The McCulloch County Historical Commission is putting together a two-day living history event to celebrate the county’s frontier heritage. On April 17-18, Richards Park in Brady will be the campsite for military and civilian living historians and reenactors, primarily from the Texas Forts Trail region.
The event is MCHC’s response to a Texas Historical Commission suggestion that county commissions design observances to commemorate the Civil War Sesquicentennial.
A search into the past revealed that early McCulloch County settlers were more involved with the daily realities of surviving than they were in matters of national or regional concern. Most of them struggled with protecting themselves and their property from Indian attack and other lawlessness. Not formed until 1856, the county did not even send a representative to the 1861 Secession Convention. During the war, it continued to be a raw place on the edge of the frontier where self-preservation was the order of the day.
McCulloch County Early Days has been designed to celebrate the county’s frontier heritage before, during and after the war. There will be military and civilian living history demonstrations, including performances on Saturday by the well-known Sahawe Indian Dancers from Uvalde. A vintage baseball game is to be played Friday afternoon and there are authentic games and activities for youngsters both days. Also scheduled for Saturday is an antique car show as well as exhibits and displays by local organizations and businesses. A variety of food and beverages will be sold.
On Saturday afternoon, the venue will move to the restored historic courthouse where presentations will be made by Texas Forts Trail representatives and local historians and artifact collectors. The Brady High School History Club will present a ceremony in commemoration of the Civil War dead buried in McCulloch County cemeteries.
The schedule of events begins on Friday, April 17 (9:00 – 3:00) with living history presentations to McCulloch County students at Richards Park with the site remaining open to the general public until 6:00. On Saturday, the Richards Park site will open from 9:00 – 2:00. Activities at the courthouse will begin at 2:45.
Calendaring of the event coincides with peak “bluebonnet and wildflower” season. With the recent spring rains, the highways leading into McCulloch County should present spectacular views.
Admission to all events is by donation. All proceeds will be used for the preservation of McCulloch County historical and cultural resources. For additional information, call KJ Hallmark at 325-597-4123, Marilyn Waller at 325-597-2438, or E-mail [email protected].
