Posted in Cincinnati July 31, 2019 by Andrea Limke

This Little Known Free Civil War Museum Near Cincinnati Brings Our Fascinating History To Life

Cincinnati’s position right along the Ohio River has given it an important role in many historic moments throughout our country’s past. There are several museums and sites in our region where you can learn about this history and even experience it in a hands-on fashion. The well-known destinations are definitely worth a visit, but there is a little known place in Fort Wright, Kentucky that is also a must-see. The James A. Ramage Civil War Museum near Cincinnati brings our fascinating history to life with artifacts, events, and activities that make this free museum great for an outing in the Queen City.

The James A. Ramage Civil War Museum is hidden away on a hill in Ft. Wright, just across the river from Cincinnati.

Even if you live in this area, chances are you've driven past this unassuming driveaway many times and never wondered where that blue sign leads.

If you turn and follow the sign, you'll end up at this incredibly historic spot that overlooks the Ohio River.

This land was where Battery Hooper, a Civil War defensive position, was built in 1861. The house that sits on the property was owned by the Storer family, who gifted the land in their will. The city of Ft. Wright now owns it and is working hard to restore and preserve this piece of history.

The site where the battery was built was covered up by the yard of the Storers, who wanted to preserve it.

This method of defense was built to protect the area, the river, and Cincinnati from Confederate soldiers who were marching north. The method worked, as 8,000 Confederate soldiers halted in Ft. Mitchell and eventually turned around, thanks to the strong defense built along the hill.

Today the property offers beautiful views and a spot to sit to let your imagination take you back in time.

You can read about the history of the land while looking out over the river. Be sure to spend time walking through the property and taking in the history.

The first floor of the home is now a museum and houses a collection of artifacts from the time period.

One of the most interesting items in the museum is a church pew that was often used by General Grant's parents in Covington.

Many events are held at the museum throughout the year and perhaps the most popular takes place in August.

Battery Hooper Civil War Days will take place on August 17th and 18th, 2019. It runs from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. You can learn more about this specific event here.

During the event, expect to see reenactments, period costumes, and tents set up with items and activities from the Civil War time period.

The event is free and is great for all ages. It's the perfect time to explore this Civil War museum near Cincinnati for the first time, or plan a trip on another day for a memorable experience as our area's history is brought to life.

The James A. Ramage Civil War Museum near Cincinnati makes for a great afternoon outing to learn more about this piece of history from our city’s past. The 1800s come to life during the events held at the museum and this little known destination should make it onto any history buff’s bucket list. Did you know about the Civil War museum near Cincinnati? Have you been there? Share your experience with us in the comments!

For more information on the museum, follow along on Facebook here and visit its website here. The museum is open Friday & Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. between March 1st and December 25th.

Address: 1402 Highland Avenue, Fort Wright, KY 41011

And for more unique museums around Cincinnati, check out our previous article here.