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June 16, 2008

CONTACT:
Chris J. Gagne
504-255-9171

NEW ORLEANS - Fort Pike State Historic Site will be hosting a living history weekend on Saturday and Sunday, June 21-22, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Slidell Battery's Spaight's Battalion will set-up camp at Fort Pike State Historic Site and demonstrate and discuss the different types of cannons, rifles, handguns and ammunition used, and the purposes and uses for the different types of swords and sabers used during the Civil War-era.

Visitors will also be able to learn about the basic life of the Civil War-era soldier, from the different types of camps and who used them, to the various flags of that time and their meanings, to civilian dress of both men and women. Also demonstrated will be some of the manners and customs of that time, along with some household goods and practices, such as open-fire cooking.

Spaight's Battalion is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to portray the life of citizens and soldiers during the Civil War, as well as to promote and stimulate interest in all aspects of military and civilian life during that time. Their goal is to educate the public on the historical significance of the era, and to honor the memory of the men and women who served and struggled during that period.

Guides in period costumes will conduct Tours of Fort Pike, including information on the history of the Fort and surrounding area. Admission to the site is $2 per person; free for children age 13 and under and for adults age 62 and over. Veterans are admitted free, with their State Park permit. Fort Pike SHS has a picnic pavilion, picnic tables, barbeque grills and recreation area as well as a boat launch, to enhance a visit to the site. Newly renovated restrooms, which are handicap accessible, also are available to visitors.

Fort Pike was the first of the Third System fortifications, built between 1816 and 1867. The fort, along with nearby Forts Jackson and St. Philip, defended the city of New Orleans from nautical assaults. From a staging area during the Seminole Wars to a hard-fought strategic outpost for the Union during the Civil War, Fort Pike has played a integral part in Louisiana's military history. Fort Pike State Historic Site, placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972, is located on U.S. 90 (27100 Chef Menteur Highway) just south of the Rigolets Bridge. For more information on Fort Pike State Historic Site, visit http://www.lastateparks.com or call 888-662-5703.