Summary

Uhether you call it the Civil War, The War Between the States, or the War for Southern Independence, the four-year national trauma of the 1860s is the most important event of our history and still defines who we are as a country. Many of the issues that led to the War are still being wrestled with today, and the animosity generated North and South by 750,000 dead, thousands of widows, and post-war animosities have not been forgotten in the current ideological and theological wars to reinterpret and find meaning in the past. We believe that the facile, simpleton, un-nuanced explanations of that period of American history that masquerade as settled truth today require much more profound examination and interpretation of the facts. We are attempting that deeper dive from an explicitly biblical framework. You should join us at Appomattox, Virginia for this series of lectures and discussion of the War that continues to haunt our world.

Venue 1848

We crafted this event with three purposes in mind

To prepare the next generation of Christian Historians and Tour Hosts to continue the work of Landmark Events.

To facilitate the launch of more Christian History tour organizations, whether they be under the Landmark banner or independent.

To equip the saints to better understand where we are, how we got here, and how best to move their family forward in hope and joy.

We’re gathering a close-knit group, needing just 10 registrants to bring this to life, and capping it at 20 to keep things personal and engaging. This is your chance to connect deeply with exceptional faculty and kindred spirits in a warm, interactive setting. Don’t wait— step into this unique adventure and let history come alive in a whole new way!  Limited scholarships are available if needed—don’t let anything hold you back from this incredible opportunity!

Consider contributing to the success of this event by sponsoring a student through a donation to Landmark Events.

Please indicate “Symposium Scholarship” in the note field when making your donation.

Topics
The Long Fuse

The War did not begin overnight but came at the end of a seventy-year struggle of competing theories on the Constitutional nature of the Republic, and the practical political compromises that maintained peace and a semblance of unity.

Slavery from Abraham to Abraham Lincoln

The “peculiar institution” is the only acceptable topic “academic” historians of today and popular culture influencers talk about regarding the South and the War and its relevance today. The only aspects off the table in the conversation are the Biblical view of slavery and the reality and facts of its origins and practice in Africa, and its diversity and controversial existence in every region of antebellum America. They’re back on the table.

Shifting Perspectives in the Historiography of Causality

It is often said that every generation interprets history based on their own contemporary values and prejudices. There are 160 years of differing theories of the “causes” of secession and war; the majority report of historians today have seemingly boiled it all down to one thing, slavery, and are deaf to countervailing evidence and even discussion. A survey of all the issues and evidence is in order. 

The Constitutions Compared

The Confederate Government leaders were steeped in American Constitutional history and interpretation. They perceived certain weaknesses and practical solutions. The brilliant Alexander Stephens and colleagues created a new Confederacy of States—we will examine the differences. 

Biographical Sketches of the Leaders: Lincoln vs. Davis, Grant vs. Lee

This is a topic often examined by historians of the War. Myths, polemics, and sycophancy have characterized much of the examinations of the character and abilities of these men. We shall try to sort them out and clear away the cobwebs.

A Narrative History of the War

Just like it sounds—four years of strategies, campaigns, and amazing providences in one hour. Context forms the bedrock of all that follows. Special Maps will accompany this lesson. The Geography and Cartography of the war zones help us understand the scope and  detail of the War.

No Man Will Attack You . . .for I have many people in this city” The Expansion of Christ’s Kingdom in the Midst of War.”

God was providentially active in saving many men in the war through the evangelistic activities of chaplains, missionaries, Christian officers and men, colporteurs, and associations. The story is as remarkable and important as the “Great Awakening” and even more ignored by the general run of historical writers. Our staff is uniquely qualified and knowledgeable to teach about the Great Revival.

Music and the War

From “The Battle Cry of Freedom” to “I’m a Good Old Rebel” Music was a vital aspect of the War for the men, the home-front, and history since that time. It offers insight into the culture, religious beliefs, propaganda, and patriotism of the men of the times and the memory of the war since then. 

