080813 How the Civil War Was Won program in Groton (186)

GROTON — The Civil War was fought 150 years ago. We know who was President then. We all know which side won.

Carrie Brown has researched how and why that side won. In her talk at the Groton Town House, 754 North Groton Rd., Friday, August 9, 7 p.m,. she will explore the technological triumph that helped save the Union and then transformed the nation.

During the Civil War, northern industry produced a million and a half rifles, along with tens of thousands of pistols and carbines. How did the North produce all of those weapons? The answer lies in new machinery and methods for producing guns with interchangeable parts. Once the system of mass production had been tested and perfected, new factory technology and new print media fueled the development of mass consumerism.

While this program tells a broad, national story, it focuses on the critical and somewhat surprising role of Vermont and New Hampshire in producing industrial technology that won the war and changed American life. Hosted by the Groton Historical Society, the evening is sponsored by the NH Humanities Council. No fee is charged. Refreshments will be served.