From July 11 to 13, 1863, the citizens of New York City endured the worst incident of domestic violence the United States has ever experienced, far worse than anything to come in the 20th century.

The New York City Draft Riots occurred one hundred forty-one years ago this month. In recognition of that significant event, this program will explore the history of how such an event could have happened. What were the actions that transpired to bring a mob of 50,000 people together to terrorize neighborhoods of the East Side of New York for three days, causing more than $1.5 million in damage? What were the cultural dynamics between the Irish immigrants and the blacks that brought about lynchings, beatings and the burning of a black church and orphanage? From Lincoln's issuance of the Enrollment Act of Conscription on March 3, 1863 through the aftermath of the devastation, this presentation will explore this important piece of Civil War history.

Radio commentator Ira Fistell will be our speaker. He has been with KABC Talkradio for 27 years, and is currently the host of The Ira Fistell Show. Fistell earned his Bachelor's degree in History from the University of Wisconsin at Madison, and also holds a law degree from the University of Chicago. He's been living in Los Angeles since 1977, and attributes his interest in Civil War history to a trip to Gettysburg at the age of 10. Fistell has given various presentations for other southland Civil War Round Table groups, but this will be his first visit to the Pasadena Round Table.

Please join us as we welcome Ira Fistell, and discover the facts behind the New York Draft Riots.

Janet Whaley
Program Chair