Fort offers glimpse of life in 1800s

"I am a girl, but I can fire a pistol."

These were words of Sene Campbell, whose fiancée was killed in Fort Scott in 1858. The words will again be heard during the 2010 Candlelight Tour this weekend at Fort Scott National Historic Site. The dramatic reading of Campbell's letter will be one of five scenes presented on this year's tour.

The scenes tell the story of Fort Scott's involvement in events that divided the nation in the mid-1800s as the nation marched toward civil war.

More than 700 candle lanterns will illuminate the site, while more than 100 re-enactors bring to life events that played a critical role in the nation's history.

The tour will take place Friday and Saturday. FSNHS officials said there are a number of tickets left. Cost is $7 per person 6 and up. Advance reservations are required. Call (620) 223-0310.

Friday tours start at 6:30 p.m. and run every 15 minutes until 9 p.m. Saturday, tours begin at 5 p.m. and run until 9 p.m. Each tour lasts about one hour. At the end of the tour, visitors are invited to the site's Grand Hall for refreshments and musical entertainment.

In addition to the tour, FSNHS will also participate in Homes for the Holidays activities this weekend. The site will host period ballroom dancing from 1-3 p.m. Saturday in the Grand Hall. Volunteers and staff portraying ladies and gentlemen of the garrison will demonstrate steps to favorite dances of the Victorian era. Visitors are welcome to participate.

The event is open to the public and free of charge.