~~Warrenton and the Civil War~~
Everything Equine Take a Virginia Wine Vacation!
Parks & Recreation ~ Page 1 Parks & Recreation ~ Page 2 Parks & Recreation ~ Page 3
Hobbies, Special Interest Groups & Clubs Arts & Entertainment Poems, Quotes & Whimsy
WE ARE SORRY, BUT DUE TO HEALTH ISSUES WE ARE NO LONGER TO UPDATE EVENTS.
THANK YOU.
Civil War Battlefield Re-Enactment
Try our new search engine! You can search the entire site using this form:
(NOTE: If you use multiple words, put plus signs "+" between the words to improve your search results.)
Fauquier County has 12 sites on the Virginia Civil War Trails (see list below), a statewide system of five trails with more than 250 sites where significant or interesting action occurred during the war. Fauquier's sites are part of the Northern Virginia Trail, "Crossroads of Conflict." Brochures and maps for the five regional trails as well as a statewide brochure are available at the Warrenton-Fauquier County Visitor Center (see bottom of Historical Info page for contact information). Each site on the trail has an interpretive marker which describes what happened there. "Trailblazer" signs lead to the markers.
Follow these Signs to Civil War Sites
On October 18-19, 1863, Confederate Generals J.E.B. Stuart and Fitzhugh Lee sprang a trap on approaching Federal troops. The ensuing retreat by General Judson Kilpatrick's Union Cavalry resembled a steeplechase race and was dubbed "the Buckland Races." This was part of the end of the Bristoe Station campaign. Marker is in the VDOT parking lot on Rt.29 north of Warrenton.
Catlett's Station ~ "Stuart's Revenge"
Village resident Susan Emiline Caldwell described in a letter Stuart's cavalry attack on this Union supply depot and capture of 200 Union prisoners and $25,000 on August 22, 1862. The Rebels also nabbed Union General John Pope's personal items including his cloak, hat and dispatch book. Intelligence from the book enabled Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson to develop a stragegy that lead to victory at Second Manassas a week later. Marker is at Catlett Station Antiques on Old Catlett Road near Route 28.
Kelly's Ford ~ "Cavalry and Coffee"
On St. Patrick's Day in 1863, troops led by two friends and former West Point classmates battled for nearly 12 hours. Union General William Averell and Confederate General Fitzhugh Lee exchanged coffee and tobacco along with gunfire that day, a common ritual between the armies. This big cavalry fight along the Rappahannock River on March 17, 1863 resulted in a technical victory for the Confederates, but the South lost the promising young artillery commander, Maj. John Pelham, who died in the fighting. Marker is in the VA Department of Game & Inland Fisheries parking lot on the Culpeper side of the Rappahannock River at Kelly's Ford Bridge below Remington.
Mount Bleak Farm ~ "The Settles Anticipate War"
"Stonewall" Jackson's troops camped here before leaving for the Battle of First Manassas. Dr. Thomas Settle, who lived at Mt. Bleak Farm, was present at the 1859 execution of abolitionist John Brown. Called to feel for Brown's pulse, Dr. Settle heard him mutter: "The sins of this guilty land can only be purged with blood." Many Mosby associations and Civil War Trails interpretation here. Marker is at Sky Meadows State Park on Rt. 17 near Paris, VA. Park open daily. Visitor Center closed in winter.
Piedmont Station ~ "By Train to Manassas"
"Stonewall" Jackson's Confederate troops, on July 19, 1861, boarded trains here to travel to Manassas and became the first in history to be transported by railroad to an impending battle. The troops, 2 days later, fought in Manassas, the first major battle of the war. Many of the buildings here date to that time. Marker is at the Delaplane Store & Antique Center, south of the railroad tracks on Rt. 17.
Rappahannock Station ~ "A Rare Night Attack on the River"
Near the Rappahannock River, the village (now Remington) stood as a battleground for control of the Orange and Alexandria Railroad, which crossed the Rappahannock River here, making this place a strategic goal for both armies. On November 7, 1863, Union soldiers launched a "rare night attack"...resulting in the caputure of more than 1,600 Confederates, putting the crossing under Union control for the rest of the war. The battle marked the Confederates' last defense of the upper Rappahannock River in the war. Marker is in Remington on Rt. 29 Business (John Marshall Highway) near the river.
