‘Civil War History Day’ June 20 in Smithville

Many today do not think much about the involvement of Smithville in the Civil War, but if you take time to visit any of the village’s three historic cemeteries, you will learn of the community members who fought for the country.

On Saturday, June 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Smithville Community Historical Society will present “Civil War History Day” at the Pioneer Village.

Several Civil War re-enactors will depict what a day in the life of a soldier was like during the Civil War. Some of the presenters will be a group from the 41st OVI Infantry, which will perform drills on the field behind the Irvin Pioneer Log Cabin. They will share a variety of perspectives of the Civil War and have displays in the buildings, tents, tables and more.

In Smithville, the Presbyterian Church Cemetery has two Civil War veterans, Old Lutheran Church Cemetery has three Civil War veterans and Old Order River Brethren Church Cemetery has seven Civil War veterans who have been laid to rest there. Maps are available at the Downey Pioneer Visitors Center and the Heritage Center.

The Smithville Stars Vintage Base Ball team also will play at the old school grounds across the street from the Church of God at 11 a.m., 12:15 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. This location gives the fans and players better shade under some old trees.

All of the buildings at the Pioneer Village and the Mishler Weaving Mill will be open for extended hours. Craftsmen will display their crafts, and hosts will tell the story of each building at the Pioneer Village. At the Mishler Weaving Mill, weavers will be busy creating items on the looms. All items made at the village and mill are available at the Gift Shop at the Mill.

Additionally, the Akron Area Model-T Museum will be open, and the Heritage Center will have displays of the Mishler family items — cameras and pictures taken by Dan Mishler — and many new items from the Irvin family collection.

Social distancing guidelines and health and safety recommendations will be followed, and all those attending are encouraged to do the same.

There will be a wide range of other activities and events being hosted by local businesses to enjoy throughout Smithville.