Article by PhoenixOnline writer Isabella Jn-Baptiste ’27
From May 18th to May 19th, the juniors and Latin School 7th graders at Kellenberg Memorial High School had the opportunity to observe a reenactment entailing the life of a Civil War soldier. On behalf of American History II teacher Mr. Bursig, who has been a Civil War reenactor for 25 years, both grades were given an insightful presentation into the past.
While wearing and handling artifacts he obtained from this 19th century war, Mr. Bursig spoke about what life was like as a Civil War soldier, and how conditions were for both the Union and the Confederation. The well versed Civil War teacher presented various uniforms worn by soldiers of different ranks, as well replicas or authentic military equipment including satchels, cantines, and personal items, which were on display for the students to view.
Mr. Bursig expressed, “I do believe the students benefited from this presentation because history is something we focus too much in a book but here, you get to visually see what something appeared and looked like.”
The students who were able to participate in the event also had the opportunity to ask Mr. Bursig questions pertaining to the devastating conflict.
Junior Christian Eleazar discussed, “We learned about the clothes and states along with the different positions of soldiers who had different attires.”
“Even though they were soldiers they were still human, and it was cool to learn about other people’s lives who I couldn’t imagine being in the same position as at my age.” said Junior Damion Gordon Jr.
The idea for this presentation originated from Mr. Bursig and Mr. Cioffi, proclaiming this to be an interesting way for students to learn about the topic face-to-face instead of in the classroom. It started from an after school experience to a class presentation for two grade levels and has been a tradition for the past five years.
Both tyros and juniors benefited from the presentation as it continues to serve as an engaging experience that took step back in time from 2026, to 1865.
