EXHIBITS
Exhibit Information
Discover the intricate tapestry of history as we present a collection of immersive exhibits that shed light on the events, people, and stories that shaped this pivotal era. From meticulously curated artifacts and detailed dioramas to multimedia presentations and interactive displays, our exhibits offer a captivating glimpse into the past. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and emotions of the Civil War as you walk in the footsteps of soldiers, witness the struggles and triumphs of individuals, and gain a profound understanding of the complexities that defined this monumental chapter in our nation’s history.
Featured Exhibits
Discover the intricate tapestry of history as we present a collection of immersive exhibits that shed light on the events, people, and stories that shaped this pivotal era. From meticulously curated artifacts and detailed dioramas to multimedia presentations and interactive displays, our exhibits offer a captivating glimpse into the past. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and emotions of the Civil War as you walk in the footsteps of soldiers, witness the struggles and triumphs of individuals, and gain a profound understanding of the complexities that defined this monumental chapter in our nation’s history.
"The Overland Campaign of 1864"
Newly promoted Lieutenant General Ulysses S. Grant, in command of all Union Armies swiftly led Northern forces into the Wilderness of Spotsylvania County, Virginia, where they confronted Confederate forces under General Robert E. Lee. The Battle of the Wilderness was the first in a series of battles beginning May 4, 1864, and culminating on June 24, 1864, with the Battle of Saint Mary’s Church at Charles City, Virginia, and the Union Army advance across the James River. The Overland Campaign was a tactical victory for the North, ultimately leading to the surrender of General Lee’s army at Appomattox Court House on April 9, 1865.
On display until January 31, 2025
Pursuit of Freedom: The Abolition of Slavery
Pieces of History ~ The exhibit covers the early attempts to abolish slavery in the United States and actions that ultimately ended slavery with the 13th Amendment, but only after a devastating Civil War. Abolitionist leaders such as Frederick Douglas, Sojourner Truth, and John Brown will be highlighted. Also featured will be Abolitionist newspapers such as William Lloyd Garrison’s The Liberator. Political compromises between slave and free states temporarily kept the nation from tearing itself apart Still, legislation such as the Fugitive Slave Act, Supreme Court rulings Like Dred Scott, and insurrection
On display until June 2, 2024
Online Exhibits
Interact with a specially curated digital extension for select sections of our in-person exhibits. As you explore these specific areas within the museum, you’ll encounter QR codes that provide access to exclusive online content. These digital resources offer deeper insights, rare documents, and multimedia presentations that complement and enhance the stories told through our physical displays.
Path to the Civil War
Between December 1860 and June 1861, eleven states seceded from the United States and formed the Confederate States of America. All eleven were slave holding states, and all held conventions to debate and vote upon the important decision to leave the country. In February 1861, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas met in Montgomery, Alabama and drafted the Constitution of the Provisional Government of the Confederate States of America which was formally adopted by the Confederate States in March. Learn more about the key points of those founding documents, and view links to websites that have additional information.