Visitors to the National Apple Museum in Biglerville will have the opportunity to step back more than 160 years this September as the museum recreates a Civil War encampment to simulate the one troops used on the grounds on the way to the Battle of Gettysburg. Join the 5th Texas Company F for a weekend camp site reenactment September 25-27, 2026 on the grounds of the National Apple Museum located at 154 W. Hanover St. in Biglerville. During the Gettysburg Campaign, General Rodes’ Confederate division marched through Biglerville, previously called Middletown, after camping on the Sillik Farm. This is the site of today’s National Apple Museum.
Members of the Fifth Texas Company F will portray Confederate soldiers camping on their way toward the Battle of Gettysburg that took place on the night of June 30, 1863. The event will provide visitors with a glimpse into what life was like for soldiers traveling through the region during the Gettysburg Campaign.
The three-day event kicks-off Friday, Sept. 25, 2026, when the Confederates return to town at 7:00 p.m.
Throughout the weekend, visitors can explore the encampment and see military drills and demonstrations while learning about the equipment, routines, and experiences of Civil War soldiers.
Saturday will feature a full schedule of activities, including soldier demonstrations, crafts, and historical displays. Children can participate in making church pew dolls to take home. Period dresses will be featured. Visitors can learn about Civil War camping, rifles, dresses, and other aspects of life during the period through this immersive experience.
Free tours of the National Apple Museum will be offered Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Attendees can explore its collection and learn about the history of the apple industry in the region. Additionally there will be history talks and fresh baked goods for purchase. There will be patriotic quilts on display.
Special activities are also planned for Sunday, Sept. 26, 2026.
The event is free and open to the public. Visitors will have the opportunity to sign the museum’s America 250 signature quilt by donating $2.50 to the National Apple Museum. The quilt is intended to document the names and participation of community members as the nation commemorates its 250th anniversary. Volunteer organizer, Edy Sarnoff is excited about this 250th Adams County event and encourages visitors to “document your place in history and sign the quilt to benefit the museum’s renovation project.”
For more information about the reenactment and scheduled activities, visit National Apple Museum or follow the museum on Facebook.
Come celebrate America250 and encounter the many historic displays to bring the era to life.
