American Civil War Museum

Commemoration of the Surrender & Freedom Day
2024-04-13 10:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | American Civil War Museum – Appomattox, 159 Horseshoe Rd, Appomattox, Virginia, 24522, United States
The American Civil War Museum is hosting a series of activities and programs as part of the regional celebration of the Commemoration of the Surrender & Freedom. Visitors can look forward to a fun-filled day with cannon firings, interactive sessions with living historians, demonstrations by the Pallas Athena Ladies Aid Society, and informative sessions about the lives of soldiers, civilians on the homefront, and enslaved and free African Americans during the Civil War. We hope you will join us on April 13th at ACWM – Appomattox!Registration is for capacity purposes.

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Saturday, April 13, 2024Ongoing Activities Throughout the DayHearth and Home

Experience rural life in 19th century Virginia as the Pallas Athena Ladies Aid Society demonstrates hearth cooking, textile production, and making-do with wartime substitutions. Civil War MedicineDelve into the gritty world of a Civil War surgeon as our education staff demonstrate field surgery. Feeding an Army: Civil War CommissaryLearn about Civil War cookery with The Proud Hound Commissary! Proprietor John Saporito will demonstrate cooking out of an authentic 19th-century wagon. Event ScheduleBlast from the Past: A Civil War Cannon Firing Demonstration

10:30 AM – 11:00 AM

Discover the importance of artillery during the American Civil War. Learn about ammunition and witness a drill that concludes with a bang! The African American Experience with the 5th U.S.C.T. Company G Presenters

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

In an hour-long performance, experience the trials, tribulations, and victories of the African American experience from 1804-1870. Ona Lewis brings to life Sojourner Truth’s journey, and Bertram Floyd and Frederick Smith depict the lives of African American men and US Colored Troops through the use of story, poetry, and song. Reenactor Skirmish – 12:30 PM – 1:30 PMWitness a skirmish between the 24th Virginia and the 99th New York Infantry.Reconsidering Longstreet: Gettysburg, Appomattox, New Orleans

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

General James Longstreet is remembered by many as a prominent Confederate general during the American Civil War. He was also reviled by generations of white Southerners as an apostate—both for criticizing the generalship of Robert E. Lee and for becoming Republican during Reconstruction. Join us as Dr. Elizabeth Varon explores Longstreet’s influential postwar political career and connects it to the perennial debates over his wartime record.

This event is included with museum admissionThe African American Experience with the 5th U.S.C.T. Company G Presenters

3:30 PM – 4:30 PM

In an hour-long performance, experience the trials, tribulations, and victories of the African American experience from 1804-1870. Ona Lewis brings to life Sojourner Truth’s journey, and Bertram Floyd and Frederick Smith depict the lives of African American men and US Colored Troops through the use of story, poetry, and song. Blast from the Past: A Civil War Cannon Firing Demonstration

4:30 PM – 5:00 PM

Discover the importance of artillery during the American Civil War. Learn about ammunition and witness a drill that concludes with a bang!

"Forgotten Friday: The April 7, 1865, Actions in Cumberland County, VA" with Patrick Schroeder
2024-04-11 18:30 - 19:30 | American Civil War Museum – Appomattox, 159 Horseshoe Rd, Appomattox, Virginia, 24522, United States
THIS IS AN IN-PERSON EVENT AT ACWM-AppomattoxView/Download FlyerHistorians often overlook the multiple engagements that occurred in Cumberland County near Sailor’s Creek (April 6) and at Appomattox (April 9). These battles resulted in the death, wounding, or capture of three generals, the near capture of General Robert E. Lee, and a “Lee to the rear” incident. The battles near Cumberland Church were both fascinating and horrific, resulting in hundreds of casualties. Join Patrick Schroeder, Historian of Appomattox Court House National Historical Park, to discover more about these often-forgotten events.Civil War Author/Historian Patrick A. Schroeder is the full-time Appomattox Court House National Historical Park Historian. He graduated Cum Laude with a B.S. in Historical Park Administration from Shepherd College, Shepherdstown, WV., and has an M.A. in Civil War History from Virginia Tech. His book “Thirty Myths About Lee’s Surrender” is currently in its twelfth printing.ALL SALES ARE FINAL. TICKETS AND REGISTRATIONS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE UNLESS THE AMERICAN CIVIL WAR MUSEUM CANCELS AN EVENT.Register on Eventbrite

Loose Cannons X
2024-04-06 18:00 - 22:00 | The Foundry – 500 Tredegar St, Richmond, 23219
The Tredegar Society is excited to host the 10th Anniversary of their annual fundraising event, ‘Loose Cannons’! This year the event will take place in the beautiful Foundry event space, located onsite at the American Civil War Museum, and all proceeds will benefit the Museum.

