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The Grand Army of the Republic Museum & Library, Philadelphia, PA
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Gettysburg National Military Park in Gettysburg, PA
Thursday, February 26, 2026, 7-8:00 pm (Free Zoom Event)
Civil Conversations at The National Civil War Museum
William Henry Seward’s Quest to Save the Nation During the Secession Winter with the author C. Evan Stewart
Click here to register: ZOOM link to William Henry Seward's Quest
In the winter of 1860-61, one man, William Henry Seward, Republican Senator from New York (the presumptive favorite for the 1860 Republican nomination for president; defeated by Lincoln on the third ballot), labored mightily to effectuate his plan to save the Union. Because of history’s (and historians’) heavy bias to portray Lincoln as almost a saint (see, for example, Jon Meacham’s “And There Was Light: Abraham Lincoln and the American Struggle” (Random House 2022)), Seward’s prodigious efforts have either been ignored, given short shrift, or looked upon as something less than honorable. This short book – based upon original archival research and a comprehensive review of secondary sources – tells the story of Seward’s efforts. Counter-factual history is always an iffy business. But Seward’s “plan” did help to keep the Upper South States in the Union during the months before the president-elect became the president. And had his counsel been followed after March 4th, perhaps the course of American History would have played out very differently.
Sunday, March 1, 2026 Time: 1:00-2:00 pm (Free Zoom event)
"The Life and Struggles of Mary Edwards Walker: Doctor, Feminist, Medal of Honor Recipient" by Walt Lafty
Many people know that Mary E. Walker served as a doctor during the Civil War. Some are also aware she was the recipient of the Medal of Honor. This presentation will focus on her early family life, and her struggle to attain recognition as a doctor, prior to the war, as well as during and after the war. It will also cover her lifelong commitment to fighting for the right to vote for women and many other issues regarding feminism. She has been described as unconventional and eccentric, but she was also graceful, understanding, compassionate, and committed. Mary was above all else, a patriot who was loyal to the flag of the United States. Her sacrifices throughout her life to remain true to herself were difficult but inspiring.
Walt Lafty is a historian with a focus on the American Civil War (1861-1865), but also World War 2, as well as the history of Ireland. He has been active in various Civil War groups for many years. Those include the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) Museum where he serves as the research administrator and volunteer. He is also active in the Delaware Valley CWRT where he is a board member as well as a member of the preservation committee. Walt is also an active member of Baker-Fisher Camp 101 Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War in Hatboro and currently serves as the camp secretary. In addition, he is a member of the Old Baldy CWRT and the General Meade
To reserve a virtual seat for this outstanding presentation, reply by e-mail to garmuslib1866@gmail.com. You will be sent a link with a password that will enable you to access the program within 24 hours of the start of the presentation. Deadline for signing-up is Noon, Saturday,
February 28, 2026
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