Ulysses S Grant Annual Symposium
A day of education, collaboration, and dialogue focused on historic preservation and regional heritage
The Annual Grant Symposium at Kellerman Lorimier Hall in Cape Girardeau is a signature gathering that brings together preservation professionals, community leaders, scholars, and engaged citizens from across the region. Designed as a day of learning, dialogue, and inspiration, the symposium highlights best practices in historic preservation, community revitalization, and cultural stewardship. Each year’s program features expert speakers, case studies, and collaborative workshops that explore timely topics — from conserving architectural heritage and interpreting local history to fostering sustainable community development.
More than a conference, the Annual Grant Symposium serves as a catalyst for partnerships and new initiatives, offering attendees opportunities to exchange ideas, build networks, and strengthen the impact of preservation efforts throughout Southeast Missouri and beyond. Hosted in the historic setting of Kellerman Lorimier Hall, the event reflects the Foundation’s commitment to stewardship, education, and shared community heritage, encouraging both established and emerging voices to contribute to a vibrant future grounded in an appreciation for the past.
Established in 2014, the U.S. Grant Symposium is an annual event which brings together scholars, historians, authors, and civil war enthusiasts to explore and discuss the life, career, and legacy of Ulysses S. Grant – with a particular interest in his relationship with Missouri and the greater Midwest.
Mission Statement:
To explore, interpret, and highlight Missouri as the center point of U.S. Grant’s military and political life.
Goals and Strategies
- Enhance the public’s awareness of Grant’s connection with Missouri and how it shaped the trajectory of his life.
- Partner with local and regional organizations to create a network for research, education, and preservation dedicated to Grant in Missouri.
- Feature speakers who highlight overlooked aspects of Grant’s legacy.
- Promote the U.S. Grant trail and encourage visits to associated landmarks and historic sites.
- Partner with historical societies, organizations, and sites to tell localized grant stories.
U.S. Grant Trail
Education, preservation, and public awareness surrounding sites connected to Ulysses S. Grant
The U.S. Grant Symposium was established by the U.S. Grant Trail organization to further its mission of education, preservation, and public awareness surrounding sites connected to Ulysses S. Grant. As part of its broader efforts—acting as an educational and funding clearinghouse, preserving heritage resources, promoting historic tourism, and sharing Grant-related history with scholars and the public—this symposium brings together community members, scholars, and heritage professionals to explore, learn, and collaborate. The U.S. Grant Trail welcomes anyone who shares its commitment: all are welcome to join the organization, support its work, and help keep the legacy of Grant alive. Click the link below to learn more.
The 2025 Annual Symposium
Our speakers for the 2025 Annual Symposium are featured below with a trailer showcasing the event
Curt Fields
Topic: The Battle of Belmont:
Synopsis: The Battle of Belmont was the first combat test in the Civil War for Brig. Gen. Ulysses S. Grant. Appearing as U. S. Grant himself, Dr. Fields recounts the General’s experience as he battled Confederate Major General Leonidas Polk during the Battle of Belmont on November 7, 1861.
Lyle Randolph
Topic: The Swamp Fox and Whispers of a Warrior: Grant’s Elusive First Test
Synopsis: In the autumn of 1861, Ulysses S. Grant, newly promoted to brigadier general and placed in command of the District of Southeast Missouri, faced an unconventional adversary in M. Jeff Thompson–the flamboyant former mayor of St. Joseph who, in late July, had unexpectedly risen to command the 1st Military District of the Missouri State Guard. More showman than fighter, Thompson waged war through sabotage, proclamations, and swift retreats into the southeast Missouri swamps, often accompanied by his silent, painted orderly known as “Ajax”–a figure rumored to be a Mohawk chief and former showboat performer. Together, they proved more elusive than confrontational, forcing Grant to divert troops, alter plans, and learn an early lesson in the disruptive power of reputation, rumor and fear.
Louis L Picone
Topic: Grant’s Tomb: The Epic Death of Ulysses S. Grant and the Making of an American Pantheon
Synopsis: For a generation, more people visited Grant’s Tomb than the Statue of Liberty, and its significance deepened as it became the only place in America where former Civil War enemies would gather to celebrate reunification. Following its story into the 21st century, Picone will discuss how Ulysses Grant’s reputation and his Tomb descended into ruin before amazingly rising again.
The Friends of Grant
Join the Friends of Grant
The Friends of Grant is a special interest group hosted by the Kellerman Foundation composed of individuals with a vested interest in U. S. Grant and the Civil War in Missouri. As a member, you would act as an advisor and collaborator in the development of the Kellerman Foundation’s annual U. S. Grant Symposium and other U. S. Grant/Civil War exhibitions and activities.
A one-time donation of $200 for individuals, or $300 for couples, is requested to join the Friends of Grant. Your donation will give you a lifetime membership in the group and will entitle you exclusive access to special U. S. Grant related events and activities.
If you would like to learn more information, please email info@usgrantsymposium.org.
2026 Grant Symposium
The 2026 Annual Symposium will be held on November 6th
We hope you will join us for the U.S. Grant Symposium. To help us prepare, we kindly ask that you register to attend. If you are unable to attend but would like more information, or if you would like to be added to our contact list for future updates, please complete the registration form using the link below.
