Remembering Ed Bearss

Acclaimed military historian and preservation pioneer Edwin Cole Bearss passed away on September 15, 2020, peacefully and surrounded by family, at the age of 97. A prolific author, frequent commentator and legendary tour guide, Ed Bearss brought history alive for millions of Americans with his deep voice and evocative descriptions. Among the originators of the modern battlefield preservation movement and a devoted tour guide, Bearss travelled up to 200 days per year into his 90s, leading battlefield walks and presenting widely to the Civil War Round Table community.

In collaboration with the Bearss Family, the American Battlefield Trust has created the Ed Bearss Memorial Fund to benefit future preservation efforts associated with the Vicksburg Campaign, which held such a special place in his heart.

Collaborative gifts from Round Tables and other groups to this special fund may be applied toward organizational membership in our Color Bearer society. Please contact Lee Bruch, Manager for Color Bearers, at 202-367-1861 ext. 7228 or lbruch@battlefields.org with questions.