The Blountsville Historical Society and Clanton’s Brigade of the Forrest Cavalry Corps of reenactors will present the 147th anniversary of the famous five day, 150 mile running battle between Col. Abel Strieght and General Nathan Bedford Forrest this May 1 and 2. Spectator admission will only be $5 per person with ages 5 and under free. Proceeds go toward projects and activities of the society, and have provided funds to develop the historical park with buildings, their stabilization, renovation, or restoration. Three years ago, five acres were purchased by the society to enlarge the city’s Historical Park located on U.S. Hwy 231, two miles north of town.
Making its third appearance at this event will be The 5th Alabama Infantry Regimental Band. It will play before the Saturday 2 p.m. battle and at the Camp Dance that night. A new feature this year will be a post office robbery or jail break by the Covered Bridges Cowboy Action Shooters at noon both days.
The popular Blountsville Hee Haw Gang of musicians will entertain with a Saturday morning stage show, and Sunday morning, there will be a church camp-meeting with preaching. Ebenezer Hearn will be portrayed by historian Dan Fullenwider. Other history lessons will be shared by knowledgeable reenactors around the village. Each porch is to be thought of as a stage, and presentations will occur randomly. As always. the popular sutlers, or merchants under canvas, will be present for Civil War souvenir seekers.
As always, there will be displays in the museum, and a few Saturday evening activities including a Fashion Review of ladies in beautiful gowns escorted by soldiers, which will begin at 5:30 p.m. (There will be no gate charge for the evening activities.)
This is an event for children with parents, history and cultural events buffs, and students. Cameras, picnic chairs or blankets, umbrellas, sunscreen, and walking shoes will make your visit more pleasant. Remind the little ones to keep a distance from moving horses and wagons. Blountsville awaits your arrival!
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