As published in the Culpeper Star-Exponent, May 12, 2012
By: JEFF SAY
Culpeper Star-Exponent
Published: May 12, 2012
The Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield were honored Monday with a presentation of Virginia House Resolution No. 492 by Del. Ed Scott, for their work to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the battle.
The battle, which took place Aug. 9 1862, is being commemorated this year with a stage production of Virginia Morton’s novel “Marching Through Culpeper.”
Scott and delegates Jill Vogel and Emmett Hanger, along with Sen. Bryce Reeves were co-patrons of the resolution, which honors the organization for their unique plan to honor the soldiers of the Civil War.
“We have worked for several years as a board to protect the battlefield and educate not only Culpeper residents but reaching out across the United States about the significance of Cedar Mountain Battlefield,” Friends of Cedar Mountain president Diane Logan said. “To have this recognition is a thank you to all the many volunteers who have assisted in that effort.”
Scott said it was important to recognize the volunteers for their hard work during the Sesquicentennial of the Civil War.
“This effort here in Culpeper ties in with the other efforts going on in the Commonwealth,” Scott said. “It really stands out. The folks here in the community really should be commended for this unique commemoration of the Civil War.”
Marching Through Culpeper” will be performed on the stage Aug. 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 2012 at Eastern View High School. Aug. 3-4 and 10-11 will be at 7:30 p.m. and the Aug. 5 and 12 will be at 2:30 p.m.
The play will be directed by the husband and wife team of Tim and Johncie Carlson and the four main characters have been cast for the play. Morton said they are still looking for more men to portray soldiers.
“It’s wonderful to know that the rest of the state is looking at what we’re doing,” Virginia Morton said. “We tend to think what we’re doing is unique. We’re delighted they recognized it.”
Saturday, May 12, 2012
Friday, May 11, 2012
Mt. Defiance Property Protected
Wednesday in Middleburg
I had the pleasure of being present at a standing room only event at the National Sporting Library and Museum when Governor McDonnell presented a Transportation Enhancement Grant to the Civil War Trust for $432,000 to help in the purchase of five acres on Mt. Defiance.
The position was held by two batteries of the Stuart Horse Artillery (McGregor's and Mooreman's) as well as two brigades of cavalry from Virginia (Chambliss) and North Carolina (Robertson). Assaulting the Confederates up Mt. Defiance were Kilpatricks and Gregg's cavalry brigade's.
The beautiful parcel includes three period structures and the original Zula Road. The land is adjacent to the Ashby Gap Turnpike and is located in both Faquier and Loudon Counties. The property will ultimately be transferred to the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority.
Below is the press release from the CWT and at the end of the release, is a link to a map showing where the property is located on the battlefield.
GOV. MCDONNELL ANNOUNCES COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA GRANT TO PROTECT HEART OF MIDDLEBURG BATTLEFIELD
Exciting partnership between the Civil War Trust, the Commonwealth of Virginia and Northern Virginia Regional Parks Authority to preserve historic Mt. Defiance battle site
(Middleburg, Va.) – At a news conference this morning, Gov. Bob McDonnell joined the Civil War Trust, the nation’s largest battlefield preservation organization, at the National Sporting Library and Museum to launch a national campaign to protect historic Mount Defiance on the Middleburg Battlefield. The cornerstone of the campaign is a public-private partnership between the Civil War Trust, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the Northern Regional Park Authority.
“Our ongoing collaboration with the Commonwealth of Virginia is among the most fruitful partnerships in the annals of the historic preservation movement,” said Civil War Trust president James Lighthizer. “Thanks to the vision of the McDonnell administration and the foresight of the legislature in Richmond, we are working together to ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to visit these sites undisturbed by inappropriate modern intrusions.”
The five-acre Mount Defiance property sits on present-day Route 50, an important transportation artery crucial to both the Union and Confederate armies during the Gettysburg campaign. Opposing cavalry clashed along the roadway on June 17–19, 1863, as the two armies struggled for control of Middleburg and the Loudoun Valley. Today, the landscape is largely undisturbed, with the high ground defended by Confederate horse artillery clearly visible. The site also includes three buildings dating to before the Civil War — an antebellum manor house-turned-tavern, a blacksmith’s cottage and the small blacksmith’s shop where well-documented hand-to-hand combat occurred during the June 19 fighting. Learn more about the Battle of Middleburg by visiting www.civilwar.org/middleburg.
Alongside the many successful initiatives of the Virginia Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Commission, the Commonwealth has made historic battlefield preservation a key element of its efforts to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. These efforts will result in a permanent protection of hundreds of acres of battlefield land through easements held by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources.
Most often, the Commonwealths’ participation in battlefield preservation projects comes through one of two matching grant programs — the Virginia Civil War Sites Preservation Fund, administered through the Department of Historic Resources and the only state-level endowment of its kind in the country, and the Transportation Enhancement program, awarded by the Commonwealth Transportation Board under the direction of the Secretary of Transportation.
In the case of Mount Defiance, the project received a $432,000 Virginia Transportation Enhancement grant, leaving the Civil War Trust to finance the remainder of the $540,000 purchase price from other public and private sector sources. A lead gift of $10,000 has already been pledged by local historian and former Civil War Trust board member Childs Burden and his wife Elaine, of Middleburg.
Once fundraising is completed, the Civil War Trust will place a permanent conservation easement on the property, ensuring that any future alterations to the land and its structures maintain the site’s historic integrity. This perpetual, legally binding covenant will be held and overseen by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources.
Ultimately, the Mount Defiance property will be transferred to the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority, which maintains nearly three dozen individual park properties totally more than 10,000 acres across Arlington, Fairfax and Loudoun Counties, as well as the Cities of Alexandria, Fairfax and Falls Church. Among those holdings is the popular Balls Bluff Battlefield Regional Park and nearby Mt. Zion Historic Park and Aldie Mill Historic Park.
In addition to the Middleburg property, the Trust is currently engaged in active fundraising efforts to save significant battlefield properties at Bentonville, N.C., Cedar Creek., Cross Keys, Va., Fredericksburg, Va., Gaines’ Mill, Va., Mill Springs, Ky., Perryville, Ky., Shiloh, Tenn., and Tom’s Brook, Va. To learn more about current fundraising projects and the Trust’s ambitious sesquicentennial preservation effort, Campaign 150: Our Time, Our Legacy, please visit www.civilwar.org/campaign150.
http://www.civilwar.org/battlefields/middleburg/middleburg-maps/middleburg-map.html
I had the pleasure of being present at a standing room only event at the National Sporting Library and Museum when Governor McDonnell presented a Transportation Enhancement Grant to the Civil War Trust for $432,000 to help in the purchase of five acres on Mt. Defiance.
