The Center for the Study of Tennesseans and War receives first ever Public History Award.
The Center for the Study of Tennesseans and War at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has been awarded the first ever Public History Award from the Society for Military History (SMH). The inaugural award, received at the Society’s annual conference on March 26, recognizes public historians for their contribution to appreciating the importance of military history.
“This award proves that the ‘sharing’ part of that mission is being executed at an elite level,” said Christopher Magra, the Center’s director. “It reinforces the idea that military history is not just about battle maps—it’s about the human experience and the social fabric of our region.”
The Center for the Study of Tennesseans and War is the Department of History’s hub for researching, preserving, and sharing stories of people in the state who have been involved in wars beginning in the 18th century.
Magra, who researches the American Revolution, slavery, and maritime history, is an award-winning teacher and leads the Center in its mission of sharing stories of Tennesseans involved in war and understanding how wars have influenced life today in the Tennessee region.
“By focusing on the specific people of this region, the Center makes global conflicts feel personal. Whether it’s a drone pilot’s service records from the War on Terror or a Civil War soldier’s letters about the conflict, the Center ensures our region’s history is preserved and our veterans aren’t forgotten,” Magra said.
The Society of Military History, established in 1933, gives out multiple awards every year recognizing academic excellence and service in the field. Established by SMH Trustee Miranda Summers-Lowe and her spouse, Justin Lowe, this achievement highlights the Center as an organization that serves as a model of history practice and encourages broader public reflection. This inaugural award puts UT at the forefront of the public history movement, and supports the future of the Center by serving as a catalyst for future grants and private donations.
Students at UT can be involved with the Center through internships. From digitizing World War II records to creating storyboards about a soldier’s journey or local landmark, interns get to do real hands-on, interdisciplinary research. They also learn professional archival techniques, and build digital portfolios to show future employers.
The Center is also well connected within the community, aligning with the university’s land-grant mission to turn research and education into tools and service for the public. A bridge between the university and local organizations, they have partnered with multiple groups to make an impact on Tennessee public history and veteran recognition.
In 2026, the Center will be focused on the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, publishing a book on the military dimensions of the Declaration of Independence, and organizing a symposium on Andrew Jackson’s military career.
by Sloan Docekal