Chatham Manor, Fredericksburg, Virginia
Fredericksburg, Virginia, midway between the opposing Civil War capitals of Washington and Richmond, was the site of a devastating battle early in the war, followed by three years of brutal activity in the surrounding countryside. Civil War historians Gregg Clemmer and Ed Bearss lead a tour that explores Fredericksburg’s dramatic past and its role in the war.
Chatham, a magnificent mansion with a commanding view of the city, was used by Union Gen. E. V. Sumner as his headquarters during the battle of Fredericksburg in December 1862. Here, Bearss discusses the Union Army’s crossing of the Rappahannock River.
Continuing to Marye's Heights, where the Confederate forces were entrenched above the town, see the stone wall where the Union forces were slaughtered.
Other stops include the hill where Gen. Robert E. Lee made the statement, "It is well that war is so terrible—we should grow too fond of it,” as well as other important military sites such as Prospect Hill and the fields around Hamilton's Crossing.
Lunch is at a restaurant in downtown Fredericksburg.
Fringe stop at about 8:25 a.m.
Dress for battlefield walks on uneven ground.
