Shadows of 1864 Scouting America Living History Campout

Council is offering free admission for reenactors willing to share their love of our local history with Cubs, Scouts, and their families.

Friday through Sunday https://newbirthoffreedom.org/shadows-of-1864-camporee/

Planning is in full swing for the “Shadows of 1864” Civil War-themed council-wide camporee, scheduled for September 26-28, 2025, just a quarter mile from the historic Gettysburg battlefield. 

We’re excited to share key details to help your units prepare for this unforgettable experience: Registration opens January 2, 2025, immediately after the council-wide roundtable that evening, where we’ll present a comprehensive overview of the camporee plans. Full payment will be required for each anticipated (Scout/ Scouter)n participant when registering for the event. 

Fees: Full-weekend participants (youth and adults) can register for $40, while Saturday-only participants can register for $20. All participants will receive an event patch, and Scouts will be provided with a kepi (a military-style cap) to wear during the event. 

Staff Volunteers: A $20 registration fee will cover food costs. 

Programs: Separate, age-appropriate activities will be available for Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA, ensuring a meaningful experience for all. Mock Rifles: Scouts need a mock Springfield rifle for an authentic experience. Pre-cut wood replicas (5' long) will be available for $10. 3' long pre-cut wood replicas (intended for Cub Scout use) will be available for $8. We’ll also offer templates and instructions for those who wish to make their own from scratch. 

Fireworks: The event will feature a spectacular fireworks show. This event draws inspiration from the 2022 joint fall camporee hosted by Battlefield and Heritage Trails Districts at the same location. Nearly 900 Scouts attended the event, which was later highlighted in Scout Life magazine. Event Theme The “Shadows of 1864” camporee is based on the Union Army’s desperate need for soldiers following the Battle of Gettysburg. In the spring of 1864, they launched a recruitment campaign, which serves as the backdrop for our theme. Activities Scouts BSA and Older Scouts: Participants will be mustered into the Union Army and formed into Companies, engaging in hands-on activities and inter-unit competitions. Stations will cover various aspects of Civil War soldiering, including Cavalry, Medical, Music, Cannon Demonstration, Encampment Organization, 1860s Games, and Drill Instructions. Cub Scouts: A dedicated Cub Scout program will offer age-appropriate activities, such as candle making, period games, Civil War encampment exploration, music, cooking, soldier drill practice, and a cavalry competition.