Civil War Weekend goes virtual for the first time with an array of free events in March

Events scheduled for March 4, 11, and 18

March 2, 2021

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Amid a trying time in the United States, renowned historians will provide insights into the deadliest conflict on American soil as part of the 2021 Civil War Weekend at Virginia Tech.

For the first time in the 30-year history of Civil War Weekend, attendees can participate in this celebrated gathering from anywhere — at no cost.

“The COVID-19 pandemic foiled our original plans for marking the 30th anniversary of Virginia Tech’s Civil War Weekend,” said Quigley, who also serves as the director of the Virginia Center for Civil War Studies. “But we are making the best of a tough situation and are thrilled to open this annual event to an even broader audience.”

Historians, history buffs, and anyone else interested in learning about the Civil War will meet via Zoom on three consecutive Thursdays: March 4, 11, and 18. Each gathering will occur from 7 to 8:30 p.m. EST. Attendees will have ample opportunities to ask questions, a staple of Civil War Weekend.

The theme of the Virtual Civil War Weekend is “Resources for War.” Nine expert historians will explore overlooked but crucial elements of the conflict, from nourishment and clothing to the millions of horses and mules that provided transportation.

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The speaker lineup includes:

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• Kurt Luther, an associate professor of computer science and history at Virginia Tech who created the Civil War Photo Sleuth website, which uses crowdsourcing and facial recognition to identify unknown soldiers.

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Written by Andrew Adkins

CONTACT:
Paula Byron
paulabyron@vt.edu

540-232-8574