The document summarizes a senior landscape architecture project focused on preserving the Wilderness Battlefield near Spotsylvania, Virginia. It provides context on the battlefield's location between Washington D.C. and Richmond and its role in Ulysses S. Grant's Overland Campaign of 1864. The project's vision is to increase appreciation of the battlefield through improved interpretation and new recreational opportunities like trails that do not interfere with cultural resource protection. The goal is to inform future National Park Service planning and enhance the battlefield experience.

1. The Wilderness Battlefield
Preservation Through Appreciation
Erin Lubeshkoff

2. cover image: confederate trenches at Saunder’s Field

3. This senior project is submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for
the Bachelor of Landscape Architecture Degree in the College of Architecture
and Urban Studies at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.
Patrick Miller
Mintai Kim
Brian Katen
Senior Advisor:
Senior Project Coordinator:
Program Chairperson:
Erin Lubeshkoff

4. TableofContents
Preface:
The controversy that occurred over the preservation of the Wilderness Battlefield
over the past couple of years informed the decision to focus this project on the
preservation of a historic landscape. I have lived, quite literally, in the battlefield
for over 11 years yet I had never really gained a proper appreciation for it. To me,
and many people I know, it is just another battlefield in a county chock full of them.
When I became aware of the “Wilderness Wal-Mart” and the fight to preserve the
character of the battlefield, I became interested primarily because it dealt with the
land surrounding my home. I found myself asking why preserve more? It was with
this question in mind that I began my project.
This document represents much of my research into this battlefield and different
ways that it might be preserved, as well as ideas to try to build appreciation for the
battlefield in the local community.

5. Table of Contents
Introduction
Why here? Why now?
Why preserve battlefields
Vision and Goals
Research: Understanding the Battlefield
Location and Context
Current Conditions
Cultural Resources
NPS & Battlefield Management
Interpretation: Untangling the Wilderness
Introducing the Battlefield
Modes of Experience
A New Battlefield Experience
Recreation: Appreciation That Comes Naturally
Community Appreciation
Trail Connections
Building Trails and Community
Conclusion: Hope for the Future
Resources
road leading to Ellwood
1
2
3
5
7
9
11
13
15
17
21
23
25
30
32

7. Introduction
Higgerson fields seen from surrounding woods

8. Introduction Why This Battlefield
Page 1
Transportation
- Existing Conditions
- Challenges and Opportunities
- Constraints
- Next Steps
Wilderness Battlefield Vision PlanWilderness Gateway Visioning Study
Public Meeting – 3 October 2011
To try to encourage more battlefield friendly
development plans in Orange County, the
Wilderness Battlefield Coalition hired Hill
Studio from Roanoke, VA to produce a
study of the area and development options.
The design options presented focus on the
area where Wal-Mart originally planned
to develop, as well as traffic issues with
route 20 and route 3. More information
is available at wildernessgateway.org
In 2008, the Wilderness Battlefield became the
center of a national debate on the impact adjacent
development can have on historic property. When
Wal-Mart proposed a new super center next to
the Wilderness Battlefield, the county welcomed
it and the tax dollars it would bring. When Orange
County granted Wal-Mart a special use permit that
would allow them to build, preservation groups
began a legal battle to stop Wal-Mart. In 2011,
Wal-Mart abandoned its plans to build next to
the battlefield. The question is how long will the
battlefield be safe from development? It left many
wondering, “Why preserve battlefields?”
and “How can you preserve them?”
These two images represent
the huge uproar that occurred
when Wal-Mart proposed their
new store. The image on the
left was from a local Culpeper
newspaper showing a rendering
of the “Wilderness Wal-Mart”.
The image on the right was on
the Civil War Trust page asking
for help in saving the battlefield.

