Kinston
Aug 23, 2016
Photography was a new art arriving about the time of the Civil War. You can see and learn the difference in a daguerreotype, ambrotype or tintype, at the "Hands on History: Photography" program Saturday, Aug. 27, 10 a.m., at the CSS Neuse Civil War Interpretive Center.
Technology advanced very rapidly during the American Civil War, and photography was no different. It was the first major war that was documented on film and one of the reasons we know so much about the conflict is that many parts of it were preserved in photographs.
The formal portraits of Civil War generals or of families in studio settings often appear bathed in a brown or gray light. When the processes are explained viewers will understand why. For visitors fond of that effect, Harry Taylor Tintype Photography will be available to take photographs; fees start at $60 depending on size. A limited selection of 1860s period clothing will be available also.
In addition to the 1860s images on display, several photos in that style that were taken more recently will be exhibited. Visitors will be asked to try to identify which are originals and which are reproductions.
The CSS Neuse is the only remaining commissioned Confederate ironclad above water. It was part of a new technology the Confederates used to combat the superior manpower and firepower of the Union Navy. Learn about this technological advance and warfare in eastern North Carolina at the CSS Neuse Civil War Interpretive Center. The Confederate Navy launched the CSS Neuse in an attempt to gain control of the lower Neuse River and New Bern, but ultimately destroyed the vessel to keep it out of Union hands.
The CSS Neuse Civil War Interpretive Center is located at 100 N. Queen St., Kinston and open Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is adults, $5; senior/active military, $4; student (ages 3-12) $3; ages two and under free.
For additional information, please call Matt Young, (252) 526-9600, ext. 232. The CSS Neuse is within the Division of State Historic Sites in the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.