Civil War Museum — Attraction in Kenosha

Saw reenactors of the 17th medical regiment, I may have all but the number incorrect. They were an extremely knowledgeable group of people. They knew about their own aspect of field hospital work and they were cross trained as well, they could cover for one another answering questions.

The costumes were made to meet period expectations. They offered a lot of information about medical care in the 1860's including the fact that germs weren't known about until shortly after the Civil War. There were examples of tools used and medicines used as well as how pills were made back then. They also gave examples of surgeries and even an embalming.

We saw examples of ration kits given to soldiers and got an idea of how much they lived off of the land to supplement their rations. It was not an easy life.

It was pointed out that the simple things that nurturers do was one ofthe most important things to make recovery possible for the soldiers. Simply changing the sheets and putting cool cloths on fevered brows worked wonders. Got people feeling better and reduced fevers, not to mention that those as yet unheard of germs were being moved along. When the bandages were washed for reuse they were hung out in the sun to dry and the ultraviolet rays from the sun gave them more sterilization past the soapy water had done. Without anyone knowing it they had killed germs.

Sorry, I did enjoy learning things there. Even without the 17thpeople there the museum has a lot to offer. There are displays that show how real the war was for the people. Children playing nearby, families picnicing around the battlefield. I couldn't imagine taking in a war that casually; even back then, how could you be certain that you would not...

I admit it. I'm a Civil War reenactor. Sergeant, Company E, 6th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry of the famous Iron Brigade. Of course, I love this place. I finally took my wife to this museum. She's a Texas gal; and has been trying to cultivate an interest in the Civil War. She was really impressed with the place; and enjoyed the exhibits. Sitting in a train car and listening to the other "passengers tell their stories. The in-the-round theater shows a 360 degree panoramic movie called "Seeing the Elephant". It is loosely based on the Battle of Brawner's Farm. It is an intense and moving presentation. When it was over my wife was tearing up. As a matter of fact, I have noticed that most people are misty eyed after watching this movie. Me, too, tough guy that I am. There is a really good research library. If you are a Civil War buff this place is a must for you. If you are not, it is still a very interesting place to spend a couple of hours. This is a top-of-the-line museum. Kenosha should be proud. Make sure you take the time. You will...

My family loves going to visit the local museums when they come see me and this is my little brother's absolute favourite. In the Civil War exhibit, there's a 360° movie that I've now seen at least three times all the way through and a couple times some of the way through, but every time I see it, I see something new. If flashing lights or gunfire cause reactions for you, you're better off avoiding the movie, but there's still plenty to see. I loved the parts that focused on medicine in the 1860s. There is an entrance fee and it'll be more if you're not a Kenosha resident. The gift shop has some amusing gifts but also period-appropriate pieces, like hat pins, for instance. There's a huge parking lot and it's right on the lake within walking distance of more entertainment and food. I think my absolute favorite room was the library upstairs. My daughter's favorite place was probably the balcony upstairs - outside. Beautiful views of the lake (with a picturesque lighthouse straight ahead) and a great place for her to get out some "wiggles,"...