The Home Front

The War’s terrible effects on the families, especially in the South, surpasses in type and scale the difficulties and perseverance of civilians from any other time in American history. Women’s memoirs, diaries, and letters tell unforgettable stories of hardship, grief, depression and heroism that reveal the real cost of war and the amazing resilience of the  wives, children and grandparents of the fighting men.

Notable Providences that Accompanied the Conflict

The more you study the War, the more you will see of the hand of God in the outcomes of battles, decision-making and personal experiences. About 2.75 million men served in the War for Southern Independence and about 750,000 died during the conflict, and many more in later years because of war-wounds and physical. Divine Providence was active in every single case of service and casulty.  

Confederate Collapse: How Did the North Win the War, How Did the South Lose?

Analysis, recrimination, speculation and theorizing began before the War ended and has continued unabated ever since. Once again, the issues of leadership, moralizing, propaganda, and wishful thinking mixed with the emerging documentation and rhetoric in the post-war world. Schools of interpretation wrestled over the factors of victory and defeat, including whose side was God on? 

Life of the Common Soldier

Why did the average soldier go to war and fight to the death? What was life like in camp and battle for the men at the sharp end? In 1952 historian Bell I. Wiley opened the discussion of who Billy Yank and Johnny Reb were, and many historians have taken up the challenge ever since then to document and enlighten this broad spectrum of Civil War history.

Reconstruction: Dunning versus Foner

For about a century the majority of historians held similar views regarding the post-war Reconstruction, with few notable exceptions. Professor Eric Foner of Columbia University since 1983 reassessed the traditional views of Reconstruction and published in 1988 what is now considered the standard work on the subject. His progressive political views and emphasis on “social justice,” “equality,” and “expanding our democracy,” undergird his interpretation of the post-war period of reconstruction and are the standard by which contemporary historians view that period. We will deconstruct the reconstruction theories.

The Cost of War and Transformation of the American Economy in the Aftermath

 

The War Against the Past Engulfs the Memory of the War for Southern Independence

Whether it’s toppling statues, decolonizing curriculum, or erasing or redefining terms from our vocabulary, a cultural crusade is underway to render the past toxic. We are involved in that war whether we like it or not. It is incumbent upon us to understand what ideas are behind the crusade and to develop strategies to stand our ground and to fight back. Historical apologetics and the search for truth are incumbent for every Christian.

Appomattox Court House Fieldtrip

Summary

Dr. Bill Potter

Bill Potter

An experienced historian and avid bibliophile, Dr. Bill Potter combines a lifelong study of American history with an uncommon ability to captivate audiences of all ages as he traces the providential acts of God throughout the ages. He has taught history in high schools and colleges, has led many tours of American and European historical sites and brings to each event a wealth of experience and knowledge. An experienced researcher and writer, Dr. Potter possesses a practical knowledge of antiquarian books, documents, and artifacts and has published several short books and has penned many articles and book reviews for publication. Dr. Potter has earned a well-deserved reputation as a man gifted in communicating the story of God’s providential hand in American history. As a father of eight children, he appreciates the necessity of passing on to the succeeding generations the richness of both our regional and national history. He and his wife, Leslie, reside in Virginia.

Col. John Eidsmoe

John Eidsmoe

John Eidsmoe is a retired Air Force Lt. Colonel and Alabama State Defense Force Colonel, and a graduate of the Air Command & Staff College and the Air War College. He is Professor of Law at the Oak Brook College of Law and Government Policy and, in his various teaching assignments, his students have given him the Outstanding Professor Award or Professor of the Year Award five times. He has served as Senior Staff Attorney with the Alabama Supreme Court and is currently Legal Counsel for the Foundation for Moral Law. Eidsmoe also serves on the boards of Lutherans for Life, The Plymouth Rock Foundation, and the Gospel Martial Arts Union, and is a constitutional attorney who has defended homeschools, Christian schools, the right of students to study the Bible in public schools, and the right to display the Ten Commandments in the public arena. He has authored numerous books, including Historical & Theological Foundations of Law, Christianity & the Constitution, God & Caesar, and Columbus & Cortez, and has produced a variety of audio and video lecture albums including The Institute on the Constitution and Here I Stand: A Biblical Worldview for a New Millennium. He holds seven academic degrees in law, theology, history, and political science. He and his wife, Marlene, have been married since 1970, have three children, and live in rural Pike Road, Alabama.

