Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Central Virginia Battlefields Trust Preserving History, Inspiring Future Generations ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://cvbt.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blunders on Central Virginia's Battlefields - Part I](https://cvbt.org/blunders-on-central-virginias-battlefields-part-i/) - Introduction Mistakes happen in life. They are, after all, part of the experience of living. We’ve all been there. When we do err, hopefully we learn from it and do better in similar future situations. The problem with mistakes is that they are difficult to foresee, and too often arise with unexpected situations, and unfortunately - [Preservation of Historic USCT Battlefield Reaches 90% of Fund Raising Goal](https://cvbt.org/https-cvbt-org-battlefields-23rd-usct-battlefield/) - CVBT Purchases USCT Historic Spotsylvania Battlefield - Raising $100,000 - [Preservation of Light Artillery Tract Reaches 76% of Fundraising Goal-Video](https://cvbt.org/3rd-massachusetts-light-artillery-tract/) - Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we are excited to share that the campaign to preserve the 3rd Massachusetts Light Artillery Tract has reached 70% of its fundraising goal. - [Demoralized and Unnerved: Cowardice on Central Virginia's Battlefields - Part II](https://cvbt.org/demoralized-and-unnerved-cowardice-on-central-virginias-battlefields-part-ii/) - Introduction In addition to telling his unit’s battles and campaigns, Capt. Amos Judson also shared some thoughts on a few different war-related subjects in his 1865 regimental history of the 83rd Pennsylvania Infantry. In one such “digression” (as he calls them), he wrote: “I have often thought that an army was the best place in - [Twice Fought Battlefield 1863 Chancellorsville.... 1864 23rd USCT Spotsylvania](https://cvbt.org/23rd-usct-battlefield/) - The CVBT is currently fundraising $100,000 to save the initial parcel of what was the historic Alrich Farm. This first three-acre tract—the site of the Alrich House—is better known as where the 23rd United States Colored Infantry fought off Confederate cavalry under Gen. Thomas Rosser on May 15, 1864. That engagement signaled the first time - [Legal Opposition Against Mega Development at Wilderness Battlefield Continues](https://cvbt.org/breaking-news/) - Since Wilderness Crossing was proposed in 2022, the 11-member Wilderness Battlefield Coalition has challenged the project’s potential impacts on the Wilderness and Chancellorsville battlefields, as well as other historic and environmental resources along the Route 3 corridor. - [Demoralized and Unnerved: Cowardice on Central Virginia’s Battlefields – Part I](https://cvbt.org/demoralized-and-unnerved-cowardice-on-central-virginias-battlefields-part-i/) - Introduction In the aftermath of the Battle of Chancellorsville, Sgt. J. A. H. Foster of the 155th Pennsylvania Infantry wrote home to his wife describing the internal and external pressures that he felt in doing his duty despite the many dangers of battle. Sgt. Foster attempted to assure her that "I am not anxious to - [It Becomes My Painful Duty to Inform You: Condolence Letters and Obituaries from Civil War Soldiers in Central Virginia – Part II](https://cvbt.org/it-becomes-my-painful-duty-to-inform-you-condolence-letters-and-obituaries-from-civil-war-soldiers-in-central-virginia-part-ii/) - Introduction Many things changed in central Virginia during the Civil War. Some people’s early-war hopes that the conflict would be short were long gone by the spring campaigns of 1864. Similarly, slavery as a labor system, although not yet dead in central Virginia in what would be the war’s final year, was left much damaged - [It Becomes My Painful Duty to Inform You: Condolence Letters and Obituaries from Civil War Soldiers in Central Virginia - Part I](https://cvbt.org/it-becomes-my-painful-duty-to-inform-you-condolence-letters-and-obituaries-from-civil-war-soldiers-in-central-virginia-part-i/) - Introduction Wounded in the right knee during the Irish Brigade's charge on Marye’s Heights at Fredericksburg, the 63rd New York Infantry’s Corp. Patrick Scanlan winced in pain as the fighting went on. Eventually removed from the battlefield and transported to Lincoln Hospital in Washington, surgeons removed Scanlan’s leg above the knee. Complications from the wound - [Critical Decisions & The Battle of Chancellorsville](https://cvbt.org/critical-decisions-the-battle-of-chancellorsville/) - Hosted by: Central Virginia Battlefields Trust and historian Sarah Kay Bierle May 3 @ 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm Meet at the CVBT Office: 1115 Tyler St, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, later drive and hike at the First Day at Chancellorsville Battlefield. What is a “critical decision”? How did critical decisions unfold during the Battle of - [She Was A Courageous Woman: Women in Civil War Central Virginia](https://cvbt.org/she-was-a-courageous-woman-women-in-civil-war-central-virginia/) - Introduction A teenaged Sue Chancellor found herself, her sisters, mother, and other neighborhood women and children in an unenviable position on May 3, 1863. Their home, which then also served as the headquarters for the Army of the Potomac’s commander Maj. Gen. Joseph Hooker, became the eye of the storm at the Battle of Chancellorsville. - [Sickness Has Thinned the Regiment Very Much: Soldiers and Illness in Central Virginia - Part I](https://cvbt.org/test-blog-for-copy-all-blocks/) - Introduction Illnesses and disease ravaged the ranks of the contending armies throughout the Civil War. Historians estimate that for every soldier who died in battle, two died from disease. Fighting illness often began before fighting the enemy. Camps of instruction, both North and South, struggled with limiting illnesses that we today usually consider childhood diseases - [Sickness Has Thinned the Regiment Very Much: Soldiers and Illness in Central Virginia - Part II](https://cvbt.org/blog-copy-2/) - If you wish to read Part I, you may do so