Rectortown ~ "McClellan's Demise, Mosby's Raffle"
Colonel John Mosby used what is now a farm equipment warehouse as his headquarters. In retaliation for the execution of seven Union rangers, Mosby ordered the same for an equal number of Federal prisoners. He ordered a lottery to choose among the 27 prisoners. Three eventually hanged. This sprawling Union campground was around the small railroad town where Federal commander Gen. George McClellan was relieved of command, replaced by Gen. Ambrose Burnside on November 7 1862. Marker is close to the railroad tracks on Rt. 713 (Maidstone Road), 1 mile west of the intersection with Rt. 710 in Rectortown.
Salem ~ "Lee's Narrow Escape"
Col. John Singleton Mosby's Confederate raiders roamed this area (now known as Marshall) extensively. General Robert E. Lee on August 26, 1862, spent the evening at the nearby home of Mrs. John Marshall (a daughter-in-law of the famous chief justice). Mosby's troops fought here on October 5, 1864 and finally disbanded on April 21, 1865. "Stonewall" Jackson marched through here and was cheered silently on his way to the Battle of Second Manassas. Marker is in Marshall in front of the Old Salem Meetinghouse on Rt. 17 Business (Winchester Road), near the intersection with Rt. 55.
The Plains ~ "Death of a 'Jessie Scout'"
The first Union Camp in Fauquier County (1862) set up nearby. The Plains was a busy place during the War. Spies of all sorts reported on the movements of campaigning armies (including Second Manassas) as they marched through. Confederates hanged Union spy, Jack Sterry here for the murder of a Southern soldier. Nearly 75 years later, highway workers on Route 55 found remains believed to be those of the spy and his victim. Marker is in the pocket park at the intersection of Rts. 245 and 55.
Thoroughfare Gap ~ "A Dark, Gloomy Cleft"
Sharpshooters from both sides would use the five-story Beverly's Mill (then Chapman's Mill) to attack or defend the pass. It was a major route through the Bull Run Mountains and was the site of dramatic Civil War events including those leading up to the Second Battle of Manassas. The Mill's owner, seeing his building all but destroyed, sued the government for damages. He lost and his business never recovered. Mr. Chapman's family committed hm to an asylum in 1864. Marker is on Rt. 55 near the Fauquier/Prince William border, across from the Broad Run Post Office.
Upperville ~ "A Sunday in War"
Visitors have a clear view of the road, stone walls and fields where 10,000 cavalry and infantry clashed in the Battle of Upperville. Stuart's troopers again fought hard in and around this small town as they attacked, gave ground and counter-attacked along the road. The Confederate resistance proved successful in the end as Lee moved his Army to Pennsylvania unseen. The cemetery includes several graves of soldiers killed in that battle. Marker is on Rt. 50 in the Upperville Park, across from the cemetery.
Warrenton ~ "Home of the 'Gray Ghost'"
In front of the Old Jail Museum on Court House square in Old Town Warrenton the marker includes information about Col. John Singleton Mosby and has a map showing other points of interest in Warrenton. Good Civil War displays, with some great Mosby items are included in the excellent small museum. Jail dates to 1808. Open 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday - Sunday. Free. Civil War Trails interpretation begins a walking tour of the town.
NOTE: For information about other portions of the Civil War Trails, call 1-888-CIVILWAR or go to www.virginia.org.
Fauquier's signs provide a fascinating mix of information about actual battles, human interest stories, local history and the escapades of Col. John S. Mosby, The "Gray Ghost" of the Confederacy.
The "Gray Ghost" Rides Again!
Look for the silhouette of the gallant Confederate calvalryman, standing in his stirrups and suggesting "Follow Me" at major highway entrances to the heritage area.
