As the state begins its commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War, organizations are joining forces in Effingham County to do their part.

County commissioners have approved a resolution commending the Effingham Convention and Visitors Bureau and its partners as they begin preparations for the commemoration.

“We have dedicated a large portion of our present effort in relation to Civil War sites in Effingham County,” said Ruth Lee of the ECVB.

The Civil War commemoration statewide will run from 2011-15. The ECVB’s group includes representatives from the county, the three municipalities, the Historic Effingham Society and the Chamber of Commerce. The ECVB will coordinate efforts countywide, Lee said, and assist in developing and securing resources.

“From this beginning, we have become aware of grants that may be available to us,” she said. “We will continue to research these kinds of financial opportunities for developing tourism in Effingham County.”

There are many sites and places of interest from the Civil War in Effingham County, the resolution stated, and the hardships and privations the families and citizens of the county endured should be remembered. The ECVB is working on a program to recognize the heritage within the borders of Effingham County and provide sites and programs for visitors during the four-year Civil War commemoration.

The Effingham Convention and Visitors Bureau has begun an effort to develop tourism sites in the county, Lee said, and sees the Civil War commemoration as a way to spark tourism in the county.

“The ability to ensure success in any effort in the development of tourism as an economic engine for Effingham County depends on the cooperation of all levels of government and the citizenry of the county,” she added. “We believe that together there are good things in store for us on the tourism front.”