Fort Delaware during Civil War is program topic July 13
The Milford Museum will continue its American History Series at 1 p.m., Saturday, July 13, at Milford Public Library, 11 SE Front St., Milford. Guest speaker Taylor Reynolds will present a program about Fort Delaware during the Civil War.
A pentagonal fortress situated on Pea Patch Island, Fort Delaware saw nearly 33,000 Confederate soldiers, political prisoners and Union convicts incarcerated between 1861 and 1865. Constructed to defend the cities of Wilmington and Philadelphia, Fort Delaware went on to become a notoriously miserable place for its inhabitants due to poor living conditions and seclusion. Referencing firsthand accounts, this presentation will offer a glimpse into life as a prisoner of war at one of the federal government's most infamous forts during the Civil War.
A native of Milford, Reynolds obtained a master’s degree in library and information sciences with a concentration in archival and museum studies from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He holds a bachelor’s degree in American history from Wesley College.
In 2021, Reynolds became manager of the State of Delaware Historical Markers Program, researching and erecting historical markers that highlight significant Delaware people, places and events in all three counties. In fall 2022, he transitioned to Delaware State Parks as regional volunteer services manager of four parks including Fort Delaware. In July 2023, Reynolds accepted the position of chief of cultural resources for all 17 Delaware State Parks. A lifelong student of the American Civil War, Reynolds is currently a member of the Liberty Rifles Living History Association and the Fort Delaware Society.
Sponsored by the Milford Museum, these monthly programs focus on a variety of topics concerning local, state and national history.
For more information, contact the museum at 302-424-1080 or info@milforddemuseum.org. Programs are offered through a generous grant from the Delaware Heritage Commission.