The 1,600 square mile Mosby Heritage Area is Virginia's first. It covers parts of five counties, and stretches from Manassas Battlefield to Front Royal, from Point of Rocks to Warrenton. It incudes all of Clarke County and the Harper's Ferry region of northeastern West Virginia.
The Heritage Area was founded in 1995 to increase recognition of the region's unique historic and scenic resources, and to promote heritage tourism.
To promote tourism throughout the region, the Mosby Heritage Area Association has produced a map detailing historic sites in the Heritage Area; a self-guided "Drive through History" on Route 50; and two popular audiotapes ("Prelude to Gettysburg" and "Historical Events of the Mosby 43rd Battalion"). These items can be purchased by calling the Association at (540) 687-6681.
The MHAA has won a matching federal transportation grant in recognition of the area's importance to Virginia tourism.
The Virginia Department of Transportation designed and erected the signs, using the logo created by Brantly Davis Co., whose services were donated by the Middleburg Bank.
~Text from Middleburg Life (September 2000)
DID YOU KNOW....
*Dr. Thomas Settle, whose family lived at Mt. Bleak Farm near Paris, VA (now Sky Meadows State Park), was the physician who felt for John Brown's pulse and prounouced him dead before he was cut from the gallows!
*The conductor of a train which was carrying Confederate troops from Piedmont Station to Manassas was tried and executed on the spot when the soldiers suspected him of deliberately causing repeated delays!
*In a memo to Gen. J.E.B. Stuart, Col. John S. Mosby (the "Gray Ghost") reported that his men had stolen more than 100 horses and mules and six wagons and captured 75 Yankees, all without losing a man!
*In a "death raffle" held by Col. Mosby in Rectortown (not far from Warrenton) a Union drummer boy drew a fatal slip. A young officer who convinced Col. Mosby to allow a second drawing drew the death lot!
*Gen. Robert E. Lee narrowly escaped capture in Salem (now Marshall, Warrenton's neighboring town)!
*A "Jessie Scout" (spy) was caught and hanged in The Plains (just down the road a piece from Warrenton). The name derives from Jessie Fremont, wife of Union Gen. John Fremont, who suggested that federal spies avoid detection by dressing in Confederate uniforms!
*The owner of the mill at Thoroughfare Gap (near Gainesville) was so distressed by the ruin of his building by troops from both sides that he ended the war in a lunatic asylum
("period terminology")!
*Warrenton changed hands 67 times during the Civil War!
~Text from Piedmont Press & Graphics Guide to Fauquier County~
Civil War Attractions in and Around Warrenton
Warrenton Cemetery, across the street from the Visitor Center on Keith Street
A dramatic new memorial to more than 600 Confederate soldiers who died in nearby makeshift hospitals stands near the grave of Confederate raider John S. Mosby.
Belle Boyd Cottage, 101 Chester Street, Front Royal, VA
Home to the famous Confederate spy as she collected information for "Stonewall" Jackson in 1862. Open April - October. Admission Fee
For information: (540) 636-1446
Warren Rifles Confederate Museum, 95 Chester Street, Front Royal, VA
Old fashioned presentation of some quality artifacts. John S. Mosby and his raiders are featured.
Open April 15 - October 31. Admission fee.
For information: (540) 636-1446
STRASBURG
Stonewall Jackson Museum at Hupp's Hill, bout one mile north of Strasburg on U.S. Route 11.
Located at the southern end of the Cedar Creek Battlefield, this site offers on-site interpretation of the battle plus a fine diorama of the scene.
Quality Civil war artifacts, preserved earthen entrenchments and good stuff for kids also featured.
Open daily. $3.00 Adults.
For information: (540) 465-5884.
Museum of American Presidents, 104 N. Massanutten Street, Strasburg, VA
Displays feature artifacts and memorabilia from each U.S. president from George Washington to Bill Clinton. Rare items abound. This new museum is the fruit of 60 years of collecting presidential material.
$3.00 Adults (Discount ticket offered with Hupp's Hill Museum...see above).
