June 2015

2015 marks the sesquicentennial of the American Civil War. The Civil War was arguably the first truly modern war for the United States, and remains one of the most fascinating, if painful, parts of this great country’s history. We still study and debate the many facets of it, and it has been the subject of countless films, books, and television shows. The Rockwell Museum, located in Corning, has a wonderful exhibition of Civil War Photographs running through August 2nd. Located only 90 miles from Erie Station Village, the Rockwell Museum makes for a terrific day trip.

The exhibit, entitled Between the States, includes many rare and seldom-seen photographs from the war, including portraits of great figures in American history. Included are the likes of President Lincoln, General Grant, Sojourner Truth, Jefferson Davis, Harriet Tubman, Susan B. Anthony, and Frederick Douglass. Perhaps even more powerfully, Between the States also collects numerous photographs of anonymous soldiers from both sides of the conflict, which only highlights the human aspect of the Civil War. You can see more information at the exhibit’s website here. This is a unique and moving exhibition that gives a fascinating, first-hand look into our nation’s rich history.