At Century Village Museum in Burton, history comes to life with two exciting May event
By Mary Malik
Hear ye, hear ye. Century Village Museum in Burton is prepared to transport you back in time to the era of the American Civil War, with a special event taking place on Saturday, May 25, and Sunday, May 26. Century Village, a fully restored Western Reserve Village and 65-acre working farm consisting of 22 historic buildings including historic homes, a church, apothecary, depot, dressmaking shop, general store and one-room schoolhouse, will immerse you in the past for this unique and educational opportunity to experience history coming to life.
“Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family looking for a unique and educational experience, or you’re curious to witness history in action, there’s something here at Century Village for the whole family to enjoy,” says museum curator and archivist Stefanie M. O’Connor. “Visitors will step into the shoes of soldiers and civilians as the reenactors recreate the sights and sounds of this pivotal period in our history. Every detail from the booming cannons to the crackle of the musket fire has been meticulously crafted for an authentic experience you won’t soon forget.”
Visitors can also peruse the more than 250,000 historical artifacts from the 1700s, 1800s and early 1900s and the event includes reenactments of key battles showcasing the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought on both sides of this conflict, along with living historians sharing stories.
“Audience participation is encouraged during the storytelling for a deeper understanding of this defining chapter of our nation’s history,” says Stefanie.
Exhibits, Events and Experiences
Enjoy special performances of “John Brown, The Dulcimer Diaries,” a musical production by Treva Offutt and Craig Matis.
Premiering at the Century Village Museum, this production includes performances recounting the life and death of the abolitionist John Brown. “John Brown, the Dulcimer Diaries” is an original composition of dulcimer music, song and live theater. Other events include:
• Learn about the behind-the-lines struggle to save lives at the Field Hospital.
• Experience the life and times of Civil War encampments of mid-1800s civilians via military and civilian camps.
• Dramatic presentations.
• Settlers with authentic merchandise.
• Food vendors.
• Live music from Raccoon County Ramblers.
• Experience a Civil War battle.
• Enjoy the historic scenery of Century Village grounds.
• Meet Abe and Mary Lincoln and Jefferson Davis.
• Costumed attendance is encouraged.
“This event is a unique opportunity to watch history unfold, honor the past and remember the sacrifices made by those who came before us,” says Stefanie. “Join us for this unforgettable experience.”
Century Village Museum is located at 14653 E Park St, in Burton. For more information on all museum events call 440-834-1492, email info@geaugahistorical.orgor visit the website for registration and further updates, CenturyVillageMuseum.org.
Civil War Event Tickets
Prices for the Civil War Event are as follows: a gate fee of $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 4-10 and free for children ages 3 and under allows access to a full day of activities including historic building tours and exhibits, Geauga County Maple Museum access and daily performances.
Civil War Ball
A Civil War Ball will take place on Saturday, May 25, at 6 p.m. The cost is $25 with period-style attire or $35 general admission without period-style attire. The ball is a separate cost from the gate fees.
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the elegance and grandeur of the Civil War-era at the Civil War Ball hosted at Century Village. Enjoy an enchanting evening filled with period music, dinner, dancing and historical ambiance.
Guests are encouraged to dress in their finest Civil War-era attire, whether southern belle gowns, hoop skirts, military uniforms or dapper suits. This event promises to transport you to a bygone time of grace and refinement.
You can purchase tickets at Eventbrite.com and search for Civil War.