The immersive short-film A People’s Contest: America’s Civil War & Emancipation is an indispensable part of the visitor experience designed to inspire an understanding of the motivational causes, course, and consequences of the American Civil War.

Daily showings of the original film “A People’s Contest: America’s Civil War and Emancipation” will be available to ACWM visitors as part of their museum experience.

The Robins Theater space, designed by Solid Light, Inc. is equipped with state-of-the-art technology in video and audio components. The latest technology is utilized to support the dramatic visuals of the film, immersing the audience in the Civil War era. The theater itself adds a modern multi-use space for programs, performances, or lectures.

During Museum hours, visitors will have the opportunity to view the original film “A People’s Contest: America’s Civil War and Emancipation”, which is just under thirteen minutes in length. This film was developed to inspire an understanding of the motivational causes, course, and consequences of the War, and compliments the ACWM flagship exhibit, A People’s Contest: Struggles for Nation & Freedom in Civil War America.

This years-long project reflects scholarship and storytelling in a unique manner. First-person historical quotes, historical photos, and archival materials compliment contemporary filmmaking techniques to create an innovative experience rooted in the stories of the Civil War era.

With an original script and musical score, the film reflects themes of the Museum’s flagship exhibit by presenting distinctive and unexpected elements.

The American Civil War Museum explores the stories of the American Civil War and its legacies from the perspectives of soldiers and civilians, and free and enslaved African Americans. Through dynamic exhibits and an unparalleled collection of Civil War era artifacts, the Museum seeks to show the parallels between history and current culture.