Niles Heritage day to feature Civil War camp

NILES — Niles Historical Society will sponsor Heritage Day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday at the Ward- Thomas Museum, 503 Brown St., off state Route 46 near the Niles Viaduct.

The event will feature a Civil War re-enactment camp by the 61st Ohio Volunteer Infantry Co. D. The re-enactment group plans to demonstrate soldier drilling and will display Civil War artifacts. There will be no battle re-enactment.

Also planned at the camp site are a women’s fashion show and tea, plus activities for children.

The Ward-Thomas House was built by James Ward in 1862 during the Civil War. John Boyd, one of the original soldiers of the 61st, was from Niles and is buried in the city cemetery. In 1887 the house was bought by the John Thomas family, the second of the two families who lived there. The house is filled with antiques and artifacts related to the history of Niles. Docents who are historical society members will be in the house to offer tours.

E. June Karovic of Cortland will be in the kitchen to show how quilts are made. In the solarium, Helen DeMaiolo of Niles will be making bobbin lace.

In the Westenfield Room, which is the former carriage house, featured displays will include collections of very old buttons and miniature shoes. In addition, the Warren Miniature Club will set up several displays of small rooms.

In the barn, George John of Niles will show his collection of numerous types of wood, and Dave Cover, president of the Fowler Historical Society, will show some of his collection.

Lunch, including sloppy joes and hot dogs, will be available, as will lemon shakes. Souvenirs, baked goods and history books will be sold on the back porch. Joe Latessa of Niles will provide music during most of the day.

Admission prices are $5 for adults, $2 for pupils through 12th grade and free for those 5 and younger when accompanied by an adult. Parking is free.

For more information, call (330) 544-2143.