History On Display At 2019 North-South Skirmish

The North-South Skirmish Association’s (N-SSA) 139th National Competition begins Friday, May 17 at Ft. Shenandoah near Winchester, VA. Member units compete with original or authentic reproduction Civil War period muskets, carbines, breech-loading rifles, revolvers, mortars and cannons. It is the largest Civil War event of its kind in the United States.

Photo by N-SSA/Ericka Hoffman

The N-SSA is the largest Civil War-based shooting sports organization in the country with 200 affiliated member units. Each unit represents a Civil War regiment, and dons period-correct uniforms at events. There are over 3,000 individuals that participate at events like the North-South Skirmish. It is truly history come alive.

N-SSA competitions, known as “skirmishes,” are held every summer based on regional popularity. The skirmishes have teams shoot at breakable targets in several timed events. The teams with the lowest cumulative times win medals or other awards. Men and women shoot side-by-side at all of these events. Adding to the fun, there are also competitions for authenticity of Civil War-period dress (both military and civilian) as well as lectures on topics of interest.

Photo by N-SSA/Ericka Hoffman

Spectators are welcome, with admission and parking free of charge. Additionally, there is a large sutler area and limited food service is available. For more information, visit www.n-ssa.org.

See more: N-SSA Fall Skirmish and NRA Civil War Championship