The Camp Olden Civil War Round Table has set the schedule for a wide-ranging series of programs exploring military history, women’s experiences, fashion, preservation and New Jersey’s role in the Civil War during its 2025–26 speaker season.
The programs, titled “Valiant Spirits Still Linger,” are free and open to the public and are held at 7 p.m. at the Hamilton Township Library, 1 Justice Samuel A. Alito Way, unless otherwise noted.
The series opened Jan. 8 with a Zoom presentation by David Walter titled “Twenty Civil War Women,” highlighting stories of compassion, service, courage and sacrifice by women who supported families and soldiers during the war.
On Feb. 5, Debbie Walker will present “Be My Valentine — 1860’s Style,” examining how romance and relationships endured during the Civil War and Victorian eras.
The March 5 program, “Dressing to the Nines,” is set to feature Dana Mount and Debra Thime, who will offer a hands-on demonstration of 1860s clothing and the layered construction of the mid-Victorian crinoline silhouette. Together, the presenters bring nearly 60 years of Civil War reenacting experience.
Gail Trautz is scheduled to speak on April 2 on “Textiles in the 1860s,” exploring the role of fabric and trade in military history, including unexpected connections between opposing sides.
On May 7, Neil Hate will discuss “Battlefield Preservation,” tracing efforts that began during the war itself and examining modern challenges to protecting historic sites.
Hate will also look to highlight how individuals and organizations can help preserve hallowed ground.
The series concludes June 4 with Jim Lamason presenting “Give ’Em Hell: The 12th New Jersey at Gettysburg,” based on his research into the regiment’s role in key fighting at Bliss Farm and during Pickett’s Charge. Lamason has spent more than 25 years researching New Jersey Civil War units.
The Camp Olden Civil War Round Table is a nonprofit organization founded in 2000 and is affiliated with the Civil War and Native American Museum in Hamilton.
Those interested in sharing their Civil War expertise or scheduling museum visits may contact kdaly14@aol.com.
More information is available at campoldencwrt.org or on Facebook. Search for Camp Olden Civil War Round Table and Civil War and Native American Museum.
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