22nd Annual Civil War Reeanactment in Keokuk

Keokuk, IA Transport yourself back in time to the Civil War Era by attending the 22^nd Annual Civil War Reenactment at Keokuk’s Rand Park to be held April 23-26, 2009. The spring tradition continues with military encampments of both the Union and Confederacy armies and more than 600 reenactors portraying Civil War era individuals from civilians to artillerymen.

Roaring cannons, the sounds of charging men, the beat of drums and the smell of gunpowder will add to the glory given to Major General Samuel R. Curtis, former mayor of Keokuk and the winning General at the Battle of Pea Ridge. The Battle Reenactments, considered the highlights of the event by many, are Saturday (April 25) at 3:00 p.m. and Sunday (April 26) at 2:30 p.m.. The featured battles this year will be the Battle of Wilson’s Creek & the Battle of Pea Ridge, Day 2.

Experience Sutlers’ Row where Civil War era clothing and many other sundries of interest are available for purchase. Or, stop in at their establishments to learn more about the Civil War era. All of the reenactors at this event are willing to share their knowledge! Sample the variety of delicious food cooked by local organizations and vendors to tickle your taste buds. For your listening pleasure, Chris Vallillo, Tom Roush and the premier 33^rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment Band will be performing throughout the event. Professor Farquar brings his Great American Medicine Show along with Polecat Annie, his tall-tale telling sidekick.

The activities begin Thursday evening at The Grand Theatre with Chris Vallillo presenting Abraham Lincoln in Song.

With Abraham Lincoln in Song, Vallillo combines Lincoln’s own words and stories with period folk songs and contemporary folk music to shed light on one of our nation’s most beloved historical figures -- not only as a remarkable leader, but as a man who knew and loved this very music himself. Extensively researched and historically accurate, both the live show and compact disc recording of Abraham Lincoln in Song have been endorsed by the National Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission and the Commissions of Illinois, Kentucky and Pennsylvania. The program begins at 7:30 p.. with a wine & cheese reception to follow.

The Lee County Historical Society will once again host the Ladies High Tea & Fashion Show on Saturday, April 25^th. This year features a bonnet workshop at 10:30 a.m., the fashion show featuring ladies’ dresses of the 1860’s at 11:30 a.m. and the High Tea at noon. These activities will be at the First Christian Church at 3476 Main Street.

After the Saturday battle, dance to the sounds of the 33^rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment Band during the Military Ball. This authentic band plays the dance favorites of the 1860’s. Re-enactors from the North and South get together to take pleasure in this joyous occasion, beginning at 7:30 p.m. at the Keokuk Catholic School, 2981 Plank Road. Dancers and spectators alike are welcome to attend. Tickets to the Military Ball are $10.00 and can be purchased at the Tourism office or at the door.

After a night of dancing, stop in at Rand Park’s shelter house Sunday morning from 7 - 11 a.m. to enjoy a breakfast of pancakes and sausage prepared by the Jackson Township Fire Department. All proceeds will go to the Keokuk Little League. Ticket price is $5.00.

Everyone is encouraged to attend the Sunday Memorial and Church Service at the Keokuk National Cemetery, 18th & Ridge Sts. Be a part of a Military Memorial Salute overlooking the Civil War section of the grounds which begins at 9:30 a.m. and come listen to the music of the 33rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment Band in this honorable, awe-inspiring tribute.

Start the spring season right by joining us at Rand Park April 23^rd - 26^th for the Annual Civil War Reenactment. Be sure to say hello to our traditional favorites The Lincolns, and take a listen to Keokuk’s own Tom Roush , Chris Vallillo, Professor Farquar, Polecat Annie and the 33rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment Band while strolling through the park. This fun-filled weekend, sponsored in part by the Eastern Iowa Tourism Association and Humanities Iowa is to be enjoyed by all!

For more information and a complete schedule of events, contact the Keokuk Area Convention & Tourism Bureau at 800.383.1219, 319.524.5599 or info@keokukiowatourism.org