Dr. James Paradis, adjunct professor of history at Arcadia University, will host a free Zoom event titled, “African Americans and the Gettysburg Campaign,” on February 4 at 1 p.m.  His presentation is in collaboration with the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) Civil War Museum and Library in Philadelphia.

The discussion will provide attendees with background about the Black community in and around Gettysburg, their involvement with the Underground Railroad, and how the campaign impacted their lives. It will also detail the important non-combatant roles played by the thousands of African Americans in the armies of both sides, Black volunteers from Pennsylvania who stepped forward to fight the invaders, and those who engaged in firefights with Confederates.

“I think that this program is a good example of what the GAR Museum aims to accomplish,” said Dr. Paradis. “The Museum directors and I share the passion of keeping alive the memory of the men and women of the Civil War Era. We tell their stories in many different ways so that their sacrifices will not be forgotten.”

To reserve a virtual seat for the program, email garmuslib1866@gmail.com by Saturday, Feb. 3.