Harpers Ferry is a town that’s rich in Civil War history. Within six days after the firing on Fort Sumter, the town experienced the first traumatic effects of the war and continued to be a vocal point throughout the conflict. As a life-long citizen of Jefferson County and for many years a resident of the historical village, I’ve come to appreciate the knowledge and events that citizens of the community endured during the conflict.
Currently, I am offering three presentations on historical events at Harpers Ferry. Both presentations are offered without charging a fee. Although, I do require travel expenses outside of my immediate area. At the conclusion of each presentation, I would like the opportunity to sell my books. The first presentation is entitled: Harpers Ferry Before The Civil War. The second presentation is entitled: Harpers Ferry During The Civil War. The third presentation: Escape Across the Potomac.
Synopsis
Harpers Ferry Before The Civil War
Follow the early industrial and cultural history of Harpers Ferry. Before the Civil War, over 3,000 citizens called the town home. Why did most disappear at the beginning of the war? Why was the town so important to John Brown and the Southern Confederacy? What challenges faced the citizens during Brown’s raid and its impact on the community?
Harpers Ferry During The Civil War
The presentation covers the history of Harpers Ferry during the war. Emphasis is placed on civilian life and the challenges and struggles they endured while living in a community on the frontlines of the Civil War. What was it like to live in the town prior to the war? Once war commenced, how did its challenges affect the citizens of the community? Harpers Ferry remained in the Federal army’s hands eighty percent of the time, although, it did change hands eight times during the four-year conflict. One of those events occurred during the Maryland Campaign in 1862. Why was the capture of Harpers Ferry necessary to Robert E. Lee’s plans while operating in Maryland? Through the use of diaries, letters, and old newspaper articles, one will obtain an understanding of events surrounding Harpers Ferry During the Civil War.
Escape Across The Potomac
On the evening of September 14, 1862, Harpers Ferry and its 14,000 Federal soldiers were completely surrounded by 23,000 Confederate soldiers under the command of Lieutenant-General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson. Among the Federal garrison were 1,594 cavalrymen. Follow the events leading up to, and their daring Escape Across The Potomac and the capture of General James Longstreet’s wagon train.
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