Descendants of Civil War veterans gather at Wahoo April 10, Historian Barnes discusses Fort Sumter and other southern fortifications
The Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War (SUVCW) will gather in Wahoo Saturday morning, April 10, for the organization’s annual statewide meeting. This year’s Department Encampment features a visit from SUVCW National Commander-in-Chief Brian Pierson of Shawnee, Oklahoma.
Descendants and history buffs are invited to a free presentation at 1 p.m. at the Saunders County Historical Society Museum at 240 North Walnut St.
Historian Jeff Barnes will present “Protecting the Ports: Civil War Fortifications of Charleston and Savannah.” April 12 marks the 160th anniversary of the firing on Fort Sumter and the beginning of the American Civil War.
Barnes is the author of “Forts of the Northern Plains,” Great Plains Guide to Custer,” Great Plains Guide to Buffalo Bill” and “150 to 150: Nebraska’s Landmark Buildings.”
Pandemic restrictions will limit the size of the audience at the museum, so some SUVCW members will be participating online through a Zoom connection. Contact the museum at 402-443-3090 for guidelines on face masks and in-person visits.
The SUVCW is a fraternal organization dedicated to preserving the memory of the Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) and sacrifices made by soldiers and sailors who served the Union in 1861-1865.
Membership is open to men whose ancestors served in the Civil War or who have in interest in this period of history. Sons participate in Memorial Day ceremonies, help maintain records of gravesites of Civil War veterans and repair or obtain monuments, promote patriotism and educate the public about the veterans’ role in protecting our freedoms.
Welstead Camp No. 3 of Fremont is hosting this year’s Encampment. The Department of Nebraska and the Dakotas has Camps based in Lincoln, Omaha, Fremont and Wisner, as well as a Camp at Large for members not living near those communities.
For information about the SUVCW and the Encampment, contact Department Commander John Surman at 402-781-2242.
To learn how you can enjoy Barnes’ presentation in person or online, contact the Saunders County Historical Society at 402-443-3090. Museum hours on April 10 are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.