Poetry of Robert Frost

This course centers upon civilian life in the Shenandoah Valley during the American Civil War from 1861 to 1865. We will discuss significant events and important battles viewed from the perspective of key civilian diarists. These writings provide insight into the impact of war on non-combatants.

These events include the burning of the Shenandoah Valley in the autumn of 1864 as part of Gen. Ulysses S. Grant's new war plan. This 12-day period included the carefully planned destruction of mills, barns, crops, livestock, and any supplies considered a potential aid to the Confederate effort. It also resulted in the displacement of hundreds of families, many of them pacifist Dunkards and Mennonites.

We will cover this event in detail and explore its effects on the war and residents of the Valley. Students may also participate in two voluntary local tours related to the burning.

Peter Dalton has a Major in education in the Social Sciences from the University of Southern Maine. He is currently a battlefield guide and volunteers for the Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation.

There are no scheduled sessions at this time. Sign up to be notified when this course is available.