Ed Bearss
1923–2020 (age 97)
Historian
Biography
Ed Bearss devoted his life to preserving the stories of America’s battlefields and sharing them with the public through lectures, writings, and television appearances. A beloved historian, he blended meticulous research with a storyteller’s gift, making the Civil War and other conflicts come alive for countless students and history enthusiasts.
He was a steady presence in the historical community, encouraging young researchers and volunteering with preservation groups to ensure sacred places remained protected. His commitment to education and remembrance left a lasting impression on scholarship and the many people who learned from him.