Remembering the second battle of Manassas, Va. during the Civil War was a blast from the past -- with cannons.
I was reminded of the festivities when I heard and felt the earth shaking BOOM of artillery across the street from my office on Friday. Historic Liberia House was in full reenactment mode.
A visit to the restored building and grounds brought reflection of how life had been and how life had changed. The historic home looked like the Weir family had stepped out for moment to tend to their farm. It was hard to believe that beyond the tree-lined property was the massive traffic flow of Northern Virginia.
The on-site cemetery was guarded by an old fence and wounded tree.
Intrigued, we wondered to old town to get a twilight tour of the Confederate Cemetery in Manassas. Many city founders, mixed with unknown Civil War soldiers, are buried there.
It was eerie when the guides explained that many coffins had bells in them. Military members feared they would be buried alive. The bells would alert the living to dig them up.
The south can put on a good show with authentic costumes, music, and balls. Tents and gear dotted any available grassy area in the city.
Old Town Manassas merchants welcomed visitors with great food, live music, and gifts.
At night, the cannons were quiet but the town had music swirling through the streets from the Harris Pavilion's Blue and Gray Ball to the City Square Cafe's entertaining toe-tapping solo guitarist.
Share your experiences if you visited any Civil War happenings this summer.
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