- This event has passed.
Nerd Nite DC: Civil War Shenanigans
January 14, 2017 @ 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm EST
$10
Like nerdy fun, beer, and good company?
Join us for Nerd Nite DC. The Museum is partnering with Atlas Obscura and Nerd Nite to explore what’s wondrous and curious about the Civil War during this special program at the DC9 Nightclub.
Jake Wynn and Amelia Grabowski, the Museum’s intrepid education department, will be talking about the greatness and grossness of Civil War medicine, while performing a (fake) leg amputation demonstration.
But wait, there’s more! Civil War medical scholar and museum volunteer, Dr. Ashley Bowen will share stories from the Dead Letter Office. When letters went wrong, the Dead Letter Office made them right. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, this little-known department of the Post Office processed hundreds of thousands of undelivered letters and packages annually. In these dead letters are moving, fantastic, and unbelievable stories about everything from live snakes and the hair of a presidential assassin to the personal tragedies wrapped up as missed connections.
David Plotz, CEO of Atlas Obscura and host of Slate’s Political Gabfest, will explore the almost forgotten history of D.C. at war, including the tale of the crazy Confederate invasion of 1864 that almost killed Lincoln and defeated the Union. Plus, how to find some of the city’s best, often-secret Civil War sites, including the fort in the forest.
Not enough for you? Matt Blitz, noted author and the evening’s emcee, will be leading the crowd in Civil War trivia.
This event is for those 21 and over only. Find out more here.
ADVANCE TICKETS ONLY. ALL SALES FINAL. NO REFUNDS OR EXCHANGES.
