April 12, 1861 marks the anniversary of the date that shots were fired at Fort Sumter, South Carolina, sparking the United States’ Civil War. Now, 150 years later, schools, museums, libraries and learning centers will take this time to reflect on this pivotal point in our nation’s history. Drawn from the Michigan State University (MSU) Museum’s historical collection, the exhibit highlights Michigan connections in the Civil War. Notably, the entire first graduating class of the Michigan Agricultural College (now MSU) was excused before the graduation ceremonies in 1861 so that they could join the Union Army. Another thread: Luther Baker, the man who led the capture of Lincoln’s assassin, was a Michigan native who returned to Lansing after the war. Several artifacts relate to Civil War General John G. Parkhurst from Coldwater, Michigan, who spent time in the notorious Confederate Libby Prison. Other artifacts include Civil War uniforms, weapons, camp goods, medical equipment — including an amputation and surgery kit – Grand Army of the Republic Veterans’ mementos, and objects relating to the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. Although no battles were fought on Michigan soil, Michigan does have a number of compelling ties to the war. The exhibit will convey a sense of daily life from the era. The exhibit is not attempting to tell the whole story of the Civil War and all its battles; rather, with the MSU collection, a flavor is given of what it was like to live through the war either as a participant or as someone on the home front waiting for a friend or relative to return from the conflict.