Durham Library Hosts Author, Performers to Mark 150th Anniversary of Civil War

The Durham Public Library will host a series of programs to commemorate the Sesquicentennial (150th anniversary) of the Civil War.

The programs begin next Wednesday, when Dr. Matthew Warshauer, a Professor of History at Central Connecticut State University, will lead a discussion of his book, "Connecticut in the American Civil War: Slavery, Sacrifice and Survival, at 7 p.m. (see video)

The book "offers readers a remarkable window into the state's involvement in a conflict that challenged and defined the unity of a nation ... reveals the varied attitudes toward slavery and race before, during, and after the war."*

Warshauer's book talk is one of six events planned at the library, in addition to supplemental activities that include a Civil War book list and a cooking demonstration designed to replicate the recipes around the time of the war.

Valerie Kilmartin, director of the library, says guests and programs were paid for by a $1,500 grant from the Coginchaug Valley Education Foundation and with funding from Durham Public Library PALS.

"We're looking for these programs to be appropriate from school age kids up ... kids who may be studying this in school and can really get something out of it because it's active," Kilmartin says.

The performances will cover a range of topics important to understanding the Civil War, including the role of women, slavery and music. (full schedule below)

"These were some major experiences that I think are best told in the personification by a performer," Kilmartin says. "You're using original text. You're seeing the costumes. It really has more of an impact."

In the final performance of the program, renowned Lincoln portrayer Philip Chetwyn will allow the audience to experience the life of the 16th president. The performance will coincide with the 148th anniversary of The Gettysburg Address.

Anyone planning to attend an event is asked to RSVP, although it is not required. Visit www.durhamlibrary.org or call 860-349-9544.

Durham Public Library: Commemorating the Sesquicentennial of the Civil War

Discussion of "Connecticut in the American Civil War: Slavery, Sacrifice and Survival," led by the author, Dr. Matthew Warshauer, Professor of History at Central Connecticut State University - Wednesday, Oct. 12 at 7 p.m. (age 16 and up)

"Civil War Women: Their Roles and Legacies," a performance by Trish Chambers - Saturday, Oct. 15 at 11 a.m (families, age 8 and up)

"They Called Me Lizzy: From Slavery to the White House," the story of a remarkable woman, as presented by Stephanie Jackson - Saturday, Oct. 22 at 2 p.m (families, age 8 and up)

Tom Callinan presents "Brother Against Brother-Songs, Tunes & Tales From the War of Rebellion or Northern Aggression" - Saturday, Nov. 5 at 11 a.m. (families, age 8 and up)

Stephen Collins is Walt Whitman in "Unlaunch'd Voices, an Evening with Walt Whitman" - Tuesday, Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. (age 16 and up)

"Lincoln for the Ages," Phillip Chetwynd in the role of Abraham Lincoln on the 148th anniversary of the Gettysburg Address - Saturday, Nov. 19 at 2 p.m. (families, age 8 and up)

*Description of the book on Amazon.com