One hundred fifty years ago the Civil War returned to Virginia with renewed vigor and throughout 1864 the state was the main focus of fighting and campaigning.
In 2014 Virginia will likewise again be the focal point of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War and Emancipation with special events, reenactments and commemorative activities marking those pivotal events of 1864.
While some activities hold special appeal for Civil War buffs and history enthusiasts, others have distinct family-friendly elements as pleasing for kids as adults. Re-enactments and other living history events, 150-years-to-the-hour guided battlefield tours, symposia, lectures and special exhibits can be found throughout Virginia this year.
Here are a few early highlights of the 2014 Civil War and Emancipation 150 activities in Virginia:
- On April 25-27, the Bermuda Hundred reenactment just south of Richmond will offer the rare chance for spectators to see Civil War re-enactors fighting from behind recreated period earthworks. The event will also offer immersive experiences as visitors will have the chance to mingle up-close with military and civilian living historians and learn hands-on what life was like in Civil War Virginia.
- From May through September National Park Service units from Fredericksburg south to Richmond and Petersburg will offer special 150th anniversary commemorative programs following the campaigns and battles of Lee vs. Grant.
You can follow the Virginia Civil War Trails marking hundreds of sites with fascinating historic waysides. Free maps are available at Virginia Welcome Centers and local visitor centers throughout the state.
For more information on how to plan your visit to Civil War historic sites and attend commemorative events in Virginia, visit Virginia Tourism Corporation's Civil War and Emancipation web site www.Virginia.org/CivilWar.
Virginia's wealth of historic sites and museums covering all periods of American history is complemented by so much more to see and do. Add to your itinerary and stay long enough to really enjoy a Virginia getaway. Visit www.Virginia.org for easy-to-use travel planning resources or call 1-800-VISITVA and ask for a free Virginia is for Lovers 2014 Travel Guide
For more information about top events in Virginia take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Virginia