Join Paul Quigley, associate professor and director of the Virginia Center for Civil War Studies, for the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences' second virtual book club event!

Quigley will lead a discussion of  "The Untold War" by James I. Robertson on Dec. 6 at 7 p.m. Click here to register. 

James I. “Bud” Robertson, Jr., Alumni Distinguished Professor Emeritus of History at Virginia Tech, passed away in 2019. He was the recipient of the Bruce Catton Award and the Freeman-Nevins Award, as well as other honors for teaching and research in Civil War history. 

"The Untold War" explores new facets of a seemingly well-known piece of American history, such as the role overlooked elements, such as weather, health, and high emotions, played in the the Civil War. It also delves into the world-changing effect of the rise of female workers, and many other "firsts," including the introduction of standard time, pre-sized clothing, canned goods, toilets, and Santa Claus. Throughout its six thematic chapters, the book's dramatically illustrated pages, rife with archival images, objects, and compelling contemporary photography, delivers a surprise on every page.

A native of Danville, Virginia, he taught the largest Civil War history course in the world and was the author/editor of many books and more than 150 articles on the Civil War period. Among his publications are "The Stonewall Brigade," "Civil War Sites in Virginia," and "Tenting Tonight: The Soldier's Story." 

Quigley is currently researching Preston Books and political violence in the 1850s, mapping the Fourth of July in the American Civil War Era, and the American Civil War. He will give a brief presentation about the book and participate in a Q&A discussion over zoom.

The cost of the event is $25 which includes the cost of the book; $5 of which is donation to the Dr. James Bud Robertson Jr. Memorial Endowment at Virginia Tech. All books will be mailed to the address included in the registration. All books will be mailed within seven business days of registration. Register by Nov. 9 to receive the by Nov. 23. All registrations received after Nov. 9 cannot be guarantee arrival in time for the book discussion. Every reasonable attempt will be made to ensure the book arrives on time.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Katie Lafon at 540-231-8910 or at klafon@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.