For about nine years, Narvon resident J. Arthur Moore, a retired teacher and author, has developed Civil War programs to be presented at schools and libraries. Moore not only writes his historical fiction from the point of view of the soldiers in the Civil War, but also shares the history of the real boys who served in the Civil War in his presentations. The presentations are also part of the Living History Encampment and Tactical Demonstrations at the Robert Fulton Birthplace Museum and Garden, 1932 Robert Fulton Highway, Quarryville.

This year's encampment, sponsored by the Southern Lancaster County Historical Society, is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 3, from noon to 4 p.m.; Saturday, Sept. 4, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday, Sept. 5, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Courtesy of Moore's book sales, the event is free to the public. "Education is important," said Moore.

In 2019, Moore was nominated and selected to receive Freedoms Foundation's National Award, the George Washington Honor Medal. According to David Harmer, president and CEO of Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge, Moore's book "Journey Into Darkness" exemplifies the essence of the National Awards: promotion of an understanding and appreciation for the country's heritage, principles, and freedoms. More information can be found by visiting http://www.jarthurmoore.com.

According to Moore, Lancaster County is directly connected to Civil War history. "Lancaster County was the fifth part of the efforts to get to Harrisburg, but (the Confederates) got stopped at the bridge in Wrightsville," he explained. "Thousands of troops were recruited out of Lancaster County, and troops from Lancaster County fought in Gettysburg. It's part of America's history and part of our (local) history."

At the weekend event, there will be tours of the camp, a food vendor, tactical demonstrations, and battle re-enactments. Visitors will be able to meet and talk with boy soldiers from the war, President Abraham Lincoln, first lady Mary Todd Lincoln, and the Lincolns' sons Robert and Tad. "It will be a family event," stated Moore. "Kids can recognize that children were part of the history, too."

At the event, there will be a small fee for house tours and parking. There will be no charge for vans and buses. A period photographer is needed for the event. Those interested can email Moore at joemoore3@comcast.net or call 717-351-5450. Callers should leave a message with call-back information. For more information about the encampment, email solancohistorical@gmail.com.