Event Detail

Back to Events
Capital Dames: The Civil War and the Women of Washington, 1848–1868
  • Date: Monday, April 20, 2015 - Tuesday, April 21, 2015
  • Time: 11:00 pm
  • Location: William G. McGowan Theater, Washington, DC

Capital DamesCokie Roberts and Presidential historian Michael Beschloss mark the sesquicentennial of the Civil War with a riveting look at the experiences, influence, and contributions of the women of Washington, DC, during this momentous period of American history. Using newspaper articles, government records, and private letters and diaries—many never before published—Roberts brings the war-torn capital into focus through the lives of its formidable women.

A book signing will follow the program. Purchase this book on the day of the event from the myArchives Store and receive a 15% discount (members get 20% off).


All public programs at the National Archives are free and streamed live online via the National Archives’ YouTube channel. Reservations are recommended; seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. The doors to the building will open 45 minutes prior to the start of the program. Use the Special Events entrance on the corner of Constitution Avenue and 7th Street, NW. Live captioning will be available online and in the William G. McGowan Theater. If you require an alternative or additional accommodation for an event (such as a downloadable transcript or a sign language interpreter), please send an email to public.program@nara.gov or call 202-357-5000 in advance.