RD383 - Virginia Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Commission 2008 Annual Report


Executive Summary:
The General Assembly created the Virginia Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Commission in 2006 for the purpose of preparing for and commemorating the sesquicentennial of Virginia's participation in the American Civil War. The Commission is charged with:

* Planning commemorative programs and activities that are designed to involve all citizens and result in a positive legacy and long-term public benefit;

* Encouraging civic, historical, educational, economic, and other organizations throughout Virginia to organize and participate in activities to expand the understanding and appreciation of the significance of the American Civil War; and

* Providing technical assistance to localities and nonprofit organizations to further the commemoration of the sesquicentennial of the American Civil War.

Virginia continues to lead the nation in planning for the 150th anniversary of the American Civil War. Working closely with the American Association of State and Local History, staff hosts quarterly conference calls with sesquicentennial planners in 12 other states to exchange information and seek opportunities to work collaboratively. During 2008, representatives of the Commission met with members of the Virginia congressional delegation and representatives of the National Park Service, all of whom were impressed by Virginia's plans and supportive of the Commission's endeavors. Further, the Commission had a presence at a number of annual meetings and conferences, including: the National Conference of State Legislators, American Legislative Exchange Council, American Association of State and Local History, Civil War Trails, Virginia Municipal League, Virginia Association of Counties, Virginia Association of Museums, and the Virginia One Tourism Conference.

The Virginia Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation was established to accept gifts, grants, donations and bequests in support of the sesquicentennial commemoration. The Foundation's Board of Trustees is comprised of: William J. Howell (Chair), Charles J. Colgan (Vice Chair), Dr. Charles F. Bryan, Jr., J. Alfred Broaddus, J. Stewart Bryan, III, Albert C. Eisenberg, Dr. Irvin E. Hess, Algie T. Howell, Jr., Eddie N. Moore, Jr., E. Claiborne Robins, Jr., and Dr. James I. Robertson, Jr.

The Commission was awarded a $40,000 planning grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities in support of the museum exhibition and HistoryMobile. Further, the Civil War 150 Council was established and is comprised of individuals and organizations providing scaled levels of financial contributions in support of the Commission's plans.