2nd Wisconsin Civil War Encampment
The 2nd Wisconsin takes great pride depicting and honoring one of the greatest Union regiments to take the field, the “Iron Brigade.” The unit was involved in famous battles such as Bull Run, Brawner’s Farm, Antietam, and Gettysburg, suffering some of the highest casualty rates in the Union Army. At Heritage Hill they will bring these stories to life with hands-on interactions so visitors can experience first-hand what life was like in the war-torn 1860s. Visitors will have the chance to drill like a soldier, see what life was like for women and children on the home front, and ask questions. Youngsters can take part in a scavenger hunt and baseball game while adults observe 19th century camp cookery and military trials.
The 2nd Wisconsin was originally founded in 1960 to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Civil War and with the purpose of preserving American Civil War heritage through reenacting the life of a soldier from Wisconsin between 1861-1865. In 1990 the unit was reestablished as a result of a general rekindling of interest in Civil War history. Membership currently tops over 125 members and continues to grow. With the use of authentic-style uniforms and equipment, along with drills, battles, and camp life portrayals, members help the general public become more aware of what life would have been like for soldiers and families during that time. Currently the group participates in a number of school programs, parades, cemetery dedications, and living history reenactments across the Midwest.
- September 13, 2025 @ 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
- September 14, 2025 @ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
General admission applies and may be purchased day-of. Reminder that members are FREE! To become a member or learn more, click here.