Dexter Area Historical Society Plans Civil War Re-enactment

The will bring history to life June 10 during Civil War Days at Gordon Hall. The event will include an encampment, live music and family activities.

“The event is for the community,” chairwoman Donna Fisher said. “It is going to be a quality event and an historic event that will meet the needs of young and old.”

In addition to recreating a sense of history for Dexter residents, the Historical Society hopes proceeds from Civil War Days will pay off the $350,000 mortgage that remains on the property. Once the mortgage is paid, the society can concentrate on renovating Gordon Hall, the one-time residence of Dexter’s founder, Samuel Dexter.

“We are currently using both Gordon Hall and the historical museum, and we do not have the volunteer base to run both,” said Bill Campbell, society president. “Our goal is to get into one location.”

Campbell said the society received a $10,000 grant from the James A. and Faith Knight Foundation at the beginning of February to begin restoration of Gordon Hall.

He said that with the planned renovations, the society hopes it can offer a wedding space year-round as well as being able to rent out for other events such as business meetings.

Fisher said she is excited about the upcoming Civil War Days and promises plenty of affordable fun for families. Most of the fundraising is expected to take place at a dinner planned for June 11. Tickets for the dinner and auction cost $125 and can be purchased by calling 734-426-2519.

Fisher said volunteers from the community are needed to help make Civil War Days a success. 

“An event of this magnitude requires many varieties of volunteer assistance," she said. "We have a place for everyone who has an interest in helping," she said.

For more information or to volunteer, e-mail cwdagh@gmail.com or visit dexermuseum.org/civilwardays/home.html.