2019 Dollinger Farm Civil War Reenactment
The 22nd Annual Dollinger Farm Civil War Reenactment on October 20-21, 2018 at Dollinger Family Farms in Channahon, Illinois has grown to one of the best in Illinois. Over 500 reenactors participate in this annual event. Relive history at the Dollinger Farm Civil War Reenactment as you experience the sights, sounds and smells of war. There are live horses, booming cannons, and spectacular battle scenes. Experience a piece of American Civil War History at our “battlefield.” The Dollinger Farm Civil War Reenactment weekend is one that you won’t want you or your family to miss! Cancelled for 2019.
Dollinger Farm Civil War Reenactment
On the third full weekend (Saturday & Sunday) in October, green farm grounds will fill with tents housing Confederate and Union soldiers. An Illinois pumpkin farm will become a Virginia creek on April 6, 1865, or some other famous Civil War Battle and Battlefield that determined the fate of our nation. As thousands of onlookers watch hundreds of reenactors armed with rifles and cannons portray carefully choreographed battles of the Civil War.
Preparing for the Battle Reenactment
Before the Saturday afternoon battle commenced up the hill at the farm, Union infantrymen prepare for what they know will be a long march to the battlefield and a tough battle. They pack up their ammunition pouches and fill their knapsacks with food and gear. As in the days of the real battle, infantrymen never knew where they would end up following the battle, so they carried everything with them, including bedding.
While they prepared themselves, women and children lined the gravel path wearing period clothing, waiting to cheer on the soldiers as they marched past. It was a tradition of the time to support the men and see them off.
Visitors will want to arrive at least 1/2 hour early to walk up the hill to the Battlefield. The Battle scenes are the same on both days, so choose whichever day fits your schedule. Tickets are required for the battle and are available online on the event site (see link at right).
Battle Times
2:00 p.m. – Saturday
2:00 p.m. – Sunday
* Allow at least 1/2 hour to walk up the hill to the Battlefield! Tickets are required for the battle (see below).
Admission
We charge a small entrance fee for the Battlefield Reenactment only. All other Civil War activities are free to the public. (We encourage online purchases by offering a discount of $1 off per ticket.) Day of the Battle Price: $8 for adult (age 12 & older); $6 for child (age 11 & below). Prices are $1 off when purchased online.
Reenactor Registration and Amenities
If you are a reenactor and interested in being part of this event, please use our online registration information, forms, requirements, and schedule. Firewood and straw is provided for the campsites, food for the horses and powder for the battle.
About Dollinger Farms
The farm has been in the Dollinger Family since 1852. It used to be the entire town of Dresden, Illinois, platted in 1836. Grandma’s house (located next to the Bee Barn) was formerly known as Rutherford’s Tavern and served as a stop on the stagecoach line.
Visitors are invited to take a walk through history and visit the old Catholic Cemetery on the hill, a place where many stories rest. This little part of the world also hosts one of the best Civil War Reenactments in the state. With over 500 reenactors, this experience is sure to make you relive a piece of American History.
Location & Contact
Dollinger Family Farm
7420 E. Hansel Road
Channahon, IL 60410
info@dollingerfarms.com
815-467-6766 or 815-467-4698
Mark your calendar today so you don’t miss the next Dollinger Farm Civil War Reenactment on the third weekend in October at Dollinger Family Farms in Channahon, Illinois.
Tags: Dollinger Farm Civil War Reenactment, Minooka Civil War Days, Civil War Reenactment, Dollinger Farm Civil War Days