Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m. through April 30 per the 4 p.m. Burning Law. This includes wood and charcoal. Gas is permissible. Campground fires are allowed during the restricted time if a camp host is on duty and signage to that effect is posted in the campground. Failure to observe the 4 p.m. Burning Law can result in a fine. Contact the Park Office for additional information.

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Shared by Budd Reitnauer, as Guest Blogger.

In our everyday lives we love to take ‘selfies’ and instant pictures of friends and family. Imagine a time when photo processing was time consuming and downright dangerous. Visit Sky Meadows State Park the weekend of August 22-23, 2015 and enjoy a unique historical experience on Civil War era photography.

John Milleker's Civil War Era Photography
Learn about tintype photography from John Milleker
Photo from John Milleker Photography

Historical photographer John Milleker will be on site in the Historic Area to talk about the history of photography and photo journalism during the Civil War, as well as perform historically accurate demonstrations of the tintype process. Plate sittings will be available for an additional fee for those who may wish to take home a tintype of themselves or their group. As you will learn, no smiles required! Period clothing and props will be available. Sittings are first come, first served, and reservations are recommended by calling 410-929-4624. Please allow for one hour after your plate sitting to allow rinsing, drying, varnishing and curing of your plate so that it is safe to take home.

Demonstration of the tintype process
Photo from John Milleker Photography

Perhaps while waiting for your tintypes to process, take a tour of Mount Bleak, the antebellum farm house of Sky Meadows and view photographs of former residents and family members from Sky Meadows’ history. Also, stop by the encampment of the 21st Georgia Civil War infantry reenacting unit. They will be camping in the Historic Area and, be prepared, you could be recruited to ‘fill in the ranks!’ Watch firing demonstrations and participate in marching and camp life demonstrations.

Civil War Encampment
Don't miss the Civil War Encampment
Photo from the 21st Georgia Volunteer Infantry Company B

Come out with the family, experience the Civil War history of Sky Meadows, and have your memories captured in a truly historic way!

Sky Meadows State Park is located an hour west of northern Virginia/DC and two hours north of Richmond.

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If you have read the article and have a question, please email nancy.heltman@dcr.virginia.gov.

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