The Friends of the Elmira Civil War Prison Camp

Who We Are

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We are an all-volunteer non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting a significantly important and unique piece of community history. It is a history that can not be claimed by any other location in New York State.

More than 160 years ago, Elmira bore witness to a pivotal chapter of our nation's history, serving as both a training center for tens of thousands of Union troops from western New York State, draft depot and the eventual location of an infamous Confederate prisoner of war camp. For too long, however, Elmira's important, singular role in New York State’s American Civil War history has been overlooked, if not forgotten.

The Friends of the Elmira Civil War Prison Camp are committed to preserving this irreplaceable piece of American history and shining an unblinking light on a place that stands as a powerful reminder of sacrifice, endurance and the terrible cost of a nation divided.

We Need your help!

The Friends have launched a $2 million dollar Capital Campaign to bring the story of Civil War Elmira back to its rightful place in history.

Your donation will help fund the construction of a 5,000 square-foot state-of-the-art Elmira Civil War Visitor Center, continuing the current development and expansion of the site.    

Already the Civil War Heritage Site draws visitors from all over the country who are seeking information about their ancestors or are just interested in learning about what went on here, so far from the battle lines. Once complete, visitors will come to understand in more depth the unique experiences faced by both Union soldiers and Confederate prisoners who spent time here, as well as, the people living in the Elmira community during the Civil War. School children in particular will learn stories of Elmira in an atmosphere where history is faced head on, and the lives and deaths of all participants are remembered with dignity and respect.

             

With your help we can protect and expand the site for everyone, but especially for future generations who deserve to know and learn from its story.

Our Mission

It is the mission of the Friends of the Elmira Civil War Prison Camp to protect and preserve the history of the Civil War in Elmira, Chemung County and surrounding areas and to educate the public about that history.

     

Our Vision

The Friends of the Elmira Civil War Prison Camp will be the primary resource for history, education and preservation of the Civil War experience for Elmira, Chemung County and the surrounding areas. This will include working cooperatively with other local groups, as well as building relationships with relevant organizations nationally.

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645 Winsor Ave, Elmira, NY 14902

Elmira Civil War

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PO Box 681, Elmira, NY 14902