The Future of Richmond’s Past
From 8:00 am to 3:00 pm- visitrichmondva.com/civilwar/ Visit
In April 1865, after four years at the heart of the Civil War, Richmond – the capital of the Confederacy – finally fell. The Confederate government evacuated and Union army units – including United States Colored Troops – entered the city. That moment foreshadowed the reunification of the United States, the end of 250 years of American slavery, and the beginning of an uncertain journey into freedom for African Americans here and across the country. On Saturday, April 4, 2015, a full day of programs will commemorate the immense changes that occurred in Richmond 150 years ago. At the Virginia State Capitol: The day will open with the arrival of a procession of living history Union military units recreating the Union army’s arrival in Richmond, including United States Colored Troops. A brief commemorative program will follow the arrival of the procession. Throughout the day, Richmond’s history and cultural institutions will collaborate to present programs, living history, and temporary exhibits exploring the story and meaning of the historic events. The Virginia HistoryMobile will be open nearby. Staff and rangers from local history and cultural organizations will lead tours of the Capitol and surrounding area of the city to explore sites associated with the Confederate evacuation, the transfer of civic control to Union forces, the enslavement and emancipation of the city’s African American population, and President Lincoln’s visit to the city.
Richmond, VA, USA
In April 1865, after four years at the heart of the Civil War, Richmond – the capital of the Confederacy – finally fell. The Confederate government evacuated and Union army units – including United States Colored Troops – entered the city. That moment foreshadowed the reunification of the United States, the end of 250 years of American slavery, and the beginning of an uncertain journey into freedom for African Americans here and across the country.
On Saturday, April 4, 2015, a full day of programs will commemorate the immense changes that occurred in Richmond 150 years ago.
At the Virginia State Capitol:
- The day will open with the arrival of a procession of living history Union military units recreating the Union army’s arrival in Richmond, including United States Colored Troops. A brief commemorative program will follow the arrival of the procession.
- Throughout the day, Richmond’s history and cultural institutions will collaborate to present programs, living history, and temporary exhibits exploring the story and meaning of the historic events. The Virginia HistoryMobile will be open nearby.
- Staff and rangers from local history and cultural organizations will lead tours of the Capitol and surrounding area of the city to explore sites associated with the Confederate evacuation, the transfer of civic control to Union forces, the enslavement and emancipation of the city’s African American population, and President Lincoln’s visit to the city.