Civil War history

One of Cape Girardeau's interesting features is its history. Several homes and businesses in the downtown area have been maintained to preserve their historical integrity. The floodwall murals are an educational display of the state's early history and of more recent people who have called Missouri home and distinguished themselves. But have you ever thought of what Missouri, particularly Cape Girardeau, was like during the Civil War and in the following years?

This summer a traveling exhibit from the state's archives is in Cape Girardeau at the River Heritage Museum.

"Divided Loyalties: Civil War Documents" captures what the state was like from the 1850s through the 1870s. The exhibit will be on hand through July, but this Saturday at 2 p.m. local individuals will read from diaries, letters and other materials associated with the war. An exhibit by Patti House and sponsored by Fort D will also be on hand that looks more specifically at the war's effect on Cape Girardeau.

We hope you consider attending Saturday's event or visit the River Heritage Museum during its normal hours of noon to 4 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays.