Meet at the side entrance to the National Cemetery atop Marye’s Heights.
The Civil War produced devastation – both in terms of human loss and physical destruction – that the United States had never encountered before. This devastation in turn produced fundamental changes in the individual lives of soldiers’ families and the way the federal government operated. To finish the commemoration of the 160th anniversary of the Battle of Fredericksburg, this program will examine the stories of some of the soldiers killed during the battle and how their families navigated the difficult realities that war produced. It will also explore how the country made meaning out of the devastation of war.
Commemorate the 160th Anniversary of the Battle of Fredericksburg from December 9-13, 2022.
This year’s commemoration begins with an opening program discussing the larger context of the campaign, including efforts of self-emancipation, military events, and political pressure. This program will feature Ms. Mali Lucas-Green sharing her personal story as a descendent of freedom seekers. Other programs will follow in the footsteps of units fighting in the battle, consider the care of the wounded, and ultimately, the commemorative weekend will close with a program in the Fredericksburg National Cemetery. Tuesday, December 13, will feature extended tours of the battlefield itself. All programs are free and open to the public. In case of inclement weather, programs may be altered or cancelled.