Civil War Re-enactment

Civil War Reenactment

Burton, Ohio, has a rich history connected to the Civil War era, particularly due to its location in Geauga County, an area known for its strong abolitionist sentiment and active involvement in the Underground Railroad.

Key Civil War Connections to Burton, Ohio:

Abolitionist Activity:

Burton and Geauga County were hotbeds for abolitionist movements. Residents often helped escaped slaves seeking freedom via the Underground Railroad, taking advantage of the region’s rural landscape to provide shelter and safe passage.

Contribution to the War Effort:

Many men from Burton enlisted to fight for the Union during the Civil War. Geauga County as a whole had a high enlistment rate, reflecting the community’s commitment to the abolitionist cause and the preservation of the Union.

Historical Markers and Memorials:

Burton is home to memorials honoring local soldiers who fought in the Civil War. Nearby cemeteries also feature graves of Civil War veterans.

Century Village Museum:

The museum in Burton preserves the area’s 19th-century history, including the Civil War era. It offers insights into the lives of Ohioans during this period, showcasing artifacts and reenactments.

Century Village Museum

The Century Village Museum in Burton, Ohio, frequently hosts Civil War reenactments and living history events, bringing the 19th century to life for visitors. These events are a signature feature of the museum, reflecting its mission to preserve and interpret Ohio’s early history, including the Civil War era.

What to Expect at a Civil War Reenactment

Battle Reenactments:

Visitors can witness staged battles that recreate historical skirmishes. These events feature reenactors in period-accurate Union and Confederate uniforms, using authentic tactics and weaponry.

Living History Demonstrations:

The museum grounds transform into a Civil War-era encampment, with reenactors portraying soldiers, officers, and civilians. These camps demonstrate daily life, including cooking, medical practices, and military drills.

Educational Programs:

Events often include lectures, storytelling, and interactive programs that delve into topics like military strategy, the role of Ohio in the Civil War, and the lives of soldiers and their families.

Historical Artifacts and Exhibits:

The museum showcases artifacts from the Civil War era, providing a tangible connection to history. Visitors can explore these exhibits to learn more about the region’s involvement in the war.

Family-Friendly Activities:

Many events include activities designed for children, such as period games and educational scavenger hunts, making history accessible and engaging for all ages.

Geauga County Historical Society
40th Anniversary Civil War Weekend

Schedule of Events: Saturday, May 24, 2025

White Tent

All Day – Children’s Civil War Activities
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Musical Performance: The Raccoon County Ramblers
12:00 – 1:00 PM – Civil War Trivia “Game Show”
2:30 – 3:30 PM – Brigadier General Rufus Ingalls — portrayed by Dr. Michael Trapasso
3:30 – 4:30 PM – Major General William T. Sherman — portrayed by Kris Gunvalsen

Auburn Church

10:30 – 11:30 AM – Connivers in Corsets — presented by Barbara Toncheff
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM – General Winfield Scott Hancock — portrayed by Brian P. Burtka
12:30 – 1:30 PM – Author Talk — Kim Villava
2:30 – 3:30 PM – Musical Performance: The Civil War Songbird — Diane Virostko
3:30 – 4:30 PM – A Conversation About the War with Presidents Abraham Lincoln (John King) and Jefferson Davis (David Walker)

Parkman Bandstand

12:00 – 1:00 PM – Musical Performance: Crooked River Fifes and Drums

Century Village Grounds

11:30 AM – Guided Camp Tour with Major General James A. Garfield — portrayed by Benjamin Frayser
1:30 – 2:30 PM – CIVIL WAR BATTLE
2:30 – 3:30 PM – Flags of the Civil War Walking Tour — Professor Andrew Mizsak

Lennah Bond Activity Building

All Day – Special Exhibit: 160 Images of Abraham Lincoln
6:00 PM – Civil War Ball and Dinner ($25 for those in uniform or period attire, $35 for civilian attire)

Special Exhibits and Features (All Day)

James A. Garfield on Postage Stamps — Depot
Community Book Exchange — Apple Butter Green near the Sutler Tent

Schedule of Events: Sunday, May 25, 2025

White Tent

All Day – Children’s Civil War Activities
9:00 – 9:45 AM – Church Service — Rev. Dr. Skip Wilson
10:30 – 11:30 AM – Author Talk — Kim Villava
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM – General William T. Sherman — portrayed by Kris Gunvalsen
2:30 – 3:30 PM – Flags of the Civil War — Professor Andrew Mizsak
3:30 – 4:30 PM – Civil War Trivia “Game Show”

Auburn Church

10:30 – 11:30 AM – A Conversation About the War with Presidents Abraham Lincoln (John King) and Jefferson Davis (David Walker)
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM – Connivers in Corsets — presented by Barbara Toncheff
12:30 – 1:15 PM – Major General/Congressman James A. Garfield — portrayed by Benjamin Frayser
2:30 – 3:30 PM – Musical Performance: The Civil War Songbird — Diane Virostko
3:30 – 4:30 PM – A Couple’s Life During the War: James and Lucretia Garfield — Benjamin Frayser and Anita F. Benedetti

Auburn Church Basement

12:00 – 1:00 PM – Ladies’ Tea with Mrs. Garfield (Anita F. Benedetti) and guests

Pavilion on the Apple Butter Green

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Musical Performance: The Raccoon County Ramblers

Century Village Grounds

10:30 AM – The Life of a Young Officer — presented by Jack Stilliton (Apple Butter Green)
11:30 AM – Guided Camp Tour with Major General James A. Garfield — portrayed by Benjamin Frayser
1:30 – 2:30 PM – CIVIL WAR BATTLE

Special Exhibits and Features (All Day)

160 Images of Abraham Lincoln — Lennah Bond Activity Center
James A. Garfield on Postage Stamps — Depot
Community Book Exchange — Apple Butter Green near the Sutler Tent

Highlights of the Venue

Century Village Museum replicates a 19th-century Western Reserve village, with restored buildings like a general store, church, schoolhouse, and homes that reflect life during the Civil War era.
The reenactments often involve local history, emphasizing Geauga County’s role in the Union war effort and the abolitionist movement.

When to Visit

The Civil War reenactments are typically scheduled during annual events like a Civil War Encampment Weekend or specific history-themed festivals. It’s best to check the Geauga County Historical Society or the Century Village Museum’s website for up-to-date schedules.