Samuel Clemens, an unemployed riverboat captain, joined the Confederate Missouri Militia in 1861. How long did he stay and what influence did it have on him and his writings as Mark Twain? Historian and American Civil War Museum volunteer Don Jones answers these questions during the next Civil War Conversation on Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at the Museum of the Confederacy-Appomattox.

“Cost, including a reception prior to the program, is $10 for adults and $5 for members. The reception begins at 6:30 p.m., with the talk following from 7-8 p.m. Reservations are encouraged and can be made online at ACWM.org or by calling Josie Butler at (434) 352-5791, ext. 203,” officials said in a press release.