The years 2011 through 2015 will mark the sesquicentennial (150th anniversary) of the American Civil War. Hagerstown played an important role in the War, with her sons serving both the Northern and Southern Causes. The Battle of Antietam occurred nearby in September 1862, and the City served as an important hospital and transporation hub in the aftermath of that bloody battle. A pitched cavalry battle occurred on the streets of the city center on July 6, 1863, and the city was held for ransom by Confederate General McCausland during the last major Confederate invasion of the north in 1864. Numerous Civil War notables made Hagerstown their home after the War.

A working committee of City staff with a special interest in this historic period and experience in coordinating special events has been formed to guide the City's participation in observances. The City is planning or involved in the following activities to commemorate the anniversary:

HISTORIC MARKERS - A series of 45 blue and beiged historic interpretive panels are being installed around the City to tell important stories of Hagerstown's past. Most focus on Civil War themes, but others tell other stories important to Hagerstown's history. The "Hagerstown Walks" map marks the location of all of the markers. Most are have been installed, but some remain to be installed before the fall of 2010.

HAGERSTOWN IN THE CIVIL WAR BOOK - The City has a contract with Arcadia Publishing to publish a 128-page photographic history of the City during the Civil War period. The book is a stand-alone project that can be enjoyed, but is also designed to be a companion to the marker program. Look for its release in the Spring of 2011.

CLEARING HOUSE OF EVENTS - The City will soon schedule an open meeting for all businesses and community institutions that would like to hold their own commemorations or particpate in larger community events, to brainstorm ideas. As groups or businesses commit to programs and offerings, the City will coordinate promotion of those events through normal city venues, plus the city-owned website www.civilwarsites.com

THREE SPECIAL EVENTS - Larger special events are being considered for the years 2012, 2013 and 2014. No details have yet been determined.

MISCELLANEOUS PROJECTS - The city will consider participating in or coordinating smaller miscellaneous projects that will promote Hagerstown's Civil War history. One example being considered is the creation of movable historic exhibits that focus on Civil War themes, that can be used in the display windows of vacant storefronts while owners seek new tenants for those spaces.

For more information, please contact Steve Bockmiller in the Planning Office at 301-739-8577, extension 139, or via