9. Page 2
Tourism generated by battlefields represents an ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY that cannot be outsourced.
Tourism can indirectly generate huge amounts of money throughout a region because tourists buy food, stay in hotels, shop,
etc. Battlefields draw thousands of tourists every year, and can become the dominant economy in a region (Gettysburg).
Battlefields do not have to be interpreted at all to bring in tourists however; most people look to that interpretation to form
their experience. Developing battlefields into destinations brings in more tourists and can stimulate the economy. Rather than a
quick fix for the economy such as a Wal-Mart (which can decide to up and leave at any time), income generated by battlefield
tourism cannot be taken away.
The events that took place on battlefields shaped our CULTURE and defined our HERITAGE as a nation.
Many people do not realize how much more can be learned about this nation by visiting battlefields in addition to reading about
them in books. There is great value in having a resource to learn from rather than learn about. People remember
experiences because they happened to them. Visiting a battlefield can help link individuals to their history in a more intimate
way. Issues that were prevalent during the Civil War are still very prevalent in today’s culture. By reflecting on the experience of
the soldiers and why they felt strongly enough to go to war, visitors can reflect on how these issues are being dealt with today.
Battlefields often represent the largest PUBLIC
GREEN SPACE in urban and suburban areas.
Battles often occurred near populated places, because of
transportation and supply networks. When the war ended, these
populated places were not told to stop growing because they
were surrounded by a battlefield. Some stunted their growth by
choice, such as Gettysburg and Sharpsburg (Antietam) however,
many welcomed the increase in capital (especially in battle
worn southern towns). Battlefields were quickly threatened
by development, and when it was preserved, it often became
surrounded by development. Kennesaw Mountain National
Battlefield Park is an example where a preserved battlefield
became engulfed in development, which then turned to the
battlefield for recreation. The Manassas battlefield has similarly
become a green island in a sea of development. Manassas has
a history as a well-loved regional park, something that has
helped preserve it as development pressed in.
Gettysburg National Battlefield
You can gain knowledge about Gettysburg through history books.
Walking the ground of Pickett’s charge, you can gain understanding.
Spotsylvania Courthouse Battlefield
On a personal visit to the battlefield one afternoon I discovered that
it was full of people just walking. People with dogs, kids, friends,
family. When we left we passed no fewer than 10 people jogging,
several bicyclists, and more dog walkers. This battlefield is minutes
from major commercial development and surrounded by residential
development.
Chattanooga and Chickamauga National Battlefield
Bicycle tours of the battlefield directly generate money from tourism.
The hotel where the tourists stayed indirectly generated money from
tourism. Both represent money being spent in the region around the
battlefield.
Why Preserve Battlefields?

10. The vision of this project is to promote preservation of the Wilderness Battlefield by increasing appreciation for this resource through
improved interpretation and new recreational opportunities.
Interpretation
design an interpretive plan that encourages visitors to experience
the battlefield on foot
design new interpretive trails that form loops and begin at every
auto tour stop
develop ideas for interpretive experiences and education
opportunities to use in addition to wayside exhibits
suggest a location and design for a visitors center
Recreation
determine compatible recreation uses
design recreational trails that do not interfere with the
interpretation of the battlefield or harm the cultural resources
connect with proposed Spotsylvania greenway
suggest location and design for recreational parking
connect entire battlefield with hiking trails
A new way to preserve
Introduction
Page 3
The end goal of this project is to provide information for the National Park Service to reference when making future park planning decisions,
and to offer suggestions for improving the experience of the battlefield.

11. Research:
Understanding the Battlefield
Map of Wilderness Battlefield made in
1867 source: Library of Congress

12. Washington D.C.Washington D.C.
RichmondRichmond
SpotsylvaniaSpotsylvania
WV
MD
KY VA
NC
SCGA
TN
DE
PA
NJ
OH
Perhaps the bloodiest landscape in the country sits
halfway between Washington D.C. and Richmond, VA in the
county of Spotsylvania. The Wilderness Battlefield is one
of four major battlefields in the area, which saw 100,000+
casualties over the entire war. These four battlefields
make up the second largest military park in the world,
the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park
(7,000+ acres).
The preserved portion of the Wilderness Battlefield
is over 2,700 acres in size and spreads across the counties
of Spotsylvania and Orange. It represents the “beginning
of the end” of the Civil War. It was the first time General
Grant and General Lee met on the battlefield. Being at the
beginning of Grant’s Overland Campaign, it introduced the
world to modern warfare. Rather than taking time to recover
after a battle as was common and expected at the time,
Grant immediately pursued the confederate army after
each battle. This strategy was hard on the union soldiers,
but even harder on the outnumbered confederates. This
“war of exhaustion” eventually pushed Lee to surrender at
Appomattox courthouse, and end the war.
Map showing location of
Spotsylvania, VA in relation to
the capitals of the union and
the confederacy. Also shows the
union, confederate and border
states (blue, gray, and tan).
Map showing Fredericksburg and
Spotsylvania Battlefields National
Military Park. (source: http://www.
visitfred.com/sites/default/files/pdfs/VC_
Battlefield_Brochure.pdf)
Grant’s Overland Campaign
(source: http://www.civilwaralbum.com/
cwa_map68.htm)
LocationandContext
Page 5
To understand this battlefield it is important to first
identify where it is located physically and within history.

