With the 5th Minnesota, you may be surprised just how alive history can be...
- What is the Fifth Minnesota? The Fifth Minnesota is a group that specializes in portraying the events and people of the Minnesota Frontier in 1862. Our group uses living history to allow guests to step into those trying times; offering engaging looks into the everyday lives of soldiers and civilians torn between the "War between the States" and the strife of unrest at home. Meet immigrants struggling to make their way in their new country, women pushing the bounderies of the social order, and young men spoiling to prove their patriotism as their grandfathers did in the Revolution. An inclusive environment, don't be surprised if you find yourself playing cards with the soldiers or discussing current events with the volunteers at the union refreshment saloon. Be sure to check out the page dedicated to the 5th Minnesota Regimental Military Service located at the top.
- What is "Living History"? Living History is a bit like a combination of improvisational acting and a scripted play. Our members portray characters (based both on REAL historical figures connected with our unit, and those typically found in our region) living out their lives in interesting times. You may well begin to think they ARE living in 1862 Minnesota-and you are right there with them! Unlike some places however, we practice a form of living history called "first person modified". In a nutshell, while we will stay in character throughout your visit, we can answer questions referencing modern to historical comparisons and the like. After all, the purpose is to have fun AND LEARN! You will meet a variety of characters with the 5th Minnesota, each with their own story to tell.
- What is the Dakota Conflict? While the 5th Minnesota did eventually go south and fight in the Civil War, they also initially became embroiled in a conflict much closer to home. In the summer of 1862, for a variety of reasons, the Dakota Tribes of Minnesota went to war. The resulting conflict would empty most of the south western frontier of Minnesota, and set the U.S. Army and Government on a collision course with native peoples that we are still reeling from today. The story of what happened in 1862 is of importance to everyone, for it gives us a glimpse of human frailty and the danger of un-yeilding social dogma. With a variety of views portrayed; our Dakota Conflict events try to unravel the many and conflicting motivations and misunderstandings that went into a war in which everyone lost. Be sure to check the page dedicated to this topic, located at the top.
- How do I get more information on events, or membership? Well, that's what these pages are all about! Take a look at the side bar on the left for direction to our image gallery and other great stuff! If you are looking for more, or information on membership simply email us at fifthminnesota@msn.com-or fifthminnesota_sgt@hotmail.com.
- More information to come! Watch the site for updates to the Image Gallery, Event Calendar, and even new pages!
- Be sure to see the new "Faces of the Regiment" album in our image gallery-where pictures of actual 5th Minnesota veterans are displayed! These are on permanent loan from direct descendants of these soldiers who fought in the Civil War.
- A new crop of video clips are available in the 5th Minn Cinema page!
"Bear"
The Military and Civilian Members of the 5th Minnesota would like to take a moment to recall one of our own, currently serving their Country overseas.
Members, click here for
the Safety/Training Website!
bravenet.com