The conference will be held on Friday, October 16 through Sunday, October 18, 2026 at Pamplin Historical Park’s Education Center in Dinwiddie, Virginia and will feature presentations from seven outstanding historians: Chris J. Hartley, James A. Hessler, Robert I. Girardi, Dr. Jennifer M. Murray, Dr. Brooks D. Simpson, Jeffry Wert and Dr. Brian Steel Wills.

Any era is full of colorful personalities who may be known for their temperament and the Civil War is no different. Whether in personal life, in camp or on the battlefield leaders have been known to blow up at subordinates or even superiors. In extreme cases, the outbursts can manifest into disastrous decisions on the battlefield or even murder. “Hot Heads!: Quick Tempers & Rash Actions” explores seven fiery Civil War commanders who let anger get the best of them both in and out of uniform.

For more information or to register, call a reservation specialist at 877-726-7546. Pre-registration is required and space is limited.

Download a printable flyer and registration form by clicking here.

The Symposium begins at 6:00 pm with a Welcome Reception for all attendees at Pamplin Historical Park’s Education Center, located at 6523 Duncan Road, Petersburg, VA.

Park Members pay $339 per person and non-members pay $379. The price includes all lectures, the Friday night reception, two mid-morning coffee breaks, two lunches, and the Saturday night banquet.

*Not a member, but interested in joining? Click here or call Member Services, 877-726-7546 .

Speakers & Topics:

Chris J. Hartley
Maj. Gen. D.H. Hill

James A. Hessler
Maj Gen. Daniel E. Sickles

Robert I. Girardi
Maj. Gen. William “Bull” Nelson

Dr. Jennifer M. Murray
Maj. Gen. George G. Meade

Dr. Brooks D. Simpson
Maj. Gen. William T. Sherman

Jeffry D. Wert
Lt. Gen. Jubal A. Early

Dr. Brian Steel Wills
Lt. Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest