Soldiers load their weapons in preparation for last year's re-enactment at Chalk Bluff. This year's observance will fall on the actual anniversary of the historic battle. (Times file photo) [Click to enlarge]

An important part of the country's history soon will return to life in Clay County. The annual reenactment of the Battle of Chalk Bluff will be held at the state park located at the historic site. The event will encompass the entire weekend of Saturday, May 3, and Sunday, May 4.

This year's event will coincide with historic dates, as the actual battle took place from May 1 through May 2, 1863. This year's event celebrates the 145th anniversary of the most famous Civil War battle in Northeast Arkansas.

This year also is important for Civil War enthusiasts, as 2008 marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Confederate President Jefferson Davis.

One of the event's coordinators, W. Danny Honnoll of Jonesboro, has been hard at work making preparations for this year's event.

Honnoll, a Civil War historian, has been a member of the Sons of Confederate Veterans organization for the last 28 years. He also is president of the Arkansas Civil War Heritage Trails Foundation.

"The history of the Civil War and its impact on our state and country as a whole is something I've always been interested in," Honnoll said. "This is a big part of our history and it's important that we do what we can to honor that and keep it relevant in our minds."

Honnoll says this year's event is shaping up to be one of Chalk Bluff's largest celebrations.

"I think we'll have more reenactors and cannons this year," Honnoll said. "Right now, it looks like we'll have six to eight cannons that take part in the battle. It also looks like we'll have right at 100 reenactors and camp followers involved, as well."

Honnoll also said he expects to have more cavalry troops on horseback for this year's event than were present in year's past.

"I think having more cavalry and more cannons will help the reenactment. I think that adds more excitement for the crowd. The cannons especially help draw in people."

Honnoll also noted the event's importance in bringing visitors to the area.

"One thing the reenactment will do is bring in tourist dollars. This is something a lot of people have a great interest in. I've had people call from all over the United States and ask where Chalk Bluff is located. As more people become familiar with the location, I think the turnout and involvement will continue to grow."

Honnoll noted the Chalk Bluff site offers a unique opportunity for the event's participants.

"Most of the time, reenactors do not get to perform on actual battlefields and parks. This gives everyone involved a chance to actually be in the locations where the battles occurred. That's one of the things that really attract people to Chalk Bluff."

Honnoll praised County Judge Gary Howell for his efforts in maintaining the park.

"Judge Howell has done an excellent job adding to the park and maintaining it with what funds he has available. The work they've done there only helps to bring in more people."

Keeping with its historic roots, the event also will feature several presentations by historians. These presentations will offer further insight into the way of life during the time of the Civil War.

"I think it's ideal for school children," Honnoll said. "It takes the lesson from the pages of a book and gives more of a hands-on experience. It puts it in a different light for a lot of people."

Reenactors and living historians will begin signing in for the weekend events at 4 p.m. Food and drink will be available during the event. Admission is free. Reenactors and living historians will begin signing in for the weekend events at 4 p.m. Friday, May 2.

The remainder of the weekend's schedule is:

Saturday, May 3

9:30 a.m. --- Camp life demonstrations around the park and Officer's Call.

10:30 a.m. --- Talk on Chalk Bluff by W. Danny Honnoll.

11 a.m. --- Cannon demonstrations.

11:30 a.m. --- Marching and rifle firing demonstrations.

12 noon --- Ladies demonstrations of refugee camp and tea.

12:30 p.m. --- Cowboy mounted shooting demonstrations.

2 p.m. --- Reenactment followed by Grand Review Parade of Troops.

3 p.m. -- Ladies demonstrations of refugee camp.

Sunday, May 4

10 a.m. -- Officer's Call.

10:30 a.m. -- Open to the public.

11 a.m. -- Church service.

1 p.m. -- Memorial Service honoring Jefferson Davis and the men who fell at Chalk Bluff.

2 p.m. -- Reenactment followed by Grand Review Parade of Troops.