For information: (540) 465-5999
Strasburg Museum, King Street, Strasburg, VA
Railroad, Civil War, Native American, copper, blacksmith and potter shop collections in an original steam pottery building.
Open May - October from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. $2.00 Adults.
Fisher's Hill Battlefield
About a mile south of Strasburg (Follow the Civil War Trail signs from Route 11)
The Association for the Preservation of Civil War Sites has preserved 195 acres of this 1864 battlefield. Be sure to pick up a walking tour brochure at Hupp's Hill Visitor Center. It's a beautiful drive to the site.
Three Civil War Museums are located on state Route 211, just west of I-81. The following listing begins at the bottom of the hill and works its way up. All are located on the New Market Battlefield. The Shenandoah Valley Travel Association Visitor Center is located just off I-81.
Museum of American Cavalry 1607 - 1946
The focus is on cavalry artifacts from three centuries, with a natural emphasis on the Civil War. Among the items are uniforms, arms, manuals and art work.
Open April - November. Admission Fee.
For information: (540) 740-3959
New Market Battlefield Military Museum
A quality collection of artifacts from American military history, particularly the battle of New Market. Among the items displayed are "Stonewall" Jackson's family bible, Custer's spurs, famous flags and more. A 30-minute film is offered.
Open March 15 - December 1. Admission fee.
For information: (540) 740-8065
Hall of Valor Civil War Museum and New Market Battlefield Historical Park
The museum and park at the top of the hill feature the role of the Virginia Military Institute's cadets during the May 15, 1864 battle. The 19th century Bushong farm buildings, landmarks on the battlefield, have been restored on the grounds of the 280-acre park. The museum explores the entire scope of the war through dioramas and artifacts. Two films, one on the battle and the other on the 1862 Valley Campaign are offered.
One admission covers all. $5.00 Adults. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily.
For information: (540) 740-3101.
What's the Weather Like in Warrenton Today? Click Here to Find Out!
Need Directions to Warrenton? Click Here!
Ongoing Civil War Related Events
CIVIL WAR ROUNDTABLE OF FAUQUIER
Meets second Monday of each month at 8 p.m. at Legends Restaurant in Warrenton.
FOR MORE INFO: Call Jim Flanagan at (540) 439-3549
CIVIL WAR ROUNDTABLE
The Civil War Round Table meets monthly at the Old Sperryville Bookshop & Coffeehouse
(which is located in an old church) at 44 Main Street, Sperryville, VA
FOR MORE INFO: (540) 987-8444
CIVIL WAR ROUNDTABLE OF LOWER SHENANDOAH VALLEY
The fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at Union Hall on Chester Street in Front Royal, VA.
FOR MORE INFO: (540) 635-3185.
MANASSAS NATIONAL BATTLEFIELD PARK
Two features of the Manassas National Battlefield Park, the Stone House and the Stuart's Hill Visitor's Center
The sites will be open daily 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily June 6 through early September.
Click Here
for a really good driving tour of Civil War attractionsfrom Gainesville to Orange County, VA!
Here's a wonderful resource for national news of interest to Civil War enthusiasts including upcoming events and re-enactments (click on banner):
Flags of the Confederacy
Left to right:
*First National Flag, the "Stars and Bars" (March 4, 1863 - May 1, 1863)
*Second National Flag, the "Stainless Banner" (May 1, 1863-March 4, 1865)
*Battle Flag, Third Bunting Issue (1863), Army of Northern Virginia
(the most familiar "Southern Cross")
*Third National Flag (from March 4, 1865)
*The "Bonnie Blue Flag", unofficial, but very popular flag from 1861
*First National Flag, the "Stars and Bars" (March 4, 1863 - May 1, 1863)
*Second National Flag, the "Stainless Banner" (May 1, 1863-March 4, 1865)
*Battle Flag, Third Bunting Issue (1863), Army of Northern Virginia
(the most familiar "Southern Cross")
*Third National Flag (from March 4, 1865)
*The "Bonnie Blue Flag", unofficial, but very popular flag from 1861
