Begin this second year of North Carolina's Civil War Sesquicentennial with the 11th annual Civil War Quiz Bowl, sponsored by the Museum of the Cape Fear.

On Saturday, Jan. 26, beginning at 7 p.m. at the Cumberland County Head-quarters Library, in Fayetteville, 20 contestants will test their knowledge of Civil War trivia, tactics and history.

Each participant will select a category, and host Jim Greathouse will ask the questions. Categories cover all aspects of the Civil War and range from great names and famous battles, to obscure personalities and fascinating factoids about America's defining conflict. Contest-ants remain in the competition until they receive two strikes, representing two incorrect answers.

The competition is open to contestants of all ages, and prizes will be awarded for both the adult (ages 18 and up) and student (ages 17 and younger) winners.

While the information presented is the same - regardless of the contestant's age - the younger participants over the years have demonstrated a keen knowledge of Civil War history.

The Civil War Quiz Bowl is open to the public, and the museum recommends calling in advance to sign up. However, contestants will be admitted at the door until the 20 spaces are filled. There should be plenty of space for spectators.

For more information, call (910) 486-1330 or visit the website www.museumof thecapefear.ncdcr.gov.