The Sturgeon Bay Library will host a special free performance of They All Had Names: A Civil War Musical on Saturday, December 6, at 2:00 p.m. The event, presented by Larry Desotell and Rich Wolter in partnership with the Door County Library, coincides with the 160th anniversary of the ratification of the Thirteenth Amendment, which abolished slavery in the United States.
“They All Had Names” tells the lives of Union soldiers, Confederate prisoners, and an enslaved person at Camp Randall during the spring of 1862, alongside their modern descendants who meet at Forest Hill Cemetery in Madison. Through music and narration, the performance delves into themes of freedom, the human cost of war, and the experiences of prisoners and their guards, connecting historical events to contemporary reflections.
The musical features book, music, and lyrics by Desotell and Wolter, with Desotell serving as narrator. Wolter also performs on guitar and vocals.
Library officials encourage members of the community to attend this unique program, which blends history, storytelling, and live music to provide a thought-provoking look at the Civil War and its enduring legacy. The performance is free and open to all, making it an accessible way for residents and visitors to honor a pivotal moment in American history while experiencing an engaging musical journey.
For more information, visit the Sturgeon Bay Library, contact the library directly, or visit the library website.
