Civil War reenactors gather at Headquarters House Museum grounds for the 2022 Battle of Fayetteville commemorative observances. (Provided/Washington County Historical Society)FAYETTEVILLE — The Battle of Fayetteville observance returns April 15 with a reenactment to commemorate the 160th anniversary of the Civil War battle. The event is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the grounds of Headquarters House Museum at 118 E. Dickson St. The Washington County Historical Society sponsors the annual event, which was revived last year after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic.
The battle, which took place April 18, 1863 in downtown Fayetteville, was one of the last major engagements of the Civil War in Northwest Arkansas.
The highlight of the event is the reenactment of portions of the battle, which will take place at 1 p.m. on Dickson Street in front of the museum grounds. Throughout the day, living historians dressed in mid-19th century attire and military uniforms will be on the grounds, and visitors will have the chance to witness musket and artillery demonstrations.
Various speakers are set to appear, including Bella Vista artist Daniel Hoffbauer, who will discuss his painting “Action at Fayetteville” that depicts the battle in progress. Additionally, Gary Johnson, author of Bloody Ozarks, will sign copies of his book, and David Myers will demonstrate Civil War medicine and medical techniques.
Mayor Lioneld Jordan will open the day by reading a proclamation and firing a cannon after an honor guard presents the colors. The events will end at 3:30 p.m. with a reading of the names of those lost in the battle, followed by a volley of musketry and the cannon. The playing of “Taps” will conclude the program around 4 p.m.
Admission is free, and the historical society’s bookstore will be open inside the museum.
