March 2012 marked the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Hampton Roads. On March 8, 1862, the CSS Virginia destroyed the USS Cumberland and the USS Congress in a battle that showed the supremacy of iron over wood. The following day the Union ironclad Monitor met the CSS Virginia in a battle, which, though fought to a draw, changed the very nature of naval warfare not only in America, but worldwide.

On March 9-11, The Mariners' Museum marked the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Hampton Roads
in grand style, with a weekend of activities.

March 9 – 11, 2012
The Civil War Navy Conference featured award-winning authors Harold Holzer and Craig Symonds.
The two full days of sessions were focused on Civil War Naval history, technology, literature, art and popular culture.

March 9, 2012
Student Living History Day brought Civil War history to life with educational and entertaining activities focused on the famed battle between the ironclads USS Monitor and the CSS Virginia.

March 10 & 11, 2012
Weekend family activities were highlighted by the introduction of Ironclad BattleQuest, a fun, interactive family adventure game that took you through indoor and outdoor activities.