Battle of Hampton Roads Day

Saturday, March 9, 2019 • 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Most activities FREE with $1 admission

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:

Reenactors, featuring the Tidewater Maritime Living History Association
In-gallery storytelling and interpretation in the USS Monitor Center
Abraham Lincoln, among other costumed interpreters
Music of the time period
Coffee with the cook
Period games
And, more!

Visit our Community Partners, who will have tables set up in the Concourse:

Coming Soon.

Civil War Lecture Series: The Battle of the Ironclads

Saturday, March 9, 2019 • 3:30 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.

Civil War lectures are free with Museum admission, but reserving a seat is suggested as seating is limited. Reserve seats online.

Historian and author John V. Quarstein, Chief Development Officer of the USS <em>Monitor</em> Foundation

Behind-the-scenes Tours

Returning this year are the popular behind-the-scenes tours of the USS Monitor Batten Conservation Lab. Guests can enjoy a backstage look at the famed USS Monitor Center and its Wet Lab, where 200 tons of artifacts from USS Monitor are undergoing conservation.

Tours are $10 per person, and are suited for ages 10 and up. Closed-toe shoes only. Limit of 15 people per tour. Visitors can sign up for scheduled tours throughout the day at the Admissions Desk.

History Bites

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.

Purchase tickets here