History buffs and anyone who loves a good tale have marveled for years at the Civil War graffiti discovered in the attic at historic Blenheim in Fairfax City. On Saturday, May 19, attendees can learn about the intricacies of unraveling the mysteries of the artfully scribbled poems and signatures left behind by Union soldiers in the farmhouse attic — plus the notes and drawings of both Union and Confederate soldiers in five other sites in the Northern Virginia region.

“Beneath the Paint: Civil War Graffiti Symposium” will tackle the big picture and history of Civil War-era graffiti with the Northern Virginia Civil War Graffiti Trail, as well as the enormous skills required to reveal and preserve these historic gems. (Registration and fee, $15, required. Details below.)

The history-filled and intriguing day, which includes light breakfast and lunch, will cover:

9:30-10 a.m -- Registration/Continental Breakfast

10-10:30 a.m. -- Welcome, Site Introductions

10:30-11:30 a.m. -- Kim O’Connell, “History of Civil War Graffiti”

11:30-11:45 a.m. -- Break

11:45-12:45 p.m. -- Conservator Chris Mills, “The Technical Side of Graffiti Recovery and Conservation”

1:15-1:45 p.m. -- Conservator Kirsten Travers Moffitt, “Uncovering Blenheim’s Graffiti”

2-2:30 p.m. -- Tours of Blenheim House, Gallery and Site

The event, which takes place at Historic Blenheim and the Civil War Interpretive Center, is perfect for history buffs and those who want to learn more about the graffiti gracing the home in Fairfax City and in other structures in our area. The in-depth examination of this fascinating subject is also appropriate for high-school and college students.

Registration, $15; lunch, $10; Historic Blenheim and the Civil War Interpretive Center, 3610 Old Lee Highway, Fairfax;. 703-591-6728.

Online registration: https://bit.ly/2rBuZqX (Search “Beneath”)