HUMBOLDT Oct. 14, 1861, started out as a typical Monday for Humboldt, then a town of a few hundred souls.
The handful of merchants rose early, likely thinking it would be no different from any other day. They set out their wares, chatted with their friends, and by mid-afternoon were looking forward to wrapping up another day at the office.
Meanwhile, 331 Missouri Home Guard Cavalry, under Col. Talbot, were on a raucous march toward Humboldt seeking revenge for the killing of Capt. John Mathews, who led a Sept. 8 raid on Humboldt for its stance against slavery.
The October attack left Humboldt devastated, businesses and dwellings were torched, 40 families were displaced. It also led to a garrison of Union soldiers in Humboldt for the duration of the war.
ON SATURDAY the raids will be re-enacted at Camp Hunter.
To start the morning off, a grand march at 9 oclock will introduce participants.
At 10:30, is the September raid where eight freed slaves were carried off. The display will include shouts and threats and deadly weapons.
Store fronts, much as they looked in 1861, will be a backdrop for the ruffians.
Then at about 5 p.m., Confederate guerillas will return to burn the town or at least figuratively.
The hosting event is the towns triennial Civil War Days, started in 1994 to recall Humboldts rich Civil War history.
The festival begins at 7:30 Friday evening with a dance at B&W Trailer Hitches. Some participants will come in period dress and will be guided in the intricacies of dancing to mid-1800s music. Spectators are welcome.
Music and presentations unique to Humboldts role in the Civil War will go on throughout the day.
Professor Farquar and Polecat Annie will replicate a period medicine show at 11:15 a.m. and again at 1:15 p.m. In real life the performers of music, rope tricks and magic are Sanford and Mary Kate Lee, of Concordia. The Lees have their presentations down pat, having done better than 5,000 shows over the last 32 years.
Members of the Texas 9th Civil War reenactors will camp at the park through the weekend to give a realistic idea of the day-to-day hardships participants of the war had to endure, living in tents, cooking over open fires and honing other soldiering skills.
Programs will be available to keep spectators on track. Those attending will hear readings of John Brown letters, Lincoln and Davis inaugural speeches and debate, and much more. Childrens games and activities will be available.