(This event is for ages 21+, Dress Code: Smart Casual)

The Tredegar Society of the American Civil War Museum (ACWM) is a group of young professionals dedicated to supporting the Museum by introducing Civil War history to younger audiences. We invite you to spend an evening with us, learning more about our organization and upcoming events at the ACWM.

Enjoy food trucks such as Cluck and Roll and Bikini Panini, music by Richmond’s premier soul band Soul Providers, and libations provided by J. Emerson, Inc., Center of the Universe Brewing Company, and A. Smith Bowman Distillery ($20 add-on to your ticket). Your support of this event enables the Tredegar Society to grow its membership and continue its valued service to The American Civil War Museum.

Special Guest – Abraham Lincoln

Based on thorough research, Fritz Klein’s portrayal of Lincoln brings this iconic figure to life with humor and humanity.

$20 wristband add-on for access to A. Smith Bowman bourbon barOnline ticket sales end 4/5/24 at 4:00 PM EST.Tickets will be available for purchase at the door.All sales are final. Tickets and registrations are non-refundable unless the American Civil War Museum cancels an event.Register on Eventbrite

Sponsors

American Battlefield TrustMcGuire WoodsPlus CommunicationsCSC LeasingLink Public AffairsThe Monument GroupSIMA Financial GroupShenandoah Valley Battlefield FoundationModern ClubmanThe Vectre CorporationWilliams MullenWoods Rogers Vandeventer BlackBattlefields & Bourbon PodcastA. Smith Bowman DistilleryCenter of the Universe BrewingJ. Emerson, Inc.Shaken Not SpurredCluck N’ RollBikini Panini

Civil War & Emancipation Day
2024-04-06 10:00 - 17:00 | ACWM – Historic Tredegar, 480 Tredegar St., Richmond, Virginia, 23219, United States
View/Download FlyerABOUT THIS SPECIAL EVENTCivil War & Emancipation Day (or CWED) is a commemorative day marking the history & impact of the Civil War and the end of slavery in Richmond. Join us for a day of family-friendly storytelling, music, crafts, and a visit from Abe Lincoln as we use the arts to explore the Civil War, slavery, and emancipation. All events are included with Museum admission. Civil War & Emancipation Day consists of programs and activities that explore the Civil War, slavery, and emancipation. This annual, collaborative community-wide effort commemorates the anniversaries of key 1865 events: THE CONFEDERATE EVACUATION OF RICHMOND (APRIL 2)THE EMANCIPATION OF ENSLAVED RICHMONDERS & THE ARRIVAL OF US TROOPS (APRIL 3)ABRAHAM LINCOLN’S TOUR OF THE CITY (APRIL 4)RegisterRegistration Encouraged, Not Required. All events are included with Museum admission.View/Download FlyerPresident Lincoln Speaks

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Program with Fritz KleinKlein’s portrayal of Lincoln brings this American icon to life, blending his humor and humanity in thoroughly researched and historically accurate programs.

Come dressed as Lincoln for our Lincoln-Look-A-Like Contest! My Day with Abe Lincoln

Available to purchase in our store!

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Children’s program with Dr. Jonathan White. Did you know that Abraham Lincoln struggled with spelling for his entire life? Or that kids teased him on his first day of school because he wore a sunbonnet? Join author and historian Jonathan W. White as he shares stories of Abraham Lincoln from his new book, My Day with Abe Lincoln. The program is geared toward children, but adults will enjoy it! Performance by 8th Green Machine Regimental Band

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Musical performance by 8th Green Machine Regimental Band Using authentic 19th-century instruments and mouthpieces, the band plays popular patriotic airs, operatic selections, and dance tunes from the period. In between selections, learn about bands of the period, the music, and the instruments in this engaging and informative hour-long program. President Lincoln Speaks

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Program with Fritz KleinKlein’s portrayal of Lincoln brings this American icon to life, blending his humor and humanity in thoroughly researched and historically accurate programs.

