“The Battle of Fredericksburg” is the topic of the Civil War Conversation to be held December 12, 12:15 to 12:45 p.m., at Baine's Books and Coffee, 205 Main Street, Appomattox. The “Conversations” are presented by the Museum of the Confederacy and the Appomattox Court House National Historical Park. December's speaker is Bob Sayre, visitor services manager at the Museum of the Confederacy-Appomattox.

The Battle of Fredericksburg, December 11-15, 1862, found General Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia engaged with the Army of the Potomac under its new commander, Major General Ambrose Burnside.

Burnside's plan was to cross the Rappahannock River at Fredericksburg in November and push on to Richmond before Lee could stop him. Those plans were delayed waiting for pontoon bridges to arrive, which gave Lee time to entrench his army on the heights above and behind the city. When the Burnside's army finally crossed the river they engaged in a frontal attack that resulted in staggering casualties. Burnside withdrew his army, re-crossed the Rappahannock, and ended another failed campaign for the Army of the Potomac.

Admission is free. No RSVP required; come early as seating is limited. Lunch is available for purchase at Baine's Books and Coffee. For more information contact Linda Lipscomb at llipscomb@moc.org.