Aircraft in the American Civil War? Yes! Aircraft played a minor but fascinating role in the War Between the States. Both President Lincoln and General Lee used lighter-than-air craft with mixed results. Phil Smith, former educator, U.S. Air Force veteran, and Civil War enthusiast will discuss the military use of hot air balloons during the American Civil War. This free program on Monday, September 17 from 7:00 to 8:00 PM is the first in a series of 3 commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Civil War to be held at the Simsbury Public Library, 725 Hopmeadow St. On October 2 Kevin Johnson of the CT State Library will appear as African-American Civil War soldier William Webb, a native of CT (co-sponsored by the Simsbury Free Library). Dave Smith will present a lively program on the use of the railroads in the Civil War on October 9. For information or to register for the Library programs, call 860-658-7663 or register online at www.simsburylibrary.info. Other town-wide activities include programs from the Simsbury Historical Society. For more information on the Historical Society events, visit their website at www.simsburyhistory.org.