The position was held by two batteries of the Stuart Horse Artillery (McGregor's and Mooreman's) as well as two brigades of cavalry from Virginia (Chambliss) and North Carolina (Robertson). Assaulting the Confederates up Mt. Defiance were Kilpatricks and Gregg's cavalry brigade's.
The beautiful parcel includes three period structures and the original Zula Road. The land is adjacent to the Ashby Gap Turnpike and is located in both Faquier and Loudon Counties. The property will ultimately be transferred to the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority.
Below is the press release from the CWT and at the end of the release, is a link to a map showing where the property is located on the battlefield.
GOV. MCDONNELL ANNOUNCES COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA GRANT TO PROTECT HEART OF MIDDLEBURG BATTLEFIELD
Exciting partnership between the Civil War Trust, the Commonwealth of Virginia and Northern Virginia Regional Parks Authority to preserve historic Mt. Defiance battle site
(Middleburg, Va.) – At a news conference this morning, Gov. Bob McDonnell joined the Civil War Trust, the nation’s largest battlefield preservation organization, at the National Sporting Library and Museum to launch a national campaign to protect historic Mount Defiance on the Middleburg Battlefield. The cornerstone of the campaign is a public-private partnership between the Civil War Trust, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the Northern Regional Park Authority.
“Our ongoing collaboration with the Commonwealth of Virginia is among the most fruitful partnerships in the annals of the historic preservation movement,” said Civil War Trust president James Lighthizer. “Thanks to the vision of the McDonnell administration and the foresight of the legislature in Richmond, we are working together to ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to visit these sites undisturbed by inappropriate modern intrusions.”
The five-acre Mount Defiance property sits on present-day Route 50, an important transportation artery crucial to both the Union and Confederate armies during the Gettysburg campaign. Opposing cavalry clashed along the roadway on June 17–19, 1863, as the two armies struggled for control of Middleburg and the Loudoun Valley. Today, the landscape is largely undisturbed, with the high ground defended by Confederate horse artillery clearly visible. The site also includes three buildings dating to before the Civil War — an antebellum manor house-turned-tavern, a blacksmith’s cottage and the small blacksmith’s shop where well-documented hand-to-hand combat occurred during the June 19 fighting. Learn more about the Battle of Middleburg by visiting www.civilwar.org/middleburg.
Alongside the many successful initiatives of the Virginia Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Commission, the Commonwealth has made historic battlefield preservation a key element of its efforts to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. These efforts will result in a permanent protection of hundreds of acres of battlefield land through easements held by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources.
Most often, the Commonwealths’ participation in battlefield preservation projects comes through one of two matching grant programs — the Virginia Civil War Sites Preservation Fund, administered through the Department of Historic Resources and the only state-level endowment of its kind in the country, and the Transportation Enhancement program, awarded by the Commonwealth Transportation Board under the direction of the Secretary of Transportation.
In the case of Mount Defiance, the project received a $432,000 Virginia Transportation Enhancement grant, leaving the Civil War Trust to finance the remainder of the $540,000 purchase price from other public and private sector sources. A lead gift of $10,000 has already been pledged by local historian and former Civil War Trust board member Childs Burden and his wife Elaine, of Middleburg.
Once fundraising is completed, the Civil War Trust will place a permanent conservation easement on the property, ensuring that any future alterations to the land and its structures maintain the site’s historic integrity. This perpetual, legally binding covenant will be held and overseen by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources.
Ultimately, the Mount Defiance property will be transferred to the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority, which maintains nearly three dozen individual park properties totally more than 10,000 acres across Arlington, Fairfax and Loudoun Counties, as well as the Cities of Alexandria, Fairfax and Falls Church. Among those holdings is the popular Balls Bluff Battlefield Regional Park and nearby Mt. Zion Historic Park and Aldie Mill Historic Park.
In addition to the Middleburg property, the Trust is currently engaged in active fundraising efforts to save significant battlefield properties at Bentonville, N.C., Cedar Creek., Cross Keys, Va., Fredericksburg, Va., Gaines’ Mill, Va., Mill Springs, Ky., Perryville, Ky., Shiloh, Tenn., and Tom’s Brook, Va. To learn more about current fundraising projects and the Trust’s ambitious sesquicentennial preservation effort, Campaign 150: Our Time, Our Legacy, please visit www.civilwar.org/campaign150.
http://www.civilwar.org/battlefields/middleburg/middleburg-maps/middleburg-map.html
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Kudo's to the Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield
Monday in Culpeper.
I had the distinct pleasure of joining many of my fellow FoCMB Board Members, and others in the office of Delegate Ed Scott (R-30th District) on Monday afternoon to take part in a presentation of House Joint Resolution 492, Commending the Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield.
After a brief presentation in his office, the group reassembled at the Culpeper Civil War Monument for photos. See: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cedar-Mountain-Battlefield/117287908853 for photo and other details.
In addition to Delegate Scott, I would like to thank the other sponsors of HR 492: Delegate Mike Webert (R- 18th District) and Senators Emmett Hanger, Jr. (R- 24th District), Bryce Reeves (R- 17th District) and Jill Vogel (R- 27th District),
Below is the final version of the Resolution:
HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 492
Offered March 2, 2012
Commending Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield, Inc.
