It took a bit of slogging through mud and wet grass at the Long Pond Ironworks Historic District on Saturday, but once at the Union and Confederate campsites, a dirty pair of sneakers was well worth the price. Heavy downpours throughout the day kept some visitors away from the Living History Weekend, but it did not deter the professionalism of the 6th New Hampshire Volunteers or the 12th Alabama Volunteers reenactment troops. The campsites brought one back to the time of the Civil War and the soldiers’ demeanor was authentic and informative. The 6th New Hampshire Volunteers, Company C (Union) was founded in 1988. The non-profit organization is the largest Civil War reenacting regiment in northern New Jersey. The 12th Alabama Infantry Regiment, Company C (Confederate), based in northern New Jersey, is dedicated to presenting themselves and their surroundings in true historic fashion. Wandering through the campsites, one smelled the aroma of roasting chicken wafting through the misty air, emanating from an old barn where the Confederates were making camp. The barn was serving as a battlefield surgery as well as a shelter for the company. Back up the trail at the Union camp, onions were sizzling in a cast iron skillet as two soldiers were preparing their evening meal. Maybe not so true to historic fact, the main course was to be a piece of filet mignon. As soldier Walt Dewey explained it - beef was a common staple for the troops. The army traveled with thousands of head of cattle, ensuring a food supply for the men. While on the march they ate salt pork, rice and dried beans, foods that would keep in their sacks. After chasing each other through the wet woods all afternoon, firing rifles and engaging in some hand to hand combat, a good dinner was in order. Conveniently, both armies appeared to be dining at the same time and there was even a rumor about a mint julep. But that was just a rumor. For more photos of the reenactment, go to www.westmilfordmessenger.com and click on photos. Additional information: “Civil War Living History Weekend” - Long Pond Ironworks Historic District