In 1861, Southern states formed the Confederate States of America for various reasons, which included the preservation of slavery and the defense of state’s rights. During the next four years, North and South were at war with each other as the future of the United States hung in the balance. Although the War achieved constitutional emancipation and the union was preserved, many issues remained unresolved. Join the Southern Museum as we explore relevant events and topics during the sesquicentennial of the American Civil War.
Events for 2012
Trains, Trains, Trains
January 21, 2012
Do you love trains? The whole family is invited to participate in this interactive train celebration! We will be operating model trains and providing tips on how to build your own model train layout. A special emphasis will include replicas of 19th century model trains and the famous locomotive the General. Admission charged.
A Victorian Mother and Daughter Tea
February 18, 2012 (for ladies three and up)
Don your prettiest dresses and join us for a traditional Victorian tea, complete with scones, tea sandwiches, fruit, cookies and other tasty delights. Entertainment includes music, a fashion show, dress-up and a lovely make-and-take craft. Don’t miss this special memory-making event! Advanced reservations required and activity fee charged.
Special Event: Sesquicentennial of the Great Locomotive Chase
April 12, 2012
April 12, 2012 will mark the 150th anniversary of the actual event in which James Andrews and a group of Union raiders captured the locomotive General in Big Shanty (modern Kennesaw) only to be pursued and caught by William Fuller and Confederates using, over the course of the chase, three different locomotives, most notably the Texas. The City of Kennesaw plans to hold a daytime ceremony to commemorate the event, which will be open and free to the public. Museum members are invited to attend a special evening event with the General locomotive; Actors and interpreters retell and chronicle the Great Locomotive Chase inside the Museum.
Camp McDonald: A Living History Weekend
April 14-15, 2012
Several local re-enactment groups will unite to recreate and interpret Camp McDonald, the Confederate encampment once located across the tracks from the Lacy Hotel, where, on the morning of April 12, 1862, the Great Locomotive Chase began. This event is to take place on the lawn across the street from the Southern Museum. Free to the public.
The Great Locomotive Chase Descendants Party
May 26, 2012
Descendants of the raiders and pursuers involved in the famous Civil War Great Locomotive Chase unite for a day of story telling and camaraderie. The event begins with the Great Locomotive Chase Bus Tour and is followed by a catered dinner. For those who have already followed in the footsteps of their ancestors, we have other local historical sites and attractions planned for their enjoyment. Invitation only.
Civil War Soldier Camp
June 11-16, 2012 (for children 9-12 years of age)
What was camp life like for a Civil War soldier? Participants will “step back in history” to experience a day in the life of a Civil War infantry soldier. This is a full-day camp. Activity fee charged.
65th Georgia Battlefield Flag Unveiling
June 23, 2012
This flag, still bloodstained and tattered with 41 bullet holes, served as the colors of the 65th Georgia Infantry Regiment through the Atlanta campaign into Tennessee. The flag was carried into the heat of several battles, including Resaca, Kennesaw Mountain, Peachtree Creek, Atlanta and Franklin. It is the only known surviving example of an Army of Tennessee flag that has both the unit and state designations sewn onto both sides. Following conservation, the flag will be displayed in its new home at the Southern Museum. The unveiling is a members-only event on the 23rd; then it will be placed on permanent display in the Museum. Accessible to the public with regular Museum admission.
“Working on the Railroad” Camp
July 11-20, 2012 (for children 5 to 8 years of age)
Children learn about the various jobs of workers on the railroad through games, role-playing, tours and hands-on materials. This is a half-day camp. Activity fee charged.
Christmas on the Home Front
December 2012
Same day as Kennesaw Santa Parade and Day with Santa (Date TBA)
Join us as we celebrate the holiday season Civil War style. Create vintage ornaments and view traditional decorations in the Lacy Hotel gallery. Guests can also have their photo taken with the General to raise funds for restoration. Admission charged.
Lectures
Topic lectures relevant to the Civil War sesquicentennial will also be offered inside the Southern Museum in partnership with the Kennesaw Historical Society. Please keep checking the website for further information.