----------
Patrons-- Scott, E.T. and Webert; Senators: Hanger, Reeves and Vogel
----------
WHEREAS, Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield, Inc., proudly continues its work to protect, interpret, and promote the Cedar Mountain Civil War Battlefield in Culpeper County through its generous support of Marching Through Culpeper on Stage and other related events during the summer of 2012; and
WHEREAS, Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield, Inc., a nonprofit organization, has brought together local residents and landowners to celebrate Culpeper County’s role in history during the statewide and nationwide sesquicentennial of the American Civil War; and
WHEREAS, as part of the sesquicentennial commemoration of the Battle of Cedar Mountain, Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield, Inc., will serve as a primary sponsor of several multimedia productions of Marching Through Culpeper which is based on the popular book by Virginia Morton; and
WHEREAS, Marching Through Culpeper on Stage, which features original music, tells the story of “love across the battle lines,” as the heroine, Constance Armstrong, works to keep her family together during one of the most tumultuous times in American history; and
WHEREAS, Marching Through Culpeper on Stage productions are part of a weekend program that features living history events, battlefield ceremonies, tours, lectures, and other events that appeal to the entire family; and
WHEREAS, Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield, Inc., has collaborated with community leaders and area residents to create fascinating and entertaining weekend events that showcase Culpeper County’s role in the American Civil War; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield, Inc., on its efforts to commemorate Culpeper County’s role in the American Civil War through generous support of Marching Through Culpeper on Stage; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield, Inc., as an expression of the General Assembly’s admiration for the organization’s efforts to promote tourism and historic preservation in Culpeper County.
I had the distinct pleasure of joining many of my fellow FoCMB Board Members, and others in the office of Delegate Ed Scott (R-30th District) on Monday afternoon to take part in a presentation of House Joint Resolution 492, Commending the Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield.
After a brief presentation in his office, the group reassembled at the Culpeper Civil War Monument for photos. See: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cedar-Mountain-Battlefield/117287908853 for photo and other details.
In addition to Delegate Scott, I would like to thank the other sponsors of HR 492: Delegate Mike Webert (R- 18th District) and Senators Emmett Hanger, Jr. (R- 24th District), Bryce Reeves (R- 17th District) and Jill Vogel (R- 27th District),
Below is the final version of the Resolution:
HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 492
Offered March 2, 2012
Commending Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield, Inc.
----------
Patrons-- Scott, E.T. and Webert; Senators: Hanger, Reeves and Vogel
----------
WHEREAS, Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield, Inc., proudly continues its work to protect, interpret, and promote the Cedar Mountain Civil War Battlefield in Culpeper County through its generous support of Marching Through Culpeper on Stage and other related events during the summer of 2012; and
WHEREAS, Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield, Inc., a nonprofit organization, has brought together local residents and landowners to celebrate Culpeper County’s role in history during the statewide and nationwide sesquicentennial of the American Civil War; and
WHEREAS, as part of the sesquicentennial commemoration of the Battle of Cedar Mountain, Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield, Inc., will serve as a primary sponsor of several multimedia productions of Marching Through Culpeper which is based on the popular book by Virginia Morton; and
WHEREAS, Marching Through Culpeper on Stage, which features original music, tells the story of “love across the battle lines,” as the heroine, Constance Armstrong, works to keep her family together during one of the most tumultuous times in American history; and
WHEREAS, Marching Through Culpeper on Stage productions are part of a weekend program that features living history events, battlefield ceremonies, tours, lectures, and other events that appeal to the entire family; and
WHEREAS, Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield, Inc., has collaborated with community leaders and area residents to create fascinating and entertaining weekend events that showcase Culpeper County’s role in the American Civil War; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly hereby commend Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield, Inc., on its efforts to commemorate Culpeper County’s role in the American Civil War through generous support of Marching Through Culpeper on Stage; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield, Inc., as an expression of the General Assembly’s admiration for the organization’s efforts to promote tourism and historic preservation in Culpeper County.
Sunday, May 6, 2012
A busy Saturday
Yesterday at Brandy Station: May 5, 2012
A fairly busy Saturday for me. It began with members of the Civil War Roundtable of Eastern Pennsylvania. The group meets in Allentown and journeyed to Culpeper for a one day visit to the Brandy Station Battlefield. As we got together, I spoke to them the significance of the day, and what had happened 150 years ago.
On the night of May 4, 1862, elements of the 1st Maine Cavalry crossed the Rappahannock River, spent the night at Richard Hoope Cunningham's home, Elkwood, and raided into Culpeper Courthouse the next morning, May 5. There stay was in town was short, taking a number of civilians prisoner and departed for points north. The CWRT of Eastern PA entered Culpeper at night, stayed in town (but thankfully took no prisoners) and departed for points north.
The better part of the day was spent at various parts of the June 9, 1863 battlefield where the group walked a good portion of the ground, including a journey to the stonewall which was defended by troopers of Rooney Lee's command. All were struck with the pristine land, and readily agreed that this portion of the battlefield had not changed in nearly 150 years.
The group also visited the St. James Plateau and two locations on Fleetwood, where they saw our most recent preservation fight, and observed for themselves the damage to the battlefield.
The tour concluded at Auburn, the beautiful home of the Barron's, but was of course, the residence of John Minor Botts during the battle. Again all marvelled at the serenity of the location and it's beauty.
I want to thank the Civil War Roundtable of Eastern Pennsylvania for their generous gift to the Civil War Trust in my name.
My new friends departed for points north and I headed home for a quick change of clothes and it was off to the annual Friends of the Wilderness Battlefield Dinner, where my wife and I joined fellow board members of the Friends of the Cedar Mountain Battlefield.
There was a big crowd, by the way, at this fine dinner, and in addition to the FoWB and FoCMB, several other entities were represented, as well, including Museum of Culpeper History, CWT, CVBT, DHR, and the Fredericksburg NMP.
It was a fine event with monies raised earmarked for two Special Projects:
"1. The Ellwood to Wilderness Tavern Trail: Friends of Wilderness Battlefield has joined forces with the NPS to create a new trail for visitors connecting NPS property on both sides of Wilderness Run. Traveling along the old Ellwood Carriage Road, the Parker ‘s Store Road and portions of the original Orange Turnpike, visitors will be able to hike between Ellwood Manor and the Wilderness Tavern ruins. The greatest obstacle is Wilderness Run requiring the building of a bridge. The cost for the project is estimated at $25,000.
2. Archaeological Survey of Ellwood Manor Slave Quarters: Again the Friends of Wilderness Battlefield is joining forces with the NPS to learn more about slave life at Ellwood. The archaeological study is a multi-phased project. Phase I will ID the location of the slave quarters known to be on the grounds of Ellwood Manor. Phase I is estimated to cost $25,000."
They are well on their way to achieving these goals and I wish them continued success.
A fairly busy Saturday for me. It began with members of the Civil War Roundtable of Eastern Pennsylvania. The group meets in Allentown and journeyed to Culpeper for a one day visit to the Brandy Station Battlefield. As we got together, I spoke to them the significance of the day, and what had happened 150 years ago.
