GMA Board Member Brian C. Pohanka Dies

The Grant Monument Association (GMA) notes with sorrow the passing of Brian C. Pohanka, the renowned historic preservation scholar and activist, and a board member of the GMA since 1995. He was also a member of GMA’s Executive Committee. Mr. Pohanka, 50, died of cancer on June 15 at his home in Alexandria, VA.

GMA President Frank Scaturro said, “Brian Pohanka earned his reputation throughout the historic preservation community as a kind, articulate, and dedicated Civil War activist and scholar. He saw history as living and vibrant, and he lived it accordingly.” The GMA offers condolences to Mr. Pohanka’s family and many friends.

News of Mr. Pohanka’s untimely death spread quickly through the historical community. The spontaneous, heart-felt tributes described Mr. Pohanka as a true giant, a generous scholar, and guiding light in the historic preservation field in the United States. "Few people have contributed more to keeping the memory of the Civil War alive for the present generations of Americans. He will be greatly missed,” remarked Civil War Preservation Trust President James Lighthizer.

"Mr. Pohanka’s intellect, his generosity, and his great enthusiasm for history made him a true public scholar. With his books, articles, and appearances on television documentaries, he brought many others to the study of the Civil War era, including young people. His work and his personal example will continue to enrich our field for many years to come,” said GMA board member Scott Berman.

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