Living Historians to descend on Jefferson for the 25th annual Battle for Jefferson set for May 2-4, 2025!
The Historic Jefferson Foundation, in partnership with Cypress River Ranch, local stakeholders and the Trans-Mississippi Volunteer Infantry, is pleased to present the 25th annual “Battle for Jefferson” Civil War Re-enactment, May 2-4, 2025!
Period encampments will again transform Jefferson’s Historic Riverfront District and surrounding neighborhoods during the Jessie Allen Wise Garden Club’s 78th Annual Pilgrimage and Tour of Homes.
The weekend kicks off on Friday, May 2, as camps emerge throughout the town and sutlers begin selling their wares on Polk Street next to Auntie Skinner's Riverboat Club. Re-enactors and spectators may register or purchase event tickets at headquarters located in The Jeffersonian Institute at 120 East Austin Street.
The first event starts at 9:00 am with a living history featuring military and civilian reenactors who will educate area students on various aspects of the Civil War and life during the 19th century. The 2024 event was well received by hundreds of students, teachers, and presenters alike and is a study trip not to be missed! Spots are limited, so RSVPs are required.
At 7:30 pm, take a twilight stroll through the historic Oakwood Cemetery to visit the graves of Union and Confederate troops illumined by candlelit luminaries. This moving commemoration pays homage to the men who fought during the war and died during Jefferson’s Reconstruction period.
On Saturday, May 3, gunfire will ring out in the streets of Jefferson during the town skirmish following the Pilgrimage Parade at 10:00 am. In this “what if” scenario, Union General Nathaniel P. Banks and his men will take the Bayou City and declare martial law. Will the Southern army succeed in taking her back and win the day? Be sure to be on Austin Street to find out!
Following the parade and town skirmish, make your way over to The Jeffersonian Institute for a presentation by the renowned Pleasant Hill Quilters of Linden, TX, on the “Secret Codes of the Underground Railroad.” At this engaging event, visitors will learn about the incredible struggle of enslaved people’s journey to freedom through stories, quilts, and songs.
At 2:00 pm, ladies can enjoy an afternoon tea complete with a plethora of tasty delicacies and entertainment in the New Orleans-style courtyard of The Jeffersonian Institute. Period dress is encouraged but not required.
The thunder of cannons will roll down the Big Cypress at 4:00 pm as the 1st Battle for Jefferson commences at nearby Cypress River Ranch! Stake your spot on a grassy knoll overlooking the meadow below as Union and Confederate troops vie for victory. This event depicts a full-scale battle featuring infantry, artillery, and cavalry maneuvers. The visitor experience is sure to be enhanced by the use of pyrotechnics and a radio play-by-play from Civil War historians, who will share valuable insights on 19th-century warfare.
After the dust settles and the smoke clears, reenactors and visitors are encouraged to freshen up, enjoy dinner in town, and continue the festivities at the Muskets and Magnolias Grand Ball at The Jeffersonian Institute at 8:00 pm. The ball will feature the dulcem melodies of the Sweet Song String Band. Ever wished you could be in the dance scene of Gone With The Wind? Well, here’s your chance! If you don’t know the steps, no problem! The dance master and caller will walk you through the Grand March, Virginia Reel, Polkas, and more. Light food and refreshments will be served. The Ball is open to the public – period or formal attire required.
Bugles and church bells will be heard on the morning of Sunday, May 4 as reenactors and visitors assemble to attend a period church service in the sanctuary of the historic Cumberland Presbyterian Church at 9:00 a.m. Pastor James Wedgeworth will lead worship and deliver the sermon. Period hymns will be played on the church’s original Mason & Hamlin organ.
At 10:00 a.m., just across the street, reenactors portraying Duke’s Company of the Jefferson Guards will form up for the “Presentation of Colors” in front of Christ Episcopal Church. This is an actual re-enactment of Fannie Benners and the women of Christ Church giving a flag to the Jefferson Guards before they went to war. The presentation features the roll call of the troops, presentation, period music, and a reception following the ceremony.
The event weekend concludes with a final, action-packed battle at Cypress River Ranch at 1:30 pm.
We welcome you to Jefferson for a memorable, family-friendly weekend that you won’t regret!
For more information and to purchase advance tickets, please visit www.battleforjefferson.com and follow us on Facebook
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