Annual Living History Canceled

Date: April 3, 2008

Shiloh National Military Park Superintendent Woody Harrell announced today, the 146^th Battle of Shiloh Anniversary Living History Weekend scheduled for Saturday, April 5, and Sunday, April 6, has been canceled due to the recent heavy rain which has saturated West Tennessee. “Although the current severe weather will be out of our area by Saturday morning, the park has already received five inches of rain during the last week, with another three to six inches forecast through Friday evening.” stated Harrell, “and we simply cannot ask the public to walk into a quagmire. The ground upon which this battle occurred is one of our most precious resources. My employees and the volunteers who help us present our living history programs agree that it is in the best interest of both the public and the purpose for which this hallowed ground was established as a National Park to err on behalf of maintaining the historic landscape of Shiloh battlefield.” 

In lieu of having to cancel the annual living history demonstrations, the park staff will offer a series of special interpretive programs on Saturday, April 5, which will include short talks, walks, and demonstrations, as well as longer two-hour hikes focusing on important facets and aspects of the momentous battle fought 146 years ago this weekend. These programs will be offered throughout the day on Saturday at various locations across the battlefield. Information on these programs can be obtained at the Shiloh Battlefield Visitor Center upon arriving at the park. The special series of battle anniversary hikes and presentations scheduled for Sunday, April 6, Monday, April 7, and Tuesday, April 8, have not been canceled and will proceed as originally planned. Those participating on those programs should meet at the appointed time and location for each hike and are encouraged to wear appropriate clothing and footwear, and are encouraged to also bring food and water if enjoying more than one of the hikes. 

For more information about the scheduled ranger programs on Saturday, or to register to participate in the anniversary hikes Sunday through Tuesday, please contact the Shiloh Battlefield Visitor Center at 731-689-5696.