MIDDLETOWN, Calif. – A sell-out crowd enjoyed a beautiful spring day and entertainment at the second anniversary celebration of Middletown’s Gibson Museum and Cultural Center.

The event at the Middletown Mansion on Saturday, May 14, was headlined by two authentically portrayed skirmishes by the American Civil War Association.

A first in this area, the sham battles proved so well received that plans are underway to present a bigger and better reenactment next spring.

Historian Gene Paleno shared his collection of Lake County history and signed copies of his newly released book.

Barbara White took a break from her archeology duties with the U.S. Forest Service to amuse guests with the rigors of ladies’ dress in the 1860s.

Linda Lake, retired curator of Lake County museums, managed not to giggle while helping White wiggle into her corset.

Twice during the afternoon, musket and cannon smoke and thunder quelled the toe-tappin’ vintage music of David Neft, Don Coffin and Andi Skelton.

Scarlett O’Hara, played in the “drapery dress” (sans curtain rod) by Lori Cantrell of Hidden Valley Lake, waltzed on the green lawn and chatted with visitors. Her identical twin, Lisa Markell, had made a surprise visit from Indiana to help Lori create the flavor of the 1860s.

The bevy of Union and Confederate uniforms were the highlight of the day, a poignant reminder of the battles the nation has waged (and continues to wage) over states’ rights and the equality of all. They also were a reminder that May has long been the month to honor the veterans who fought in these battles.

Gibson Museum volunteers wish to send heartfelt thanks to all who helped make this event happen, as the proceeds will underwrite funding of museum operations for many months.

For further information, see www.thegibsonmuseum.com or write to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .