Last call for signing up. Deadline 9/2. Only a few mock rifles remain. First come, first served.Shadows of 1864 CamporeeGettysburg Campout by New Birth of Freedom CouncilPlanning is in full swing for the “Shadows of 1864” Civil War-themed council-wide camporee, scheduled for September 26-28, 2025, just a quarter mile from the historic Gettysburg battlefield.We’re excited to share key details to help your units prepare for this unforgettable experience:All participants will receive an event patch, and Scouts will be provided with a kepi (a military-style cap) to wear during the event.     •    Camping:  Our event will occur at the historic Schroeder Farm, featuring a landmark barn built in 1860, three years before the Battle of Gettysburg. Scouting units will camp on-site in a designated Jamboree-style camping area. Separate camping areas will be allocated for Scouts BSA and Family Camping.    •    Programs: Separate, age-appropriate activities will be available for Cub Scouts and Scouts BSA, ensuring a meaningful experience for all.    •    Mock Rifles: Scouts need a mock Springfield rifle for an authentic experience. Pre-cut wood replicas (5′ long) will be available for $10. All orders for pre-cut wood replicas must be received by July 1, 2025. Templates and instructions for those who wish to make their own from scratch are available below:    ◦    5′ replica template (https://newbirthoffreedom.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Mock-Springfield-Rifle-5-Foot-Template.pdf)    •    Fireworks: The event will feature a spectacular fireworks show.This event draws inspiration from the 2022 joint fall camporee hosted by Battlefield and Heritage Trails Districts at the same location. Nearly 900 Scouts attended the event, which was later highlighted in Scout Life magazine. For a glimpse of that event, watch the wrap-up video (https://vimeo.com/769284466).Event Theme The “Shadows of 1864” camporee is based on the Union Army’s desperate need for soldiers following the Battle of Gettysburg. In the spring of 1864, they launched a recruitment campaign, which serves as the backdrop for our theme.Activities    •    Scouts BSA and Older Scouts: Participants will be mustered into the Union Army and formed into Companies, engaging in hands-on activities and inter-unit competitions. Stations will cover various aspects of Civil War soldiering, including Cavalry, Medical, Music, Cannon Demonstration, Encampment Organization, 1860s Games, and Drill Instructions.Fees$60 campout/$10 rifle Troop58.Zelle@gmail.comBSA Historic Trails Programhttps://newbirthoffreedom.org/gettysburg-heritage-trails-program/