The television channels have been rife with programs and specials promoting a week of "Memorial Day" infotainment.

(Those of you not from America can stop reading now, if you wish).

The History Channel, PBS, and some local (and cable) channels have been airing a lot of programs focusing on the American Civil War (also known as the War Between the States). The year marks the 150th anniversary of that war's start, April 12, 1861.

The marvelous Ken Burns' Civil War, a massive, 10-hour presentation of virtually all still photographs, interspersed with dialog performed by numerous "star" actors was shown in its entirely twice this past weekend.

The History Channel has been airing its own works, "April, 1865," "Battlefield Detectives: Antietam" and more.

When I was young, I was a Civil War history buff. Visiting Gettysburg, PA was a cause for awe and fascination.

Today, I live in the heart of the land where many of the crucial battles of this conflict were waged: Fredericksburg, Cold Harbor, Sharpsburg, Chancellorsville, Manassas (Bull Run), Appomattox and more. One can get inured to the historical markers that almost litter the roadsides in this area (where much of the Revolutionary War was fought, as well).

But the war was fought as far north as Pennsylvania, as far south as Florida, as far west as Minnesota and New Mexico. It was truly a war between the states.

I find myself captivated once again by history. We seem to be so much in a hurry these days that we completely forget about how got to where we are. I know this board is all about the here-and-now, but sometimes it's good to take a moment and reflect. After all, "those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it." (Georges Santayana).

H and I were recently in Georgia/Alabama.
We had the pleasure of driving to Eufaula Alabama for the day.

When the war was over, because of quick thinking and bold actions of Eufaula's mayor, Doctor Pope, the town was spared any destruction, and the beautiful homes remained intact.


Link to Wiki

H & I toured this mansion. Wonderful.

I love the filigree! Gorgeous!