What was life like behind the front lines of the Civil War?
An educational and engaging event will answer that question July 12 at the Heritage Village of the Southern Finger Lakes.
“Blacksmiths & Bluecoats: Life Behind the Lines of the Civil War,” will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Heritage Village at 59 W. Pulteney St. in Corning.
Guests will have the opportunity to mingle with re-enactors, explore the General’s quarters and stroll through an authentic Civil War encampment featuring a supply wagon, according to Soni Lacey, operational manager at Heritage Village. Additional attractions include hearth cooking demos, a scavenger hunt, guest speakers, children’s activities, and more.
Lacey said the New York State Designer Blacksmith Guild will have multiple forges set up to conduct demonstrations throughout the day, including utilizing a Civil War replica forge, highlighting traditional blacksmithing techniques.
Visitors can witness the art of forging and shaping iron, with live demonstrations on drawing out iron, bending various shapes, twisting, slitting, punching holes, and forge welding.
Five forges will be in operation, with blacksmiths creating a variety of items such as kitchen utensils, hardware, and tools, Lacey said. Participants can even try their hand at forging a small salt spoon or an ‘S’ hook.
Food and beverages will be available for purchase throughout the day. Kids 17 and under are admitted free, with a $5 charge for adults.
This article originally appeared on The Leader: What was life like during Civil War? Corning event will feature reenactors, demonstrations
Reporting by Jeff Smith, Corning Leader / The Leader
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
