Civil War reenactment and African-American museum featured in Cedar Rapids

Hundreds of Civil War re-enactors stage the Battle of Ushers Ferry this weekend in Cedar Rapids. Vicki Hughes, director of the Ushers Ferry Historic Village, says many re-enactors base their performances on real battles from the war between the states. This battle is a conglomeration of several battles, Hughes says, as the cavalry plays a major role in the re-enactment. Both fighting forces will display cavalry drills in various mounted competitions and the Union and Confederate encampments will be open for tours — perfect for kids to learn about the Civil War era direct from the role-players. Hughes says there’ll be a military ball tonight with authentic music from the mid-to-late 1800s.A candlelight tour of the camps is also planned for tonight. Today’s battle is scheduled for 3 P.M. while tomorrow’s (Sunday) battle will begin at 2:30 P.M. For more information, call (319) 286-5763 or surf to “www.cedar-rapids.org/ushers”.The African-American Historical Museum and Cultural Center of Iowa is celebrating its grand opening this weekend in Cedar Rapids. Interim Director Tom Moore says he first proposed the creation in 1993 for an old church building.Moore says the center is much different than he originally envisioned, as it’s much larger. He says many people have contributed support from throughout the state.Activities will run through five this afternoon.