Parents, there are fun, interactive, educational activities waiting for your little ones at the CSS Neuse Civil War Interpretive Center this spring and summer. Every second Wednesday, April through August, the CSS Neuse will present “Storytime and Craft Morning,” with a different book and craft each month. The first program, Wednesday, April 11, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., costs $1 per person and includes all materials.
Children ages five and under can listen to a story about growing up on a farm, and create a barnyard using grass, mud, hay, sticks and their own barnyard animal figures. All supplies will be provided and children can take their barnyard animals home.
“This program will be an interactive and creative way for children to learn about farm life, while working on their fine motor skills,” said Programs Coordinator Rachel Kennedy. Pre-registration is required; contact Rachel Kennedy at rachel.kennedy@ncdcr.gov or 252-526-9600 ext. 222.
The CSS Neuse is the only remaining commissioned Confederate ironclad above water. It was part of a new technology that the Confederacy used to combat the superior manpower and firepower of the Union Navy. Learn about this technological advance and warfare in eastern North Carolina at the CSS Neuse Civil War Interpretive Center. The Confederate Navy launched the CSS Neuse attempting to gain control of the lower Neuse River and New Bern, but ultimately destroyed the vessel to keep it out of Union hands.
The CSS Neuse Civil War Interpretive Center is located at 100 N. Queen St., Kinston, N.C., and open Tuesday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: adults $5, senior/active military $4, Students (ages 3-12) $3, ages 2 and under free.
For additional information, please call Rachel Kennedy at (252) 526-9600 x 222. The CSS Neuse Center is within the Division of State Historic Sites in the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.