NJ Civil War Unit Subject of Former MHS Teacher's Lecture

Former teacher and Civil War historical interpreter, William R. “Bill” Chemerka who will describe “The Fighting 33rd – The Rebellious New Jersey Civil War Regiment,” the third in a series of Madison Historical Society programs marking the sesquicentennial of the American Civil War.  

The presentation will take place in the Chase Room of the at 7 p.m. on Oct.18.

Dozens of New Jersey regiments battled their Confederate counterparts during the Civil War, but the 33rd Volunteer Infantry developed a wild and unruly reputation even before they left for the South in 1863. “Uniformed as one of the 33rds Zouave soldiers, Bill Chemerka will describe the story of the unit’s ultimate redemption in the battle field,” said Society Vice President Cathie Coultas.

Chemerka is an author of several books and from 1973-2002 taught American history and economics at Madison High School, where he earned numerous teaching awards. He was the only teacher in 2001 to receive the New Jersey Historical Commission’s prestigious “Award of Recognition,” and was a writer for the History Channel’s 2004 Emmy-nominated documentary, First Invasion: The war of 1812. His next History Channel program, “Secret Access: U.S. Monuments,” is scheduled to air this winter.

For more information about the Society or to inquire about membership, call 973-377-0722, ext. 8 or visit the Society’s website at www.madisonhistoricalsociety.org.