Come dressed as Lincoln for our Lincoln-Look-A-Like Contest! Participating OrganizationsMike Gorman, Historian & Park Ranger, Richmond National Battlefield Park

April 6, 2024, 1PM, 1700 Dock Street

To understand what happened when Abraham Lincoln visited Richmond on April 4-5, 1865, the best way is to retrace his footsteps. Richmond historian and Park Ranger Mike Gorman will highlight the incredible events of this “strange presidential entry” featuring newly uncovered research that helps explain what happened, as well as the memory and legacy of the event. Join us as we literally walk in the footsteps of Lincoln through Richmond.

Tour begins at 1 PM at the floodwall at 17th and Dock Streets (GPS address: 1700 Dock Street). There are multiple parking lots and street parking available nearby. Expect to walk approximately 2 miles, half of which is uphill. The tour will last approximately 2 hours. The Valentine

“Sculpting History” Tour & Conversation

Date & time: April 7 | 2-3pm

Location: the Valentine Museum – 1015 East Clay Street

For Civil War & Emancipation Day, join Curator of General Collections, Christina Vida, for an intimate conversation in the Valentine’s newest exhibition Sculpting History at the Valentine Studio: Art, Power and the “Lost Cause” American Myth. Through artworks sculpted by Edward Valentine as well as documents, images, quotes and big questions, we will explore how the Lost Cause myth reframed the reality of the Civil War and impacted communities from the 19th century to today. Discuss stories behind the “Lost Cause”, consider its legacy, and uncover examples of brave individuals who resisted the myth.

This program is free and registration is required.

Sign UpPhotos from Civil War & Emancipation Day 2023

"Benjamin Franklin Butler: A Noisy, Fearless Life" with Dr. Elizabeth Leonard
2024-03-21 18:30 - 19:30 | ACWM – Historic Tredegar, 480 Tredegar St., Richmond, Virginia, 23219, United States
This is an IN-PERSON event at ACWM-TredegarIn a captivating lecture by Dr. Elizabeth Leonard, discover the life and legacy of Benjamin Franklin Butler, a pivotal figure in the Civil War and Reconstruction periods. Explore Butler’s remarkable career trajectory, worker rights advocacy, and pivotal role as one of Abraham Lincoln’s foremost civilian generals. Delve into his contributions to wartime policy and emancipation efforts and his changing perceptions of race and slavery. Join us as we unravel the complexities of Butler’s life and discuss his enduring impact on American history.Elizabeth D. Leonard is Colby College’s Gibson Professor of History, Emerita. She earned her Ph.D. in U.S. history from the University of California, Riverside, in 1992 and is the author of several articles and seven books on the Civil War-era including: Yankee Women: Gender Battles in the Civil War; All the Daring of the Soldier: Women of the Civil War Armies; and Lincoln’s Forgotten Ally: Judge Advocate General Joseph Holt of Kentucky, which was named co-winner of the Gilder Lehrman Lincoln Prize in 2012. Her most recent book, Benjamin Franklin Butler: A Noisy, Fearless Life, which was also named a finalist for the 2023 Lincoln Prize, won the John L. Nau III Center for Civil War Studies 2023 book prize.Benjamin Franklin Butler was one of the most important and controversial military and political leaders of the Civil War and Reconstruction eras. Remembered most often for his uncompromising administration of the Federal occupation of New Orleans during the war, Butler reemerges in this lively narrative as a man whose journey took him from childhood destitution to wealth and profound influence in state and national halls of power. Prize-winning biographer Elizabeth D. Leonard chronicles Butler’s successful career in the law defending the rights of the Lowell Mill girls and other workers, his achievements as one of Abraham Lincoln’s premier civilian generals, and his role in developing wartime policy in support of slavery’s fugitives as the nation advanced toward emancipation. Leonard also highlights Butler’s personal and political evolution, revealing how his limited understanding of racism and the horrors of slavery transformed over time, leading him into a postwar role as one of the nation’s foremost advocates for Black freedom and civil rights, and one of its notable opponents of white supremacy and neo-Confederate resurgence. Leonard’s nuanced portrait will help readers assess such claims, peeling away generations of previous assumptions and characterizations to provide a definitive life of a consequential man.

