On the same day that Civil War flags were returned to the State Capitol rotunda after a long restoration effort, Gov. Mark Dayton established a task force Saturday to commemorate the beginning of a bloody war that began 150 years ago.
According to a statement from Dayton's office:
"Members of the First Minnesota Volunteer Regiment were among those on the front lines, fighting throughout the war, including at the Battle of Gettysburg."
The task force, which may include members of descendants of veterans of the war, will conduct public educational programs and encourage organizations to develop programs that help expand the public awareness of the war.
Rep. Dean Urdahl, R-Grove City, helped spearhead the creation of the task force; both Dayton and Secretary of State Mark Ritchie said they have read books by Urdahl about the period.
The Civil War began 150 years ago Tuesday.
During a ceremony at the Capitol Saturday afternoon, several battle flags were returned to the glass cases ringing the rotunda that have been empty for nearly three years.
BOB VON STERNBERG
