News Summary
Union Army reenactors brought history to life at the Civil War Days event in Spring Mountain Ranch State Park. Attendees learned about the hardships faced by Civil War soldiers, including inadequate supplies and tough living conditions, showcased through immersive reenactments. Brass bands performed patriotic tunes, contributing to the event’s educational atmosphere. The gathering not only honored the sacrifices of ordinary troops but also celebrated Nevada’s admission to the Union, fostering community pride and understanding of this crucial era in American history.
Las Vegas, Nevada – Union Army reenactors marched through the scenic Spring Mountain Ranch State Park during a two-day event titled “Civil War Days in the Battle Born State,” held on October 26-27, 2025. This educational event, organized in part by the Southern Nevada Living History Association, aimed to highlight the challenging conditions faced by soldiers during the Civil War, illuminating the experiences of common troops rather than just the renowned leaders of the time.
The reenactors simulated the hardships Civil War soldiers endured, painting a vivid picture of life on the battlefield that included inadequate supplies and tough living conditions. Organizers like Jason Coffey pointed out that these soldiers often lacked proper tents and had to contend with insects and dampness. This immersive experience allowed attendees to gain a greater understanding of historical sacrifices.
Adding to the atmosphere, brass bands such as the Camp Carleton Cornet Band performed patriotic tunes to uplift troop spirits, a practice that traces its roots back to the Civil War. The band not only played music but also engaged in various activities designed to boost morale among attendees and reenactors alike.
This year marked the 11th annual Civil War Days event, a celebration that featured reenactments of both Union and Confederate camps. Attendees had the opportunity to shop at 19th-century-themed booths and witness simulated battles that included realistic artillery sound effects. The event’s primary goal was to educate the public about Civil War life, focusing on the experiences of ordinary soldiers who displayed remarkable resilience.
Spring Mountain Ranch carries its own historical significance, having been founded by Jim Wilson, who served in the Union Army and was stationed in California. David Low, a park interpreter, remarked on the challenges locals face in connecting with historical narratives amid the rapidly changing landscape of Las Vegas.
Notable participants of the event included Lisa Coffey, who portrayed an officer’s wife, underscoring her enthusiasm for history and the importance of accurate representation. Similarly, reenactor Shelley Peters emphasized the need to convey the sacrifices made during that turbulent period, particularly to younger generations who may not be familiar with these pivotal moments in history.
This event also served as a poignant reminder of Nevada’s admission to the Union on October 31, 1864, during the Civil War. As the 36th state to join, Nevada was one of only two states, alongside West Virginia, to achieve statehood amidst the conflict. The accelerated admission was largely due to President Lincoln’s efforts to secure sufficient congressional support during a critical time for the nation.
The term “Battle Born” embodies Nevada’s resilient spirit, representing its Civil War legacy despite no actual battles being fought on its soil. The nickname “Silver State” originated from the discovery of the Comstock Lode, a rich silver mine that spurred economic development and contributed to Nevada’s statehood.
In addition to the rich historical context, the event took place alongside Nevada Day, celebrated on the last Friday in October to honor the state’s heritage and its ascent to the Union. This yearly observance fosters pride among Nevadans, reinforcing a sense of identity tied to the state’s origins.
Families participating in the Civil War Days event were invited to engage in various activities designed to teach them about the historical aspects of the Civil War, further enriching the community’s understanding of this critical chapter in American history.
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Additional Resources
- Las Vegas Sun
- Las Vegas Review-Journal
- Pahrump Valley Times
- The New Yorker
- News 3 Las Vegas
- Wikipedia: Civil War
- Google Search: Civil War reenactments
- Google Scholar: Civil War history
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Civil War
- Google News: Civil War events
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