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Thank you for supporting our mission by purchasing through our online store. Your contribution enables us to continue providing engaging events and experiences.All sales are final. Tickets and registrations are non-refundable unless the American Civil War Museum cancels an event.Register on EventbriteJoin us for our Spring Lecture Series as we delve into the causes, course, and consequences of the Civil War, from abolition through Reconstruction, as part of our extensive initiative “The Civil War & Remaking America” and prepare to open our newest exhibition, The Impending Crisis in Spring 2024!

Book Talk with Alexander Rossino - "Calamity at Frederick: Robert E. Lee, Special Orders No. 191, and Confederate Misfortune on the Road to Antietam"
2024-03-14 18:30 - 19:30 | American Civil War Museum – Appomattox, 159 Horseshoe Rd, Appomattox, Virginia, 24522, United States
This is an IN-PERSON event at ACWM-AppomattoxThe loss of Robert E. Lee’s Special Orders No. 191 is one of the Civil War’s enduring mysteries. In this meticulous study, Alexander Rossino presents a bold new interpretation of the evidence surrounding the orders’ creation, distribution, and loss outside Frederick, Maryland, in September 1862. Rossino makes extensive use of primary sources to explore these subjects and other important questions related to the orders, including why General Lee thought his army could operate north of the Potomac until winter; why Lee found it necessary to seize the Federal garrison at Harpers Ferry; what Lee hoped to accomplish after capturing Harpers Ferry; where Corporal Barton Mitchell of the 27th Indiana found the Lost Orders; and if D. H. Hill or someone else was to blame for losing the orders. The result is a well-documented reassessment that sheds new light while challenging long-held assumptions.Calamity at Frederick is the Confederate companion to “The Tale Untwisted” by Gene M. Thorp and Alexander Rossino, which tells the story from the Union perspective.Alexander B. Rossino is an award-winning historian and the author of Hitler Strikes Poland: Blitzkrieg, Ideology, and Atrocity. He worked for a decade at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum while penning a number of scholarly articles and book reviews. His lifelong fascination with the Civil War was rekindled in 2013 when he moved to western Maryland, where he currently resides at the foot of South Mountain. Alex is also the author of the deeply researched and beautifully written Six Days in September, a novel about Lee’s Army in Maryland during the 1862 campaign. He is currently researching and writing a companion book from the Union perspective.The loss of Robert E. Lee’s Special Orders No. 191 is one of the Civil War’s enduring mysteries. In this meticulous study, Alexander Rossino presents a bold new interpretation of the evidence surrounding the orders’ creation, distribution, and loss outside Frederick, Maryland, in September 1862. Rossino makes extensive use of primary sources to explore these subjects and other important questions related to the orders, including why General Lee thought his army could operate north of the Potomac until winter; why Lee found it necessary to seize the Federal garrison at Harpers Ferry; what Lee hoped to accomplish after capturing Harpers Ferry; where Corporal Barton Mitchell of the 27th Indiana found the Lost Orders; and if D. H. Hill or someone else was to blame for losing the orders. The result is a well-documented reassessment that sheds new light while challenging long-held assumptions.

Purchase Book

Thank you for supporting our mission by purchasing through our online store. Your contribution enables us to continue providing engaging events and experiences.All sales are final. Tickets and registrations are non-refundable unless the American Civil War Museum cancels an event.Register on Eventbrite

Book Talk with Victor Vignola - "Contrasts in Command: The Battle of Fair Oaks, May 31-June 1, 1862"
2024-03-07 18:30 - 19:30 | Virtual
Virtual Book TalkThe two-day battle was fought near the Confederate capital, with more than 11,000 casualties and the loss of the primary Southern field army commander. This was the first major combat in the Eastern Theater after almost a year since Bull Run/Manassas. The possession of Richmond was at stake during the battle. However, Seven Pines/Fair Oaks has been largely overlooked by historians. Join us virtually on March 7th, 2024 as author Victor Vignola discusses the battle’s far-reaching ramifications.Victor Vignola is a lifelong student of the Civil War and has written articles for publication in North and South Magazine and in other forums. He delivers historical programs, conducts tours, and regularly visits various Civil War sites. Vic’s career included executive-level labor and inter-agency relations for the Office of Mental Health in New York State. He lives with his family in Orange County, New York, home of the 124th New York “Orange Blossoms” Regiment.The bloody two-day battle was fought on the doorstep of the Confederate capital. It was the first major combat in the Eastern Theater since Bull Run/Manassas almost a year earlier, left more than 11,000 casualties in its wake, and cost the primary Southern field army its commander. The possession of Richmond hung in its balance. Yet, almost nothing has been written about Seven Pines/Fair Oaks. Victor Vignola’s Contrasts in Command: The Battle of Fair Oaks, May 31–June 1, 1862, which focuses primarily on the Fair Oaks portion of the battle, is a major contribution to the historiography of the war.