here. Introduction In the often quoted The Road to Richmond: The Civil War Memoirs of Major Abner R. Small of the 16th Maine Volunteers, Small included a section at the end aptly titled “Conclusions.” In it, he offered some thoughts about different soldier topics - ["I Think It Will Make A Fine Dish": Soldiers and Food on Central Virginia's Battlefields - Part I](https://cvbt.org/working-blog-copy-9/) - Introduction A couple of weeks before the Battle of Fredericksburg, Sgt. Lucien A. Vorhees of the 15th New Jersey Infantry wrote to his hometown newspaper from his Stafford County camp. In part of the letter, Vorhees provided a thorough and light-hearted discussion about life in camp, including the distribution of rations and their preparation. “When - [Upholding the Standard: Colors and Color Bearers on Central Virginia's Battlefields - Part I](https://cvbt.org/working-blog-copy-5/) - Introduction During the Battle of Fredericksburg, the 21st Massachusetts Infantry of Edward Ferrero’s Ninth Corps brigade moved toward the Confederate line at the base of Marye’s Heights. When they cleared the streets of Fredericksburg and were well within the range of the Rebels’ rifle fire, Color Sgt. Joseph H. Collins received a mortal wound to - [Close Calls, Near Misses, and Spent Bullets on Central Virginia's Battlefields - Part II](https://cvbt.org/working-blog-copy-3-2/) - Introduction Fighting in Francis Barlow’s Second Corps division, 19-year-old Corp. Daniel Chisholm and his 116th Pennsylvania comrades assaulted a Confederate line of earthworks just outside of Spotsylvania on May 18, 1864. While several men fell killed and wounded in the assault, Chisholm went unscathed, sort of. Chisholm, an inexperienced soldier, who had enlisted about two - [Upholding the Standard: Colors and Color Bearers on Central Virginia's Battlefields - Part II](https://cvbt.org/working-blog-copy-4/) - Introduction In submitting a list of casualties for his Vermont Brigade from losses at the Battle of the Wilderness, Brig. Gen. Lewis Grant noted, “The whole number of casualties at the present time is 1,363. It is with a sad heart that I inform you of so great a loss of Vermont’s noble sons, but - [Close Calls, Near Misses, and Spent Bullets on Central Virginia's Battlefields - Part I](https://cvbt.org/working-blog-copy-3/) - Introduction Attempting to describe the chaotic fighting that occurred on May 3, 1863, during the Second Battle of Fredericksburg, Pvt. Wilber Fisk offered some examples of close calls that men in his 2nd Vermont Infantry regiment experienced: “Bullets play curious freaks sometimes, and every battle has its hair-breadth escapes. One fellow had his gun shot - ["I Think It Will Make A Fine Dish": Soldiers and Food on Central Virginia's Battlefields - Part II](https://cvbt.org/woprking-blog-copy-6/) - Introduction As discussed in Part I, Civil War soldiers had the unique ability to find sustenance even when their governments failed to provision them properly. Whether those deficiencies developed due to a lack of raw materials, manufacturing breakdowns, or distribution issues, soldiers often supplemented particularly bleak periods by foraging and requesting food items from home. - [Freedom Had Dawned: African Americans in Civil War Central Virginia](https://cvbt.org/freedom-had-dawned-african-americans-in-civil-war-central-virginia/) - Introduction The fact that African Americans would play a large role in how the Civil War changed the society, economics, politics, and culture of central Virginia was a given. They obviously had in the past, and they would continue to do so during the four years of conflict and beyond. In 1860, enslaved African Americans - [A Blue Time for the Holiday: Christmas and New Year's 1862-63 at Fredericksburg](https://cvbt.org/a-blue-time-for-the-holiday-christmas-and-new-years-1862-63-at-fredericksburg/) - Introduction At the outbreak of the Civil War, many of the various traditions that we today typically associate with Christmas were relatively young in America. However, these seasonal customs had firmly taken hold and were practiced more or less in both divided sections of the nation. The men who went off to war carried their - [Desperate Beyond the Power of Description: Artillery at Chancellorsville](https://cvbt.org/desperate-beyond-the-power-of-description-artillery-at-chancellorsville/) - Introduction By the time of the Battle of Chancellorsville, artillerists in the Army of the Potomac and the Army of Northern Virigina had received a wealth of battlefield experience. Lessons learned from the deadly combat in a string of battles like the Seven Days’ Battles around Richmond, Cedar Mountain, Second Manassas, Antietam, and Fredericksburg, all - [The Scene Was Awful: Lane's North Carolina Brigade on Central Virginia's Battlefields](https://cvbt.org/the-scene-was-awful-lanes-north-carolina-brigade-on-central-virginias-battlefields/) - Introduction While there were other famous Confederate brigades that fought on the battlefields of central Virginia, few, if any, can claim the amount of overall combat that the five North Carolina regiments commanded by Brig. Gen. James H. Lane experienced at Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, the Wilderness, and Spotsylvania Court House. The fate of war seemed to - [The Men Fell Fast: The Vermont Brigade on Central Virginia's Battlefields](https://cvbt.org/the-men-fell-fast-the-vermont-brigade-on-central-virginias-battlefields/) - Introduction Few other brigades, Union or Confederate, sustained the number of casualties and encountered the trying situations that the Vermont Brigade suffered while fighting on the battlefields that the Central Virginia Battlefields Trust works to preserve. The Green Mountain State men fought at Fredericksburg in December 1862, and at Second Fredericksburg during the Chancellorsville Campaign. - [In Memory of Don Pfanz](https://cvbt.org/in-memory-of-don-pfanz/) - A Tribute to a Dedicated Author, Historian, and Preservationist In Memory of Donald Pfanz A Tribute to a Dedicated Author, Historian Father of the Modern