Atlanta, the Valley, and the Crossroads of History:
The Battles and Leaders That Influenced Lincoln’s Reelection in 1864
In August 1864, the outcome of the Civil War hung in the balance, and Abraham Lincoln’s chances for reelection looked doubtful – until a series of pivotal battles around Atlanta and in the Shenandoah Valley helped propel Lincoln to victory. Led by historians Gary Ecelbarger and Scott Patchan, this conference will examine those events – and the fights and personalities that changed the course of history.
SCHEDULE:
8am: Check-In Desk Opens
9am: Lincoln’s Jeopardized Election Status in Summer 1864 – Gary Ecelbarger
10am: The Battle of Atlanta – Unheralded Turning Point – Gary Ecelbarger
11am: The Battle of Jonesboro and Sherman’s Capture of Atlanta – Scott Patchan
Noon: Lunch (On your own)
1:15 pm: Black Jack Logan’s 6 Months of Unprecedented Political Generalship – Gary Ecelbarger
2:15 pm: Phil Sheridan’s Leadership at the Battle of Cedar Creek: From Union Disaster to Icing on the Cake – Scott Patchan
3:15 pm: Final Actions of the Third Battle of Winchester – Tour in Old Town Winchester – Scott Patchan
The cost will be $27 for SVBF members; $30 for non-members. Lunch will be on your own. Space will be limited, and pre-registration is required.
For more information, call the SVBF at 540-740-4545.