Monsignor Haddad MS Holds Civil War Reenactment

From MHMS: Seventh graders at Monsignor Haddad Middle School (MHMS), located in Needham, MA, recently reenacted the pivotal assault of Pickett’s Charge from the Battle of Gettysburg at Greene’s Field in Needham. The Battle of Gettysburg is regarded as the turning point of the Civil War as after this three day battle The Confederacy would never be able to regain their strength to win the war.

Confederate General George Pickett led his men in this famous charge on Cemetery Ridge as part of Lee’s attempt to attack the center of the Union line. Union soldiers waited as the Confederates marched up the hill, only to annihilate them on the Ridge. Six thousand soldiers, half of Pickett’s Division, were killed in one hour of fighting. Preparation for this reenactment began a few weeks prior as the students visited Gettysburg as part of the seventh grade’s annual Exploratory Week trip to Philadelphia. While at Gettysburg the students could see firsthand where this famous battle was fought, and better envision what it would’ve been like to be a soldier on either side. After returning home the students are assigned roles as either Union or Confederate soldiers, or even General Lee or Colonel Chamberlain. St. Joseph Parish Deacon Paul Wargovich assumed the role of military chaplain and administered last rites to the “fallen.” The presentation concluded with a reading of the Gettysburg Address.

“The 7th grade’s study of the Civil War is a uniquely immersive experience,” commented social studies teacher Ms. Emily Spence. “On our field trip to Gettysburg the students learn about the events of the battle, and actually get to stand in the spots where the fighting took place. Upon our return, they assume the roles of those involved in the battle and reenact the events the final day. Students have the opportunity to connect to a Civil War soldier and imagine how they felt- the pride of fighting for one’s home and beliefs and the fear and great sense of loss that comes with war. This is a valuable experience because students develop analytical skills and relate to the past. They can form informed opinions about the events from history by understanding multiple perspectives.”

Image Via MHMS