Civil War Roundtable
04/23/2025 @ 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Most think of Ulysses S. Grant as the commanding general in the Civil War and a two-term U.S. President, but those closest to him also knew him as a loving family man. Join Grant’s eldest son Fred (portrayed by living historian Ben Kemp) as he shares the compelling story of how his father ended up spending his final days on the picturesque heights of Mount McGregor in Saratoga County, New York. The story is a touching inspirational tale of family devotion and a true character study of a man known for his triumph over adversity. The program will feature a question & answer session and a brief overview of exciting major projects planned at the historic site. There will also be a book signing for Grant at 200: Reconsidering the Life and Legacy of Ulysses S. Grant for which Kemp is a contributing author.
Speaker Bio: Ben Kemp was born and raised in the Saratoga region of New York State. He is a living historian, speaker, and researcher who has been featured by C-Span, PBS, the National Park Service, and on the 2020 History Channel documentary Grant. Ben has been a staff member at Grant Cottage Historic Site since 2014. His research into Grant has been primarily focused on the lesser-known personal life of U.S. Grant, especially his family life. This research has revealed a relatable figure and fostered a fresh appreciation for the man who saved the Union. Ben is a contributor to the book Grant at 200: Reconsidering the Life and Legacy of Ulysses S. Grant celebrating the bicentennial of U.S. Grant’s birth. In addition to history, Ben enjoys outdoor pursuits such as hiking, having climbed all the 46 highest peaks of the Adirondack mountains. He also has a passion for antique shows/flea markets, demolition derby, bluegrass music, and rollercoasters.
