Richmond National Battlefield Park

Richmond National Battlefield Park is an approximately 3,600 acre site protecting 13 American Civil War sites around the capital of the Confederate States of America. It protects sites from McClellan’s Peninsula Campaign and the Seven Days Battles in 1862, the Overland Campaign in 1864 and the Siege of Petersburg between June 1864 and April 1865.

Richmond National Battlefield Park, located in Virginia, commemorates 13 significant American Civil War sites around Richmond, which served as the capital of the Confederate States of America for most of the war. The park connects various features within the city with defensive fortifications and battle sites around it, offering a comprehensive look at the strategic importance of Richmond during the Civil War.

The Siege of Richmond

Richmond’s strategic significance stemmed from its role as a major manufacturing center and the Confederate capital. The city’s industries produced vital war materials, including artillery and ammunition, making it a prime target for Union forces. The Siege of Petersburg, which lasted from June 1864 to April 1865, was a critical part of the Union’s strategy to capture Richmond and cut off Confederate supply lines1.

Key Battles and Events

Several key battles took place around Richmond, including the Seven Days Battles, the Battle of Drewry’s Bluff, and the Battle of Malvern Hill. These engagements were part of larger campaigns aimed at either defending or capturing the city. The Union’s eventual success in breaking through Confederate lines at Petersburg led to the fall of Richmond on April 3, 1865, and the subsequent surrender of General Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia at Appomattox Court House.

Visiting Richmond National Battlefield

Today, Richmond National Battlefield Park offers visitors a chance to explore the historic sites and learn about the events that took place during the Civil War. The park features several visitor centers, including the Tredegar Iron Works, which served as the Confederacy’s primary ironworks, and the Chimborazo Hospital, one of the largest Confederate hospitals1. The park also hosts exhibits, films, and interpretive displays that provide insights into the battle strategies and daily life during the war.

A self-guided driving tour allows visitors to see key locations such as Fort Harrison, Fort Gilmer, and the Richmond Defenses. The park also offers ranger-led tours, living history events, and educational programs that bring the history of the siege to life1.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking to connect with America’s past, Richmond National Battlefield provides a rich and educational experience. Plan your visit today and step back in time to explore the grounds where pivotal moments in the Civil War unfolded, shaping the course of American history.