Civil War Weekend at Virginia Tech returns in-person March 25-27.

After cancelling in 2020 and meeting online in 2021, the event will be held once again at the Inn at Virginia Tech.

This year’s event commemorates the remarkable life and career of James I. “Bud” Robertson Jr., who passed away in 2019.

“Dr. Bud,” as he was fondly known by generations of Virginia Tech students, founded the annual Civil War Weekend, created the Virginia Center for Civil War Studies, and earned for Virginia Tech its reputation as a leading home of Civil War history. 

The speakers this year include Robertson’s former students, close friends, and longstanding professional collaborators. They’ll reflect on various aspects of Dr. Robertson’s career, commemorating this beloved teacher, spellbinding lecturer, accomplished scholar, and gracious friend.

As with every Civil War Weekend, we’ll learn new insights into Civil War history, guided by some of the finest historians in the field. This year will include a special focus on honoring Robertson and his legacy.

Guests can also extend their visit with an optional two-night field trip to the Harpers Ferry-Antietam region March 27-29. In the capable hands of Dennis Frye, a retired National Park Service historian and pioneer in the battlefield preservation movement, attendees will take an in-depth look at the battle of Antietam, a key turning point that paved the way for Lincoln’s preliminary Emancipation Proclamation.

Attendees will also explore the fascinating town of Harpers Ferry, the site of John Brown’s storied assault on slavery in 1859 and a strategic hub during the war itself.

Registration for Civil War Weekend closes March 4. To register and view the full schedule, visit the Civil War Weekend website.