East Tennessee Civil War Campaigns, a non-profit organization chartered by the State of Tennessee on Dec. 15, 2008, has announced a partnership with I-81 Motorsports Park for Civil War re-enactments and other living history events.

The inaugural event will is being described as a major Civil War re-enactment of "The Battle of Bulls Gap" that took place in November 1864, a press release said.

The event will take place on May 1-3, on 482 acres of farm land owned and operated by I-81 Motorsports Park. The park is located two miles from Exit 44 on Interstate 81, at Jearoldstown.

Dr. Robert Orr, a local historian, said, "The Battle of Bulls Gap involved a large number of East Tennessee Unionist volunteers who escaped Confederate control and were trained in Kentucky.

"The battle occurred late in the Civil War and reflects the bravery and determination of both armies to control the railroad that connected Virginia with the Confederate South."

Dr. Orr, who helped plan the event, said, "This represents a rare opportunity for people in this region to witness the struggle our ancestors endured right here in our own backyard!"

Bill Ringel, lead coordinator for the inaugural event, said, "The reenacting community is very excited about this opportunity, and the response from participants is overwhelming."

Ringel is a veteran re-enactor, having led and participated in events on a national scale, according to the release.

He was assistant director of the Re-enactment of the Battle of Blue Springs for the past several years, but this fall announced he would be reducing his involvement with that effort.

Ringel had roles in several major movies including "North and South," and most recently, "Freedom," which was produced locally.

He said, "Our partnership with I-81 Motorsports Park Owners will provide the highest quality events in a natural setting reminiscent of the Civil War era in East Tennessee."

Kirk Hayes, owner and operator of I-81 Motorsports Park, said, "We are very excited about expanding the use of our park for living history events.

"East Tennessee Civil War Campaigns' experienced living historians are committed to the highest quality events, and we are pleased to be a partner in historical education that embraces the heritage of East Tennessee."

For more information, contact Carlos Whaley, Chief Executive Officer, East Tennessee Civil War Campaigns. Email: (carlos.whaley.sr@etcwc.org) , Telephone 423-620-7483, or visit our website: http://www.etcwc.org