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Hardship & Hope

May 8 - August 29, 2014

After 150 years, the American Civil War has become a defining moment in our nation’s history. This exhibition seeks to give a more personal understanding of the everyday realities from the Hoosier soldier on the battlefield. Unique letters, photographs & artifacts from the Indiana State Library’s collection, many of which have never before been on display, will be available for the public to view.

Opening Reception: 5/8/14

Join us for our opening reception on Thursday, May 8, 2014 from 5:00-7:00 PM (EDT) featuring:

  • Michael Peake, Civil War Historian, presenting his latest publication, Blood Shed in this War, Civil War Illustrations by Captain Adolph Metzner, 32nd Indiana.

  • Fred Schaefer, CSFA-OS, Civil War Medical Historian, discussing medical history and techniques on the battlefield.

  • Bernie O’ Bryan, Mid States Living History Association & Lew Wallace interpreter, covering pre-war life in Indiana, Wallace’s relationship with Oliver P. Morton, & military career.

  • 49th Indiana, Company F. & 18th Light Artillery reenactors portraying the common soldier’s war perspective with uniforms & special equipment on display, including a Coehorn Mortar.

Civil War-themed refreshments provided by CJ’s Sweet Creations & Catering. Special event parking will be available for $5.00 in the Senate Avenue Garage from 4:30pm-8:00pm. The Indiana Historical Bureau bookstore will be open extended hours to accommodate the event.

The program is part of Civil War 150, a project organized by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History in partnership with The Library of America, and funded in part through a major grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities: Exploring the human endeavor.

Exhibit & promotional items are courtesy of the Indiana State Library Foundation.