Garfield National Historic Site to Hold Civil War Program

will host a program for both casual and dedicated Civil War buffs at 2 p.m. this Saturday.

"The Coming of the Civil War" will talk about the events that preceded the Civil War, using quotes and original photos from Northern Unionists and Southern Secessionists. Rangers will discuss how issues like slavery and westward expansion played a role in causing the war.

Park rangers have been holding Civil War events all year at President James A. Garfield's Mentor home to recognize the 150th anniversary of the war.

 “No other event in our history is more responsible for creating America as we know it today than the Civil War,” said Sherda Williams, the park's superintendent. “Considering that James A. Garfield served as a Union soldier before he was a congressman or president, this is a perfect program to host at the site as we begin four years of special Civil War-related events.”

The program will be free but anyone older than 16 who wants to tour Garfield's home or the museum's exhibits  afterward will have to pay the regular $5 fee.

The park will also host a special Civil War-themed tour of the park's grounds at 11 a.m. April 16. The 90-minute tour emphasizes Garfield's time as a soldier, including his roles in the battles of Middle Creek and Chickamauga.

The tour costs $15 per person. Reservations can be made by calling 440‐255‐8722.