American Civil War Museum

Father James Sheeran of the 14th Louisiana
2026-03-12 18:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York)
Reverend Robert J. Miller discusses Father James Sheeran who was considered by some, one of the most colorful figures, of Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia. He was a widower, an Irish immigrant, and a dedicated Catholic priest, and an outspoken warrior of the ‘Lord’s Army’ whether North or South. He was heard to be blunt, outspoken and cantankerous to officers, soldiers and even civilians. Yet, his spiritual and personal attention to the troops in his care was exemplary.

Unconditional Surrender: Ulysses S. Grant in the Civil War
2026-03-19 18:30 - 19:30
From “Sam” to “Unconditional Surrender” Grant, discover how an unassuming officer rose to command all U.S. forces.

His friends called him “Sam.” His wife called him “Lyss” or “Victor.” His initials inspired a nickname tied to one of his greatest battlefield triumphs: “Unconditional Surrender Grant.” The unassuming Grant never expected to play a significant role in the Civil War, yet by its end, he commanded every soldier in the United States armed forces. Join us as living historian, Dr. Curt Fields, shares insights from his book co-authored with Chris Mackowski.

Our Fathers Brought Forth: Lincoln’s Gratitude in the Gettysburg Address
2026-03-26 18:00 - 20:00
Join us for Dr. Lang’s talk on March 26 at 6pm!

Reflecting on Lincoln and the ancient virtue of gratitude, Dr. Andrew F. Lang discusses Lincoln’s rhetoric within the political and military contexts of 1863 and makes connections to the past and future.

Members Reception at 5 pm

Myths about Lee’s Surrender
2026-04-09 18:30 - 19:30
In commemoration of the surrender at Appomattox, join us as Patrick Schroeder, Historian at Appomattox Court House National Historic Park, delves deeper into what really happened on April 9, 1865. Drawing on research for his books Thirty Myths about Lee’s Surrender and More Myths about Lee’s Surrender, Patrick Schroeder separates myth from fact.

Why Gettysburg Matters
2026-04-27 18:00 - 20:00
Why has Gettysburg always been the Civil War’s most famous battle and how has it shaped American national identity? In this talk, professor of U.S. political history Adam Smith argues that ever since the news of Confederate defeat spread on July 4, 1863, Gettysburg has been imagined as a place of national “rebirth”. In its own way, it has been — and continues to be — as vital to the story of American nationhood as anything that happened in the Revolution.

Members Reception at 5 pm

A Slumbering Serpent: George Washington on Slavery and Disunion
2026-06-30 18:00 - 19:00
In this engaging living history program, George Washington (portrayed by Brian Hilton) will reflect on the moral, economic, and political challenges of slavery in his time and the growing divisions threatening the young nation’s unity. The presentation offers a historically grounded and thoughtful exploration of Washington’s evolving conscience and leadership.

Following his remarks, the audience will be invited to engage in a question-and-answer session exploring these complex issues.

Members Reception at 5 pm