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Thank you for supporting our mission by purchasing through our online store. Your contribution enables us to continue providing engaging events and experiences.Register on Eventbrite

History Explorer Day: African American History in Appomattox
2024-02-24 10:00 - 16:00 | American Civil War Museum – Appomattox, 159 Horseshoe Rd, Appomattox, Virginia, 24522, United States
Join us for a day of learning about African American history in Appomattox. The event will include living history, informal interpretation, children’s activities, and a panel discussion with local historians, museum professionals, and community stakeholders. The discussion will focus on the present condition and future of Black History. Don’t miss out on this informative and engaging event! 10:00 AM – 2:00PMInteract with our education staff to learn about the history and progression of slavery and freedom in American history through a hands-on activity. 2:00 PM“From Tragedy to Triumph, The Martha Ann Fields Story” Listen to the story of Martha Ann Fields, an enslaved cook and one of the unsung heroes of Hampton Roads. She escaped with her eight children, seeking freedom at Fort Monroe. Historical Interpreter and award-winning Djelimusa (African storyteller) Valerie Davis captures this formerly enslaved woman’s physical, historical, and spiritual essence from the Nutshell Plantation in Hanover County. Martha Ann’s story is a testament to faith and courage. 3:30PM – 4:30PMPanel DiscussionParticipate in a panel discussion with local historians, museum professionals, and community stakeholders on the current and future state of Black History. Register on Eventbrite

2024-02-16 16:30 - 2024-02-17 17:00 | The Foundry – 500 Tredegar St, Richmond, 23219
19th Annual SymposiumFebruary 16-17, 2024500 Tredegar St, Richmond, VA 23219

The American Civil War Museum’s 19th Annual Symposium “The Impending Crisis” will feature esteemed scholars discussing America on the verge of civil war and feature a preview of our newest exhibition, The Impending Crisis. This event will be held in the Foundry building on the ACWM Tredegar campus. The Museum is just a few feet away, and symposium attendees will be given free admission during the Symposium weekend (2/16-2/17). We hope you will join us for our special event weekend! Presented as part of our continuing partnership withThe John L. Nau Center for Civil War Studies at the University of Virginia. View ScheduleALL SALES ARE FINAL AFTER FEBRUARY 1ST, 2024.Register on Eventbrite

Book Talk with Jill Newmark -"Without Concealment, Without Compromise: The Courageous Lives of Black Civil War Surgeons"
2024-02-01 18:30 - 19:30 | Virtual
Virtual Book Talk

Of some twelve thousand Union Civil War surgeons, only fourteen were Black men. Discover the unique experiences of these proud, patriotic men who fought racism and discrimination to attend medical school and serve with the U.S. military. Their efforts and actions influenced societal change and forged new pathways for African Americans. Join author Jill Newmark as she illuminates how each man, through his service as a surgeon during the war and his lifelong activism for freedom, justice, and equality, became a catalyst of change and a symbol of an emancipated future.

Author Jill L. Newmark is an independent historian and former Curator and Exhibition Specialist at the National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health. She has curated numerous exhibitions and written several articles on African-American medical personnel who served during the American Civil War.

