AUSTIN, Texas — History comes to life this weekend at Camp Mabry as the Texas Military Forces Museum hosts “Over There 1918,” a free World War I living history event on Saturday, March 14, and Sunday, March 15.
Step Back to 1918 at Camp Mabry’s World War I Living History Weekend (Credit: The Texas Military Forces Museum)
The two-day experience will transport visitors back to the battlefields of France, highlighting the role of the 36th Infantry Division of the Texas National Guard, created in 1917 and deployed during the Great War.
Reenactors will portray American, French, British, German, and Austrian soldiers, offering a glimpse into the realities faced by troops more than a century ago.
Step Back to 1918 at Camp Mabry’s World War I Living History Weekend (Credit: The Texas Military Forces Museum)
The museum’s living history detachment will demonstrate some of the conflict’s most recognizable weapons, including rifles and machine guns, along with simulated battlefield conditions.
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One of the event’s biggest attractions is a working reproduction of an F17 tank.
Dramatic pyrotechnics and special effects will help recreate scenes inspired by the Meuse-Argonne offensive of 1918.
Bleacher seating will be available in the wooded area behind the museum.
Free WWI living history event brings 1918 battlefields to Camp Mabry this weekend (Credit: The Texas Military Forces Museum)
The event is free, open to the public, and family-friendly.
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Organizers say it can get loud, so free earplugs will be provided. Because of the noise, it may not be suitable for pets.
Step Back to 1918 at Camp Mabry’s World War I Living History Weekend (Credit: The Texas Military Forces Museum)
Demonstrations begin at 1 p.m. each day, and the museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Light concessions will be available.
The event will take place rain or shine, and no reservations are required.
For questions, call 512-782-5659 or email txmilmuseum@gmail.com. You can also find updates to this event here: https://www.facebook.com/events/1194796055840337