Battlefield Preservation Movement - [Supplying the Demand: Army Logistics on Central Virginia's Battlefields, Part I](https://cvbt.org/supplying-the-demand-logistics-on-central-virginias-battlefields-part-i/) - Introduction “Upon the faithful and able performance of the duties of the quartermaster an army depends for its ability to move. The least neglect or want of capacity on his part may foil the best-concerted measures and make the best-planned campaign impracticable. The services of those employed in the great depots in which the clothing, - [Supplying the Demand: Army Logistics on Central Virginia's Battlefields, Part II](https://cvbt.org/1956-2/) - Introduction Civil War armies primarily did three things: they marched, they fought, and they camped. All three of these things required supplies (some more than others) in various ways. Whether an army was on campaign or in camp, it still had to be fed and sheltered. Militarily, replacing damaged or worn out equipment was almost - [In Memory of Eric Wittenberg](https://cvbt.org/in-memory-of-eric-wittenberg/) - A Tribute to a Dedicated Author, Historian, and Preservationist It is with deep sadness that CVBT acknowledges the passing of Eric Wittenberg, devoted CVBT Board member, respected author, historian, and steadfast preservationist. For the past two years, Eric—at the age of 64—faced a courageous battle with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Eric unfortunately lost this battle August 2nd, - [Help Save New Pristine Battlefield Land in Spotsylvania ! Matching Donations!](https://cvbt.org/new-battlefield-land-saved-in-spotsylvania/) - Help CVBT Save Spotsylvania Battlefield Artillery Position - 1 to 1 donation match! - [Beside His Shallow Grave: Burials on Central Virgina's Battlefields](https://cvbt.org/beside-his-shallow-grave-burials-on-central-virginas-battlefields/) - Introduction On May 19, 1864, Pennsylvania soldier George W. Belles wrote to his sister to let her know he was well despite having “hard times since we left Brandy Station.” Belles explained, “Our regiment has been in four engagements and lost heavy. Our company lost 15 men in killed and wounded.” Belles took the effort - [Write Soon and Write Often: Soldiers, Letters, Mail, and Boxes](https://cvbt.org/write-soon-and-write-often-soldiers-letters-mail-and-boxes/) - Introduction Just days before the Chancellorsville Campaign commenced, Sgt. Charles T. Bowen of the 12th US Infantry wrote home from Falmouth. “Send me about a dozen stamps for I have none,” Bowen pled. His earnest request was a common one found among Civil War soldiers’ letters, for good reason. In his book, I Remain Yours: - [Saving CVBT's Witness Trees Sentinels of the Battlefields](https://cvbt.org/working-blog-copy-8/) - Witness Trees - Brompton - Fredericksburg - 1863 Witness Trees – Sentinels of the Battlefields “Once Civil War soldiers march on to their next battle, a witness tree remains as a biologically tenacious symbol of the past. Confirmed witness trees are precious.” Witness trees are a living connection to the people and momentous events of - [Zouaves on Central Virginia's Battlefields: 140th & 146th New York, and 155th Pennsylvania Infantry Regiments](https://cvbt.org/zouaves-on-central-virginias-battlefields-140th-146th-new-york-and-155th-pennsylvania-infantry-regiments/) - Introduction In last month’s CVBT History Wire, we shared the story of the 114th Pennsylvania Infantry (Collis’ Zouaves), focusing particularly on the parts they played in the Battles of Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville, as well as some background information on Zouaves in general. If you would like to read that post, you may do so here. - [CVBT History Wire - Zouaves on Central Virginia's Battlefields: 114th Pennsylvania Infantry (Collis' Zouaves)](https://cvbt.org/cvbt-history-wire-zouaves-on-central-virginias-battlefields-114th-pennsylvania-infantry-collis-zouaves/) - Introduction Among the colorful Zouave regiments that fought with the Army of the Potomac, some earned distinction for the conspicuous parts they played on the battlefields of central Virginia. The 114th Pennsylvania Infanrty, known popularly as Collis' Zouaves, was one such unit. This CVBT History Wire will examine their roles in the Battle of Fredericksburg - ["Death and Eternity Have Been Brought Very Near to Me": May 3, 1863, Fighting at Chancellorsville's Nine Mile Run](https://cvbt.org/cvbt-history-wire/) - Although a bit difficult to see in this photograph, the Federal skirmish earthwork line just west of Nine Mile Run is slightly visible running through the center of the image. Confederates from McLaws's division attacked from the left background (east). This perspective is looking south. (Tim Talbott) Introduction The two most recent traditional histories covering - [CVBT 2025 Spring Seminar Great Success](https://cvbt.org/cvbt-2025-spring-seminar-great-success/) - This years theme "The Road to Fredericksburg" brought a packed house of 150 attendees. A sold out crowd packed the event hall at the Tabernacle United Methodist Church in Fredericksburg to hear presentations by top historians. Speakers included noted historians and authors Dennis Frye, Greg Mertz, James Broomall, Frank O' Reilly, and John Hennessy Attendees - [Court Hears Arguments - 2600 Acre Development Threatens Wilderness Battlefield!](https://cvbt.org/2600-acre-development-threatens-wilderness-battlefield/) - This development proposal dwarfs anything previously contemplated in Orange County, potentially positioning millions of square feet of data centers and distribution warehouses at the gateway to a historic landscape - [CVBT Plays Role in new Culpeper Battlefields State Park](https://cvbt.org/working-blog-copy-7/) - ABT President David Duncan & CVBT President Tom Van Winkle Victory! CVBT Plays Role in new Culpeper Battlefields State Park In August 2013, CVBT received a grant for $770,000 to assist the American Battlefield Trust in a 56-acre acquisition of Fleetwood Hill on the Brandy Station Battlefield. The entire battlefield preservation community