Every battlefield has a story to tell—and true to those words, I am pleased to announce that the Blue & Gray Education Society has successfully completed our fundraising campaign at Perryville Battlefield State Historic Site. Thanks to the generosity of individuals and organizations that answered the call, 55 brand-new interpretive panels, featuring updated graphics, will now tell the story of this significant battle. I look forward to seeing the results during Lee White’s “Fall 1862 Kentucky Tour” (September 30–October 4, 2026).
Speaking of 2026 tours, our schedule is now posted on the website, featuring a variety of Civil War and Revolutionary War programs led by some of the nation’s foremost historians. Our goal is to have all 1st Quarter 2026 tours open for registration by the end of this month. I hope to see you on the battlefield.
I am pleased to announce, after discussions with Eric A. Jacobson, Chief Executive Officer of the Battle of Franklin Trust, that Blue & Gray—together with the Tennessee Civil War National Heritage Area—will help fund 23 new interpretive panels at Franklin and Spring Hill battlefields in Tennessee (15 at Spring Hill and 8 at Franklin). Our share of the project is $15,000, and we are already off to a strong start with a generous $1,000 gift. By mid-September, we’ll have a fundraising link available for contributions. In the meantime, please contact me directly if you’d like to give right away.
I encourage you to spread the word to like-minded organizations. I’m calling on Civil War Round Tables, as well as Sons of Confederate and Union Veterans camps, to support this important effort. Every $50 or $100 donation makes a real difference in telling the story of the men who fought at these two key Tennessee battlefields.
On another note, I’m excited to share our Blue & Gray Education Society YouTube Channel—your home for engaging, accessible explorations of America’s past. Our content ranges from quick facts to in-depth lectures, designed for history enthusiasts of all levels. Every view, like, and subscription helps us reach more Civil War buffs and lifelong learners around the world. Subscribe today and join us in uncovering the battles, leaders, and everyday lives that shaped our nation.
Finally, a heartfelt thank you to our new and renewing members since my last update. Your support enables us to do this important work. If you have not yet joined or renewed, I encourage you to visit our website and make the commitment today. Remember, every battlefield has a story to tell, and sharing those stories is at the heart of the Blue & Gray Education Society.
As always, thank you to the generous members and volunteers who make our success possible. I couldn’t do this without you.
Feel free to reach me at (434) 770-7325 or via email at BgesExDir@gmail.com.
Wade Sokolosky
Executive Director, BGES