Retreat Through Williamsport will bring to life a little-known Civil War conflict

“People can definitely get a much more up-close, intimate and loud experience with the soldiers,” Bragunier said.

Throughout the weekend authors and historians will discuss Civil War history. At 10 a.m. Sunday, Gaul will lead spectators as they follow behind re-enactors, wagons and horses on the March to Falling Waters, W.Va.


Re-enactors will read letters from Civil War Confederate and Union soldiers who retreated from Gettysburg, Gaul said, calling it an “unique experience.”

“You’re literally following the steps of these soldiers” Gaul said.

They will follow the C&O Canal to the site where Confederate troops crossed the Potomac to continue their retreat toward Virginia. Participants will have the opportunity to learn what happened during this part of the retreat from Gaul.

The Confederate’s Retreat through Williamsport, including the Wagoneers’ Fight and the March to Falling Waters, is not a well-known event in Civil War history. Bragunier said the Battle of Gettysburg largely overshadows it.

“That’s the purpose of this event: to show that Williamsport was an important part of the Civil War for both sides,” he said.


If you go ...       

WHAT: 149th anniversary of the Retreat through Williamsport

WHEN: 7 p.m. Friday, July 13, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, July 14, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 15

WHERE: Various locations in Williamsport, including Springfield Barn, 9 Springfield Lane, and the C&O Canal National Historical Park at Cushwa Basin at the end of West Potomac Street

COST: Most events are free

CONTACT: For more information, go to www.williamsportretreat.com. For information about participating in the re-enactment, contact Scott Bragunier at 301-573-7364. To reserve a spot on the March to Falling Waters, contact the Williamsport C&O Canal Visitor Center at 301-582-0813.




Retreat Through Williamsport Schedule
 
Friday, July 13
at Springfield Farm

• 7 to 8 p.m. — Journey Through Hollowed Ground webisodes presentation Of the Student, By the Student, For the Student service learning project. Open to the public. Free.
 
Saturday, July 14