The event is timed to coincide with the commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War and the debut of exhibits highlighting the town's role in the conflict.

The event runs from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The Morrisville History Center is located at 100 Town Hall Drive.

The grand opening will feature historical exhibits, live music and refreshments. The exhibits will tell the story of Morrisville from the first Native Americans to the present.

The opening of the history center is held in conjunction with a reenactment, where volunteers will portray the men of Morrisville assembling in the yard of the Williamson-Page house in 1861 before leaving for war.

From 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., two videos will show in the council chambers: Jeremiah's Dream, a documentary on the town's history, and Twilight of Sabers, a documentary of the Civil War battle that occurred in Morrisville on April, 13, 1865. The producer, historian and videographer Ernest Dollar, will answer questions afterward.

On Saturday, the festivities will continue with a living history demonstration by the Organization of the North Carolina Grays and the Cedar Fork Rifles from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The N.C. State Troops of Company I, Sixth Regiment will honor the soldiers of Company I.

There will be a morning and afternoon company drill at 2 p.m. A company flag presentation ceremony, sponsored by the Cedar Fork Rifles Preservation Society, will be held at the Page House in Morrisville by the Ladies of Cedar Fork.

Period civilian dress is encouraged. For information, call 919-463-6196.