Students contemplate whether the Civil War was worth the cost to our nation through historical simulations and performances. Students role play as a Civil War soldier in the Atlanta History Center’s Turning Point exhibition and make realistic, vital decisions that could affect their character’s life. In an inquiry-based activity, students use critical thinking skills as they examine primary sources to discover why the South seceded from the Union. The true price of freedom is explored as students climb the stairs to an attic hideaway simulating Harriet Jacob’s seven-year long imprisonment as she sought to free herself from the cruel grasp of the institution of slavery.
Finally, students view a lively dramatic performance that illuminates the Emancipation Proclamation as both a political tool and an instrument of liberation. By the end of this tour, students will have done more than studied the history; they will have participated in it.
For more information, please email schooltours@atlantahistorycenter.com.
Check out our classroom companion guide here!
Additional Information
The cost for all guided tours is $200 for the first 50 students. Add on $50 for up to 50 additional students.
Title 1 schools receive 50% off regular rates.
Full payment is required 3 weeks prior to your visit to guarantee your reservation for all tours. If booking less than 3 weeks in advance, full payment is due immediately.
Your payment is not refundable if you cancel your school tour and do not reschedule.
There is a $25 administrative fee should you need to reschedule your tour. You must notify the Atlanta History Center at least 3 days in advance. With advance notice your payment can be applied to a new tour date, plus the administrative fee.
Once payment is received, a confirmation email will be shared via email. This will include educational resources that can be used before and after the LIVE virtual visit.
Teachers are encouraged to complete a 10-15 minute technology prep session. This will be scheduled and administered up to one week before the virtual tour to troubleshoot unforeseen connectivity issues. Teachers who opt out of the pre-scheduled technology prep session will forfeit their refund for tech user issues during the virtual tour.
Recording our virtual school tour is prohibited.
Funding for Atlanta History Center's school programs is generously provided by:
- Zeist Foundation
- Wells Fargo
- Chick-fil-A
- Fulton County Arts Council
- Georgia Council for the Arts
- The Connolly Family Foundation
- The Ray M. and Mary Elizabeth Lee Foundation
- The Frances Wood Wilson Foundation
- The Emily Winship Scott Foundation
- The John and Mary Franklin Foundation
- Massey Charitable Trust
- The Besse Johnson and George Blanton Allen Memorial Foundation
This event has been made possible in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities: Exploring the human endeavor.
