Stepping back in time to the Civil War days

Family Fun

Civil War Encampment
Step back in time to the end of the Civil War when returning soldiers descend upon Old Bethpage Village Restoration to reenact hardships and valor of the brave men who fought to save the nation. The historic site is transformed to focus on the final days of service of Willis Company, men from Long Island who enlisted in 1862 and fought the war to its end in 1865. The weekend’s activities will present the history of the 119th New York Infantry along with its link to Long Island. The action includes military drills, mustering out of service, retirement of the Regiment’s flags, final payment of the soldiers, and the men’s triumphant return to Hempstead in the summer of 1865.
Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 12-13, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $10, $7 children. Old Bethpage Village Restoration, Round Swamp Rd., Old Bethpage. (516) 572-8400.

Nature Walk

“Migrating Birds”
If bird watching is your thing then welcome September with a visit to Muttontown Preserve. Enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the preserve and check out the many species of birds that pass through the area as they begin their fall migration. Wander through some of the preserve’s 550 acres of fields, woodlands, ponds and estate grounds with a naturalist to see some of them in action. Look out for the Cedar Waxwing, Great Horned Owl, Lawrence’s Warbler, and Scarlet Tanager, among other species. A bird bander is also on hand to give a demonstration of the procedure used to help track birds through their travels.
Sunday, Sept. 13, 8:30-11:30 a.m. Enrollment is limited and registration is required. $5 fee. Bring field guides and binoculars if possible. Bill Paterson Nature Center, Muttontown Preserve, Muttontown Lane, East Norwich. (516) 571-8500.