State Museum Presents Special Events on November 12 & 13
In collaboration with the Tennessee Civil War Sesquicentennial Commission, the Tennessee State Museum will present two days of special events during the state’s official kick-off of the 150th Commemoration of the Civil War.
On Friday, November 12, the State Museum, which houses one of the largest and best Civil War collections in the nation, will host special tours showcasing the collection from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., providing visitors with an opportunity to hear little-known stories that accompany highlighted objects. A mid-day presentation will reveal the fascinating background behind the museum’s collection of rare artifacts, many of which are not generally on public view. During this time the famous and rarely seen large silk “Sons of Erin” flag, from Col. Randal McGavock’s Company “F” of the 10th Tennessee Confederate Infantry Regiment, will be featured in a special three-day display.
On Saturday, November 13, the museum will again offer special tours highlighting the museum’s permanent Civil War collections. On this day only, the museum staff will also present behind-the-scenes tours of Civil War objects stored in the archival rooms to a limited number of participants, on a first-come, first-served basis.
From 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, a family activity area will feature educational programs and activities focusing on Civil War history for school age children.
The Tennessee Civil War Sesquicentennial Commission leads a state effort to promote, fund and preserve the complete story of Tennessee’s Civil War and its legacy. For more information on the Commission visit: www.tnvacation.com/civil-war/commission/
The State Museum is free to the public and is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Image: Civil War Camp Tennessee State Museum
About the Tennessee State Museum:
In 1937, the Tennessee General Assembly created a state museum to house World War I artifacts and other collections from the state, along with the Tennessee Historical Society, and other groups. The museum was located in the lower level of the War Memorial Building until it was moved into the new James K. Polk Cultural Center in 1981. The Tennessee State Museum currently occupies three floors, covering approximately 120,000 square feet with more than 60,000 square feet devoted to exhibits. For more information please visit: www.tnmuseum.org