Local historian and author to speak about "Medical Problems on the Peninsula" during the Civil War

October 15, 2012

 

FOR RELEASE AT WILL

 

     The York County Historical Committee, in cooperation with the York County Civil War Sesquicentennial Committee, is proud to present the sixth lecture in its York County Civil War Lecture Series. The presentation, "Medical Problems on the Peninsula," will be held in the Board Room of York Hall, 301 Main Street, Yorktown, on Sunday, October 21, at 3 p.m. The speaker is local author and living historian, Dr. Adrian Wheat.

     Dr. Wheat practiced medicine for many years as an army surgeon and has done extensive research on the medical practices during the American Civil War. He helped found the Society of Civil War Surgeons and, most recently, he advised the Virginia Historical Society on surgical topics for the exhibition, "An American Turning Point: The Civil War in Virginia."

     Staggering numbers of sick and wounded soldiers placed unprecedented demands on the practice of medicine on both sides during the Civil War. As well as the "deadly enemy" (not Yankees) that Confederates faced in Yorktown, this lecture will describe the state of medical science in the 1860s and its application in Virginia during the war. It will also assess the complicated issues of care on the battlefield, transportation of patients to fixed general hospitals, and the role of sanitation. 

     Two additional lectures remain in the series: 

 

   November 4, 2012 - A Prelude to "Kiss My Little Girls - 1861"

      --Jeff Toalson, historian and author of three Civil War-era books, will provide some special insights into his research and how he came to know the intriguing story of Richard and Mary Watkins.  Richard Watkins, Prince Edward County lawyer and former Confederate cavalry captain (portrayed by Mr. Toalson), will join us for a visit on the front porch and recall stories of the conflict.  Mr. Toalson will capture your interest and prepare you for the upcoming performances of one of his most popular works.

 

   December 16, 2012 - "The Civil War - A Woman's Cause"

      --Local historian and historical interpreter, Sharleen Leigh West-Carr, will provide insights into the role of women during the war.  Ms. West-Carr is currently the chairman of the North-South Skirmish Association Costume Committee and makes Civil War period clothing.

 

    If you would like more information about this Civil War lecture series, or you would like information on how you can volunteer with the Historical Committee or the Civil War Sesquicentennial Committee, please call 890-3508 or visit www.yorkcountyhistoricalcommittee.org.

 

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