2018 Blue & The Gray Civil War Reenactment in Moorpark

The Blue & The Gray Civil War reenactment in Moorpark, March 17 and 18, provides a snapshot of the most turbulent time in U.S. history. Now in its 17th year, the event will take place at Hitch Ranch (100 West High St., Moorpark, entrance adjacent to the Moorpark Post Office). Hundreds of reenactors from all over the country come to Moorpark each year to participate.

Visitors will see four battle reenactments (with cannon and musket fire), Abraham Lincoln delivering the Gettysburg Address, solider and civilian "sutler" encampments, the Confederate army surrendering to the Union army and period dancing and music. The featured battle this year is the Battle of Gettysburg. The battles take place in the hills above Moorpark in a natural setting without telephone lines, buildings or other modern intrusions.

Presented by the Rotary Club of Moorpark, the event is designed to educate the public about the historical significance of the Civil War and its effect on the United States including the abolishment of slavery.

"If we forget the mistakes of the past we are bound to repeat them. The more we learn and understand our country's history, the better we can be as a nation today," says Dale Parvin, Rotary event chair. "It's one thing to read about history in a book. Those who attend the reenactment come away inspired. It's a completely different experience."

The Rotary Club also hosts a program for eighth graders within the Moorpark Unified School District on the Friday before the event. "Eighth grade students are studying U.S. history so this is a perfect opportunity for kids to see part of that history come to life," says Parvin. "Fifth graders are also studying U.S. history so the reenactment fits into their curriculum too."

Reenactors take their roles seriously. Thousand Oaks resident Ed Mann has been a reenactor for more than 27 years. He participates in reenactments throughout southern California and is responsible for coordinating the reenactors who come to Moorpark. "I've been a big history buff all my life, especially American history," says Mann. "The Civil War was an extraordinary part of our history. We try to recreate the sights, sounds and smells of the era."

A variety of food and craft vendors will be on hand. Many craft vendors will be offering Civil War-themed items.

Reenactment hours are 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. both days. Parking $5 per car. A free shuttle will take visitors from the parking lot to the event site. Admission: $20/adults (online, $22 at the gate), $15/ages 6 through 17 (online, $17 at the gate), free for ages 5 and under. Bleacher seats: an additional $4 per person per battle. Discount packages are available online. For more information: go to www.MoorparkCivilWar.com, CivilWar@MoorparkRotary.com, 805-279-5253.