On the night of May 4, 1862, elements of the 1st Maine Cavalry crossed the Rappahannock River, spent the night at Richard Hoope Cunningham's home, Elkwood, and raided into Culpeper Courthouse the next morning, May 5. There stay was in town was short, taking a number of civilians prisoner and departed for points north. The CWRT of Eastern PA entered Culpeper at night, stayed in town (but thankfully took no prisoners) and departed for points north.
The better part of the day was spent at various parts of the June 9, 1863 battlefield where the group walked a good portion of the ground, including a journey to the stonewall which was defended by troopers of Rooney Lee's command. All were struck with the pristine land, and readily agreed that this portion of the battlefield had not changed in nearly 150 years.
The group also visited the St. James Plateau and two locations on Fleetwood, where they saw our most recent preservation fight, and observed for themselves the damage to the battlefield.
The tour concluded at Auburn, the beautiful home of the Barron's, but was of course, the residence of John Minor Botts during the battle. Again all marvelled at the serenity of the location and it's beauty.
I want to thank the Civil War Roundtable of Eastern Pennsylvania for their generous gift to the Civil War Trust in my name.
My new friends departed for points north and I headed home for a quick change of clothes and it was off to the annual Friends of the Wilderness Battlefield Dinner, where my wife and I joined fellow board members of the Friends of the Cedar Mountain Battlefield.
There was a big crowd, by the way, at this fine dinner, and in addition to the FoWB and FoCMB, several other entities were represented, as well, including Museum of Culpeper History, CWT, CVBT, DHR, and the Fredericksburg NMP.
It was a fine event with monies raised earmarked for two Special Projects:
"1. The Ellwood to Wilderness Tavern Trail: Friends of Wilderness Battlefield has joined forces with the NPS to create a new trail for visitors connecting NPS property on both sides of Wilderness Run. Traveling along the old Ellwood Carriage Road, the Parker ‘s Store Road and portions of the original Orange Turnpike, visitors will be able to hike between Ellwood Manor and the Wilderness Tavern ruins. The greatest obstacle is Wilderness Run requiring the building of a bridge. The cost for the project is estimated at $25,000.
2. Archaeological Survey of Ellwood Manor Slave Quarters: Again the Friends of Wilderness Battlefield is joining forces with the NPS to learn more about slave life at Ellwood. The archaeological study is a multi-phased project. Phase I will ID the location of the slave quarters known to be on the grounds of Ellwood Manor. Phase I is estimated to cost $25,000."
They are well on their way to achieving these goals and I wish them continued success.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
I have returned
Today at Brandy Station: May 2, 2012
After about six months, I have decided to return to "Today at Brandy Station."
I am no longer aligned with the Brandy Station Foundation, but for consistentcy, the title will remain, as Brandy Station is the most recognized location in Civil War Culpeper County.
I am still active on a number of committees, roundtables and currently sit on the Board of Directors of the Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield. Additionally, I continue to give tours of the Brandy Station, Fauquier County areas, presenting their unique Civil War histories. Last weekend I supported Bud Hall and the Central Virginia Battlefield Trust's tour of Brandy Station.
The CVBT tour was two buses, led by Bud Hall and Greg Mertz and travelled to a number of locations on the battlefield, with Bud leading the discussions on events before the war, during the fight on June 9, 1863 and the preservation fights that continue to this day. The group also visited and toured Auburn and Rose Hill. It was a good day.
It is my intention is to continue telling this audience what happened today at Brandy Station, past and present. And maybe a little bit of what will happen in the future. Sometimes the story may not be what some want or like to hear, but it will always be accurate as far as I know and can judge.
After about six months, I have decided to return to "Today at Brandy Station."
I am no longer aligned with the Brandy Station Foundation, but for consistentcy, the title will remain, as Brandy Station is the most recognized location in Civil War Culpeper County.
I am still active on a number of committees, roundtables and currently sit on the Board of Directors of the Friends of Cedar Mountain Battlefield. Additionally, I continue to give tours of the Brandy Station, Fauquier County areas, presenting their unique Civil War histories. Last weekend I supported Bud Hall and the Central Virginia Battlefield Trust's tour of Brandy Station.
The CVBT tour was two buses, led by Bud Hall and Greg Mertz and travelled to a number of locations on the battlefield, with Bud leading the discussions on events before the war, during the fight on June 9, 1863 and the preservation fights that continue to this day. The group also visited and toured Auburn and Rose Hill. It was a good day.
It is my intention is to continue telling this audience what happened today at Brandy Station, past and present. And maybe a little bit of what will happen in the future. Sometimes the story may not be what some want or like to hear, but it will always be accurate as far as I know and can judge.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Why I Left the Brandy Station Foundation Board of Directors
Today at Brandy Station: The past six months
What follows are the events which surrounded my departure from the Board of Directors of the Brandys Station Foundation. The final straw which led to my resignation was Tony Troilo's attempt to dam Flat Run and the BSF actions.
The United States Corps of Engineers has drafted a Memorandum of Agreement concerning the course of action to be taken regarding a pond that has been constructed by Tony Troilo by his damming Flat Run. Flat Run crosses in front of the base of Fleetwood Hill on the Brandy Station Battlefield, I will not post the MOA on this blog, I suspect it will be posted on a number of websites as well as being reported in local newspapers.
Simply stated, the MOA requires Mr. Troilo to repair all the damage he has done to Flat Run, restoring it to its original condition; and within 60 days of completion of this project, convey 3.1 acres of land (along Flat Run) to the Brandy Station Foundation. The MOA has a number of stipulations and contingencies. It was signed by: The Corps of Engineers, Tony Troilo, Virginia State Histories Preservation, The Brandy Station Foundation, and Clark B. Hall.
The good news is the BSF will receive an additional 3.1 acres of core battlefield. But, what did they do to earn it? ABSOLUTELY NOTHING.
I love the Brandy Station Battlefield. Not because of the fight on June 9, 1863, but more for everything else that happened in and around this area. There are many fine scholars who have written and lectured on the largest cavalry battle in North America, but I choose different areas of study. I have a great understanding of the June 9 fight, the land, personalities and the tactical and strategic results of that momentous fight. But for me, the fight at Rappahannock Station and Kelly’s Ford on November 7, 1863 is ‘my battle.’ I am also fascinated with the Army of the Potomac’s Winter Encampment of 1863-64. There are 120,000 stories waiting to be told, and it is my goal to tell them.
