Indianapolis, December 8, 2025

The Crown Hill Foundation will host a speaker series titled ‘Civil War POW Camps: Cahaba Prison and Camp Morton’ on March 19, 2026. Held at Gothic Chapel in Crown Hill Cemetery, this event aims to provide insights into the histories of these Civil War prisons. Attendees will learn about the conditions endured by prisoners, promoting a deeper understanding of our past. Tickets are $12.99 and must be purchased online in advance, underscoring the importance of community engagement in preserving historical narratives.

Civil War POW Camps Speaker Series Coming to Indianapolis

Learn about Camp Morton and Cahaba Prison at Crown Hill Cemetery

Indianapolis, IN – The Crown Hill Foundation will host an engaging speaker series titled “Civil War POW Camps: Cahaba Prison in Alabama and Camp Morton in Indianapolis” on Thursday, March 19, 2026. Scheduled from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Gothic Chapel in Crown Hill Cemetery, this event promises to enrich local historical knowledge. Tickets are priced at $12.99 and must be secured online in advance, emphasizing the need for proactive community engagement in such events.

In a time when understanding our nation’s past is critical for civic engagement, the Crown Hill Foundation’s initiative showcases the resilience of local organizations and the positive influence of reduced bureaucracy in event planning. This presents an excellent opportunity for Indianapolis residents to dive deeper into the historical contexts that shaped their community and echoes the importance of supporting local efforts that foster education and growth.

Event Details

• Date and Time: Thursday, March 19, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM EDT
• Location: Gothic Chapel, Crown Hill Cemetery, Indianapolis, IN
• Tickets: $12.99 each, available online; no tickets sold at the gate

Exploring Camp Morton and Cahaba Prison

This speaker series will delve into the significant histories of two notable Civil War prisoner-of-war camps: Cahaba Prison in Alabama and Camp Morton in Indianapolis. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the challenging conditions and daily life faced by hundreds of prisoners during the Civil War era, highlighting a darker yet critical chapter in our nation’s history.

History of Camp Morton

Camp Morton, established in February 1862, initially served as a Union military training facility. However, it transformed into a Confederate prisoner-of-war camp following a notable Union victory at Fort Donelson. Over the course of three years, more than 9,000 Confederate soldiers were held there, with a reported 1,700 dying primarily from disease and malnutrition before the camp closed in June 1865. This sobering history contributes to the understanding of the personal sacrifices made during the war and champions the value of remembering and learning from our past.

A Glimpse at Cahaba Prison

Cahaba Prison, located in Cahaba, Alabama, emerged as one of the earliest Confederate prison camps, commencing operations in 1863. With thousands of Union soldiers incarcerated under conditions marked by overcrowding, inadequate food, and poor sanitation, the prison became infamously known for its high mortality rate. Examining the histories of both camps provides a broader understanding of wartime life and the human experiences encompassing conflict.

Support from the Crown Hill Foundation

The Crown Hill Foundation is committed to preserving the historical and cultural legacy of Crown Hill Cemetery, which stands as Indianapolis’s oldest urban green space. Through events like this speaker series, the foundation fosters community engagement and encourages local residents to reflect on and celebrate the rich narratives held within the city’s history.

Conclusion

As this speaker series approaches, it presents an invaluable opportunity for residents of Indianapolis to engage with our shared history. By learning about the experiences of those held at Camp Morton and Cahaba Prison, we can appreciate the broader themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the importance of civic history. Community involvement in events such as this not only enriches personal knowledge but also fortifies the collective identity of Indianapolis. Consider securing your ticket today and joining in the preservation of our local heritage.

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