Learn about life during the American Civil War in southwest Arkansas
WASHINGTON – The Civil War was one of the most trying times in our nation’s history. As we commemorate America 250, come learn about the impact of the American Civil War in southwest Arkansas.
Participate in Civil War School Days at Historic Washington State Park with your school group on Friday, November 6 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Turn back the clock to the years of the war and see a town engulfed in a war that put brother against brother with a variety of immersive programs. Call to preregister your students at 870-983-2684.
On Saturday, November 7, Historic Washington State Park, in partnership with the Nevada County Depot Museum, will host “Civil War Weekend: Remembering the Struggles that Made a Nation,” a look at the many aspects of life during the bloody, costly years of the Civil War.
The day will begin with a reenactment of the Skirmish at Prairie D’Ane Battlefield at 11 a.m. This was the closest battle to Washington, Arkansas, that took place in 1864. The reenactment will take place on a portion of the original battlefield located at 2243 Hwy 19 North in Prescott off Interstate 30 at Exit 46. There will be an admission fee of $10 per vehicle to view the battle. Military encampments will be available for visitors to view. For more information visit https://www.thedepotmuseum.org/2026civilwarweekend.
Following the morning battle, “Town in Conflict” will begin at 1 p.m. at Historic Washington State Park about life on the home front in southwest Arkansas. Visitors will experience life for civilian refugees, 19th century burial and mourning customs, military camps and drills, Civil War era medicine, community hospital, and 19th century political issues. The day will conclude with a Civil War Period Ball at 7 p.m. Admission for Historic Washington State Park events is $10 per adult and $6 per child (ages 6-12).
Williams Tavern, located at Historic Washington State Park, will be open for lunch from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
For more information, contact the park visitor center at 870-983-2684 or visit www.HistoricWashingtonStatePark.com.
