On January 10, Albany High's U.S. History students embarked on an unforgettable journey into the past, immersing themselves in the life of a Civil War soldier during an educational gallery walk. Guided by Teacher Patrick Young, this exploration of a pivotal era in American history came alive for students who had just wrapped up a project on the causes of the Civil War.
The classroom transformed into five interactive stations, each offering a unique glimpse into the soldier's experience: Civil War army food, weapons and equipment, games, battlefield medicine and diseases.
At the army food station, students sampled hard tack and chicory, testing their stamina by imagining marching 15-20 miles a day on such rations. The weight of history was palpable at the weapons and equipment station, where they donned canteens and storage pouches, envisioning carrying these items in heavy wool uniforms under the summer sun. Students delved into the harsh realities of battlefield medicine, discovering the sobering statistics of wounded soldiers and the grim necessity of amputations during the war.
As the gallery walk concluded, each participant reflected on whether the causes of the war were worth fighting for and pondered the decision of enlisting in the Union Army when President Lincoln called for volunteers. This thoughtful reflection encouraged students to make an informed choice about their potential actions at such a critical juncture in U.S. History.
Through this immersive experience, Albany High students not only learned about the Civil War but also connected with the sacrifices made by those who fought, gaining valuable insights into their own beliefs and values.
