The historic mining camp of Virginia City, Nevada celebrates the Civil War every Labor Day weekend. The sesquicentennial of the beginning of the Civil War has prompted a fuller offering of Civil War-related events September 2 through 5, 2011. Visitors may view re-enactors at field camps, parades, battle demonstrations, train hold-ups, a Victorian high tea, Victorian dance, and this year, the staged reading of the epic Stephen Vincent Benet poem, John Brown’s Body with professional cast. The weekend provides fine family fare that educates as well as entertains. The historical background to Civil War events, as well as the reality of the soldier’s life, create a well-rounded vision of this defining moment in American history.
The Comstock Civil War re-enactors are the only regional group to use cannons in their staged battles and have partnered with the Virginia and Truckee Railroad to create a hold-up and ensuing battle with Confederate and Union troops. Guests can watch from the train (Adults $22; Children $10) or on the siding. Many events are free. More about Virginia City Nevada
