Civil War Sesquicentennial 

It’s never too early to plan your visit to Newport News for the 150th commemoration of the Civil War. The Virginia Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Commission is working with communities all across Virginia to develop a series of special events and programs through 2015.

The kick-off event, the first Signature Conference, drew an appreciative audience of several thousand. The Signature Conference was held on September 24 at Norfolk State University and featured noted historians from throughout the country.

In addition to the Signature Conference, there will also be plenty of Civil War-themed events between now and 2012, when the Civil War Sesquicentennial spotlight will shine on Newport News and the Hampton Roads area. Events that will be commemorated include the 150th anniversary of the Battle of the Ironclads and the 1862 Peninsula Campaign, which saw the first use of hot air balloons as a means of aerial reconnaissance. Information about Civil War events will be posted regularly on our Web site. Check back often to see what’s new and plan to attend this year’s Signature Conference

Our Civil War Sesquicentennial committee is working with Newport News attractions and organizations to identify and promote Sesquicentennial events. The committee is composed of Newport News citizens, historians, members of history-related membership organizations, the city’s school system and libraries and representatives from city attractions. Check back often on this Web site to learn about Newport News’ plans for the Sesquicentennial and current Civil War-themed events and exhibits. Learn how you can participate in this commemoration of our nation's past.