So I care about the land, the structures and the history. Those who have heard me talk on these subjects comment on the passion in which I speak. If I could retire from my current job today and devote my energies to this activity, I would.
I joined the BSF as a volunteer at the Graffiti House in the spring of 2004, learning the history of the house and the stories these charcoal writings on a wall have to tell. I expanded my love quickly to the events that swirled around the house between 1861 and 1865. After a year, I was asked and accepted a position on the Foundation’s Board of Directors.
While serving on that body, I became a vocal advocate for preservation of the land, saving the house and its graffiti, and educational outreach to anyone who would pause to hear what stories the land and house gave forth. I loved doing this then, as I love it today.
The heart break and extreme disappointment I went through regarding Tony Troilo’s pond and the Board of Directors actions was seen by family and many of my friends.
Just how did we get to this point in time?
I have never commented on this blog about the damming of Flat Run by Tony Troilo and my resulting resignation from the Board of Directors of the Brandy Station Foundation. Now that the Memorandum of Agreement between the key parties involved has been signed and the Brandy Station Foundation has made an announcement of the results, I feel it is time for me to comment. I was a member of the Board of Directors of the Brandy Station Foundation from the spring of 2005 until May 19, 2011.
The BSF has made a statement of its version of the Troilo pond events as they unfolded and the result. I will not comment on their statement, but leave it for you and others to read and interpret. The Foundation’s statement may be found on the Brandy Station Foundation webpage: http://www.brandystationfoundation.com/
In May of this year, Tony Troilo, in violation of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and United Stated Corps of Engineer regulations, destroyed approximately 666 linear feet of Flat Run, a perennial stream, in order to construct a pond on his property. His action resulted in the deposition of excavated fill soil along his property and the property of the Brandy Station Foundation, which is also held in historic preservation and open space easement by the Virginia Board of Historic Resources.
The action was identified and reported on by Bud Hall, immediate past president of the Brandy Station Foundation. He was made aware of the situation and surveyed the activity and as an individual passionate about the protection of the Brandy Station battlefield. Bud contacted the Corps of Engineers to report the incident. Almost immediately the Corps of Engineers delivered a ‘cease and desist’ order to Mr. Troilo. It was, admittedly unfortunate timing, as the notice was delivered the week of the death of Tony’s father.
In an email he sent to the BSF Board of Directors, on May 12, 2011, Joe McKinney, President of the Brandy Station Foundation, laid out his thoughts to the Board on the pond. I have highlighted Joe’s ‘hope’ regarding this issue:
“Troilo Pond. This is the wild card issue. As of this afternoon, the dam is virtually complete and
the pond is filling. There may be some spillway work still to do. There are a lot of variables: county permit requirements; CoE inspection brought on by Bud; continuing ire from readers of [Eric] Wittenberg’s blog [http://civilwarcavalry.com/]; possible backlash among local citizens. I will keep you posted on all information I receive. I hope that we do not have to spend too much time on this. If anyone on the board believes that we should intervene immediately, notify all the board members via email. Be specific: establish goals; lay out courses of action to achieve those goals; identify specific tasks resident in each course of actions; assess potential gains and risks; estimate financial costs, if any.”
Joe’s states of his leadership vision on this issue. He directs the board: “If anyone on the board believes that we should intervene immediately, notify all the board members via email. Be specific: establish goals; lay out courses of action to achieve those goals; identify specific tasks resident in each course of actions; assess potential gains and risks; estimate financial costs, if any.”
Joe leadership, as can be seen above, is to pass the issue on to the board and not to assume, as the elected President of the BSF, his role as the Foundation’s leader. Joe McKinney is stating to the board that he wants nothing to do with the pond, and if any board member wants to intervene, they must: develop the plan goals – course of action – identify specific tasks – assess gain and risk – and the cost. Then, we’ll come up with a plan and it will be duly considered. “Duly considered.” In other words, do it yourself, I do not want to get involved
The same evening, in an email to the BSF Board, I responded to Joe’s call for inaction:
“A official position from the Foundation I feel is required. I understand your reluctance to become involved in an issue on private property. … Our stated goal is preservation of the battlefield. If Tony is indeed in violation of laws, then as advocates to the battlefield, the Brandy Station Foundation needs to be involved. Sitting on the sidelines on an issue literally in our faces will I fears harm the Foundation. As for a detailed course of action, I don't have one. Do you have a specific goal? Have you, as President, begun to lay out courses of action? This is why we, as a board, need to get together and formulate such a plan. Individually, we will be unsuccessful, but as a group, a single unit, we have a better chance of addressing this problem… I look to you as the President of the Foundation to take the lead on this issue.”
Joe, called to task, responded two hours later:
“Mike raises some good points to think about. However, Mike, you have more information than me if you [have] accurate information that Tony did not get proper permits to enlarge his pond. Second, I don’t know if any determination has been made that he is in violation of any environmental laws. Those are two pretty key questions that must be nailed down before we proceed (in my view).
Regarding goals. A goal might be that Tony destroys his dam and drains the pond. A feasible course of action would be that we progressively go to county planning, then to the BOS, then to court. We have to pay legal costs, risk losing good will in the local community, but might gain the praise of Eric Wittenberg and those who read his blog. If we win in court, we might have to pay to restore the status quo ante. Not a course of action to be taken lightly.
Another goal might be to put out a position statement (refer to the bylaws) that expresses our preference for leaving the land the way it was, but doesn’t take substantive action to correct what one person sees as an “unmitigated disaster.” This is easy, we write the statement and post it cost-free on our website. It will probably will not satisfy our critics, but probably will not make us any enemies.
A third course of action might be that we simply lay out the facts: what the law and regulations state regarding property and ponds; where the property lines lie; what options were available to us; what we did/did not do; and, why.
…it is important that we all think seriously about this. In my view, before we go any further, I think it best that we determine if Tony Troilo violated any land use regulations, environment law, or whatnot.
A final point. It is easy to say that our goal is to protect the battlefield and that we should all rally to that battle cry. However, as board members it is our responsibility to act for the good of the BSF. Should we pick the wrong fight, or pick the right fight but mismanage it, we put our organization at risk. We might all pat ourselves on the back for taking a stand, but if in the process we become insolvent we lose everything we have fought for over the years. It is a serious responsibility.”
