April 12, 1861 marks the anniversary of the date that shots were
fired at Fort Sumter, South Carolina, sparking the United
States’ Civil War. Now, 150 years later, schools, museums,
libraries and learning centers will take this time to reflect on
this pivotal point in our nation’s history. Drawn from the
Michigan State University (MSU) Museum’s historical collection,
the exhibit highlights Michigan connections in the Civil War.
Notably, the entire first graduating class of the Michigan
Agricultural College (now MSU) was excused before the graduation
ceremonies in 1861 so that they could join the Union Army.
Another thread: Luther Baker, the man who led the capture of
Lincoln’s assassin, was a Michigan native who returned to
Lansing after the war. Several artifacts relate to Civil War
General John G. Parkhurst from Coldwater, Michigan, who spent
time in the notorious Confederate Libby Prison. Other artifacts
include Civil War uniforms, weapons, camp goods, medical
equipment — including an amputation and surger