Shooting the past into the present

A reenactment of America’s bloodiest and socially controversial war took place Saturday at Fairview Park in Costa Mesa, where the Confederate flag flew alongside the American flag.

The event was meant to bring history to life.

“It’s very important, especially in our time of technology when kids are into computers and texting and reading is a thing of the past, by bringing it alive for the children, perhaps we can show that history is a thing of the future as well,” said Alysia Webb, of the 2nd Kentucky Cavalry, fashioned in an 1800s costume.

The American Civil War Society, a nonprofit organization dedicating to preserving the events of the Civil War period through reenactment, put on the event for the second year in a row in Costa Mesa.

Fairview Park’s uneven landscape served as a perfect battleground for the men who reenacted the “Battle of Costa Mesa” while dressed in “period correct” uniforms. With horses and weapons and various attires, some represented the United States and others represented various groups of the Southern states.

Ashley Smithlin, who tagged along with her parents and younger brother, liked watching the horses and the weapons.

The 12-year-old said she told one friend about it and was planning on telling the rest of her friends about what she learned.

City Councilwoman Wendy Leece said the reenactment is a great event to bring people together.

“I love it,” she said taking in the scene at Fairview Park. “I’m a teacher, and I love history.”

Former Mayor Jack Hammett, a Pearl Harbor survivor, was the one to introduce the idea of inviting the Civil War Society to put on a reenactment in Costa Mesa, Leece said.

School children were encouraged to attend and learn about their country’s history and the conditions in which people endured during the Civil War period, 1861 to 1865. Camps with weapons and uniforms, costumes and crafts were set up at the park for residents and children to tour and learn.

“Living history is fun,” said Andy Webb, one of the enactors who took on the role of a lieutenant in the 2nd Kentucky Cavalry unit. “This brings something real, something tangible, something you can touch and experience, instead of something you watch on TV.”

The Battle of Costa Mesa was scheduled to last until 3 p.m. today. The event was free to the public, but donations were accepted.