13. The battle itself took place on May 5-6, 1864. The union army was planning to cut
through the wilderness and surprise the confederates who were stationed at Mine
Run, southwest of the wilderness. Lee was unable to figure out the union plan
and was forced to leave Longstreet and half the army behind in case they needed
to rush to Richmond. Lee planned to occupy the union in the wilderness where
their almost 2:1 manpower advantage would be useless. This plan was successful
in that it did occupy the union, but unlike previous generals, Grant did not order
a retreat, leaving Lee and the confederates desperate to figure out Grant’s plans.
The result of the battle was a draw, an inconclusive ending that came at a heavy
cost. The battle produced nearly 30,000 casualties in two days of fighting, 18,400
union and 11,400 confederate (CWSAC).
Page 6
This drawing by Edwin Forbes represents the jubilee when General Grant
announced to the soldiers that they would pursue the confederates
despite the undecided outcome of the battle. Unlike previous generals,
Grant did not retreat to recover from battle and prepare for the next
one. Instead, he introduced continuous battle, pursuing the confederates
about 10 miles down the road and starting the Battle of Spotsylvania
Courthouse a few days after the end of the Battle of the Wilderness.
(drawing source: Library of Congress online collection)
This drawing by Alfred Waud
represents the true horror of the
Wilderness: fire. As many men were
wounded in battle, many more were
burned alive with the forest caught
fire and engulfed dead and living alike
and obscured battle lines. (drawing
source: Library of Congress online collection)
These pictures were taken of the
battlefield a year after the battle.
They show the dense second growth
that made passage through the
wilderness so difficult. They also
show the skeletons of men who were
left behind. The soldiers have since
been relocated to cemeteries, but
their sacrifice and courage serve
as reminders of what this country
represents: freedom. (photo source:
Library of Congress online collection)
This image represents one of
the most famous episodes of
the entire war, the “Lee to the
rear!” incident. On the second
day of battle, the confederates
were nearly crushed by the
union forces along Orange
Plank Road. As they were
about to retreat from Widow
Tapp farm, Longstreet arrived
with reinforcements. Lee was
so excited by the arrival of
Longstreet’s men that he tried
to lead them into battle. The
Texans refused to go forward
until Lee was ushered to the
back of the soldiers. They then
rushed into battle, where they
lost nearly half their men.
(photo source: http://www.nps.gov/
frsp/photosmultimedia/tappf.htm)
General Grant General Lee

14. CurrentConditions
Page 7
What makes up the battlefield ?
topography
habitat types
adjacent uses
Forest:
trees subcanopy shrubs
oak dogwood blackberry
hickory red cedar poison ivy
red maple tupelo American hazelnut
sweetgum mountain laurel lowbush blueberry
yellow poplar sassafras deerberry
Virginia pine
shortleaf pine
Field:
cultivated uncultivated
corn, soybeans, hay grasses hay grasses, native grasses
fertilized and tilled mown once or twice a year
Swamp:
Whether in a field or the woods, swamps in this area are typically the result of poor draining
soils in stream floodplains. The swamp by Higgerson was flooded by a now abandoned beaver dam.
single familysingle family
subdivisionssubdivisions
timbertimber
harvestingharvesting
gatedgated
communitycommunity
gatedgated
communitycommunity
large andlarge and
small farmssmall farms
generalgeneral
commercialcommercial
mostly smallmostly small
separate homesseparate homes
and farmsand farms
Determining how this battlefield sits in the topography, the ecology, and the region
will help with planning and management decisions. Understanding how preservation
works within NPS is necessary to understand why the preserved portion of the
battlefield is the odd shape that it is, and why it continues to be a threatened resource.
cultivated fields by Ellwood swamp with beaver dam large tree near Brock Road unmown Saunder’s Field
Rt 20
Rt 20
Rt 3Rt 3
Rt 20
Rt 20
Rt 3Rt 3
Brock Rd
Brock Rd
Co Rd 621
Co Rd 621
Co Rd 621
Co Rd 621
Brock Rd
Brock Rd
10 ft contour interval

