Veterans Day 2007

For: Immediate Release
Contact: Charles E. Fenwick, 912-786-5787

Veterans Day Living History Event November 10-11, 2007
Superintendent Charles Fenwick announces that the National Park Service will host a special two-day Civil War living history encampment on November 10-11 at Fort Pulaski. The event will honor our nation’s veterans by offering a full schedule of activities inside the fort. The 48th New York Volunteer Infantry will recreate many aspects of daily life at a major Civil War-era post. A variety of stations will be positioned throughout the fort allowing visitors to learn about military inspections, mail calls, bayonet drills, barracks life, infantry drills, and cannon firings. A special military salute to veterans will be offered at 4 PM on Saturday. In-depth tours will be offered hourly from 10 AM-3 PM on Saturday, and again from 11 AM-2 PM on Sunday.

Fenwick remarked, "What better way to honor our veterans of today and yesterday than by honoring our rich tradition of military service that stretches back to the roots of our nation and includes the Civil War era that Fort Pulaksi preserves." The 48th New York Infantry was stationed at Fort Pulaski from June 1862 through May 1863. During their year-long stay the unit remained vigilant, always prepared to beat back a Confederate attack. That attack never materialized. Their stay was documented, however, in a series of early photographs that today are displayed in exhibits throughout the park. One image shows members of the 48th New York Infantry playing an early game of baseball. This image is thought to be one of the earliest known photographs of America’s favorite pastime.

Fort Pulaski National Monument is on U.S. Hwy 80, 15 miles east of Savannah. An entrance fee of $3 per person is charged; ages 15 and under are free. Veterans are eligible for free admission on Sunday, November 11, 2007.