During the Civil War, federal soldiers in coastal North Carolina confiscated civilian watercraft on behalf of the war effort. After the war, affected civilians could file for compensation through the Southern Claims Commission. The applications for compensation provide insights into the maritime lives of ordinary people in coastal North Carolina before, during, and after the Civil War. The program is part of our Maritime Heritage Series, informal lectures held in the museum auditorium and focused on North Carolina’s rich maritime history, coastal environment, and culture. Admission is free, and registration is not required.