The Civil War is Coming Back to Canton, South Dakota This Weekend

If you are looking to take a trip back in time and experience history firsthand, a major regional event is returning to Lincoln County this weekend.

After shifting to a biennial schedule, Canton Civil War Days is back for the first time in two years. The two-day living history event takes place Saturday, August 15, and Sunday, August 16 on a sprawling 20-acre site located along North Bridge Street on the western edge of Canton, South Dakota.

Whether you are a local history buff or looking for a unique outing with the family, the weekend promises an immersive look into what life was like during the 1860s.

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What To Expect At Canton Civil War Days

Reenactor groups from across South Dakota, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, and Missouri will converge in Canton to recreate authentic Civil War camp life and tactical battle scenarios. Spectators will hear the thunder of artillery, see marching formations, and smell the gunpowder in the air during the live battle reenactments.

Beyond the battlefield action, attendees can walk directly through authentic Union and Confederate infantry camps to visit with reenactors and ask questions about 19th-century soldier life.

Crafts, Lectures, And Activities For All Ages

The event goes far beyond military maneuvers, highlighting everyday homesteading and craftsmanship in the Dakota Territory:

Artisans & Demonstrations: Watch live demonstrations of blacksmithing, tinkering, spinning wheel operation, and work by Master Tinsmith Christian Hagemann.
Educational Lectures: Guest speakers will give presentations throughout the weekend at the venue tent, focusing on homesteading, regional history, and the era's impact.
Kids' Activities: Young historians can check out a toy soldier diorama and paint their very own toy soldier to take home (supplies provided).
Saturday Night Dance: A free Civil War dance open to the general public will take place Saturday evening from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

Food vendors will also be on-site throughout both days.

Event Details At A Glance

Dates & Times:
- Saturday, August 15: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday, August 16: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Location: North Bridge Street (adjacent to Bridge Road) on the western edge of Canton, South Dakota.
Admission: $5 per person. Please note: Admission is cash only.
More Information: You can view full schedule updates and details on the official Canton Civil War Days website.

LOOK: 10 Reasons to Visit the South Dakota Badlands

Returning from a weekend trip to Rapid City, South Dakota for state basketball tournaments we decided to visit the Badlands National Park.

A quick turn-off I-90 will take you into some of the most awe-inspiring scenery.

It's also fun to note that several big-screen movies were filmed in the Badlands. Dances With Wolves, Starship Troopers, Armageddon, and most recently, Academy Award winner, Nomadland.

It's a spectacular park with tons to do. If you're setting out on a hike, bring lots of water and sign the hikers' logs at the trailheads. It could save your life. It's a tough place to survive.

Here are 10 facts about the Badlands:

Gallery Credit: Danny V

Categories: Andy and Christine In The Morning, Articles, Newsletter