Dallas, TX - Opening Saturday, June 21st, 2008 at the Old Red Museum of Dallas County History & Culture, The Civil War Though the Eyes of North Texans, examines the war’s effect on the soldiers who left to fight as well as those they left behind in the Dallas area. The exhibit is produced by the North Texas History Center and the Old Red Museum of Dallas County History & Culture. The exhibit will run through August 17th.
Opening day, June 21, will be filled with activities for the whole family as history comes alive to bring the Civil War era to downtown Dallas. Activities will start at 11:30 am and include: demonstrations by Civil War re-enactors, performances by The Heritage Brass Band, talks on “A Day in the Life of a Soldier” and “The Reality of War and Medical Treatment,” and period crafts for children. Visitors can learn how to load and fire vintage rifles as well as perform an authentic Civil War marching drill. Admission to the museum on June 21 will be half price the entire day.
The Civil War profoundly affected the history of the United States. The mechanisms of politics, media, technology and social issues were significantly changed in the era between 1861 and 1865. But what about the Texas home front? What impact did the war have on North Texans? The exhibit explores the role of North Texas in the conflict: the men, women, technologies, innovations, records and aftermath of the Civil War and their long-lasting effects on Texas and this country’s history.
Highlights from the exhibit are 1) letters and personal correspondence between John Taylor Coit and his wife Catherine, 2) a Confederate uniform jacket with bullet holes and blood stains, 3) personal effects of soldiers such as dice and playing cards, 4) a Confederate fiddle, 5) children’s dresses and clothing, 6) women’s fashion accessories, 7) weapons such as handguns, cannon shot and more.
The Old Red Museum of Dallas County History & Culture is located in the West End of downtown Dallas at 100 South Houston Street in the beautifully restored Old Red Courthouse built in 1892. Dedicated to inspire and educate visitors about the rich and varied cultural, economic, political and social history of the Dallas County area, the 2nd floor of Old Red is filled with interactive exhibits, 41 touch-screen computers, an educational learning center and four mini-theatres. The special exhibit gallery is located on the first floor. Admission to The Civil War Through the Eyes of North Texans is included in general admission. General admission is $8, Children ages three to sixteen are $5 and Seniors are $6. Admission to the Civil War exhibit without general admission is $3 for adults and $1 for children. The museum’s hours are Monday – Saturday, 9-5 p.m., Sunday Noon – 5 p.m. For group reservations, corporate meetings/outings or weddings call 214-745-1100. For more information go to www.oldred.org.
