The local commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War takes place at three locations this Friday and Saturday. It begins Friday morning at the Heritage Center, then moves to Murfreesboro's First Presbyterian Church and is at the church and Stones River Battlefield on Saturday. 

Stones River Battlefield's Chief of Operations Gib Backlund (right photo below) told WGNS listenrs, "Meals are provided at some of the presentations, and there is a $20 fee for those who wish to attend all activities."  Phone the local National Park Service office at 615-893-9501 or visit their website www.nps.gov/sti.

Park Ranger and Historian Jim Lewis (left photo) was on WGNS Wednesday morning with Backlund, and told how at the end of many days--soldiers from both sides would shout across lines to have a cease fire. They would build a bon fire, open a bottle and get together during the evening.

Lewis noted, "These were all Americans, and they grew-up with the same music and national pride. It was amazing how they could turn-off the battle at night and become friends...while with sunrise fight to kill."

Many of the top Civil War authors and historians will be a part of this weekend's symposium. In fact, a historian will dress as former Tennessee Governor Andrew Johnson and share his stories, including serving as Abraham Lincoln's vice president and then as president after the assasination.  

C-Span and NPT will both broadcast and record the talks. Again, for those who plan to attend all events--you need to register quickly by calling the Stones River Battlefield at 615-893-9501.

To see more about the Sesquicentennial Symposium CLICK HERE http://www.nps.gov/stri/planyourvisit/legacycurrent.htm

To listen to the WGNS' radio broadcast about the Symposium, CLICK the sound bar below