I don't know who is plotting what here. For the last several years, the re-enactment group has been set up across the river from the main festival area. But there are still calvary charges, skirmishes, and enough gun and cannon fire to make everyone jump. Naturally, the well dressed southern ladies are in attendance in their snoods, lace gloves, hoop skirts, and buttoned-up shoes.

Photograph: Courtesy Catawba County Historical Association