FORT GARLAND — On Saturday, Dec. 16, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., the “citizen soldiers of Dodd’s Independent Company” will be at Fort Garland Museum for a winter encampment.

This group of living historians from the Front Range focuses on the culture of Colorado’s militias between 1848 and 1865.  The Company will do a recruiting and mustering scenario, which includes a speech and issuing arms and accouterments after swearing in the boys. 

They will have drill and firing demos on Saturday as weather permits.  They will build a few cook fires just off the parade ground for field cooking demos and to keep warm. Free coffee, tea and hot chocolate will be available in the gift shop. 

Fort Garland Museum is free to residents of the San Luis Valley. The winter hours are Wed. through Sat. 10-4. Through Dec. 30, take advantage of our annual holiday sale in the gift shop. 

For more information call the museum at 719-379-3512.

Caption: Members of Dodd’s Independent Company/Courtesy photo