Update – 3rd Massachusetts Light Artillery Tract 50% of Goal

In May, we announced our latest preservation effort, the 3rd Massachusetts Light Artillery tract at Spotsylvania.   This 7.2-acre parcel is one of the last undeveloped parcels along Brock Road just outside of the Spotsylvania Battlefield Park boundary. It contains over a dozen artillery lunettes.   Through the generosity of the preservation-minded landowner, we have the rare opportunity to obtain these seven acres at a greatly reduced cost, thus resulting in a one-to-one match on the land’s appraised value. Yet even at its lowered price, with additional fees associated with its acquisition such as appraisals, surveying, and closing costs, CVBT needs your help to make sure this battlefield land remains undeveloped and looks much like it did 160 years ago.  

There are several key reasons to make sure these pristine acres are saved forever. First, in doing so it will maintain the current rural condition of this historic green space. Second, and as mentioned above, preserving the extensive artillery lunette cultural resources on this ground highlights its importance during the fighting at Spotsylvania. Third, saving the 3rd Massachusetts Light Artillery tract helps add another piece to those tracts already saved by CVBT, the American Battlefield Trust, and the National Park Service in this immediate area, which in turn advances the process of eventually connecting them all. Additionally, this is one of the last tracts along this section of Brock Road without a modern structure on it. No demolition is needed, which would otherwise add to the expense of returning this ground to its wartime appearance. Lastly, when purchased, interpreted, and opened, this land will be an invaluable resource for Civil War enthusiasts, as well as the general public, to learn about our nation’s shared past and to enjoy its surrounding nature.  

We are well on our way to meeting our fundraising goal and preserving this land forever. To learn more about this historic piece of ground, and how you can join with us in protecting it!