Building people’s interest in history

Hopefully they walk away from the event having learned a few things or maybe wanting to read more books or watch a movie,”

Dave Sielski, Wisconsin Civil War Reenactors

GREEN BAY – Although the Civil War ended more than 150 years ago, its legacy continues to shape our understanding of history, thanks to groups like the Wisconsin Civil War Reenactors.

Originally founded in 1960 as the nation approached the war’s 100th anniversary, the group sought a way to honor soldiers and preserve history within Wisconsin.

Once the anniversary celebrations were over, the group became inactive but started up again in the 1990s.

Group president, Dave Sielski shared that historical education is the main focus of the reenactors.

“There is an entertainment element because we want to make it interesting enough that people get something out of it,” he said, adding that from hardcore history buffs to those who know little about the Civil War, everyone can take away something new.

Their events include full-scale reenactments, living history demonstrations, school presentations, parades and cemetery dedications.

These activities bring history to life, creating a deeper understanding of the Civil War and its impact.

Wisconsin’s connection to the Civil War is significant, with about 11-12% of the state’s population serving in the war.

The Wisconsin Civil War Reenactors aim to educate the public about this legacy and the broader history of the conflict.

“A lot of the public doesn’t know Wisconsin’s role in the Civil War,” Sielski explained, noting connections such as Camp Randall, which served as a Union training ground and later as a Confederate prison camp.

The group welcomes members from all walks of life, ranging from history enthusiasts to families seeking a fun activity.

“Everybody comes from a different background and they just have a love of history,” Sielski said. “You develop a lot of friendships over all the years.”
He added that a few marriages have even come from the group.

Organizing a reenactment involves extensive collaboration with local sites, such as heritage parks or nature preserves.

“Pretty much every event we hold is in association with a site, like Heritage Hill,” Sielski shared. “First, you have to see what kind of site they have as far as what you’d be able to do. Is it a site that has a large enough space to have a battle?”

He added that they don’t need much and a wood source for cooking fires is often enough.

Once the site is confirmed, the group coordinates with artillery units, equestrians and others to make the event as immersive as possible.
Reenactments typically take place between May and October.

Though Sielski admitted the organizational aspects of a reenactment can be less than glamorous, his favorite part of his role is interacting with the public.
“Hopefully they walk away from the event having learned a few things or maybe wanting to read more books or watch a movie,” he said. “The goal is to just build people’s interest in history.”

For more information or to join, visit the group’s Facebook page, “Company E 2nd Civil War Reenactors.”