Fascination with History Draws Diverse Crowd at ’25 Muster

The 2025 Civil War Muster was filled with all the pageantry, color and unpredictable weather that one would expect of the Midwest’s largest outdoor muster, held at the Cascades Aug. 23-24. The Jackson event, which attracted about 20,000 spectators and hundreds of reenactors from around the country, was heralded by cannon blasts and thunder claps; illuminated by glowing waterfalls and flickering campfires, and was draped in fluttering flags and flowing gowns. In short, it was a masterpiece of sight, sound and experience for those who chose to bask in its ambiance.

While participants and presenters reflected various views about the Civil War, and while the flags and attire reflected different colors, there was one common denominator that united this diverse group like a single thread uniting different patches into a single quilt. This quality was largely unspoken, but universally understood—an abiding love of history.

Reenactor Alex Cash of Jackson, wore a flowing green gown reminiscent of the he mid-1800s and other finishing touches, including a broach and white lace gloves, to the Civil War Muster.

What is there about this subject that stirs so much passion, fascination and for some, devotion? That was the question posed to the old and young, to reenactors and spectators, and to vendors and volunteers on both days. And while their specific answers were as varied as the individuals, all responses pointed in the same direction.

“We need to know where we came from in order to better understand who we are and where we’re headed,” said reenactor Joel Burg of Bowling Green, OH. That sentiment was echoed by many. “We need to see what happened and why so we don’t repeat mistakes,” said spectator Tresa Hinton of Jackson. Volunteer Denise Lindsay of Jackson agreed. “History is a chronological record of current events. It helps us see where we fit in the larger whole.”

Spectator Rochelle Felsburg of Marshall says history helps her feel connected to her ancestors. “Our ancestors created the history we celebrate today. Nothing is isolated; everything is interconnected. We need to understand that to appreciate our place in the scheme of things,” she said. For reenactor Ron Tyrl, exploring history is like preparing for a grand reunion. “My faith tells me that one day I’ll re-unite with departed family. I look forward to telling them what I learned about their past from records left behind. . . and to them telling me what really happened!”

Reenactor Ron Tyrl of Jackson was among hundreds of reenactors attending the Muster event--one of the largest in the Midwest. 

Many said their love of history was sparked by personal connections. “I’m a genealogist,” said spectator Kathy Miller of Blissfield. “For me, exploring the past is like going on a treasure hunt—you never know what you are going to find—it’s an adventure!” Emily Powell, senior manager of events for the Historical Society of Michigan, Lansing, said a love of history is in her blood. “I’m an archeologist by training but my love of history began in my youth. I grew up on a 200-year-old farmstead and have fond memories of exploring hidden places and digging in the dirt. As a child I became fascinated with my father’s stories about the past. As an adult, I want to share that fascination with others.”

Several said understanding history is vital to appreciating the freedoms and liberties we hold dear. “Events like this muster help us appreciate how hard-fought our freedoms are,” said spectator Brice Wallace of Jackson. Jim Lindsey, a reenactor from Indianapolis, was even more specific. “When you see all the bodies drop on the battlefield--even a reenacted one—it hits you. You begin to feel what these people went through so we can have what we have today.”

Reenactor Joel Burg of Bowling Green, OH, shared his love of history in this poll. 

Many said they appreciate the beauty of history—literally. “Not only are 19th century fashions beautiful, they provide a tangible and fascinating measure for changing values and norms,” said reenactor Alex Cash of Jackson, who wore a flowing green gown reminiscent of the mid-1800s and other finishing touches, including a broach and white lace gloves. Amelia Schmidt, a reenactor from Plymouth, agreed. “Many of the dresses worn in that period had such beauty and grace. It’s fun to see people present their best version of themselves.”

Spectators Jamie Timmons and John Closson, both of Jackson, said their hobbies of metal detecting drew them into history. “When I find something, I’m inspired to learn where it came from and what’s the story behind it, which leads me down the path of history,” said Timmons. Closson said his fascination can be summed in three simple words, “I dig history.”

"Uncle" Gregory Newson, an artist from South Carolina, poses with one of his many poignant paintings. This was his last muster and the author bought one of his paintings as a commemoration.