Joe, in the above email, has told me:
1. I have more information on the issue than he does. (I had more information because I conducted some research and asked questions)
2. He did not know if a determination had been made regarding a violation. (which told me that he hadn’t bothered to do any research in this matter)
3. Joe, in his ‘goals’ paragraph, sets a course that the Foundation ‘progressively go[es] to county planning, then to the BOS, then to court. We have to pay legal costs, risk losing good will in the local community,’ and, ‘If we win in court, we might have to pay to restore the status quo ante.’ (I would have to put the Foundation ‘at risk’ as well as stick my neck out a little)
4. He continues: ‘put out a position statement that expresses our preference for leaving the land the way it was, but doesn’t take substantive action to correct what one person sees as an “unmitigated disaster.” This is easy, we write the statement and post it cost-free on our website. It probably will not satisfy our critics, but probably will not make us any enemies. (This was the eventual course, doing his best not to make waves with Tony Troilo. Please note that Joe chose, in his words, the easy way)
5. Lay out the facts. As the facts were laid out and became known, Joe continued to press for a position statement. He was essentially, burying the BSF’s head into the sand and pretending there wasn’t an issue
6. Determine if indeed Tony Troilo violated any land use regulations, environmental law, & whatnot. (When it was determined the Tony violated regulations, law and whatnot, Joe McKinney and the BSF continued to ignore the situation)
7. Act responsibly as Board Members to act for the good of the BSF. (By Joe’s inaction, the Board has acted in bad faith. The decision to pick a wrong or right fight –it is interesting that he chose wrong first – is a decision that was required to be made. The President made no decision)
8. Make the wrong decision and become insolvent. (I guess he was afraid that if the Board took on Tony Troilo that Tony would sue the Foundation, we would lose and be no more. Another example of Joe leading)
9. Joe was correct in that it is a ‘serious responsibility.’ A responsibility that he chose not to take.
The same day, in an email to a former BSF board member, who asked Joe what was going on along Flat Run, Joe responded thus:
“Last week Mr. Troilo began work to expand his pond. There are a few dozers at work moving earth at present. The property that the pond is on is adjacent to our property on Wyndham’s approach to Fleetwood. I’ve checked the boundary between Mr. Troilo’s property and ours on the county’s GIS, and am satisfied that he has not encroached on our land.”
Joe, never asked or surveyed (until questioned) what Tony was doing on Fleetwood Hill, even though he states he saw “a few dozers at work moving earth.” Joe was also incorrect. Tony Troilo had indeed encroached on BSF and VDHR property.
To my knowledge, neither a legal consult nor conversation with the Corps of Engineers took place with the BSF during May, 2011.
The following day, in an email to the board, which included the initial draft of the eventual policy letter, Joe stated, “In his email last night, Mike opined that I have not of yet provided sufficient leadership regarding the pond issue. In fairness, he is correct.” I give Joe points for admitting that up to this point, he had reneged on his position as Foundation President. His decided to craft and publish a “Brandy Station Position on Landowner Improvements and Agricultural Activities.”
The draft made the rounds of the Board for a number of days, being crafted, edited and word-smithed. Many of the Board members chose not to respond, saying it was OK with them. In other words, abstain from the issue. I give credit to the members of the Board who actually read the letter and commented, whatever their opinion was. They at least stepped up to the issue and formed an opinion. The end-result, in my opinion, was incorrect, and detrimental to the Foundation. The Foundations position is posted on the BSF website, under the tab “About Us,” then “Position Papers.”
Seeing that the position paper supported the cause of the landowner, to the detriment of the BSF, and not the preservation of the land the BSF is chartered to protect, as well as be and advocate for and steward of, I resigned the Board of Directors of the Brandy Station Foundation. Those Civil War Roundtables and other organizations that have heard me speak of Lake Troilo know well my frustration, disappointment and sadness in this action. I was and have been very disappointed with Joe McKinney’s leadership as President of the Brandy Station Foundation, then as I am now.
If it had not been for the actions of Bud Hall, and others, Flat Run would be dammed, the pond filled and the land forever altered. If it had not been for Bud Hall the BSF would not be crowing about their three additional acres. Did the announcement give credit to Bud or anyone who opposed Tony Troilo's actions? Of course not, and they never will under the current Foundation leadership.
Where does the Brandy Station Foundation go from here? I do not know, time will tell. But let us hope that someone is watching over the land, for the Brandy Station Foundation is not.
What follows are the events which surrounded my departure from the Board of Directors of the Brandys Station Foundation. The final straw which led to my resignation was Tony Troilo's attempt to dam Flat Run and the BSF actions.
The United States Corps of Engineers has drafted a Memorandum of Agreement concerning the course of action to be taken regarding a pond that has been constructed by Tony Troilo by his damming Flat Run. Flat Run crosses in front of the base of Fleetwood Hill on the Brandy Station Battlefield, I will not post the MOA on this blog, I suspect it will be posted on a number of websites as well as being reported in local newspapers.
Simply stated, the MOA requires Mr. Troilo to repair all the damage he has done to Flat Run, restoring it to its original condition; and within 60 days of completion of this project, convey 3.1 acres of land (along Flat Run) to the Brandy Station Foundation. The MOA has a number of stipulations and contingencies. It was signed by: The Corps of Engineers, Tony Troilo, Virginia State Histories Preservation, The Brandy Station Foundation, and Clark B. Hall.
The good news is the BSF will receive an additional 3.1 acres of core battlefield. But, what did they do to earn it? ABSOLUTELY NOTHING.
I love the Brandy Station Battlefield. Not because of the fight on June 9, 1863, but more for everything else that happened in and around this area. There are many fine scholars who have written and lectured on the largest cavalry battle in North America, but I choose different areas of study. I have a great understanding of the June 9 fight, the land, personalities and the tactical and strategic results of that momentous fight. But for me, the fight at Rappahannock Station and Kelly’s Ford on November 7, 1863 is ‘my battle.’ I am also fascinated with the Army of the Potomac’s Winter Encampment of 1863-64. There are 120,000 stories waiting to be told, and it is my goal to tell them.
So I care about the land, the structures and the history. Those who have heard me talk on these subjects comment on the passion in which I speak. If I could retire from my current job today and devote my energies to this activity, I would.
