Civil War Day

Join the re-enactors of Reynolds’ Battery and the 148th New York Volunteer Infantry at Rose Hill Mansion for Civil War Day! The members of Reynolds’ Battery L 1st New York Light Artillery portray the Union troops servicing mounted firearms (cannons) as well as civilians associated with the war effort. Members of the 148th portray that infantry unit mustered in at Geneva’s Camp Swift in September 1862. The reenactors will be stationed on the grounds to explain life in a Union camp and demonstrate activities of daily life. There will be a cannon firing demonstration, an operating reproduction 1848 Battery Forge, a reproduction sutler’s wagon, and opportunities to talk to members of the battery and explore what camp life was like for Union artillery and infantry soldiers.

John A. Reynolds organized the original Reynolds’ Battery in Rochester in the fall of 1861. The soldiers served with the Army of the Potomac through the end of the war and saw action at Antietam, Gettysburg, and many other engagements. The current Reynolds’ Battery is chartered by the New York State Department of Education with the purpose of educating the public about the life of a Civil War artillery soldier. The original 148th NYVI was made up of men from Ontario, Seneca, and Yates Counties. It saw heavy action in 1864 including Cold Harbor and Petersburg.  The current unit was formed in 1962 and is considered the oldest reenacting group in NYS.

The first floor of Rose Hill will be open for a self-guided experience with staff on hand to answer questions about the house. Additionally, civilian and military reenactors will be stationed in the house portraying southern civilians who have had their plantation house seized by Union forces and the Battery commander who has set up headquarters in the house. The Carriage House Gift Shop and exhibits on site will be open during the event. This is a free event open to the public. Donations are appreciated.

Civil War Day is sponsored by KeyBank.