July 28, 2008

In the flickering light of a candle lantern, a young woman in 19th-century work garb speaks of camp gossip and events she has witnessed since coming to Fort Wilkins a year ago, in 1869. "It ain't the snow, but the isolation that can be the death of you," she tells a 21st-century visitor. "Morale is so bad these men are at sword's point with each other."

The drama of living history will rekindle the past at Fort Wilkins Historic State Park in Copper Harbor on Saturday, Aug. 9, 7:30 to 10 p.m., as the park presents "Fort Wilkins by Candlelight." Admission is by state park motor vehicle permit.

Hosted by the Department of History Arts and Libraries' Michigan Historical Center, the Department of Natural Resources' Parks and Recreation Division, and the Fort Wilkins Natural History Association, "Fort Wilkins by Candlelight" will feature costumed interpreters including "President and Mrs. Abraham Lincoln," children's games and candlelit visits to an officer's parlor, a married enlisted man's quarters, hospital and fort headquarters. Topping it all off, the Natural History Association will serve light refreshments by candlelight in a restored 1844 mess hall, offering visitors a taste of army life as it was more than 160 years ago.

Headlining the event from the porch of the officers' quarters, "President Lincoln" ? portrayed by Fred Priebe, a professional actor from Belleville, Mich. ? will address the national issues that challenge his administration, demonstrating patriotism, leadership and character that became hallmarks of his presidency.

Throughout the evening, Fort Wilkins' interpretive staff will recreate life at a Lake Superior outpost through the dramatic costumed portrayals of an army laundress, private, officer's wife and 2nd lieutenant. Meanwhile, members of The Future Historians, a youth auxiliary of the Michigan Iron Industry Museum in Negaunee, will portray children in the military community and demonstrate kids' activities of the day.

"Each role is based on the lives, attitudes and daily tasks of actual men, women and children stationed at Fort Wilkins during the summer of 1870," said Barry James, an education specialist with the Michigan Historical Center. "The information they present, the look of their clothing and their manner of speech are all based on extensive historical research."

Now in its 33rd season, the award-winning "role playing" interpretive program has provided a living-history experience to more than 3 million Fort Wilkins visitors.

Fort Wilkins Historic Complex, including the restored fort, the Copper Harbor Lighthouse and the 1844 Pittsburgh and Boston Mining Company mine sites, is administered by the Department of History, Arts and Libraries in cooperation with the Department of Natural Resources. The nationally accredited outdoor museum is open daily from 8 a.m. until dusk through mid-October. Admission is by state park permit. A fee is charged for the lighthouse boat tour. For current lighthouse boat schedules and ticket information about the Fort Wilkins by Candlelight event, call (906) 289-4215 or visit www.michigan.gov/ftwilkins.

The Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL) is dedicated to enriching quality of life and strengthening the economy by providing access to information, preserving and promoting Michigan's heritage and fostering cultural activity. In addition to the Michigan Historical Center, HAL includes the Library of Michigan, the Mackinac Island State Park Commission and the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs. To learn more, visit www.michigan.gov/hal.

Read more press releases from the Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL).