Experience the history of Frederick during the Civil War’s first tumultuous year on this walking tour.

Spring in Downtown Frederick comes with warm temperatures, flowers, and the anticipation of summer’s arrival. In 1861, however, citizens of Frederick feared the arrival of something entirely different: war. Follow Director of Interpretation Jake Wynn as he leads visitors to explore the historical nooks and crannies of Downtown Frederick focusing on the Civil War’s first year in the city. The tour will take place on Saturday, April 3 at 11:00 AM. The walking tour is limited to 15 participants. Masks are required throughout the tour and we request that you practice strict social distancing. Tickets are $15 and include admission to the National Museum of Civil War Medicine in addition to the walking tour. Tickets are free for Museum members, but you must still reserve your spot. Reservations will be accepted on a first come first served basis. Click below to buy your ticket today.

As the country disintegrated into massive armed combat in 1861, the citizens of Frederick, Maryland joined their respective causes: some for Union, others for the Confederacy. While young men took up arms and marched to the beating drum, the residents remaining behind steeled themselves for whatever might come next. That first year of war was momentous for Frederick. In the span of only a few months, the county courthouse mysteriously burned, state legislators chose Frederick as a temporary capital city, Federal troops arrived, and general chaos erupted. Little did the citizens know, but these events were setting up this city of clustered spires for its emergence onto the world stage in 1862.

Find more information at civilwarmed.org/event/1861-walking-tour.