One of the joys of conference coordinating is reading the surveys after the event. What did guests like? What do they suggest for improvements? How can this shape the plans for the next conference?

At the first conference, we had seven speakers and short breaks; guests wanted longer breaks. The second year we had six speakers, longer breaks, and bored guests. This year – lucky number three[?] – we’re trying to find a happy balance. Six speakers, moderate breaks, and something to do during the breaks!

Gazette665 is very excited and proud to expand the learning opportunities at the 2018 Conference, inviting more presenters to share their research and artifacts through historical displays. (We trialed the idea in 2017 with a single display.) Today’s blog post introduces the wonderful researchers and groups presenting special historical displays during the afternoon breaks at the 1863: Battling For Freedom.

If you are attending, please note: Historical Displays will open during the lunch hour at the conference and be available throughout the afternoon.

On-Site Living History – Bruce Smith

Ready to check-out some authentic Union cavalry equipment and weapons?

Bruce Smith – founder of On-Site Living History (and a 2018 conference speaker) – is known for his educational presentations and displays at schools and living history events throughout Southern California.

Temecula Valley Historical Society – Rebecca Farnbach, Darrell Farnbach, & Richard Fox

This year’s California Civil War history display will be presented by the Temecula Valley Historical Society and prepared by the society’s president and local history author, Rebecca Farnbach. Be sure to visit the display and learn about California’s contributions to the Sanitary Commission during the Civil War.

The Union Balloon Corps – Steven & Patrice Demory

Recognized throughout the history community for their research and historical displays, the Demorys will be sharing about Thaddeus Lowe and the Union Balloon at the history conference. Look forward to seeing photographs, illustrations, and maybe some models of the observation balloons that added an aerial aspect to the Civil War.

Bailey-Denton Photography – James and Valorie Bailey-Denton

From their studio in Garden Grove and at historical events throughout Southern California, these photographers share the history of Civil War era photograph, photographer’s techniques, and take images with their historic cameras, transforming those images through the unique wet-plate process. Visit their display and learn how we got the incredible photos from the Civil War!

Conference Details

Thinking about attending or need to invite some friends to come with you? Here are the quick details about the Civil War History Conference:

• Saturday, June 2, 2018
• Temecula, California
• 8:30am to 5pm
• Catered lunch included with all registrations
• Six speakers, four historical displays
• $50 per person
• More details on the event pages

So – what do you think about our new idea? Are you anxious to check out these historical displays? Give us a shout-out in the comments and a little “pre-conference feedback”!

Your Historian (and Conference Coordinator),

Miss Sarah