The Battle of Honey Springs Reenactment drew sizable crowds as did Education Day as actors and staff made history come to life over the threeday weekend of events from Nov. 7-9.
Visitors and students from all over the state came out to experience what it was like to live and fight for one’s freedoms decades ago. Activities over the weekend included self-guided tours through the Union, Confederate, and civilian camps, and reenactments on Saturday and Sunday.
On Friday, hundreds of students were bused in to witness military drills and demonstrations as they watched living history programs which brought the Civil War era to life. As students walked through Sutler’s Row, actors and historians explained daily living in a not-so-convenient time and fighting for one’s freedoms to obtain “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” like stated in the Declaration of Independence. Of course there were a number of vendors set up selling snacks, clothes, books, souvenirs, and the reproduction of nineteenth-century military equipment.
On Saturday the weather was nice and sunny as many visitors enjoyed “An Afternoon with General Blunt” and even a Civil War-era dance that evening. However, as typical Oklahoma weather changed to cold and windy on Sunday, many still bundled up to enjoy a Civil War–era church service and the last day of the reenactment.
Honey Springs director Molly Hutchins was more than pleased with the turnout of students, educators, actors and visitors over the weekend. She hopes more individuals become interested in the local history and come out to visit their unique Visitor’s Center that offers a look back into the local history of the state of Oklahoma.
“I am thrilled with the success of this year’s Battle of Honey Springs reenactment!” Hutchins stated. “We are still totaling up the numbers, but I believe we hosted around 1,500 visitors throughout the weekend!
“Our Education Day on Friday welcomed a record breaking 2,500 school children from Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Texas. These kids had the opportunity to visit 13 education stations hosted by experts in the history field.
“We were also able to host over 300 reenactors from 11 different states who all helped us bring the battle of honey springs to life! One of our main goals at honey springs is to make history fun, educational, and accessible to all. And I absolutely love that our reenactment is able to do this for folks from Checotah and beyond.
“Thanks to everyone who attended this year, and we hope to see you back again at the Battle of Honey Springs Reenactment in 2027!”
History of the Battle The Battle of Honey Springs took place on July 17, 1863, just two weeks after the famous battles of Gettysburg and Vicksburg.
Approximately 9,000 Union and Confederate troops, mostly American Indians and African Americans, were involved in the Battle of Honey Springs. Of those, approximately 200 total casualties were suffered.
The 1st Kansas Colored Volunteer Infantry was the first African American unit who fought alongside white soldiers in the Union Army at the Battle of Honey Springs and played a crucial role in fighting for freedom and equality during the Civil War.
After a decisive Union victory, Confederates lost control of Indian Territory north of the Arkansas River. The Union victory also ensured Federal control of Fort Gibson in Indian Territory and Fort Smith in Arkansas.
Honey Springs Visitor Center welcomes guests year round.
