Shots could be heard and large clouds of smoke could be seen from the parking lot at the Kern County Museum on April 29.
However, there was nothing to fear. It was merely a reenactment of a Civil War battle put on by the Kern Veterans Memorial Foundation.
The event was “A History of Heroes,” and it was to honor all of the Kern County veterans who have served or are currently serving in the military.
According to Karen Norton, the event coordinator, the funds received at this event were to help build a memorial dedicated to all of the soldiers that have fought from Kern County. The memorial will be located at Truxtun Avenue and S Street.
Those who attended the event were able to enjoy reenactments, historical speakers, living historical displays, food, dancing, and vendor booths.
Some of the reenactments included a Civil War battle, Indian Wars with Buffalo Soldiers, and Spanish American War demonstrations.
The living historical displays included the U.S. Sanitary Commission, which was a group of women that supported the Union soldiers by making and collecting items to send to the soldiers.
Another display was from Oak Street, a civilian town in the 1860s that was partially destroyed in an accidental fire that is said to have started in a drunken brawl.
The display included tents, a large dining table where food was served to “the residents of the Inn,” and a cooking area.
According to Jennifer Rosbrugh, a member of the Historical Citizens Association, which displayed Oak Street, “Because of the fire, the hotel had to put up tents for the guests to stay in, which included many of the townsfolk who lost their homes.”
The event took place on April 28 and 29 and was $10 for general admission per day.