When the morning fog lifted, everything had disappeared

To look at Darlington’s quiet and shady Veterans Park this morning you would never know that roughly 400 people occupied the park this past weekend. It’s not possible to provide an exact count because they came and went from every direction for three days (primarily Saturday).

  There were Civil War soldiers of the 3rd Iowa Artillery, shooting three different cannons hourly. The 8th Illinois Cavalry Unit including cavalry horse “Kip” were there, shooting rifles and pistols and practicing maneuvers by the Veterans Memorial. Kip didn’t mind the cannons or rifles, the music, or many visitors petting him. It seemed his favorite part was The First Brigade Band that played from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday. He turned his ears to the music and completely relaxed.

  The First Brigade Band marched in parade style to their seating area and performed a program that included the history of the band from start through the Civil War and to today. The music was both beautiful and moving to the comfortably seated audience.

  Yellowstone Flint and Cap was present with four canvas lodges and over ten members visiting, displaying tomahawks, showing furs, how cordage was made from plant fibers, and teaching all ages how to shoot a primitive longbow and arrows.

  Dick Anderson presented large and smaller models of the engineering technique used to create a round roof for barn or gazebo. He also showed how wooden pegs were made for its construction with equipment to let folks make their own pegs.

  Dennis Fox showed some of his extensive collection of ancient artifacts, answering questions.

  Specific characters from county history included Mr. and Mrs. Josephus Driver of the famed Driver Opera House and General Store (portrayed by Jeff and Anne Kluesner and Terry and Nancy Sorchy). In fact, a Driver Store was set up and Mrs. Driver taught some young ladies new stitches. Miss Elizabeth Graham (first business owner in Darlington – a milliner portrayed by Leona Havens) showed off amazing hat creations. Dr. C.C. Gratiot and his wife Dr. Mary Gratiot (Nancy and Dean Winslow) answered medical questions and provided information on the Shullsburg Hospital, Miss Matilda Jane Painter (Marion Howard) told about pioneer life. Nikki Larson portrayed one of the Gypsies that visited the county and gave card readings and used her crystal ball.

  When the morning fog lifted, everything had disappeared.

  The Museum was open all weekend for convenient shopping or quick research. And the lower level had a Quilt Show of items made by county residents. Peggy Davis was present to answer questions and created a display of quilts and patterns from the past, She was quilting on a frame to show how it’s done by hand.

  A wonderful crafter had stitched creations for sale, and Boy Scout Troop 125 had a stand to sell popcorn and delicious homemade apple cider.

  There was food available all weekend at the Lafayette County Historical and Genealogy Society (LCHGS) stand, The Darlington Optimists covered Saturday’s lunch and the Lions Club covered Saturday Dinner.

  The forecasted rain never materialized except for a few sprinkles Saturday between 4 and 5pm – allowing The Blackbridge Boys to play in front of the museum steps from 6 to 8 p.m.

  It was a special evening with music favorites everyone knew, campfires and candle lanterns in the darkened park, adults and children dancing and neighbors, family and friends everywhere. The sight of Kip having an evening run and play in the park with his lovely handler in a pink hoopskirted gown is one to warm the heart and be remembered.

  LCHGS very much appreciated support provided by the Darlington Parks Department, and Darlington Police Department (Chief Conway got to fire a cannon!). If you missed this celebration of Lafayette County you will have another chance to experience history come to life in two years. Mark calendars now for the third weekend in September 2027.

  For additional information on LCHGS membership, or how to be involved contact LCHGS at 608-776-8340 or Barb at 608-482-2483.