Civil War history lives on at Dutch Square

The State ^ | 15 March 2004 | Williesha Lakin

[aomagrat]

(Columbia S.C.) You can take a break from shopping and learn about the Civil War this weekend at Dutch Square Center.

Historian Steve Gipson will present a “living history” of the War Between the States in traditional Civil War uniform and authentic set and props. The show combines little-known facts about the war with humor and drama.

Dutch Square marketing assistant Michelle Harris encouraged blacks in particular to attend the show, because of the significant black history of the era.

She said many blacks would think about the Civil War and “turn up their nose and keep on walking.”

But Harris remembered something Gipson once said: “Civil rights goes all the way back to the Civil War.”

“We have to look at the complex issues as to why a black person would take up arms on either side,” Harris said.

“(The Civil War) actually has a great effect on race relations today.”

The performances have been at Dutch Square for about three years, and Harris enjoys the show and likes to watch the reactions of mallgoers.

“This is great. This is history that doesn’t have a spin on it,” Harris said.

“He puts it in a way that was not aggressive. There were heartwarming moments.”

In addition to a special showing for Benedict College students, about 500 grade-schoolers will watch the performance.

“It’s a big hit with the school children. The kids love it,” Harris said.

Gipson’s free shows are at Center Court at 1, 3, 5 and 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and at 2 and 4 p.m. on Sunday. Dutch Square Center is at 421 Bush River Rd., Columbia S.C. For more details, call (803) 772-3864.

[aomagrat]

I'm going.

[Between the Lines]

The Great American Civil War Show and Living History Exposition