The Women's Perspective

Clara Barton, Harriet Tubman, Louisa Mae Alcott .

During the American Civil War, women served in hospitals, were sutlers, cared for family members of troops, concealed their identities to serve on the battlefield, fought for equality and more.  They watched homes and towns be burned down, and tended to the wounded. 

Clara Barton, Harriet Tubman, Louisa Mae Alcott are just a few of the well-known women of the Civil War.  Experience the Civil War through the eyes of women during events taking place during the 150th Commemoration.

Loreta Janeta Velazquez, Otherwise known as Lt. Harry T. Buford, Confederate States Army

Did you know that some women were "patriots in disguise," masquerading and serving as men during the Civil War?  One woman who did so was Loreta Janeta Velazquez.  According to the Civil War Trust,

"Velazquez was born in Cuba on June 26, 1842 to a wealthy family. In 1849, she was sent to school in New Orleans... At the age of 14, she eloped with an officer in the Texas army. When Texas seceded from the Union in 1861, her husband joined the Confederate army and Velazquez pleaded with him to allow her to join him. Undeterred by her husband’s refusal, Velazquez had a uniform made and disguised herself as a man, taking the name Harry T. Buford. "

Velazquez's story will be told as part of the Living History programs during the reenactment of the Battle of First Manassas/Bull Run, July 23-24, 2011.  Spectators with tickets to the battle also can explore the living history area throughout the weekend.