There is no written recipe to conserving a Civil War shipwreck. One of a conservator’s major assignments is to research the most appropriate methods to stabilize artifacts and, consequently, preserve them. This pre-treatment phase is fundamental as every single object presents its own set of challenges and such research must be conducted within the framework of a conservation code of ethics, much like working in the medical field. After introducing the code, Elsa Sangouard will discuss recent research examples from Texas to Virginia, illustrating the nation’s efforts to preserve American Civil war icons.

Civil War lectures are free with Museum admission, but reserving a seat is suggested as seating is limited. Reserve seats online –see each lecture below, or call (757) 952-0466 or email jmurphy@MarinersMuseum.org.