Press Release
February 20, 2020
Contact: Adam Lynn
Honey Springs Battlefield and Visitor Center, Oklahoma Historical Society
Office: 918-473-5572
alynn@okhistory.org
www.okhistory.org/honeysprings
Civil War Surgeon Living History Program to be Held at Honey Springs Battlefield
CHECOTAH, Okla. — Honey Springs Battlefield is excited to announce a Civil War Surgeon living history program on Saturday, February 29, at 1 p.m. Visitors who attend the program will hear a firsthand account of a Union Civil War surgeon serving in Indian Territory during the Civil War. Jason Harris, living history presenter and director of the Chisholm Trail Museum in Kingfisher, will provide a hands-on program about life in the field, Civil War medicine, treatment of solders and care for refugees. On display will be a number of medical instruments from the period. This will be a fun-filled educational day for students and adults alike.
At the beginning of the Civil War most surgeons had little experience. However, military surgeons learned to amputate and perform a wide variety of procedures as they were actively engaged in conflicts. The large number of injured created an opportunity to hone one’s skills. During this time, in the age when the need for an antiseptic surgical environment was unknown, surgeons would operate with dirty hands and medical instruments, going from patient to patient, not realizing the negative effects of shared germs. These experiences would lead to better medical practices in the future.
After the program, visitors will have the opportunity to tour the battlefield and learn about key aspects of the engagement and those who fought at Honey Springs. Visitors also can tour the Visitor Center, purchase items from the gift shop, and learn about the new exhibits that will open in the near future.
For more information regarding the presentation and the Honey Springs Battlefield, please email honeysprings@okhistory.org or alynn@okhistory.org, or call 918-473-5572. Honey Springs Battlefield is located east of U.S. Highway 69 between Oktaha and Checotah. The Visitor Center is located on a hill in close proximity to the Oklahoma Blues Hall of Fame in Rentiesville. Take the second left after reaching the Oklahoma Blues Hall of Fame Museum (driving from the west).
Honey Springs Battlefield is a division of the Oklahoma Historical Society. The mission of the Oklahoma Historical Society is to collect, preserve and share the history and culture of the state of Oklahoma and its people. Founded in 1893 by members of the Territorial Press Association, the OHS maintains museums, historic sites and affiliates across the state. Through its research archives, exhibits, educational programs and publications the OHS chronicles the rich history of Oklahoma. For more information about the OHS, please visit www.okhistory.org.
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