Rules include no swords or spurs on the dance floor, and courtesy toward both Blue and Gray revelers is as important as dance form.

The third annual Corbit's Charge Civil War Ball will be held Saturday, March 27, transforming the gymnasium of the old Longwell Armory in Westminster into a living, breathing, dancing exhibit of Civil War-era finery.

The event, 8 to 11 p.m., is hosted by the Corbit's Charge Commemoration Committee and the City of Westminster's Department of Recreation and Parks.

"This is a unique family event that even folks who are not Civil War buffs enjoy," said Tom LeGore, author of "Just South of Gettysburg," a history of events that took place in Carroll County during the Civil War.

"People have a lot of interest in Victorian era costumes and dancing ... and the Civil War," he said.

"The kids love it," LeGore said of the ball. "Others take it so seriously. ... They look like they just walked out of a Mathew Brady photo.

Proceeds from the ball benefit the Corbit's Charge committee, a not-for-profit group that's dedicated to educating the public on Corbit's Charge, also known to historians as "The Battle of Westminster."

During that June 29, 1863, engagement, troops of Companies C and D of the Union Army's First Delaware Cavalry tangled with Major Gen. J.E.B. Stuart's 5,000-man cavalry division of the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia at the corner of Main Street and Washington Road in downtown Westminster.

The fight was brief, but became known as Corbit's Charge, named after the commander, Capt. Charles Corbit, who led the Union troops.

While it was a confederate victory, some historians note that the battle impeded Stuart's ability to link up with Confederate infantry in Pennsylvania — and played some role in the defeat of Lee at Gettysburg

The Corbit's Charge ball helps fund the commemoration committee's sponsorship of events that are held annually during the last weekend in June to mark the anniversary of the local battle.

LeGore is already working on the plans for this year's commemoration weekend.

"It's getting national attention," he said, "and we're starting to get the rest of Carroll County involved."

The ball is considered a primer for that summertime event, essentially setting the mood — and raising money — for activities that weekend that will include reenactments, a living history camp and concerts.

The March 27 ball will include 1860s period dancing, dance instruction, light refreshments and door prizes.

Instructors and callers Briant and Karin Bohleke, of Gettysburg, will serve as dance master and mistress.

Period dance music will be performed by Peg Shutes and Bruce Young, of Smash the Windows, from State College, Pa.

The ball is for beginners and experienced dancers, and partners are not required. Children are invited, but they should be able to follow the calls to participate in the dance formations.

Also, 19th century period attire is requested, but not required. Modern semi-formal attire is acceptable. Shoes with flexible leather soles are recommended, but not sandals.

And it's true — no spurs, swords, heel plates or firearms (even fake ones).

Corbit's dance party

The Corbit's Charge Civil War Ball will be held at the Old Longwell Armory, also known as the Westminster Family Center, 11 Longwell Ave., in Westminster, Saturday, March 27, 8-11 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person.

For tickets, call Thomas Beyard at 410-848-9002, Susan Harry at 410-848-9161 or Kim Prehn at 410-876-5390; or e-mail sharry@westgov.com. Free parking is available. Those arriving by horse and buggy are asked to bring their own hay and feed.

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