Vermont National Guard Logo U.S. Civil War

Our intention is not to repeat all of the history behind this war since it is already well documented at other locations on the Web. Suffice it to say that we have an extensive selection of pieces on display at our museum.

The War between the States was fought between 1861-1865 by the United States of America, and the secessionist southern states, also known as the Confederate States of America.

During this period there were approximately 3 million soldiers engaged in the War and over 620,000 men perished during the four and a half year period.

Vermonters, also known as "The Green Mountain Boys," played a large part during this war. It is claimed that there was a higher percentage of Vermonters killed vs. the total number of volunteers than any other state except one. For an comprehensive look at a virtual museum with an excellent record of Vermonters who fought and perished during this conflict, visit Vermontcivilwar.org.

Our museum's pride and joy is our 17x28 painting of Sheridan's Ride that we have at this link or through our "Other Displays" section on the navigation bar to the right. It depicts the Battle of Cedar Creek in Virginia, which included a force of the 8th Vermont brigade "Green Mountain Boys," as painted by Vermont native Charles H. Andrus.

A significant battle for the Green Mountain Boys, this battle was the culmination of the Union counterattack led by Gen. Phil Sheridan in October 1864. The Vermont Brigade rode through Middletown and helped break the Confederate defenses on the high ground near Belle Grove.

Provided below is an exceptional selection of pieces that we have on display relating to the American Civil War. We also have a large collection of books that have been donated to us for our library. Stop in to see these!