I joined the BSF as a volunteer at the Graffiti House in the spring of 2004, learning the history of the house and the stories these charcoal writings on a wall have to tell. I expanded my love quickly to the events that swirled around the house between 1861 and 1865. After a year, I was asked and accepted a position on the Foundation’s Board of Directors.
While serving on that body, I became a vocal advocate for preservation of the land, saving the house and its graffiti, and educational outreach to anyone who would pause to hear what stories the land and house gave forth. I loved doing this then, as I love it today.
The heart break and extreme disappointment I went through regarding Tony Troilo’s pond and the Board of Directors actions was seen by family and many of my friends.
Just how did we get to this point in time?
I have never commented on this blog about the damming of Flat Run by Tony Troilo and my resulting resignation from the Board of Directors of the Brandy Station Foundation. Now that the Memorandum of Agreement between the key parties involved has been signed and the Brandy Station Foundation has made an announcement of the results, I feel it is time for me to comment. I was a member of the Board of Directors of the Brandy Station Foundation from the spring of 2005 until May 19, 2011.
The BSF has made a statement of its version of the Troilo pond events as they unfolded and the result. I will not comment on their statement, but leave it for you and others to read and interpret. The Foundation’s statement may be found on the Brandy Station Foundation webpage: http://www.brandystationfoundation.com/
In May of this year, Tony Troilo, in violation of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and United Stated Corps of Engineer regulations, destroyed approximately 666 linear feet of Flat Run, a perennial stream, in order to construct a pond on his property. His action resulted in the deposition of excavated fill soil along his property and the property of the Brandy Station Foundation, which is also held in historic preservation and open space easement by the Virginia Board of Historic Resources.
The action was identified and reported on by Bud Hall, immediate past president of the Brandy Station Foundation. He was made aware of the situation and surveyed the activity and as an individual passionate about the protection of the Brandy Station battlefield. Bud contacted the Corps of Engineers to report the incident. Almost immediately the Corps of Engineers delivered a ‘cease and desist’ order to Mr. Troilo. It was, admittedly unfortunate timing, as the notice was delivered the week of the death of Tony’s father.
In an email he sent to the BSF Board of Directors, on May 12, 2011, Joe McKinney, President of the Brandy Station Foundation, laid out his thoughts to the Board on the pond. I have highlighted Joe’s ‘hope’ regarding this issue:
“Troilo Pond. This is the wild card issue. As of this afternoon, the dam is virtually complete and
the pond is filling. There may be some spillway work still to do. There are a lot of variables: county permit requirements; CoE inspection brought on by Bud; continuing ire from readers of [Eric] Wittenberg’s blog [http://civilwarcavalry.com/]; possible backlash among local citizens. I will keep you posted on all information I receive. I hope that we do not have to spend too much time on this. If anyone on the board believes that we should intervene immediately, notify all the board members via email. Be specific: establish goals; lay out courses of action to achieve those goals; identify specific tasks resident in each course of actions; assess potential gains and risks; estimate financial costs, if any.”
Joe’s states of his leadership vision on this issue. He directs the board: “If anyone on the board believes that we should intervene immediately, notify all the board members via email. Be specific: establish goals; lay out courses of action to achieve those goals; identify specific tasks resident in each course of actions; assess potential gains and risks; estimate financial costs, if any.”
Joe leadership, as can be seen above, is to pass the issue on to the board and not to assume, as the elected President of the BSF, his role as the Foundation’s leader. Joe McKinney is stating to the board that he wants nothing to do with the pond, and if any board member wants to intervene, they must: develop the plan goals – course of action – identify specific tasks – assess gain and risk – and the cost. Then, we’ll come up with a plan and it will be duly considered. “Duly considered.” In other words, do it yourself, I do not want to get involved
The same evening, in an email to the BSF Board, I responded to Joe’s call for inaction:
“A official position from the Foundation I feel is required. I understand your reluctance to become involved in an issue on private property. … Our stated goal is preservation of the battlefield. If Tony is indeed in violation of laws, then as advocates to the battlefield, the Brandy Station Foundation needs to be involved. Sitting on the sidelines on an issue literally in our faces will I fears harm the Foundation. As for a detailed course of action, I don't have one. Do you have a specific goal? Have you, as President, begun to lay out courses of action? This is why we, as a board, need to get together and formulate such a plan. Individually, we will be unsuccessful, but as a group, a single unit, we have a better chance of addressing this problem… I look to you as the President of the Foundation to take the lead on this issue.”
Joe, called to task, responded two hours later:
“Mike raises some good points to think about. However, Mike, you have more information than me if you [have] accurate information that Tony did not get proper permits to enlarge his pond. Second, I don’t know if any determination has been made that he is in violation of any environmental laws. Those are two pretty key questions that must be nailed down before we proceed (in my view).
Regarding goals. A goal might be that Tony destroys his dam and drains the pond. A feasible course of action would be that we progressively go to county planning, then to the BOS, then to court. We have to pay legal costs, risk losing good will in the local community, but might gain the praise of Eric Wittenberg and those who read his blog. If we win in court, we might have to pay to restore the status quo ante. Not a course of action to be taken lightly.
Another goal might be to put out a position statement (refer to the bylaws) that expresses our preference for leaving the land the way it was, but doesn’t take substantive action to correct what one person sees as an “unmitigated disaster.” This is easy, we write the statement and post it cost-free on our website. It will probably will not satisfy our critics, but probably will not make us any enemies.
A third course of action might be that we simply lay out the facts: what the law and regulations state regarding property and ponds; where the property lines lie; what options were available to us; what we did/did not do; and, why.
…it is important that we all think seriously about this. In my view, before we go any further, I think it best that we determine if Tony Troilo violated any land use regulations, environment law, or whatnot.
A final point. It is easy to say that our goal is to protect the battlefield and that we should all rally to that battle cry. However, as board members it is our responsibility to act for the good of the BSF. Should we pick the wrong fight, or pick the right fight but mismanage it, we put our organization at risk. We might all pat ourselves on the back for taking a stand, but if in the process we become insolvent we lose everything we have fought for over the years. It is a serious responsibility.”
