Join us as we commemorate the Battle of Hampton Roads!
This famous Civil War Battle changed modern naval history forever. When the Union ironclad USS Monitor fought the Confederate ironclad CSS Virginia to a draw, it proved the supremacy of iron over wood. In honor of the battle’s 157th anniversary, the Museum will host a day-long event filled with family-friendly programming and activities!
Free activities include:
Visit our Community Partners, who will have tables set up in the Concourse:
NOAA
Fort Monroe Authority and Casemate Museum
American Civil War Museum at Historical Tredegar
City of Newport News Division of Historical Services and Museum
York County Historical Museum
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
So, where do USS Monitor artifacts go after they are conserved? Many of the objects go out on display within the USS Monitor Center and at other institutions around the country, but a large majority remain housed in a dedicated storage and research area within the Batten Conservation Complex here at the Mariners’. This area is usually closed to visitors; however, for Saturday only, the doors to the storage area will be open to the public. Come learn how the treasured artifacts are cared for after conservation and view unique objects not often seen by the general public!
Time: 1:00 PM
Over the past 20 years, Mariners’ Museum staff has made a lot of progress in the conservation and stabilization of Monitor artifacts. Will Hoffman, the museum’s Chief Conservator, will provide an overview of the project to date highlighting some of the challenges and accomplishments which have occurred during the treatment of several high profile objects.
Lecture is free with Museum admission and will take place in the Huntington room.
Time: 2:30 PM
Please join John Quarstein, renowned historian and director emeritus of the USS Monitor Center, as he teaches about the intriguing maritime history of the Civil War. On March 9, 1862, Hampton Roads, Virginia, was the scene of the first battle between ironclad warships. The USS Monitor was able to block the CSS Virginia from destroying the rest of the Union fleet in Hampton Roads. This engagement changed naval warfare forevermore, proving the power of iron over wood.
Lecture is free with Museum admission and will take place in the Huntington room.
Time: 6:30 PM
The day will end with the fan-favorite History Bites! This food-tasting event of historic proportions features Hampton Roads’ top restaurants,caterers, and culinary schools as they prepare their best interpretations of 19th-century dishes. Cooks will compete for the coveted Cast-Iron Skillet Awards, including People’s Choice and Judge’s Choice.
$35/Museum Members; $45/General admission
Tickets include unlimited food tastings and one drink ticket. A cash bar will be available offering beer and wine.
