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On December 2nd and 3rd, experience a Union-garrisoned town during the 1864 Christmas season in “Captain Flagg’s US Quartermaster City: Prospects of Peace.” Join the conversation as park staff and living history volunteers portraying Federal soldiers and civilian workers talk about the town’s transformation from war-torn community to successful war machine for Union General Philip Sheridan’s Shenandoah Valley Campaign. Encounter a tempered holiday celebration overshadowed by realities of war. Saturday, December 2 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Living history exhibits open (historic Lower Town) 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. – “Decking the Halls: Ornaments for the Tree.” Make 19th century tin tinsel tin spiral decorations, tin stars, and edible ornaments to use on your tree at home. (Tent on The Green - Shenandoah Street) Noon – “The Perfect Gift, 1864.” Visit the shopkeeper, a Civil War veteran, to discover what this last Yuletide of the War means and the types of gifts Americans are hoping to receive. (Dry Goods Store - Shenandoah Street) 1-3pm African American Jubilee: A Musical Journey 1864. What did this cherished holiday mean for people of color? For some, the Christmas season did mean a holiday was approaching and to make Merry. However, it also served as a reminder that the enslaved were not entitled to "Life Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.” (Ongoing, at the Dry Goods Store- Shenandoah Street) 2 p.m. – Capt Flagg’s US Quartermaster City. It’s the last Yuletide of the Civil War. The war will determine the Union of the States and eventual freedom of 4 million enslaved people. This Guided Ranger tour begins inside the Park’s tent on the Green and includes a historic weapons firing demonstration firing. Please expect loud noises and prepare dogs and children. 3 to 5 p.m. – "A Grand Military and Citizen's Ball." Join the 34th Massachusetts officers and their wives as they host a Victorian dance. Dance instruction provided by the Victorian Dance Ensemble to period dance music by Wheaton's Parlor Orchestra. (Tent on The Green - Shenandoah Street) Sunday, December 3 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Living history exhibits open (historic Lower Town) 11am-2pm- Decking The Halls: Ornament For the Tree. Family Fun! Make and take a 19th century style ornament. Make real tin tinsel tin spiral decorations, tin stars, and edible ornaments for your tree! (Tent on The Green - Shenandoah Street) Noon-“The Perfect Gift, 1864.” Visit the shopkeeper, a Civil War veteran, to discover what this last Yuletide of the War means and the types of gifts Americans are hoping to receive. (Dry Goods Store - Shenandoah Street) 1pm – "A Visit from St. Nicholas, 1864." This is the most famous and well-remembered American poem of all time. A program for young and old alike! (Dry Goods Store - Shenandoah Street) 2 p.m. –Capt Flagg’s US Quartermaster City. It’s the last Yuletide of the Civil War. The war will determine the Union of the States and eventual freedom of 4 million enslaved people. This Guided Ranger tour begins inside the Park’s tent on the Green and includes a historic weapons firing demonstration firing. Please expect loud noises and prepare dogs and children. |
Last updated: November 29, 2023