MI 16th Infantry Civil War Re-enactors, Fort Macki

It’s a relatively little-known fact that Fort Mackinac was involved in the American Civil War.  This historical Michigan landmark witnessed no combat, but it was used as a prison by the Union Army and held three prominent confederate sympathizers.  In the middle of September, a group of 16th Michigan Company reenactors depicting the Stanton Guard and the 3rd U.S. Infantry will be hosted in Mackinac Island’s famous Fort Mackinac.

When it was used as a prison by the Union Army, it once held three recognized Confederate sympathizers: Washington Barrow, a member of the Confederate Senate, Josephus Conn Guild, a politician who had favored armed resistance, and William G. Harding, a plantation owner. The Stanton Guard unit, which received its name from Secretary of War Edwin Stanton, was recruited for the specific purpose of guarding these prisoners.

The 40 plus men and women dressed in Civil War era attire will portray this Civil War useage of  Fort Mackinac.  The 16th Michigan Company reenactors who will recreate this period come from the Michigan Living History Educational Association, which is coordinated by Gary A. VanRiper.
At this popular mid-September event for true history buffs, the reenactors will give hourly history lectures, perform various skits, and welcome any questions visitors may wish to ask about life at Fort Mackinac during the Civil War. There will also be a ladies' fashion show which showcases the trends of the era. The reenactors will also be part of the regular daily programs held by Fort Mackinac interpreters.

Come and experience a unique period in American history in one of the most well-preserved historical forts in the entire midwest.  The 16th Michigan Company reenactors experience is  included in daily admission to Fort Mackinac. Admission costs $10.50 for adults and $6.50 for youth ages 5-17. Children 4 and under and Mackinac Associates are admitted free of charge.

To find out how to reserve your spot for this encounter, visit http://www.mackinacparks.com
 

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