ST. PAUL  (AP) — Gov. Mark Dayton has set up a Civil War Commemoration Task Force.

Dayton said in a release that the task force will conduct public educational programs and encourage Minnesota organizations to participate in and develop programs that help expand appreciation for the Civil War.

Dayton says members of the First Minnesota Volunteer Regiment were among those on the front lines, including at the Battle of Gettysburg.

The group will include a co-chair, two members each of the Senate and House, a member chosen by the Minnesota Historical Society and up to nine citizen members who may include descendants of Minnesotans who participated in the war.

The 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War is Tuesday.

Secretary of State Mark Ritchie made the announcement Saturday at the Capitol.

Copyright 2011 The Associated Press.

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