2010 Events Schedule

Program Information

School in Session

Experience a school classroom out of the 1860s. Visitors will learn about the educational system during this era and may be surprised at how schools managed during these difficult times. Our school teacher will be instructing all eager pupils out of the McGuffy Reader and Speller at the Cedar Creek tent.

 

Music of the Civil War

Music was a vital element in the everyday lives of men and women of the Civil War. Music was sung and played at home, in the camps by the soldiers, performed by regimental bands on the march, and was often played on the battlefield. The more than fifty thousand songs of this era came to express people’s goals, aspirations, fears, and emotional and physical pain. Learn more about the music and the instruments from Marty DeWitt and the "History of Civil War Music".

 

The O’Neill Family Band

Clap your hands and put on your dancing shoes! The "O’Neill Family Band" from Minneapolis, Minnesota will be performing a concert each afternoon on the grounds and providing music for the Grand Ball at the courthouse lawn Saturday evening. All are welcome and encouraged to join in the dancing.

 

Musician Bob Welch

A tall fellow, with a slouch hat and baggy pants, Bob Welch combines storytelling and history to bring songs of the 1860's to musical life.  Bob and his original song, "The Ballad of Jennie Wade" were honored in the "Song of the Year" songwriting competition and featured in the national magazine, "The Gettysburg Companion."  Welch, toting his guitar and banjo, will be performing both days of the event.

 

Jane Austen Tea

 

Celebrating women's history at the CWD will be a tea highlighting the writer Jane Austen (1775-1815). Information about the history of serving tea in the early 1800's and Miss Austen will be presented. During Austen's lifetime her works of Romantic Fiction brought her little personal fame and only a few positive reviews. However through the American Civil War time period, her novels were not only admired by members of the literary elite but also read by young women across the United States. We invite you to join Jane Austen and the custom of serving tea in this lighthearted program.

 

 

 

Dr. Cranium

Ever wonder about your future, your past, or about all those bumps on your head? Visit Dr. Cranium at CWD! By exploring those bumps on your head, he can answer your burning questions and explain the mysteries you always wanted to know, but never knew who to ask.

 

 

Quilt Raffle

You could win a Civil War reproduction quilt! We are raffling off a quilt made by a Pipestone quilter at our Cedar Creek tent.  This type of quilt is similar to what many women would have made for their family during the Civil War. The quilt pattern called “My Old Kentucky Home” is based on a quilt found in Barren County Kentucky and dated to the 1860s. The pattern, from the book “Bonnie Blue Quilts," is also commonly known as the “Churn Dash” set on point.  A scrap quilt, it is made with various reproduction fabrics dated between 1850 and 1865. Tickets also available at the Pipestone Museum. Good luck!

 

Visiting Author

Book sale and signing by Minnesota author, Michael Eckers at the CWD.  A Southern Minnesota resident, he has published two books on the 2nd Minnesota Infantry from the Civil War, the novel "Northern Colors," and non-fiction "The Boys of Wasioja". He also is currently working on a new novel about the 2nd Wisconsin called "Wisconsin Iron". Make sure to stop by and get your autographed copy.

 

Wandering Magician

New in 2010: Magician and conjurer, Jesse Moffit, will be wandering throughout the grounds demonstrating his illusions and amazing the public. Historically, the traveling magician and sometimes rogue traveled from community to community, entertaining the children and occasionally swindling the unsuspecting in a game of three card Monty or playing the shell game.  Beware that he does not engage you in a game of “Three Card Monty”, or you may have to sell your horse to afford the trip back home.

 

Comedy Team

Mason and Dixon, renowned naval historians, but better known for their comedy, will be performing for the first time at CWD in 2010. Their act will not only educate but keep you smiling and laughing for the duration of their performance. You will not want to miss their show and their wit! Performances will be given throughout each day at Sharpsburg Tent at the bottom on the hill.

 

A Weekend with the Lincolns

Abraham Lincoln was president at a pivotal time in American history. While the Union was divided, he made crucial decisions which still impact our nation today. And this weekend, President and Mrs. Lincoln are making a special visit to Pipestone.

The highlight of anyone’s visit will be “An Evening with the Lincolns at the White House” at the Pipestone Performing Arts Center. In this poignant presentation, the Lincolns prepare to leave for Ford’s Theater on April 14, 1965, they reveal much about their lives together, beginning with their courtship, early marriage, and the tumultuous years of the Civil War. They reflect on the Presidency, their lives, and their time in White House.  This program leaves an impression on all who attend. The performance will be at the Performing Arts Center on Saturday, August 14 at 5:30 pm.  Tickets are $3.

Over the weekend at the event grounds, the President will be reviewing the troops, discussing the causes and effects of the Civil War, assessing the battle of Gettysburg, and giving a press conference on the State of the Union during the difficult war years.  The President talks about growing up in a log cabin, how he got his beard, why he wears such a tall hat. He stresses the importance of getting a good education, having respect for the law, and never giving up on oneself. Do not miss this rare opportunity to talk to President and Mrs. Lincoln. The Lincolns visit to Pipestone was made possible by a generous donation from Lange’s Café of Pipestone. 

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