Where did an American Civil War soldier's socks come from? Scarves? Mittens or gloves? Quilts? Non-issued uniforms? How were they made? By whom?

Supporting the American Civil War soldier from the home front with such items spelled the difference between misery and relative health and comfort. Packages from home, lovingly prepared, had positive physical and morale effect for an otherwise sparsely equipped soldier.

Come visit with local area domestic arts and crafts persons who specialize in some of that era's domestic skills at the Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park visitor center, September 1, 1-4 p.m. They will demonstrate both the skills and products that meant so much to absent fathers, husbands, and sons.

This Labor Day weekend event is free and open to all ages. Small children who will need close supervision due to the equipment being displayed and used.

The purpose of Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historical State Park is to preserve the cultural landscape as it was in 1865, and to provide the historic setting to tell the story of the last major battle of the Civil War in Virginia before the surrender of Robert E. Lee's Army at Appomattox Courthouse, and describe its impact on the citizens of Southside Virginia.

For more information contact the park visitor center, 804-561-7510, email: sailorscreek@dcr.virgina.gov.