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History Explorer Day: Frederick Douglass
2024-01-20 11:00 - 15:00 | ACWM – Historic Tredegar, 480 Tredegar St., Richmond, Virginia, 23219, United States
The ACWM offers free admission to all Virginia Public and homeschooled school students! Please register for capacity purposes. Admission for adults will be collected at the museum front desk. Join us for a special History Explorer Day on January 20th! You’ll have the opportunity to meet Frederick Douglass, portrayed by Nathan M. Richardson, and hear him speak about his evolving views on the U.S. Constitution and American Democracy. There will be two presentations at 11:00 am & 2:00 pm. Learn how Douglass, a formerly enslaved man who became a writer, orator, and abolitionist, used photography to further his message of freedom and equality by creating a craft using Douglass’ words and image. Take advantage of this exciting opportunity to learn more about Frederick Douglass and his legacy. For more information, please visit https://www.scpublishing.com/live. https://www.scpublishing.com/live

Solider of Destiny: Slavery, Secession, and the Redemption of Ulysses S. Grant
2024-01-18 18:30 - 19:30 | Virtual
John Reeves is the author of A Fire in the Wilderness and The Lost Indictment of Robert E. Lee. He has taught European and American history at Lehman College, Bronx Community College, and Southbank University in London. John received an MA in European History from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. You can learn more about him at john-reeves.com.

Captain Ulysses S. Grant, an obscure army officer who was expelled for alcohol abuse in 1854, rose to become general-in-chief of the United States Army in 1864. What accounts for this astonishing turn-around during this extraordinary decade? Join us as author, John Reeves discusses his latest book.

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James Longstreet: The Confederate General That Defied The South
2024-01-11 18:30 - 20:00 | ACWM – Historic Tredegar, 480 Tredegar St., Richmond, Virginia, 23219, United States
with Elizabeth VaronThe most remarkable political about-face in American history was made by General James Longstreet. He fought for the Confederacy during the Civil War, but after the war, he supported Black voting and joined Louisiana’s newly elected, integrated post-war government. Despite being one of the highest-ranking Confederate generals, Longstreet has never been honored with statues or memorials in the South because of his post-war actions in rejecting the Lost Cause mythology and urging racial reconciliation. Join us for this discussion with Dr. Elizabeth R. Varon, Langbourne M. Williams professor of American history at the University of Virginia. Moderated by ACWM President and CEO, Dr. Rob Havers.

Purchase BookElizabeth R. Varon is Langbourne M. Williams professor of American history at the University of Virginia and a member of the executive council of UVA’s John L. Nau III Center for Civil War History. Varon’s books include Southern Lady, Yankee Spy: The True Story of Elizabeth Van Lew, A Union Agent in the Heart of the Confederacy, and Appomattox: Victory, Defeat and Freedom at the End of the Civil War. Her most recent book, Armies of Deliverance: A New History of the Civil War, won the 2020 Gilder Lehrman Lincoln Prize and was named one of The Wall Street Journal’s best books of 2019. Register on Eventbrite

First Annual Santa Visit to Tredegar
2023-12-17 11:00 - 14:00 | Historic Tredegar, 480 Tredegar St., Richmond, VA, 23219
Join us this Sunday in our lobby at ACWM-Tredegar from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm for our first Santa visit! Participate in kids’ crafts, enjoy special discounts in our shop, and more! This event will also feature hot cocoa & cider from mobile bar cart, The Sugar Cube Mobile Bar Cart, Merry Mimosas, and all-day showings of “A Charlie Brown Christmas” in our Robins Theater! This event is FREE and open to the public.Although registration is encouraged, it is not required. ActivitiesJoin us in our lobby to meet Santa from 11:00am – 2:00pm!

‘Merry Mimosas’

hot cocoa & cider from mobile bar cart, The Sugar Cube

All-Day showings of “A Charlie Brown Christmas” in our Robins Theater!

This event is a part of our Tredegar Holiday Series (November 30 – December 17th)! This is a range of festive events aimed at bringing our community together during the holiday season! We look forward to seeing you at these special events! ❄️🔔View Full ‘Tredegar Holiday Series’ Flyer