Steve Wilkins

Steve Wilkins

Steve Wilkins holds a Bachelor of Science degree (Pre-Law) from the University of Alabama and a Masters of Divinity from the Reformed Theological Seminary of Jackson, Mississippi. He was ordained as a minister in the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) in 1976, and has continued to serve as the pastor of Auburn Avenue Presbyterian Church of Monroe, Louisiana (whose name was later changed to Church of the Redeemer) of West Monroe, Louisiana, from 1989 to the present. He has been a minister in the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches (CREC) since 2005. Pastor Wilkins is married and has six children and nineteen grandchildren. He is the author of Call of Duty: The Sterling Nobility of Robert E. Lee, All Things for Good: The Steadfast Faithfulness of Stonewall Jackson, Face to Face: Meditations on Friendship & Hospitality, and was a contributing editor to The War Between the States: America’s Uncivil War, edited by John Dwyer. In addition to serving as pastor, he is the President of the Redeemer School of the Arts, in West Monroe, Louisiana.

Tickets

Included in Registration

  • 15 Sessions taught by distinguished Christian Historians
  • Appomattox Courthouse Fieldtrip
  • Practical instruction on building your own tours
  • Opportunities to join the Landmark Team
  • Fantastic fellowship with faculty and new friends.

Ticket Information

Admit One$749
The Inn

There are plenty of places to stay within the Appomattox area—from B&Bs to hotels and campgrounds. We recommend Trip Advisor or VRBO to research the best place for you. Below are just a few nearby suggestions to get you started.

The Babcock House

(1883 home, walking distance to venue)
To check availability and make reservations, call (434) 352-7532, or visit https://babcockhouse.com/.

Longacre

(Tudor Style, walking distance to venue)

Laura, owner of Longacre B&B has extended special rates for Civil War Symposium participants for August 31-September 4. Queen rooms $95 / King Rooms $110 / 2 Bedroom suite $125 / Carriage House (full kitchen, 2 bedrooms) $150. Includes breakfast. Additional adults beyond 2 are $10 each. Reserve through Laura by phone or text at (434) 352-9251 or email at info@longacreva.com.

Appomattox Inn & Suites

(2 mi from Venue 1848)

Special rate of $109 at the Appomattox Inn from September 1-4. Must call (434) 664-2018 and reference the Landmark Events rate to book directly with hotel. Rate good until August 19 or until rooms sell out.

Summary

Note: Schedule days and venues subject to change.

Monday, September 1
1:00pm   Registration Opens
2:00pm   Welcome
3:00pm   Session 1
5:30pm   Dinner Break
7:30pm   Session 2
Tuesday, September 2
9:00am   Session 3
10:30am   Session 4
11:30am   Lunch Break
1:30pm   Session 5
3:00pm   Session 6
4:30pm   Session 7
5:30pm   Dinner Break
Wednesday, September 3
9:00am   Session 8
10:30am   Session 9
11:30am   Lunch Break
1:30pm   Session 10—Fieldtrip to Appomattox Court House
4:30pm   Session 11
5:30pm   Dinner Break
Thursday, September 4
9:00am   Session 12
10:30am   Session 13
11:30am   Lunch Break
1:30pm   Session 14
3:00pm   Session 15
4:30pm   Session 16
5:30pm   Farewell Dinner

Upcoming Events

Ireland Tour
August 4-16, 2025

Civil War Symposium 2025
September 1-4, 2025