In the Museum’s previous post, we set the stage for the G.A.R. Encampment held in Litchfield in 1889. This reunion of Civil War Veterans was expected to be the biggest event the town had ever seen! The town was decorated from top to bottom, and food and lodgings for thousands were prepared.
The encampment ran from Monday, June 17 to Wednesday, June 19. Members from over two dozen G.A.R. Posts came, arriving by train and wagon from Buffalo, Alexandria, Herman, Motley, and many in between. There were even special trains from Minneapolis and St. Paul. The attendees weren’t limited to just those connected with the G.A.R. Everyone was welcome, and many came. It was reported that nearly the whole town of Atwater made the trip to Litchfield.
The encampment kicked off at 6:30 Monday morning with the military bugle call. After breakfast, the men lined up and marched to the depot to welcome Governor Merriam and other distinguished guests. After a multi-gun salute, the militia escorted the guests to headquarters near the Meeker County Courthouse. Later, the governor and others would watch the parade of veterans and bands from the top of the arch at Sibley Avenue and 3rd Street.
Music was everywhere at the encampment. There were multiple concerts in Central Park which could seat 3,000 visitors. There was also a dance pavilion set up south of the G.A.R. Hall where music could be heard day and night. If you know anything about the history of Litchfield’s G.A.R. members, it won’t surprise you to hear that Albert Van Spence was called upon to sing on more than one occasion.
Speeches were also an important part of the gathering. Perhaps the most noteworthy was one that was also unexpected. Former National G.A.R. Commander John P Rea had said he was unable to attend. His surprise arrival was followed by a two-hour-long speech that the paper called “One of the most interesting and inspiring addresses ever delivered in the state.”
For visitors who might not have been interested in music or lengthy speeches, there were plenty of other activities. There were baseball games and foot races. A play called “The Spy of Atlanta” was put on at the Armory. The Town Hall had “Stereoptic” entertainment. Brightwood resort hosted a ball and offered boat rides across Lake Ripley. Wednesday evening saw Meeker County’s “best ever” fireworks display. There was also the mock arrest and execution of “Jeff Davis” in petticoats. This was derived from the rumor at the end of the Civil War that Confederate President Davis tried to escape dressed in women’s clothing.
When all was said and done, the G.A.R. Encampment might not have brought in the 10,000 people expected, and the city didn’t see as much income as was hoped, many still considered the encampment a success. In fact, one G.A.R. member, who had been to twelve encampments that summer alone, stated Litchfield’s encampment had been the best one by far. Certainly a proud moment for Litchfield and its G.A.R. Post.
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