WLA/WHS-The American Civil War Series, Part II:

A Connecticut Focus-David Koch at the Wilton Historical Society
Sunday, March 4, 4-5:30 pm
In this third lecture of the annual collaboration between the Wilton Library and the Wilton Historical Society, this year focusing on the American Civil War, Part II, David Koch will discuss the role of Connecticut’s African-American soldiers in the Civil War. Connecticut, known as “the land of steady habits,” saw profound change occur as a result of the war in almost every aspect of its politics, economy, and society. Many of these changes were brought on unwilling-one of these was the decision to raise two regiments of African-American soldiers. This talk will center on the 29th and 30th Connecticut regiments, which saw valuable service in the war. However, on a larger level, these and other volunteer units ushered in an era of sweeping change in the state’s treatment of its African-American citizens. The experience of these men, who served in the war with little more to anticipate from its ending than the chance to create future opportunities for others, is an inspiring story of courage and sacrifice. Dave Koch is an Assistant Professor of History at Housatonic Community College in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Though a wide-ranging historian, Koch’s specialty areas are the Civil War and Native American History. He has worked for national historical and natural sites, promoting the nation’s physical and historical heritage. He has also lectured for organizations across the country and in Europe on such topics as Civil War Battles, Politics in the Civil War, Medicine in the Civil War, Abraham Lincoln’s life and political activities, and Slavery and the American Experience, as well as specialized presentations on the Gettysburg National Cemetery, the Battle of Gettysburg, and Connecticut in the Civil War. The remaining lectures are as follows-please note location of each lecture: March 18 at the Wilton Library-The Artist in the Civil War-Don Troiani. Reception following the talk. Series sponsored by Wilton Bank. Program sponsored by Bill and Kathleen Brennan. The moderator is Max Gabrielson. Registration essential.