The impact of naval advancements and technologies during the American Civil War proved pivotal in determining the war's outcome despite receiving relatively less attention than the land battles. This event will feature naval living history reenactors, CSS Neuse Museum staff members, and volunteers who will teach visitors about the life of sailors during the war, the technological advances that came about during the war, and the practices that went into shipbuilding in the nineteenth century.
There will also be two presentations by Mariners’ Museum Speakers Bureau members. In addition, we will have several naval-related activities for visitors to enjoy.
Both of these programs will be live virtual presentations. They will be available in our theater room for visitors to listen to each presentation. Since they are live, visitors will get the opportunity to ask questions.
The Other Ironclads
Presenter: Dan Wood, 10 am. Virtual Presentation.
Almost everyone knows about the Monitor and Merrimac (or, more correctly, the Monitor and Virginia), but many people know little of the hundred or more other ironclad vessels that served on both sides in the American Civil War. This presentation explores the fascinating and sometimes bizarre story of these largely forgotten ironclads, along with “tinclads,” “timberclads,” and other improvised armored craft.
Beyond Shackles: The Fight for Freedom
Presenter: Wisteria Perry, 11 am. Virtual Presentation.
By the mid-nineteenth century, not all African Americans were enslaved. Some were free, some were abolitionists and spies, and some were part of the Underground Railroad. Others became the first African Americans to contribute and serve aboard the US Navy’s first ironclad, the USS Monitor.
Admission: $5/adults; $4/senior citizens and veterans; $3/students; Free for children ages three and under.
Blue Star Museum- all active duty military personnel with ID and their families of up to five members get free admission.
Take advantage of this exciting opportunity to learn about this often-overlooked aspect of the Civil War!
If you have any questions, please email Rachel at rachel.kennedy@dncr.nc.gov.