Joe, in the above email, has told me:
1. I have more information on the issue than he does. (I had more information because I conducted some research and asked questions)
2. He did not know if a determination had been made regarding a violation. (which told me that he hadn’t bothered to do any research in this matter)
3. Joe, in his ‘goals’ paragraph, sets a course that the Foundation ‘progressively go[es] to county planning, then to the BOS, then to court. We have to pay legal costs, risk losing good will in the local community,’ and, ‘If we win in court, we might have to pay to restore the status quo ante.’ (I would have to put the Foundation ‘at risk’ as well as stick my neck out a little)
4. He continues: ‘put out a position statement that expresses our preference for leaving the land the way it was, but doesn’t take substantive action to correct what one person sees as an “unmitigated disaster.” This is easy, we write the statement and post it cost-free on our website. It probably will not satisfy our critics, but probably will not make us any enemies. (This was the eventual course, doing his best not to make waves with Tony Troilo. Please note that Joe chose, in his words, the easy way)
5. Lay out the facts. As the facts were laid out and became known, Joe continued to press for a position statement. He was essentially, burying the BSF’s head into the sand and pretending there wasn’t an issue
6. Determine if indeed Tony Troilo violated any land use regulations, environmental law, & whatnot. (When it was determined the Tony violated regulations, law and whatnot, Joe McKinney and the BSF continued to ignore the situation)
7. Act responsibly as Board Members to act for the good of the BSF. (By Joe’s inaction, the Board has acted in bad faith. The decision to pick a wrong or right fight –it is interesting that he chose wrong first – is a decision that was required to be made. The President made no decision)
8. Make the wrong decision and become insolvent. (I guess he was afraid that if the Board took on Tony Troilo that Tony would sue the Foundation, we would lose and be no more. Another example of Joe leading)
9. Joe was correct in that it is a ‘serious responsibility.’ A responsibility that he chose not to take.
The same day, in an email to a former BSF board member, who asked Joe what was going on along Flat Run, Joe responded thus:
“Last week Mr. Troilo began work to expand his pond. There are a few dozers at work moving earth at present. The property that the pond is on is adjacent to our property on Wyndham’s approach to Fleetwood. I’ve checked the boundary between Mr. Troilo’s property and ours on the county’s GIS, and am satisfied that he has not encroached on our land.”
Joe, never asked or surveyed (until questioned) what Tony was doing on Fleetwood Hill, even though he states he saw “a few dozers at work moving earth.” Joe was also incorrect. Tony Troilo had indeed encroached on BSF and VDHR property.
To my knowledge, neither a legal consult nor conversation with the Corps of Engineers took place with the BSF during May, 2011.
The following day, in an email to the board, which included the initial draft of the eventual policy letter, Joe stated, “In his email last night, Mike opined that I have not of yet provided sufficient leadership regarding the pond issue. In fairness, he is correct.” I give Joe points for admitting that up to this point, he had reneged on his position as Foundation President. His decided to craft and publish a “Brandy Station Position on Landowner Improvements and Agricultural Activities.”
The draft made the rounds of the Board for a number of days, being crafted, edited and word-smithed. Many of the Board members chose not to respond, saying it was OK with them. In other words, abstain from the issue. I give credit to the members of the Board who actually read the letter and commented, whatever their opinion was. They at least stepped up to the issue and formed an opinion. The end-result, in my opinion, was incorrect, and detrimental to the Foundation. The Foundations position is posted on the BSF website, under the tab “About Us,” then “Position Papers.”
Seeing that the position paper supported the cause of the landowner, to the detriment of the BSF, and not the preservation of the land the BSF is chartered to protect, as well as be and advocate for and steward of, I resigned the Board of Directors of the Brandy Station Foundation. Those Civil War Roundtables and other organizations that have heard me speak of Lake Troilo know well my frustration, disappointment and sadness in this action. I was and have been very disappointed with Joe McKinney’s leadership as President of the Brandy Station Foundation, then as I am now.
If it had not been for the actions of Bud Hall, and others, Flat Run would be dammed, the pond filled and the land forever altered. If it had not been for Bud Hall the BSF would not be crowing about their three additional acres. Did the announcement give credit to Bud or anyone who opposed Tony Troilo's actions? Of course not, and they never will under the current Foundation leadership.
Where does the Brandy Station Foundation go from here? I do not know, time will tell. But let us hope that someone is watching over the land, for the Brandy Station Foundation is not.
Sunday, November 13, 2011
New York City Civil War Roundtable Visits Culpeper
This Weekend in Culpeper: November 11-13, 2011
Over the past three days -- I had the honor -- along with Bud Hall, to facilitate a tour of historic sites in Culpeper, Fauquier and Loudoun Counties to members of the New York City Civil War Roundtable. The group was led by Patrick Falci and his wife Joan. Pat is a near dead-ringer for General A. P. Hill, and has portrayed him in the movie Gettysburg and gives talks and lectures, telling Powell's story.
The group visited Cedar Mountain, the fords of the Rapidan, several historic houses and churches in all three counties, the Brandy Station battlefield, the Rappahannock Station battlefield, the battlefields of Aldie, Middleburg and Upperville, and many locations within Mosby's Confederacy and his sites from his post war career.
The group is very knowledgeable about the Civil War in this region, and thoroughly enjoyed having 'boots on the ground,' which enabled them to understand the terrain and context in which these actions were fought. Additionally, the Roundtable made donations to the Civil War Trust and the Mosby Heritage Association.
It is always my pleasure to take individuals and groups to historic locations, and give them my interpretation of events past and present, which has impacted the land and our history. I look forward to the next opportunity.
Over the past three days -- I had the honor -- along with Bud Hall, to facilitate a tour of historic sites in Culpeper, Fauquier and Loudoun Counties to members of the New York City Civil War Roundtable. The group was led by Patrick Falci and his wife Joan. Pat is a near dead-ringer for General A. P. Hill, and has portrayed him in the movie Gettysburg and gives talks and lectures, telling Powell's story.
The group visited Cedar Mountain, the fords of the Rapidan, several historic houses and churches in all three counties, the Brandy Station battlefield, the Rappahannock Station battlefield, the battlefields of Aldie, Middleburg and Upperville, and many locations within Mosby's Confederacy and his sites from his post war career.
The group is very knowledgeable about the Civil War in this region, and thoroughly enjoyed having 'boots on the ground,' which enabled them to understand the terrain and context in which these actions were fought. Additionally, the Roundtable made donations to the Civil War Trust and the Mosby Heritage Association.
It is always my pleasure to take individuals and groups to historic locations, and give them my interpretation of events past and present, which has impacted the land and our history. I look forward to the next opportunity.
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