Valley Thunder: The Battle of New Market - Book Talk with Charlie Knight
2023-12-14 18:30 - 19:30 | ACWM Appomattox, 159 Horseshoe Rd, Appomattox, VA, 24522, United States
Valley Thunder: The Battle of New Market and the Opening of the Shenandoah Valley Campaign, May 1864Book Talk with Charlie KnightView/Download FlyerAs Major General Franz Sigel sought to secure Union control of the Shenandoah Valley with some 10,000 men, Major General John C. Breckinridge assembled a scratch command to repulse them. Included within the ranks of his 4,500-man army were cadets from the Virginia Military Institute. Join author Charlie Knight to discover a wide array of soldiers, civilians, and politicians who were swept up in one of the war’s most gripping engagements. Charles Knight is a native of Richmond, VA, who developed a love of history early on. He has worked at museums and historic sites for more than 20 years and has given historical presentations to audiences nationwide. He is the author of “Valley Thunder: The Battle of New Market and the Opening of the Shenandoah Valley Campaign, May 1864” (2010) and “From Arlington to Appomattox: Robert E. Lee’s Civil War, Day by Day, 1861-1865 (Nov. 2020). Charlie currently resides in North Carolina. Register on Eventbrite

A Night At the Museum - ACWM Holiday Reception
2023-12-14 17:00 - 19:00 | ACWM – Historic Tredegar, 480 Tredegar St., Richmond, Virginia, 23219, United States
In gratitude for your loyal support of the ACWM, we invite our Members and Donors to an exclusive Holiday Reception with ACWM President & CEO Dr. Rob Havers presenting museum highlights for the upcoming year. The evening will feature refreshments from Champagne Taste Catering and live entertainment by the Joe Sarver Trio, and will be held on December 14th from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm. Attire: FestiveRSVP BY DECEMBER 4, 2023This event is a part of our Tredegar Holiday Series (November 30 – December 17th)! This is a range of festive events aimed at bringing our community together during the holiday season! We look forward to seeing you at these special events! ❄️🔔

View Full ‘Tredegar Holiday Series’ Flyer

Winter Wander 2023￼
2023-12-10 12:00 - 16:00 | White House of the Confederacy
The White House of Confederacy will be featured in this year’s Winter Wander event. Winter Wander is an annual event that showcases the rich history and culture of the Court End Neighborhood, where the White House of Confederacy is situated. Visitors to the event will be able to explore the impressive architecture and learn about the historical significance of the White House of the Confederacy, the former residence of Confederate President Jefferson Davis. Take advantage of the opportunity to experience the beauty and charm of the Court End Neighborhood while learning about its rich history! Learn MoreJoin the Valentine and the Richmond Night Market for some holiday cheer on our picturesque block of East Clay Street! The Richmond Night Market will feature a diverse array of vendors and local artisans, plus enjoy entertainment, refreshments, family crafts and games. Tour the historic Court End neighborhood and hop on a shuttle to visit nearby cultural sites for open houses and other activities.This event is FREE and open to the public. Enjoy free admission to other historic sites including: John Marshall HouseMonumental ChurchMasons’ HallSt. Paul’s ChurchThe Poe MuseumThe Valentine First Freedom Center

ACWM-Appomattox Christmas Open House
2023-12-09 10:00 - 16:00 | American Civil War Museum – Appomattox, 159 Horseshoe Rd, Appomattox, Virginia, 24522, United States
On December 9th, experience the magic of the holiday season at ACWM-Appomattox’s Christmas Open House. Bring the little ones to meet Santa and enjoy fun-filled children’s activities. Remember to check out the Angel Tree and spread some holiday cheer by granting a wish for someone in need.10:00am – 12:00pm – Appomattox Youth Chorale12:00pm – 4:00pm – Piano, Flute, Harp PerformanceSanta, crafts, vendors, and refreshments are offered all day.Register for FreeCheck out last year’s event in this recap!

Lunch & Learn: Victorian Christmas Traditions
2023-12-08 12:00 - 13:00 | Historic Tredegar, 480 Tredegar St., Richmond, VA, 23219
Christmas today is far removed from what it was in the mid-19th century, yet it was during that period that many of our current-day traditions developed. Discover the origin of some of the most beloved elements of Christmas and hear accounts of Civil War Christmases. On December 8th, from 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm, bring your lunch for our Lunch & Learn about Victorian Christmas Traditions in our Tredegar lobby with our Director of Programs, Kelly Hancock. Registration is encouraged, but not required.

Register on EventbriteThis event is a part of our Tredegar Holiday Series (November 30 – December 17th)! This is a range of festive events aimed at bringing our community together during the holiday season! We look forward to seeing you at these special events! ❄️🔔View Full ‘Tredegar Holiday Series’ Flyer
