During the City Council meeting on September 22, 2025, the Boone County Historical Society presented a funding request to support their upcoming reenactment event, which has become a staple in Lebanon for the past 15 years. Shirley Neal, a board member of the society, detailed the event's significance and its reliance on external funding sources, as the organization operates entirely as a nonprofit with no paid employees.
Neal highlighted that the event, held at Lebanon Memorial Park, is free to the public and attracts participants from across Indiana and beyond. The reenactment features military encampments where participants don period clothing, cook over open fires, and engage in various historical demonstrations, including blacksmithing and weaving. The event also serves as a marketplace for local artisans, offering period-appropriate goods such as candles, honey, and baked items.
One of the unique aspects of the reenactment is its educational value, particularly for school groups, including an increasing number of homeschooling families. Neal emphasized the importance of providing live history experiences, which are becoming rare. The event not only enriches the community's cultural landscape but also supports local artisans and businesses.
The council's discussion on the funding request reflects a broader commitment to preserving local history and supporting community events that foster engagement and education. As the meeting concluded, the council members acknowledged the value of the historical society's efforts and the anticipated positive impact of the reenactment on the community.