BROOKSVILLE RAID Civil War Reenactment

Video, images and story by Rob Baynard, editor at large of DowntownSaintPete.com.

Jan. 15, 2011 – The two-day 31st annual Brooksville Raid Civil War reenactment started today at Sand Hill Scout Reservation in Brooksville, Fla.

The New York and New Jersey regiments of the northern army won the first battle today, but both camps said that the south will rise again to win tomorrow.

Over 1500 participants gathered at the largest and oldest Civil War reenactment in Fla. There were soldiers packing their rifles, doctors and nurses to care for the wounded, and even a chaplain to lead the troops in prayer before battle.

Sutlers peddled their wares, with everything from 19th century apparel to classic rifles, swords and throwing knives.

Elegant period gowns were seen scattered throughout the camps and spread out on the lawn to watch their men fight and die for their side.

Tickets for adults were $6.00, and visitors could get a batch of fry bread and an old fashioned root bear for around $10.00. Don’t expect the reenactors to break character to appease the bystanders. Watch what camp you walk into if you’re not rooting for their side!

PHOTOS PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT

(digital files available by contacting media@downtownsaintpete.com)

For more on Civil War reenactments, visit these links:

Brooksville Raid Reenactment
Civil War Reenactors
Civil War Reenactors of Fla.
Gettysburg Reenactment

Civil War Links:

CivilWar.org
CivilWar.com
Civil War Florida
Florida Reenactors Online