Department of Tourism
Lost River Cave & Valley to Host Civil War Reenactment

Court marshals, executions, battle wound surgeries, artillery drills and a Civil War skirmish will fascinate Civil War enthusiasts and those just looking to have fun during the free Civil War Living History Event at Lost River Cave & Valley near Bowling Green July 14-16, Friday through Sunday.

Over 100 civil war re-enactors will retrace the steps of General John Hunt Morgan during one of his "lightning raids" in South Central Kentucky.  Visitors will stroll through Suttlers Row to see woodworkers, tinsmiths and broom makers and talk with re-enactors to experience the everyday camp life of soldiers. A schedule of artillery drills and other re-enactments will be available at the gift shop upon arrival. The commanders of the troops will set demonstration times.

A Saturday evening "night fire" will feature a cannon and musket firing display at 9:00 pm. Guests should arrive by 8:00 pm to experience camp life. Lantern cave tours will be offered on Friday and Saturday nights beginning at 6:30 pm with prior reservations. Children’s activities from the period will be offered on Saturday afternoon.  At 10 am Saturday Dr. Judy Pierce of Western Kentucky University will present a living history talk entitled, "Female Soldiers of the Civil War".

There will be no admission charge for visitors who come to see the events, grab a bite to eat, shop on Suttler's row or just enjoy the park grounds while retracing the sites where 40,000 troops battled during that important era. Visitors during the Living History event will learn how General Morgan hid in the cave when escaping from pursuing troops and how the cave served as a camp offering a water supply for both Union and Confederate troops. Historians have found diary entries describing the blue holes at Lost River, Civil War bullets, candle writing left behind by the soldiers and a Jefferson Davis hat badge.

For visitors who want to tour the cave on Kentucky's Only Underground Boat Tour, admission prices are $13.95 for adults, $9.95 for ages 5-12 and $2.95 for 4 and under.  For more information on the Living History event or the cave boat tour call 866-274-2283 or visit www.lostrivercave.com.