The CSS Neuse Civil War Interpretive Center will host an event Saturday, May 4 during the BBQ Festival on the Neuse.

From 10 a.m.-4 p.m., the Center will host a program about muskets in the Civil War, showing the evolution of the infantry weapon from smoothbore flintlocks to cartridge breechloaders. Staff will show how each weapon operations, along with a comparison of the speed of loading for each type and the history of the development and manufacture of each type of weapon.

There will be hands-on activities throughout the day, including the opportunity to make a facsimile of paper cartridges used in the musket. Children of all ages will be welcome to learn the basics of the Manual of Arms with a substitute musket.

The site will also host a traveling exhibit for the Story of BBQ in North Carolina, which explores the emergence of hog cultivation and food made from them as a centerpiece of numerous gatherings.

The exhibit also fuels the Eastern vs. Western North Carolina BBQ debate about sauces and condiments, seeking to showcase how the eastern vinegar base and western tomato ketchup-enhanced versions aren’t that difficult. The traveling exhibit will be on display until May 18.

Admission is free for the general public.