Penn Middle School eighth-grade Social Studies teachers, Mr. Weir and Mr. Waszo, wrapped up their Civil War unit with an interactive learning experience for students.
They partnered with the Civil War reenactment group, the 4th U.S. Light Artillery Battery F, to deliver a live demonstration. Reenactors dressed in authentic uniforms and shared insights into the daily lives of Civil War soldiers, including their equipment, routines, and roles in battle.
Students had the opportunity to see historical gear up close and learn about military practices from the era. The presentation also featured a cannon firing, giving students a firsthand example of how artillery was used during the war.
“We do our best to teach and demonstrate aspects of the Civil War, but when students get to experience it firsthand, there is no match for that,” commented Mr. Waszo. “They come back smiling and excited about history, and that's an awesome feeling as a teacher.”
Eighth-graders Matthew Teeters, Dylan O’Neil, and Gabe Eger try on some of the uniforms
4th U.S. Light Artillery Battery F, including two Penn-Trafford High School students, Trevor Seice and Caroline Kain