Message from the Chairman

The Virginia Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Commission was created for the purpose of planning for and commemorating a significant milestone in our state and national history, the 150th anniversary of Virginia's participation in the American Civil War. The sesquicentennial commemoration in Virginia is a comprehensive statewide initiative that began in 2009 with programs examining the causes of the Civil War, and continues through 2015.

The sesquicentennial has already been tremendously successful in increasing interest in, and visitation to, sites and events related to the Civil War across the Commonwealth. Moreover, Virginia has become recognized as a national model for sesquicentennial programs that include multiple perspectives and invite widespread participation. By any measure, it is clear that partners throughout the Commonwealth have recognized and maximized the opportunities for education, preservation, and increased travel/tourism presented by the anniversary. You can read more about the strong positive impact that the sesquicentennial commemoration has had across the state.

The Commission appreciates the ongoing public support of these statewide initiatives as Virginia continues to lead the way in the national sesquicentennial commemoration.

William J. Howell, Speaker of the House of Delegates
Chairman, Virginia Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Commission

Creation of the Commission

The General Assembly of Virginia created the Virginia Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Commission in 2006 to prepare for and commemorate the sesquicentennial of Virginia's participation in the American Civil War. Powers and duties of the Commission can be found here (Chapter 465, 2006 Acts. Virginia Code Title 30, Chapter 40)

Commission Members

Commission Meetings