Archives

John Brown and the Night Sky of 1859

Learn about The Great Solar Storm of 1859, how people interpreted night sky phenomena, and how writers and poets would come to describe John Brown using astronomical imagery.

Reacting to the Raid: Local Militia and the US Marines

John Brown attacked Harpers Ferry on October 16, 1859 and was captured two days later by the US Marines. Volunteers of the USMC Historical Company relive the scene and the all-important reactions to the raid.