including the ## Pages - [Central Virginia Battlefields Trust](https://cvbt.org/) - Central Virginia’s Civil War battlefields are significant sites where pivotal moments in American history took place. Your involvement is crucial in the fight to preserve these historic landscapes. - [CVBT 2026 Conference Agenda](https://cvbt.org/cvbt-2026-conference-agenda/) - Times & Venues CVBT 30th Anniversary Conference Friday September 11th - Speakers at Wilderness Baptist Church. Doors open at 8:30am Program begins at 9:00, ends 12:30 Saturday September 12th - at the Jepson Alumni Executive Center’s Grand Ball Room Doors open at 8:30 - continental breakfast (coffee, danish/muffins, fruit) Program begins at 9:00 Lunch 12:00 Tour - [History Wire (Popular)](https://cvbt.org/news/) - [Important News](https://cvbt.org/current-news/) - [PARTNER WITH CVBT NOW](https://cvbt.org/support-us/) - INVEST IN OUR HISTORY'S FUTURE: LEAVE A LEGACY WHY SUPPORT CVBT? Supporting the Central Virginia Battlefields Trust is supporting the preservation of America's history. Together we save historic Civil War battlefields, allowing us to convey the stories of soldiers who fought and fell there, noting how their sacrifice impacted our shared history. With the ramped - [Publication Archives](https://cvbt.org/publication-archives/) - "ON THE FRONT LINE" PUBLICATION ARCHIVES Members receive our acclaimed full color magazine entitled "On the Front Line". Every issue will inform members of CVBT preservation projects, battlefields saved, upcoming as well as past events and programs. Historians, as well as our learned Board Members, will write interesting articles on local history and the battles. - [30 Years protecting Battlefields](https://cvbt.org/cvbt-org-60for30/) - CVBT "60 for 30" Campaign Donate Today! OUR Mission “The mission of Central Virginia Battlefields Trust is to preserve land associated with the four major Civil War campaigns: Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Mine Run, and the Overland Campaign, including the Wilderness and Spotsylvania.” Within an 18 month span nearly 200,000 combatants converged on this small area leaving - [Battlefields Under Siege](https://cvbt.org/current-threats/) - Join CVBT to advance our 30 year legacy of saving places where history happened at Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Mine Run, The Wilderness, and Spotsylvania Court House. Wilderness - Mega Development Threat Join the Fight Now! Protect the Heart of Chancellorsville Battlefield "Worst of all, inserting a gas station, convenience store and other professional businesses at this - [Shop & Preserve](https://cvbt.org/shop/) - [CVBT Home QR Code](https://cvbt.org/cvbt-home-qr-code/) - [Three Opportunities to Invest in Our History!](https://cvbt.org/three-opportunities-to-invest-in-our-history/) - Take Advantage of These Three Important Opportunities to Invest in Our History! - [About Us](https://cvbt.org/about-us/) - OUR MISSION "The mission of Central Virginia Battlefields Trust is to preserve land associated with the four major Civil War campaigns: Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Mine Run, and the Overland Campaign, including the Wilderness and Spotsylvania." OUR MOTTO "Preserving Dirt and Grass" "Land Never Forgets" OUR HISTORY THE CHALLENGE: Between 1862 and 1864, two great armies clashed - [CVBT Generals](https://cvbt.org/cvbt-generals/) - CVBT GENERALS WHY BECOME A CVBT GENERAL? The Central Virginia Battlefields Trust is blessed to have partners like you who have decided to join our ranks and support our mission of saving the Civil War Battlefields of Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Mine Run, the Wilderness and Spotsylvania Courthouse here in the ever-expanding sprawl of Central Virginia. As - [Become a Friend of CVBT Volunteer](https://cvbt.org/become-a-friends-of-cvbt-volunteer/) - We Need Your Help! As you know CVBT is a land trust. We focus on purchasing endangered battlefield properties. We do produce a large three-day annual conference, standalone events and need to interpret and maintain our lands, we need help in all of these. In the past, CVBT has had individuals from organizations assist us, - [Support CVBT Through Your IRA](https://cvbt.org/support-cvbt-through-your-ira/) - Consider supporting CVBT through a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) through your IRA. If you are 70 1/2 or older, and have an IRA, you're already able to do so. The mission of Central Virginia Battlefield Trust, Inc., is to preserve land associated with the five major Civil War campaigns: Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Mine Run, and the - [Videos](https://cvbt.org/videos/) - At Ease: Pelham's Corner - What Happened Here? - [Other Battlefields](https://cvbt.org/other-battlefields/) - OTHER BATTLEFIELD GROUNDS SAVED Although sometimes just out of the CVBT Area of Operations significant battlefield threats appear. As with any non-profit there is a limit to available funds but we will always assist where and when able. - [Chancellorsville](https://cvbt.org/chancellorsville/) - ABOUT CHANCELLORSVILLE The Chancellorsville campaign, leading to Confederate general “Stonewall” Jackson's demise, paradoxically referred to as "Lee's greatest victory," followed the Battle of Fredericksburg. The Federal setback and subsequent political maneuvering at army headquarters resulted in a change of command within the Army of the Potomac. Major General Joseph Hooker, a 48-year-old Massachusetts native known - [Privacy Policy](https://cvbt.org/privacy-policy/) - Who We Are Our website address is: http://www.cvbt.org Comments Thank you for visiting the Central Virginia Battlefields Trust Website and reviewing our privacy policy. Our privacy policy is clear: We will collect no personal information about you when you visit our website unless you choose to provide that information to us. ​Here is how we handle information - [Contact](https://cvbt.org/contact/) - CONTACT US GET IN TOUCH WITH CVBT (540) 374-0900 executivedirector@cvbt.org Mailing Address: P.O. Box 