Along the banks of the Rio Grande, a hidden chapter of the Civil War unfolded. This spring, the Texas Maritime Museum invites you to step into a world shaped by conflict, resilience, and transformation with the opening of War & Peace on the Rio Grande, 1861–1867. Arriving April 23, 2026, in the museum’s main gallery, this extraordinary traveling exhibit will transport visitors to a pivotal moment in history, where the currents of the U.S. Civil War reached far beyond the battlefield and into the heart of the U.S.–Mexico borderlands. Developed by the Community Historical Archaeology Project with Schools (CHAPS) at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, this immersive exhibit brings together groundbreaking research and engaging displays to illuminate the complex social, political, and economic forces that defined the region during this turbulent era. Visitors will discover how the Civil War reshaped cross-border commerce and trade, influenced delicate political relationships between the United States and Mexico, and relied on the courage and contributions of soldiers of color stationed along the Rio Grande. Through vivid depictions of daily camp life, the exhibit offers an intimate, human perspective, revealing the lived experiences of those who served in a landscape marked by uncertainty and change. On view throughout the summer season, during regular Museum operating hours, Tuesdays – Saturdays from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM, War & Peace on the Rio Grande, 1861–1867, is more than an exhibit; it is an invitation to explore a border not just of land, but of history, identity, and enduring legacy. View all upcoming museum events to see what else is happening at the Texas Maritime Museum. Stay Connected Don’t miss future family programs, educational workshops, and special events. Follow the Texas Maritime Museum on social media for updates and inspiration: Facebook | Instagram | Subscribe to Our Emails
