Richmond Battlefields Hike
- March 16 · 9:00 AM
Get a healthy dose of both hiking and history today as we visit the scenes of several crucial Civil War battles fought east of Richmond in late June 1862 between the Army of the Potomac under George B. McClellan and Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia. Collectively known as the Seven Days Campaign, the result of these epic clashes was that the Yankees were driven back many miles from the gates of the Confederate capital to the banks of the James River. The National Park Service has constructed hiking trails through several of these battlefields, which we'll explore today. Total length of our hikes will not exceed 5 miles on mostly level but possibly quite muddy trails. Bring beverages, lunch (sorry, no Sheetz stop), and about $20 for transportation and trip fees, plus money for dinner in Fredericksburg on the way home. Meet at 9 a.m. inside Alexandria's King Street Metro Station by the station attendant's kiosk. Carpool drivers needed.
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Jeff Hughes
Thanks to Craig for another hike that was both educational and fun. And thanks to the rain gods for showing such discretion to put off the showers until after we were done.
March 17
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Craig Howell
Another messed-up forecast resulted in an unexpectedly gorgeous day for four Adventurous Civil War buffs. Instead of the predicted steady rain, we were embraced by virtually cloudless skies and temperatures climbing into distinctly spring-like low 70s. As we arrived at our first stop at Beaver Dam Creek, a straight couple listened in as we discussed the background of the 1862 Seven Days Campaign, and asked if they could tag along with us a bit. They walked the often-muddy trail at Gaines Mill battlefield with us before heading off on their own way. After lunch at the nearby picnic grounds, we drove down to Malvern Hill, scene of the campaign's final battle, usually considered one of Robert. E. Lee's worst days at the office. We strolled the long and impressive loop trail here and then headed back home. As if my magic, not long after we left a major summer-worthy thunderstorm rolled through the area, as the Weather Gods reminded everyone just who's boss.
March 17
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Craig Howell
Marc, we'll probably leave the Richmond area around 5, have dinner in Fredericksburg around 6:15, leave by 7:30, and be back at King Street by 8:30. Very full day. Sorry about no Sheetz, but they don't do much in WaWa country (and vice versa).
March 2
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Marc Ferrara
What? No Sheetz stop?! Who approved this?
By the way, what's your best estimate of a return time?March 1
4 attended
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Jeff Hughes
Assistant Organizer
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Tom
The Silent One
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