3417Fredericksburg, VA 22402 Office Address: 1115 A Tyler StFredericksburg, VA 22402 SEND US A MESSAGE - [Fredericksburg](https://cvbt.org/fredericksburg/) - ABOUT FREDERICKSBURG The Battle of Fredericksburg in late 1862 marked a significant victory for the Confederacy during the American Civil War. Union Major General Ambrose E. Burnside aimed to destroy General Robert E. Lee's Army but instead led his own troops into a devastating defeat. On December 13, six Union divisions faced heavy losses against - [Spotsylvania](https://cvbt.org/spotsylvania/) - ABOUT SPOTSYLVANIA The Battle of Spotsylvania Court House was the second engagement in the Overland Campaign, which took place in Virginia from May to June 1864. Lieutenant General Ulysses S. Grant directed the Army of the Potomac, under Major General George Meade, against Confederate General Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia. Grant's objective was - [Wilderness](https://cvbt.org/wilderness/) - ABOUT WILDERNESS At dawn on May 4, 1864, the Army of the Potomac reached Germanna Ford, initiating the spring campaign. Unlike previous campaigns, Ulysses S. Grant now led the Union forces, with George Meade officially in command. Grant, holding the new rank of lieutenant-general, aimed to target Lee's army wherever it moved. The Confederates began - [PLANNED GIVING](https://cvbt.org/planned-giving/) - Join the CVBT Legacy Society Support CVBT Through Your IRA Planned Giving Ensures the Future of Battlefield Preservation! We can’t do it without you! At Central Virginia Battlefields Trust, we value your donations, time, and advocacy for historic preservation. CVBT Legacy Society Leaving a LegacyOne of the most satisfying things you will be able to do - [Battlefields Saved](https://cvbt.org/battlefields-saved/) - [CVBT Legacy Society](https://cvbt.org/cvbt-legacy-society/) - CVBT Legacy Society CVBT's MissionThe mission of Central Virginia Battlefield Trust, Inc., is to preserve land associated with the five major Civil War campaigns: Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Mine Run, and the Overland Campaign including the Wilderness and Spotsylvania. CVBT's Motto"Preserving Dirt and Grass. Land Never Forgets" Leaving a LegacyOne of the most satisfying things you will ## Products - [Fredericksburg History & Biography Volume 2](https://cvbt.org/product/fredericksburg-history-biography-volume-2/) - Knowledgeable authors who's research explores a range of interests related to the Fredericksburg area. - [Fredericksburg History & Biography Volume 3](https://cvbt.org/product/fredericksburg-history-biography-volume-3/) - Knowledgeable authors who's research explores a range of interests related to the Fredericksburg area. - [Fredericksburg History & Biography Volume 4](https://cvbt.org/product/fredericksburg-history-biography-volume-4/) - Knowledgeable authors who's research explores a range of interests related to the Fredericksburg area. - [Fredericksburg History & Biography Volume 5](https://cvbt.org/product/fredericksburg-history-biography-volume-5/) - Knowledgeable authors who's research explores a range of interests related to the Fredericksburg area. - [Fredericksburg History & Biography Volume 6](https://cvbt.org/product/fredericksburg-history-biography-volume-6/) - Knowledgeable authors who's research explores a range of interests related to the Fredericksburg area. - [Fredericksburg History & Biography Volume 7](https://cvbt.org/product/fredericksburg-history-biography-volume-6-copy/) - Knowledgeable authors who's research explores a range of interests related to the Fredericksburg area. - [Fredericksburg History & Biography Volume 8](https://cvbt.org/product/fredericksburg-history-biography-volume-8/) - Knowledgeable authors who's research explores a range of interests related to the Fredericksburg area. - [Fredericksburg History & Biography Volume 9](https://cvbt.org/product/fredericksburg-history-biography-volume-9/) - Knowledgeable authors who's research explores a range of interests related to the Fredericksburg area. - [Fredericksburg History & Biography Volume 10](https://cvbt.org/product/fredericksburg-history-biography-volume-10/) - Knowledgeable authors who's research explores a range of interests related to the Fredericksburg area. - [Fredericksburg History & Biography Volume 11](https://cvbt.org/product/fredericksburg-history-biography-volume-11/) - Knowledgeable authors who's research explores a range of interests related to the Fredericksburg area. - [Fredericksburg History & Biography Volume 12](https://cvbt.org/product/fredericksburg-history-biography-volume-12/) - Knowledgeable authors who's research explores a range of interests related to the Fredericksburg area. - [Fredericksburg History & Biography Volume 13](https://cvbt.org/product/fredericksburg-history-biography-volume-13/) - Knowledgeable authors who's research explores a range of interests related to the Fredericksburg area. - [Fredericksburg History & Biography Volume 16](https://cvbt.org/product/fredericksburg-history-biography-volume-16/) - Knowledgeable authors who's research explores a range of interests related to the Fredericksburg area. - [Civil War Fredericksburg: Then & Now DVD](https://cvbt.org/product/civil-war-fredericksburg-then-now-dvd/) - In a landmark collaborative effort, documentary filmmakers and residents of Fredericksburg, VA explore the rich culture and history of a region that found itself routinely torn beneath some of the bloodiest battles to ever take place in the American Civil War (1861-1865) - [Newly Available! Crossroads of Conflict - Donald C. Pfanz](https://cvbt.org/product/crossroads-of-conflict-donald-c-pfanz/) - Published in 2024 this is the last book written by the late Donald C. Pfanz. It is the bloodiest ground in North America. Within 18 months, four battles leaving over 100,00 casualties. This is a guide to the buildings and battlefields of Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, the Wilderness and Spotsylvania Court House contained in the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park. Guide to Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park. - [CVBT Short Sleeve Polo](https://cvbt.org/product/cvbt-short-sleeve-polo/) - Show your support for CVBT while wearing one of our comfortable short sleeve polo's. Perfect for those warm days on the battlefield or while enjoying an event. Button down color Lightweight CVBT logo on front left - [CVBT Baseball Cap - Tan with Logo](https://cvbt.org/product/cvbt-baseball-cap-tan-with-logo/) - Show your support for preserving our historic battlefields and CVBT with this comfortable baseball cap. Great for those hours touring the battlefield. Fully adjustable for great fit (one size fits most) Flat front with embroidered CVBT logo Vented upper section - [Newly Available! Fredericksburg - A Comprehensive Civil War Guide -Donald C. Pfanz](https://cvbt.org/product/fredericksburg-a-comprehensive-civil-war-guide-donald-c-pfanz/) - July 25, 2026 2022 Situated midway between the warring capitals of Washington D.C and Richmond, Virginia, Fredericksburg suffered more intensely and more varied ways than any other town in America. - [Fredericksburg History & Biography Volume 15](https://cvbt.org/product/fredericksburg-history-biography-volume-15/) - Knowledgeable authors who's research explores a range of interests related to the Fredericksburg area. ## Events - [2026 CVBT Annual Conference- CVBT 30th Anniversary](https://cvbt.org/event/2026-cvbt-annual-conference-cvbt-30th-anniversary/) - Second Fredericksburg "The Forgotten Front" September 11-13, 2026 New 30th Anniversary Format! Register Now! - [Becoming A Hell of a Regiment: The Twentieth Maine at Fredericksburg in History and Memory](https://cvbt.org/event/becoming-a-hell-of-a-regiment-the-twentieth-maine-at-fredericksburg-in-history-and-memory-a-talk-and-walking-tour-with-jared-peatman/) - Join CVBT and Author Jared Peatman November 1, 2026 Book included! Seats limited! - [Announcing CVBT 2027 Spring Seminar](https://cvbt.org/event/announcing-cvbt-2027-spring-seminar/) - Save the Date! 2027 CVBT Spring Seminar Announced "The Common Soldier in War and Memory" Register Now! Event Sells Out Quickly! - ["Decisions at Fredericksburg,"](https://cvbt.org/event/decisions-at-fredericksburg/) - Join CVBT & Chris Mackowski for a look at Command Decisions in the Civil War December 12, 2026 Register Now! Only 30 seats available! - [Critical Decisions & The Battle of Chancellorsville](https://cvbt.org/event/critical-decisions-the-battle-of-chancellorsville/) - How did critical decisions unfold during the Battle of Chancellorsville? ## Battlefields - [3rd Massachusetts Light Artillery Position](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/3rd-massachusetts-light-artillery-position/) - This tract saw both fighting and troop movements as the armies transitioned from the fierce confused combat of the Battle of the Wilderness (May 5 & 6, 1864) to the still brutal but more extended struggle at Spotsylvania Court House (May 8-21). As Confederate cavalry grudgingly gave ground along Brock Road on May 7, first - [Longstreet's Counter Attack](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/longstreets-counter-attack-2/) - May 5, 1864, witnessed the opening of the Battle of the Wilderness. Fought largely in the thick second-growth woods and small fields of Spotsylvania and Orange Counties, the soldiers of both armies often could not see but a few yards in any direction due to the dense vegetation and think smoke of battle. Fighting initially - [Fort Hood](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/fort-hood/) - A Tense Night at Ford Hood In addition to the well known battlefields around Fredericksburg, there are numerous Civil War related features in more obscure areas. One of these sites is an earthwork called Fort Hood that commands a stretch of the Rappahannock River, downstream from the town. On December 11, Captain George Hillyer commanded - [McLaws' Wedge](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/mclaws-wedge/) - Also known locally as the "Ashley Tract", the Central Virginia Battlefields Trust purchased this key portion of land on March 16, 1998, to prevent it from being lost to development. It includes extensive frontage on heavily traveled Virginia State Route 3/Plank Road. At just under 100 acres it is one of CVBT’s largest acquisitions. On - [Myer's Hill](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/myers-hill/) - While the 1864 battle of Spotsylvania Court House is best known for the May 12 fighting at the “Bloody Angle,” there was more to the battle than just the Mule Shoe Salient. In 2018, Central Virginia Battlefields Trust began the acquisition of a vitally important piece of property that will open up more of the - [Brandy Station](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/brandy-station/) - Brandy Station Brandy Station, fought on June 9, 1863, opened the Army of Northern Virginia’s Gettysburg campaign and sent Union forces north in pursuit of Gen. Robert E. Lee and his forces. It was the largest cavalry battle ever fought on American soil, with nearly 20,000 troopers engaged and more than 1,000 casualties. Historian Clark - [Po River I & II](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/po-river-i-ii/) - HISTORY The campaign fought around Spotsylvania Court House began on May 8, 1864, as the two armies maneuvered into position after departing the Wilderness, much of that battlefield now burning out of control. Over the next two weeks there occurred a series of sharp battles including the fight at Laurel Hill, Colonel Emery Upton’s attack - [Harris Farm](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/harris-farm/) - After bloodying the Army of the Potomac during 11 days of fighting at Spotsylvania Court House, Lieutenant General Ulysses S. Grant and Major General George G. Meade prepared their forces for another move around the Confederate right flank. General Robert E. Lee had anticipated this movement, and on May 19, 1864, ordered the Second Corps - [Todd's Tavern](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/todds-tavern/) - HISTORY