CLARKSVILLE, TN − Fort Defiance Civil War Park and Interpretive Center invites the public to experience life in the 1800s during its annual March to the Past event on Saturday, May 10, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Hosted in partnership with The Friends of Fort Defiance, this free, family-friendly event features 19th-century living history demonstrations that bring Tennessee’s Civil War-era past to life. Visitors will encounter Civil War camp life, observe musket firing, watch period cooking demonstrations, and enjoy children’s activities that engage all ages.
New this year, members of the Ladies’ Soldiers’ Friend Society of Nashville will demonstrate traditional sewing techniques, showcasing how women contributed to the war effort and supported soldiers from the home front.
“Living history demonstrations help us understand the past and make it relatable,” said William Parker, Historical Interpreter at Fort Defiance. “During our annual ‘March to the Past,’ we showcase what 19th-century life was like through experiences and interactions with our living history volunteers. Visitors can also tour the earthworks, explore the interpretive center, and ask the historical staff questions about life during the Civil War.”
March to the Past is a unique opportunity to step back in time and engage with local history in an interactive and memorable way. For more information, visit ClarksvilleParksRec.com.