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Civil War Tour Probes Conflict’s Beginnings

Begin your journey to the past with a visit to the award-winning Kansas Museum of History for an overview of the conflict. Then it’s on to historic Lawrence, the heart of the free-soil movement, and scene of much of the worst destruction during Kansas’ territorial period. The historic Eldridge Hotel in Lawrence was the center of activity during the 1850's.

One of many key figures in the struggle over Kansas was a Yankee abolitionist who seemed drawn to controversy like a moth to flame: John Brown. Visit the home where he and several of his sons lodged with his sister and her husband - now a Kansas State Historic Site. Nearby is the site of the Battle of Black Jack, regarded by many historians as the first battle of the Civil War.

As the territorial capital, Lecompton was the center of controversy throughout the Bleeding Kansas era. Visit the site where the incendiary pro-slavery constitution was written, tour the first capital building and enjoy a performance of the play, “Bleeding Kansas”.

The town of Leavenworth was another pivotal player in the drama of territorial Kansas. Visit the Frontier Army Museum at Fort Leavenworth, learn about the role of the Buffalo Soldiers in the frontier army, and visit the Bethel A.M.E. Church, an underground railroad depot at the time of the conflict.

The last full day is devoted to the final throes of the conflict in Kansas before it disintegrated into widespread warfare. Although the town of Fort Scott was free-soil, its surrounding territory was decidedly pro-slavery. Tour the restored buildings and exhibits with a knowledgeable guide and learn of these final events. Then visit the site of the Marais des Cygnes Massacre.

You’ll leave Kansas with a deepened understanding of this pivotal period in our history, when brother turned against brother and our Union nearly dissolved.

Scheduled for October 4-10, 2008, this newest entry in Shebby Lee Tours' Vanishing Trails Expeditions will be conducted by award-winning historian Shebby Lee, CTP. Featured in the six night/seven day hub-and-spoke itinerary are living history, speakers, special events, historic sites, and much more! Enjoy six nights in an all-suites hotel property including daily hot breakfast and evening hospitality reception. Tour begins and ends in Kansas City, Missouri.

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Shebby Lee Tours has been specializing in the historic and cultural heritage of the Great American West since 1978. The company is a long-standing member of NTA and founding partner in the Travel Alliance Partners. For more information call toll free: 800-888-8306, or e-mail info@shebbyleetours.com. Full details are also available at Shebby Lee Tours