Legacy

Darrell Osburn in a Revolutionary War military uniform, standing outside a canvas tent. He is wearing a navy coat with red trim, white pants, tall black boots, and a tricorn , and is holding onto a tent pole.

Darrell Osburn

8/25/52 - 12/31/25

You Can Live History, Inc. and its associated programs, collections, and educational mission were founded and developed by Darrell Osburn, whose vision, craftsmanship, and dedication to historical education created a lasting resource for students, communities, and audiences.

Through decades of effort, he assembled and preserved these materials not merely as artifacts, but as living tools for learning, engagement, and remembrance.

Darrell’s extensive knowledge of Revolutionary, Napoleonic, and Civil War battle history and military regiments and uniforms were the catalyst for him to found a non-profit where he could inspire others to enjoy learning about history.

He was a highly talented musician and a skilled storyteller, sharing music and songs of the various military eras and telling tales he remembered hearing of his own ancestors who fought in the American Civil War.

Quick-witted, kind, sharp and creative, and with a ready smile and unending patience when working with students, he crafted a business unlike any other. He was able to teach history in a way that was both entertaining and educational, serious, but fun, creative and memorable.

Darrell Osburn will always be credited and appreciated as the originator whose work laid the foundation for this organization’s impact.

We are deeply grateful for the many years we were able to have with this unique man. He truly was one of a kind.

Sharon and Mike Guli dressed in Civil War formal attire as they attend a Civil War Ball in Gettysburg. Mike is wearing a tuxedo with tails and Sharon is wearing a brown ballgown with cream lace and flower trims.

Sharon and Mike Guli

Sharon Guli worked for Darrell Osburn and You Can Live History, Inc. from 1998 - 2001, first as a seamstress, then in every capacity where she was needed, be it as costumer, trainer and drill instructor, or 2nd unit director and videographer on the battlefield.

In April of 1999, Sharon’s background as a professional costumer, writer, director, producer, and vintage dance teacher was instrumental in crafting additional programming for the You Can Live History lineup, introducing programs such as Trunk Shows, The Roles of Civil War Women, and Period Dance Instruction and Balls.

From 2001 - 2026, alongside her historian husband, Mike, Sharon continued to expand her repertoire of historically-inspired programs and vintage dance events, with opportunities to perform, teach, and train across the United States and also in Europe and Russia.

Reuniting with Darrell in the fall of 2026, Sharon was humbled to be nominated by him as the new President of You Can Live History. She is honored to carry on Darrell’s legacy, and excited to reintroduce her original programs and expand his vision.

Those of us who knew Darrell were blessed by his presence and his wit and his talent. We miss his music, his creativity, and his leadership. We miss his smile and the twinkle in his eye and his wonderful stories.

May we all be inspired by the memory of Darrell Osburn, and may he live on as we carry forward his vision. We thank you for your continued support.