"The Civil War is Here"

Orlando Arts Magazine
Jan-Feb 2007

What are the odds of viewing one of only five existing copies of the Emancipation Proclamation signed by Abraham Lincoln, the inkwell both Ulysses S. Grant and Robert E. Lee used to sign the surrender at Appomattox and "Stonewall" Jackson's field glasses and pocket watch, all up close and personal? From January through May, you can see these plus many other Civil War artifacts at the Orange County Regional History Center in downtown Orlando.

You would normally have to rack up the miles to see all the archival documents, photographs, weapons and uniforms The Civil War: America Divided exhibition showcases. That includes traveling to nine states, seven museums, two archives and three private collections. And here they are, in our backyard.

On loan from the Cincinnati Museum Center, this is the largest Civil War display ever presented in Florida, and the Sunshine State is well represented. According to Sara Van Ardsel, History Center executive director, many of the pieces will help people understand Florida’s role in our nation’s bloodiest conflict.

Most people don't immediately associate Florida with the Civil War, yet "Florida provided vital supplies to both the Confederacy and the Union armies," Van Ardsel said.

For instance, Jacob Summerlin, an early Orlando pioneer, supplied cattle to both sides. Included among the numerous objects with a local connection is the flag of the 3rd Florida Infantry, Company B, on loan from the Museum of Confederacy in Richmond, Va.

As they planned the exhibition, the museum wanted to ensure that attendees enjoyed a multi-sensory experience.

"Visitors have the opportunity to touch reproductions of artifacts that would have been carried by a soldier in the Civil War," explains Cynthia Cardona Melendez, curator of collections at the History Center.

Interactive computers and videos and live demonstrations by Civil War interpreters and storytellers also bring the collection to life.

"It will give our visitors a better understanding of the impact the Civil War had on families," continues Van Ardsel. "For instance, brother against brother and how border states were caught in the crosshairs."

This remarkable assemblage of Americana is a treat for history buffs and casual observers alike because the Civil War was such an integral chapter in our history. And since many of the issues at the crux of the war continue to resonate with citizens, this exhibit hopes to shine a light on those ideas still impacting America, the South and Florida.

The Orange County Regional History Center was awarded accreditation by the American Association of Museums and accepted as an Affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution. It has also been voted 'Best Museum' in Orlando four years running.

"We anticipate enhancing our reputation nationwide [with this exhibition]," says Van Ardsel.

The Civil War: America Divided runs from January 18 through May 6. The Orange County Regional History Center is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and from noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Guided tours are offered on Saturdays. For more information, call 407-836-8500 or visit www.thehistorycenter.org.