See what the Civil War encampments were like

Annual living history event presented at VanKirk House SPARTA — The 33rd Regiment, New Jersey Volunteer Infantry Civil War re-enactors, in conjunction with the Sparta Historical Society, will present their annual living history/encampment event at the historic VanKirk/Mull House in Sparta on Route 517, next to the middle school on Saturday, May 15. Learn about the past The encampment will consist of officers quarters, a military street and campfires, where members will depict the daily life of Civil War soldiers in camp. In addition, the women of the 33rd will be in period clothing, demonstrating and discussing the roles of women and children in the Victorian Era, and their vital contributions to the war effort. Officials said this annualevent is very popular with many of the local schools, where students are encouraged to learn first hand about history and 19th century America. While no evening events are planned, some of the soldiers will be setting up camp in Friday night. On Saturday morning the camp will open at 10 a.m. Musket firing demonstrations and more In addition to civilian and military camp life, visitors will witness march and drill as well as musket firing demonstrations. A bugling presentation with original instruments will be performed by 33rd musician Doug Grunn, who is also a member of Buglers Across America. Artifacts Original Civil War artifacts from the Jones Collection will be presented in the living room of the VanKirk/Mull House, including period weapons, letters, documents, ordnance, soldiers accouterments, etc. This exhibit will have a strong emphasis on the personal side of the Civil War soldier, with a large assortment of original items that the soldier would have taken with him when he went off to war, or those he acquired from the regiment sutler. A rare artifact to be on display is the original shaving mirror which belonged to Robert Gould Shaw, colonel of the famous all black 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment who was killed while leading his men in the attack on Battery Wagner. Shaw was portrayed in the movie “Glory.” Civil War book authors on hand The Van Kirk/Mull House is currently being restored and furnished, will be open for tours throughout the day. There will also be local authors on site to sign copies of their books on Civil War related topics. Thomas Fox, author of “Drummer Boy Willie McGee Civil War Hero and Fraud” and Robert Jones, author of “Battle of Gettysburg: The Relics, Artifacts and Souvenirs” and “The Civil War Canteen,” will be available to discuss their recent releases. McGee was a drummer with the original 33rd New Jersey Infantry, who won the Medal of Honor during the war. This local re-enacting group represents the original New Jersey regiment, which mustered into service in August 1863, many of the soldiers were from this area. The 33rd was attached to the Army of the Cumberland and served with valor and distinction under General Sherman on his famous March to the Sea. They remained active until the end of the war and were mustered out of service in August 1865. For more info call 973-903-6283.