand will serve hearty bites and cold root beer during the event. 

Other highlights include rifle demonstrations, kids programs, marching displays and a performance by the 73rd Regimental Band on the Hayes Home verandah. Most activities are free, but guided camp tours cost $10 for adults and $7 for children, with discounts for Hayes Presidential members. The day concludes with a members-only tour that offers a closer look at camp life and weapons as well as Q&A sessions with reenactors. 

For more information about Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums and the Civil War Winter Camp, visit rbhayes.org.

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