Letters from 1862, with Susan Hynes and Jeff Reiswig were one of the many highlights of the Civil War Weekend at the LeDuc Historic Estate in Hastings. The event was held Saturday and Sunday on the grounds of the estate and featured many interesting historic events and activities. Hynes and Reiswig read actual letters exchanged by William and Mary LeDuc when he was away enlisted, working his way from Captain to Brevet Brigadier General. The letters detailed construction of the LeDuc Estate, which was expected to cost $6,000 to construct in the 1860s and came in with a final price tag of about $30,000.

Linda Louise Bryan of Maplewood played the part of a member of the American Missionary Association, which sponsored missions in Canada for those who had escaped via the Underground Railway. The organization was critical in teaching reading and independent living skills to former slaves. Bryan’s hope is that the community continues to embrace the Civil War Weekend for years to come. “This is one of the best ways for families to experience living history,” she said.

Spencer’s Kitchen – overseen by organizer and Hastings historian Spencer Johnson – put on a feast Sunday afternoon. Johnson’s efforts were fit to keep a Civil War army and event volunteers on their feet.

Hastings Mayor Mary Fasbender read the Gettysburg Address both Friday and Saturday afternoon on the front porch of the LeDuc Historic Estate at the Dakota County Historical Society Civil War Weekend.

Spencer Johnson tended his kitchen as he prepared lunch on Sunday at the Civil War Weekend.

One of the highlights of the day Sunday was seeing this group of Civil War recruits put through the paces. Families were encouraged to “enlist” and participate in a Civil War infantry drill in the “School of the Soldier.” They were sworn into office, shown how to handle their weapon and marched into battle, complete with a commanding officer barking orders.

Terry Norton of Rochester “worked” as a doctor in the medical tent as part of the 3rd Minnesota Regiment. Norton explained the tools used to treat soldiers, many of whom faced amputation when ammunition (shown in bowl on right front) pierced their arms and legs. He said many medical advancements came as a result of the Civil War as doctors experimented with various tools and methods to treat injuries and fight infection.