On Our Own Soil - Fall of '63

October 7 - 11, 2026

In partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Burnsville Lake, WV, Homespun Historical Ventures Inc. is excited to bring you: On Our Own Soil – The Fall of ’63.

CS Forces Represented

19th and 20th Virginia Cavalry (Dismounted)

Overall CS Command: Dick Watters

US Forces Represented

6th and 11th West Virginia Infantry

Overall US Command: Will Debord

A Soldier's Hardship: The March to Bulltown

Step into the shoes of a Civil War soldier and relive history like never before. From Wednesday morning, October 7th to Saturday morning, October 10th, 2026, participants will embark on a transformative journey to experience the grueling reality of life on the march—where endurance, resolve, and camaraderie will define your days and nights.

A Unique and Challenging Experience

This immersive, participant-only portion of the event is designed to test your limits and offer a visceral taste of a soldier's life during the Civil War. Prepare carry only the bare essentials: a knapsack, blanket, and ground cloth. Whether you’re on foot or horseback, the hardships of war will come alive in a way that history books cannot capture.

March with an Army

Stand shoulder-to-shoulder with fellow soldiers as you march with Confederate or Union forces. The rhythmic sound of boots and hooves pounding the ground will echo the journeys of those who came before, as you navigate challenging terrain and feel the weight of exhaustion setting in. The physical and mental demands of a soldier's campaign life will test your endurance and resolve.

Engage in Tactical Maneuvers

Step into the heart of the action. Participate in tactical like, battles and skirmishes that mirror the chaos and precision of war. Infantry and cavalry alike will execute realistic maneuvers, relying on their comrades, training, and coordination to meet the demands of campaign life. Play a critical role in reconnaissance, raiding, and rapid response during the event.

Camp Like a Soldier

Experience firsthand the harsh realities of life in the field. After long marches and patrols, you’ll make camp, sleeping on the ground with only a blanket for comfort. The flickering campfires will become a rare luxury as you settle into the routine of a soldier’s evening, surrounded by the quiet sounds of an army at rest.

Ration and Ammunition Issue

The struggle for supplies was a defining challenge of the Civil War. As part of this experience, you’ll receive 3 days rations and ammunition, forcing you to conserve, plan, and adapt. Each meal and cartridge will remind you of the scarcity soldiers endured daily, sharpening your sense of the logistical realities of war.

Support the War Effort

Soldiers relied heavily on supply lines. During the march, you’ll witness and work alongside mule-drawn supply wagons and pack mules, ensuring the continued operation of your army. From ammunition to rations, every movement of supplies will highlight the effort required to sustain an army on campaign.

A Journey Through Time

The March to Bulltown is not just an event—it’s an opportunity to live history. You will walk the same paths, ride the same trails, and shoulder the same burdens faced by Civil War soldiers over 160 years ago. This challenging and unforgettable journey will deepen your understanding of what it meant to be a soldier on campaign.

This immersive event offers a rare chance to step into the past and test your physical and mental resolve. Embrace the challenge, bond with your fellow soldiers, and leave with a profound respect for the sacrifices made by those who fought before us.

Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to march, ride, camp, and fight like a Civil War soldier. Will you endure the hardship and answer the call?

CS Forces Represented- 19th and 20th Virginia Cavalry (Dismounted)

Click HERE for more info on the 19th and 20th VA Cav

US Forces Represented- 6th and 11th West Virginia Infantry.

Click HERE for more info on the 6th and 11th West Virginia Infantry

The immersion portion of the event (Wednesday thru Saturday morning) sets the stage for - The Battle of Bulltown! This is the spectator portion of the event which takes place on the original battlefield, in the original trenches, in real time. You don't want to miss this!