A ramshackle tavern sat at the intersection of the Brock and Catharpin Roads, an important road junction connecting the Wilderness to the county seat of Spotsylvania County, Spotsylvania Court House. The tavern carried the name of Charles Todd, who died about 1850. The Todd family had sold the property to Flavius Josephus Ballard about - [5th Corps Brock Road](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/5th-corps-brock-road/) - Part of a commanding ridge, this key tract of land was a pivotal point during the Battle of Spotsylvania in May 1864. Here, Union General G. K. Warren and his Fifth Corps staged for their initial attacks on May 8, 1864, which opened the new battle after Grant's decision to press forward after the Battle - [Wilderness Crossroads I](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/wilderness-crossroads-i/) - The Historic Crossroads of the Germanna Plank Road and the Orange Turnpike History Most of the Union soldiers who attempted to slow the tide of Gen. Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson’s May 2, 1863, Chancellorsville flank attack would not revisit the area a year later for the opening of the Wilderness Campaign. Sent west to help Federal - [Grant's Knoll](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/grants-knoll/) - Under a hot August sun in 2001, Fredericksburg developer Larry Silver formally handed over a deed for six acres of land upon which a small group of preservationists had gathered on the Wilderness battlefield. Central Virginia Battlefields Trust president John D. Mitchell accepted this deed, which became the first outright gift of land the CVBT - [Wilderness- Chancellorsville Crossroads](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/wilderness-chancellorsville-crossroads/) - Central Virginia Battlefields Trust Assists the American Battlefield Trust in Major Acquisition The American Battlefield Trust has completed the acquisition of a 355-acre property related to the 1863 Battle of Chancellorsville and the 1864 Battle of the Wilderness. More than 61,000 soldiers were impacted during these conflicts, including Gen. Thomas Jonathan “Stonewall” Jackson, who was - [Gen. Battle's Counter Attack](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/gen-battles-counter-attack/) - Gen. Battle's Counterattack In the opening battle of the Overland Campaign, the Federal V Corps pushed down the Orange Turnpike on May 5, 1864, meeting Confederate resistance as General Robert E. Lee hustled divisions into defensive positions. Brigadier General Joseph Bartlett’s brigade from Griffin’s Division lined up along the turnpike on the east side of - [Wilderness Crossroads II](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/wilderness-crossroads-ii/) - The Historic Crossroads of the Germanna Plank Road and the Orange Turnpike HistoryBattle of Chancellorsville Following the smashing success of Gen. Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson’s flank attack at Chancellorsville on the evening of May 2, 1863, the land around the Wilderness Tavern became a field hospital for the Army of Northern Virginia’s Second Corps. The - [STONEWALL BRIGADE III](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/stonewall-brigade-iii/) - Jackson's Flank Attack at Chancellorsville, including the location where the Stonewall Brigade bivouacked on May 2, 1863. Start adding content here. History The fighting that raged over the ground we're working to preserve pitted the 28,000 soldier-strong assault force of Gen. Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson against the Army of the Potomac's Eleventh Corps. Believing reports that Jackson's - [Smith Run](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/smith-run/) - In the late afternoon of May 4, 1863, Louisiana troops of Brigadier General Harry Hay’s brigade swarmed up a slope near Smith Run, just west of Fredericksburg. Awaiting them were the veteran troops of the Army of the Potomac’s Vermont Brigade. The onrushing Confederates had already overrun the Union Sixth Corps’ first line of defense - [Orange Plank Rd](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/orange-plank-rd/) - Wilderness Church 1863 When Federal dispositions west of Chancellorsville forced Stonewall Jackson to abandon his original plan of advancing east along the Orange Plank Road on May 2, 1863, he led most of his corps north to a new point of attack on the Orange Turnpike. To protect the flank of his main attack, though, - [Dowdall's Tavern](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/dowdalls-tavern/) - Jackson's Flank Attack at Chancellorsville, including the historic tavern location! History During the battle of Chancellorsville, Maj. Gen. Oliver Otis Howard, commander of the ill-fated Federal XI Corps, headquartered at Dowdall’s Tavern. On May 2, 1863, around 6:00 p.m., he reported hearing “the first murmuring of a coming storm—a little quick firing on the picket - [Chancellorsville Day One](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/chancellorsville-day-one/) - The beginning combat of the Chancellorsville Campaign began on this ground on May 1st, 1863. The irony of Chancellorsville is that a battle renowned for a Confederate flank attack begins with a brilliant flanking movement executed by the Union Army. Federal Army of the Potomac commander “Fighting Joe” Hooker had stolen a march on Lee - [Talley Farm & Talley Farm Ridge](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/talley-farm-talley-farm-ridge/) - TALLY FARM Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson's first objective in his May 2nd, 1863 flank attack at Chancellorsville was to seize the Talley house plateau. From there his artillery could sweep the Orange Plank Road, overcoming any remaining Union resistance. Although the house was torn down in 1926, this important site continues to offer the same - [Stonewall Brigade I & II](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/stonewall-brigade-i-ii/) - Stonewall Brigade - I These two Central Virginia Battlefields Trust properties are