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Civil War Re-Enactment In Extreme Heat

LINDA WERTHEIMER, host: Thousands of people are gathered in Manassas, Virginia this weekend to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Bull Run. It was the first major battle of the Civil War. It's being marked with full-scale reenactments, all playing out in the midst of a record-breaking hot spell. It's a sweaty business for re-enactors and spectators alike.

The soldiers must wear wool period uniforms. But, of course, with a distinctly 21st century touch - ice cubes under their hats to keep cool. Women at the edge of the battlefield are in long dresses with full skirts, shaded by bonnets, straw hats and parasols. Spectators have it a little better in shorts and t-shirts, beach umbrellas, cold drinks at hand.

You're listening to WEEKEND EDITION from NPR News. Transcript provided by NPR, Copyright NPR.