150th Civil War Anniversary Event: The Conflict Concludes?

150th Civil War Anniversary Event: The Conflict Concludes?
April11, 2015: End of the Civil War Commemoration Event
         ‘The Great Victory’                   ‘The War Probably Ended’
           ‘Glorious News’                      ‘Lee Surrenders’       

With General Robert E. Lee’s surrender on April 9, 1865, newspaper headlines spread the word that the American Civil War was drawing to a close. To many, the news brought humiliation and fear of retribution from an angry Northern government. To others, the news meant a joyous end to hostilities mixed with the memories of several hundred thousand people who lost their lives. To those free from slavery, the news brought a new era of freedom. The nation had hopes of restarting as people looked forward to reuniting with their loved ones, rebuilding their lives, and peace. Unfortunately for those around Fort Smith, the war continued to rage for several months, and the after affects would last for years, thus delaying these dreams for some time.
Visit Fort Smith National Historic Site on April 11, 2015 and meet soldiers and civilians encamped inside the fort walls, waiting to hear the news of the surrender. Mingle among the camps of union troops, who continue to drill for more possible fighting. Meet civilians longing to return to their homes while seeking food and shelter inside the city’s defenses. Meet people who were freed from the bondage of slavery and now fight for their freedom as soldiers. Living history impressions, interpretive programs, and historic weapons demonstrations will be ongoing throughout the day (9am-5pm) with encampments of cavalry, artillery, infantry and civilian.
Candle Light Tours
Each of these 30-minute tours will take you to 5 stops; each stop representing a different year of the Civil War at Fort Smith. As night descends, walk the candle lit pathways to watch history come to life. Meet soldiers in anticipation of battle, civilians waiting to go home, ex-slaves looking to fight for their freedom, and all of them looking forward to the end of the war. Programs begin at 7:00. 7:30, and 8:00. The price is $2 per reservation. For more information contact Cody Faber at the Fort Smith National Historic Site at [email protected] or 479-226-3727.
www.nps.gov/fosm