located in the flank attack area of the Chancellorsville battlefield, on the south side of today’s Plank Road. They lie between the locations of several significant battlefield landmarks, being approximately two-tenths of a mile east of “Dowdall’s Tavern” and the “Buschbeck Line”, and - [Rodes-Dole](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/rodes-dole/) - In April 2012 Central Virginia Battlefields Trust (CVBT) closed on the purchase of 13 acres that were part of Stonewall Jackson's famed flank attack at Chancellorsville. The purchase price was $475,000. This property lies on the south side of the historic Orange Turnpike (modern day Plank Road/Route 3) near the intersection with the Orange Plank - [Nine Mile Run](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/nine-mile-run/) - HISTORY This preserved ground is the low ground west of the ridge occupied by the Confederate army at the end of the fighting on May 1, 1863, during the Chancellorsville campaign. During the next day, while Major General “Stonewall” Jackson marched a force around the Union front to attack the Federal right flank, General Robert - [Flank Attack](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/flank-attack/) - Stonewall Jackson's Flank Attack, Battle of Chancellorsville Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson was perhaps the South's greatest general, and Chancellorsville was Jackson's greatest triumph. The parcel preserved by the Central Virginia Battlefields Trust marks the point where Jackson’s force – more than half the available Confederate Army of Northern Virginia -- struck the Union flank on - [David B. Kinney](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/david-b-kinney/) - CVBT has saved another piece of the Flank Attack sector at Chancellorsville. The area on the south side of the Orange Turnpike (modern State Route 3) has been a focus of our efforts since we acquired a portion of the Talley Farm in 1999. Since then, we have stitched together a growing section of that - [Beckham Tract](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/beckham-tract/) - HISTORY On the late afternoon of May 2, 1863, thousands of Confederate soldiers waited in the shadowed woods a little more than 3 miles west of the Chancellor crossroads clearing in the Central Virginian Wilderness. Most of them had accomplished a march of approximately 12 miles in the hot hours of the day. Their commander, - [Pelham's Crossing](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/pelhams-crossing/) - This site was an entrenched defensive position along the Old Richmond Stage Road, also known as the Bowling Green Road. The earthworks were part of the extensive Confederate defenses established along the Rappahannock River during the winter and spring of 1862/63. Military theory in the mid-nineteenth century favored allowing an enemy force to partially cross - [Norfolk Artillery](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/norfolk-artillery/) - Confederate Artillery on the Heights Fredericksburg 1862 CVBT has negotiated the preservation of a nearly forgotten artifact of battle. North of the long ridge of Marye’s Heights Confederates used a string of steep hilltops to situate artillery units and interconnecting infantry works. Near Mary Washington Hospital CVBT has acquired one of these, an artillery lunette - [Slaughter Pen Farm](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/slaughter-pen-farm/) - The Slaughter Pen is the very heart and soul of the Fredericksburg Battlefield. Without it, nothing makes sense. This is the point where the battle was won and lost on December 13, 1862.” On December 13, 1862, three Union army divisions broke across the ground, assaulting the Confederates defenses positioned along a string of low - [Pelham's Corner](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/pelhams-corner/) - Schooled at West Point Alabamian John Pelham resigned from the academy to side with the South in 1861. During the battle of Fredericksburg on December 13th 1862, the young Major, under the cover of an early morning fog, positioned two cannon far in advance of the Confederate lines on the flank of three Union divisions - [Latimer's Knoll](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/latimers-knoll/) - Where 19-year-old Captain Joseph Latimer positioned his guns during the fighting at Slaughter Pen Farm. HISTORY The Slaughter Pen Farm portion of the Fredericksburg battlefield often receives less attention than the fighting that occurred at Marye’s Heights. In turn, the Latimer’s Knoll section at Slaughter Pen Farm sometimes gets overshadowed by actions on other parts - [Deep Run](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/deep-run/) - Local businessman Lee Garrison donated to the CVBT a 10.3-acre tract on the Fredericksburg battlefield near Deep Run. The location is in the middle of a deep curve in General R. E. Lee’s Confederate defenses, far enough west of the longitude of Marye’s Heights and Hamilton’s Crossing that the Federals could not attack. The 10.3-acre - [Willis Hill](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/willis-hill/) - From their perch atop Marye's Heights, soldiers of the Washington Artillery of New Orleans enjoyed a breathtaking view of Fredericksburg and the empty plain west of town. Although trees now limit the view and streets and houses clutter the plain, visitors to the site can still make out several 1862 landmarks, including the steeples of - [Braehead](https://cvbt.org/battlefields/braehead/) - Built in 1859 by John Howison, Braehead is a 6,200 square foot manor house, nestled on 27 acres in historic Fredericksburg, Virginia. Braehead is located within the bounds of the Fredericksburg Battlefield National Park. On the morning of the 1st Battle of Fredericksburg General Robert E. Lee took breakfast at Braehead, tying his famous horse ## Staff - [Thomas Van Winkle](https://cvbt.org/staff/thomas-van-winkle/) - [Gordon C. Rhea](https://cvbt.org/staff/gordon-c-rhea/) - [Peter R. 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