As America marks the 150th anniversary of our defining national drama, 1861: The Civil War Awakening presents a gripping and original account of how the Civil War began.

1861 is an epic of courage and heroism beyond the battlefields. The book introduces us to a heretofore little-known cast of Civil War heroes—among them an acrobatic militia colonel, an explorer’s wife, an idealistic band of German immigrants, a regiment of New York City firemen, a community of Virginia slaves, and a young college professor who would one day become president. Adam Goodheart takes us from the corridors of the White House to the slums of Manhattan; from the mouth of the Chesapeake to the deserts of Nevada; from Boston Common to Alcatraz Island; vividly evoking the Union at this moment of ultimate crisis and decision.

Adam Goodheart is a historian, journalist, and travel writer. His articles have appeared in National Geographic, Outside, Smithsonian, The Atlantic, and The New York Times Magazine, among others, and he is a regular columnist for the Times’ acclaimed Civil War series, “Disunion.”

This event is free for members and $10 for non-members. It will be held at Ballard High School, 6000 Brownsboro Road. Please call The Filson or visit us online to make your reservation. Tickets are required; those wishing to attend must send ticket requests with a self-addressed, stamped envelope to The Filson Historical Society, GPBL Tickets, 1310 S. Third Street, Louisville, KY 40208