News

Civil War Era Photos to be Made at Children�s Workshop

10/15/2007

KENNESAW, GA � In preparation for the holidays, the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History is giving children opportunities to make their own decorations and greeting cards, as well as to have a unique Civil War photograph made.

On November 10, children can have their own unique Civil War era photo made during the Museum’s children’s workshop, Photography Studio. Children will also explore Civil War photography exhibits and learn how photography has changed from its beginning in the mid 1800s.

“This event provides a great learning experience for the kids and a great Christmas card photo for the parents,” said Southern Museum Director of Education Jennifer Legates.

Another opportunity for children to have a hands-on-experience will be at the Handmade Greeting Cards workshop on December 1 where children can make their own greeting cards. Tracing back to the mid-19th century, children can discover the roots of this holiday tradition of exchanging holiday greeting cards and see examples of these beautifully handcrafted works of art.

“The children’s workshops have been a remarkable way for kids to interact with their peers and learn at the same time,” explained Legates. “And these are not ordinary topics, which is great.”

Then, at the Museum’s annual A Civil War Christmas on December 8 from 10 am to 4 pm, children can make their own Civil War era ornaments to hang on the Museum’s tree. With the Museum’s façade of the Lacy Hotel dressed in its 1800s Christmas attire, the setting will authentically depict a Christmas scene from Civil War times. Living history soldiers of the 125th Ohio Volunteer infantry will encamp outside around a fire celebrating Christmas on the battlefield just as the Civil War soldiers did in the19th century. Firing demonstrations of weapons and festive music will be played throughout the day. This event is free with museum admission.

The Saturday workshops are from 10 am to noon for children ages seven and up. Space is limited and advance registration required. Admission is $10 per child and $7 for Museum members. Check www.southernmuseum.org for registration dates and a downloadable registration form or call 770-427-2117 ext. 3173.

The Museum is sponsoring a number of other educational events in November and December, as well, including:

Mommy & Me Children's Program Series

Homeschool Day

Homeschool students explore the Museum's exhibits and enjoy hourly educational programs for a special rate. Reservations not required. (Please note: the Museum does not provide group tours on Homeschool Days.) $4 per student (4-12 years), $6 per student (13+) and adults, children 3 and under free.

For more information on educational events, contact the Education Department at 770-427-2117, ext. 3177 or at education@southernmuseum.org.

A Smithsonian Institution affiliate, the Southern Museum features collections of rare Civil War weapons, uniforms, and other personal items; an exciting exhibit about The Great Locomotive Chase, including a short movie; a full-scale replica of a locomotive factory that helped rebuild the South after the war; and through May, a traveling exhibit featuring photographs of the people who dedicated their lives to the railroad.

The Southern Museum is located 20 miles north of Atlanta, off I-75 at exit 273. Click here for visitor information, or call (770) 427-2117.