Residents of Medford and its surrounding towns traveled back in time last week during Medford Historical Society’s annual Country Day at Kirby’s Mill.
From noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday, July 14, attendees saw a glimpse of how people lived during the Civil War era.
The event was held at the centuries-old Kirby’s Mill in Medford, where after 50 years of restoration, visitors were able to experience the water-powered millstone grinding corn just like it had since the Revolutionary War. Inside, visitors were able to tour the historic Kirby’s Mill to find the society’s museum collection.
Outside of the building was the society’s collection of historic wagons and buggies spread throughout the grounds.
Black powder rifle demonstrations and presentation of Civil War camp life by reenactors of the 12th NJ Volunteer Infantry were ongoing throughout the event. The 12th NJ Volunteer Infantry was part of the Union Army regiment from New Jersey that fought in the Civil War.
The reenactors set up camp, which included tents – each of which included authentic items of a Civil War soldier – a campfire and command tent. Visitors were welcome to walk through the camp and ask questions of the re-enactors, who were all dressed in authentic Civil War outfits.
The soldiers lined up in an orderly position while the drummer boy stood beside them as they prepared for the black powder rifle demonstrations. Attendees stood no less than 15 feet away when the loud bang of the soldiers’ guns aimed at the sky produced clouds of smoke above them.
Across the street, a blacksmith shop was open for demonstrations and historic information.
Crafters at work included broom maker Sam Moyer of Mount Laurel; basketmaker Inger Bullock of Westhampton; deco carver Ray Nyman of Marlton, along with others.
Even an animal treadmill was operating for attendees to see. An antique hand printing press in the print shop exhibit was available for demonstration, while members of the South Jersey Guild of Spinners and Weavers applied their craft on an antique loom.
Other exhibits included a working demonstration of the big wheel lathe in the cabinet maker’s shop. Refreshments of beverages, ice-cold watermelon and hot dogs were available.
The Medford Historical Society’s next event is its Annual Art Show and Sale at Kirby’s Mill located at 275 Church Road at Fostertown Road in Medford on Sunday, Aug. 4. The show will begin at 11 a.m. and will conclude at 4 p.m.
