Birmingham Civil War Commemoration Unites Original 4 Communities
BIRMINGHAM (WWJ) - Historical society representatives from Bloomfield, Royal Oak, Southfield, and Troy townships will be gathering together again after 144 years to remember the sacrifices made by Civil War soldiers from their respective communities.
The event begins at 2:00 pm on Sunday, August 7 at Shain Park's Civil War Memorial and will commence with remarks by local officials and the reading of the names by representatives from the four communities.
After a moment of silence, a period musical piece will be played on antique instruments, in honor of those who fell in battle 150 years ago. The public will then be invited to march with the band three blocks to the grounds of the museum at 556 W. Maple Road for the main event-more period music and more old-fashioned family oriented activities.
America's Premier 19th Century Brass Band, The Dodworth Saxhorn Band, will be "Bringing America's Musical Past to Life" from 2 pm to 4 pm. The 17- piece band will treat audiences to the sound of period instruments in a not-to-be-missed performance that will enlighten and entertain. This free event will take place at the porch of the Allen House at the Birmingham Historical Museum and Park. The band will also be including dance music with direction, for those who wish to participate.
In addition, Ray's Ice Cream cones will be available for purchase at the event. Or, for those who want to take their participation to the next level, ice cream cones will be free to anyone in period costume or who brings a home-made 32-star, Civil War era flag. Also on the grounds will be storytelling, other family activities and children's old-fashioned games.
The museum will also be open for admission to the well-received exhibit, Birmingham in the Civil War-Here and There, which features a local emphasis on personal and military artifacts and explores the roles of women during the period, including Martha Baldwin. Museum admission the day of the event is free for children, up to age 17; adults are $5 and seniors are $3.
For more information, contact the Birmingham Historical Museum & Park at 248-530-1928.
