Hundreds of re-enactors will recreate the epic conflict of the American Civil War on the broad fields of Pierce College.

Visitors will view exciting cavalry charges, artillery barrages, and infantry assaults that were part of America's watershed event, one that transformed a mere union of states into a nation! Throughout each day, demonstrations and presentations will take place, including Victorian dancing, military drill, and skills and crafts from the era. Historical notables from the past will address all of those present, and President Lincoln will give his famous Gettysburg Address as part of a grand "Living History" program.

After seeing reenactors and historical personages who appear as if they have leaped from the pages of history books, visitors will leave the event with a far better appreciation of the political issues, the aspects of daily life, and the great sacrifices and hardships endured by both sides in this greatest of American conflicts, the consequences of which still affect our country today.

TENTATIVE EVENT SCHEDULE-SATURDAY and SUNDAY
TBA

On behalf of the Pierce College Foundation, I invite you to the Third Annual Pierce College reenactment on April 28-29, 2012.

Last year, many who attended commented to me that this event was the most improved event in one year that they had ever seen. Even more positive changes will be made for the event this year.

First, the battlefield will be planted in barley in February this year. Last year, the planting could not be planted early due to construction that was underway. Only at the 11th hour and with the help of irrigation was the green battlefield possible. This year, we should have a lush green carpet for both the battlefield and the encampment area.

Second, a much greater effort will be made to add breastworks to the battlefield so as to enhance scenarios that are not possible in many reenactment sites.

Third, the Farm Center has been opened up with the movement of structures. The Town Hall now faces Victory Boulevard. The new openness that accompanies this and other changes to the Farm Center will make the entire area more accessible for everyone.

Fourth, an intensified effort will be made with the LAUSD regarding student attendance at the event.

All in all, our event will be dramatically improved even beyond the improvements that were made for the 2011 event.

Why the move to April 28-29? The first weekend in May, May 5-6, is Cinco de Mayo. Getting any kind of coverage from the LA media just won't happen that weekend. Cinco de Mayo will suck the "PR oxygen" from the room. The following weekend, May 12-13, is Mother's Day weekend. Trying to put on a reenactment that weekend is suicidal, both from a reenactor attendance perspective, as well as from a spectator attendance perspective.

Further details regarding this event will be forthcoming in the new year. For now, however, I hope that you will make the Pierce College event an important part of your 2012 reenacting schedule.