Expansion of CSS Neuse Center Civil War Interpretive Center | Characteristics
The CSS Neuse Center will unveil its final phase of permanent exhibitions to the public on Saturday March 12. Titled “The Civil War in Eastern North Carolina,” these exhibits examine a variety of aspects of the Civil War, including causes, military engagements, and personalities. , and the involvement of African Americans and women.
The CSS Neuse Civil War Interpretation Center will offer free entry and host a full day of special events to celebrate the opening of the exhibit. Speakers Wade Sokolosky and Joel Cook will present the Battle of Wyse Fork and the American Colored Troops of North Carolina respectively. From 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Sokolosky will take 28 participants on a guided bus tour of the Battle of Wyse Fork. The bus tour is a paid event at $10 per person. Purchase information can be found by contacting the CSS Neuse Civil War Interpretation Center directly or by visiting their Facebook page.
The CSS Neuse is the only Confederate commissioned battleship remaining above water. This was part of a new technology the Confederacy was using to combat the superior manpower and firepower of the Union Navy. Learn about this advance in technology and warfare in Eastern North Carolina at the CSS Neuse Civil War Interpretive Center. The Confederate Navy launched the CSS Neuse in an attempt to gain control of the lower Neuse River and New Bern, but ultimately destroyed the ship to keep it out of Union hands.
Staff members and re-enactors will provide living history demonstrations throughout the museum on Saturday, March 12. The CSS Neuse Civil War Interpretive Center is located at 100 N. Queen St., Kinston. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular admission is $5 for adults, $4 for senior/active military, $3 for students (3-12), 2 and under free.
The CSS Neuse Center is part of the State Historic Sites Division of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.