On their own or with a guide, your students will explore our permanent exhibit, with over 500 artifacts, telling the story of the American Civil War–causes, course, and consequences–and the individuals involved. Includes the film “Civil War & Emancipation.”

What can objects tell us about the past? Using artifact reproductions and primary source documents, this hands-on program invites students to use their imagination and critical thinking skills to investigate the past. Through objects, students will explore the experiences of different historical figures.

Many soldiers were away from home for the first time, adjusting to life with little food and lots of company. Explore why soldiers joined the army, what life was like in camp, the steps of loading and firing a rifle, and how the world changed for the men and women who chose to fight.

Why did more soldiers die from disease than in battle? This engaging and interactive program explores how the Civil War changed medical practices. Students will learn about the critical advancements made by doctors and nurses during the war as well as the diseases that caused the high death toll. 

This walking tour uses Brown’s Island as a centerpiece for telling the story of Civil War Richmond by highlighting Tredegar Ironworks, the James River boatmen, emancipation, the Confederate States Laboratory, Belle Isle as a prisoner of war camp, and the capture of Richmond.

Using a gallery scavenger hunt or with a guide, students will take a guided tour of the Museum’s permanent exhibit and explore the intertwined tales of the end of the War and the nation’s reunification through artifacts, photos, and documents. Discover the impact of the War on people’s lives, both during its final days and after the surrender.

Explore daily life and economics in mid-19th century rural Virginia through our reproduction cabin. Discover how foodstuffs, tools, and objects can give insight into life before, during, and after the Civil War.

What can objects tell us about the past? Using artifact reproductions and primary source documents, this hands-on program invites students to use their imagination and critical thinking skills to investigate the past. Through objects, students will explore the experiences of different historical figures.

Many soldiers were away from home for the first time, adjusting to life with little food and lots of company. Explore why soldiers joined the army, what life was like in camp, the steps of loading and firing a rifle, and how the world changed for the men and women who chose to fight.

How did the geography and climate of the state impact the movement of people, the use of land, and the war effort? How did the war shape the natural environment? This program is designed to help students understand the geography of Virginia in relation to the Civil War, and can be tailored to have a national focus.

Why did more soldiers die from disease than in battle? This engaging and interactive program explores how the Civil War changed medical practices. Students will learn about the critical advancements made by doctors and nurses during the war as well as the diseases that caused the high death toll. 

A museum educator will guide your students through two beautifully restored floors of this National Landmark, exploring the stories of Jefferson Davis, his family, the many enslaved and free servants who worked in the house, and Abraham Lincoln’s visit. Your students will experience history where it happened in this immersive tour.