15. Page 8
Preservation Challenges
LAND IS EXPENSIVE: The “Antietam Plan” was developed to preserve battlefields without buying huge tracts
of land. It involved buying just the pieces of land with monuments or battle lines. A very shortsighted plan,
it did not expect the surrounding land to change in a way that did not respect the battlefield. The legislation
authorizing land acquisition for the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park specified that they
follow the Antietam plan (the Wilderness land acquired is highlighted in pink on map at right).
DEVELOPMENT IS OUTSIDE NPS CONTROL: The military park was established in 1931-34, shortly before
development spread to the area. Permanent loss of core battlefield between NPS holdings occurred when that
land was developed into suburbs. Once land became the target of developers, there was little that NPS could
do to stop the developments because of the increased value of the land was out of budget.
THERE ARE SO MANY BATTLEFIELDS: Because NPS owns significant portions of a battlefield, many people
assume that it is “preserved”. Even county governments may fall into this mind trap and authorize incompatible
development near these “preserved” battlefields. The Wal-Mart fiasco is one example of such short-sighted
government planning.
CONTEXT, CHARACTER, EXPERIENCE: The context in which a battlefield sits can significantly add or subtract
from the character of the place and the experience of the visitor. Looking outside the boundaries of the park
allows the park to plan for potential changes. Proper planning can help establish the battlefield as a fixture of
the local identity, and a popular place for tourists. The increased appreciation can help preserve the battlefield.
An example is Manassas Battlefield, which was saved largely because of its place in the community.
This zoning map represents the
zoning plans of both Orange
and Spotsylvania counties. The
majority of the land is deceivingly
labeled agricultural, however
residential developments can
easily still be built within the
lenient zoning definitions.
This map represents the land NPS
owns (in darker green) as part
of the battlefield park and land
that NPS should try to acquire
(in lighter green) either outright
or through easement. Acquiring
this land will help NPS get ahead
of development in areas where
it would detrimentally effect the
experience of the battlefield.
agriculture andagriculture and
residentialresidential
planned residentialplanned residential
plannedplanned
residentialresidential
general residentialgeneral residential
generalgeneral
commercialcommercial
O
range
County
O
range
County
Spotsylvania
County
Spotsylvania
County
agricultureagriculture
Rt 20
Rt 20
Rt 3Rt 3
Co Rd 621
Co Rd 621
Brock Rd
Brock Rd
Rt 3Rt 3
Rt 20
Rt 20
Co Rd 621
Co Rd 621
Brock Rd
Brock Rd
O
range
County
O
range
County
Spotsylvania
County
Spotsylvania
County
O
range
County
O
range
County
Spotsylvania
County
Spotsylvania
County
Rt 20
Rt 20
Co Rd 621
Co Rd 621
Brock Rd
Brock Rd
Rt 3Rt 3

16. CulturalResources
Ellwood Manor (circa 1790):
The only structure on the battlefield today that witnessed the Civil War. It was
the headquarters of the Union army during the battle of the Wilderness and
has significance relating to other battles and campaigns. It is also famous for
being the final resting place of Stonewall Jackson’s amputated arm. Recently
restored, the home currently serves as a pseudo visitor’s center for the
battlefield. The Friends of Wilderness Battlefield, a volunteer organization,
staffs the manor and maintains the grounds. They are also responsible for
the completed restoration, and wish to contribute more to the battlefield.
Saunder’s Field:
The first shots of the battle and some of the heaviest fighting took place
in this clearing. Trenches criss-cross through the woods north of the
field and are in excellent shape considering they were hastily dug and
almost 150 years old. The existing interpretive trail following the trenches
tells the story of how they became so entangled. In the field, there is a
monument to the 140th New York, who lost nearly half their men while
leading the first charge. A cannon in the field represents the cannon that
sat in the middle of the field during the battle, the unattainable prize.
Widow Tapp’s farm:
The clearing that was the farm of Widow Tapp became the headquarters for
General Lee during the battle. It was also at this clearing that the confederates
almost crumbled, saved just in time by General Longstreet’s men. When the
Texas soldiers came running to the rescue, Lee was so excited he tried to
lead the men into battle, to which they cried “Lee to the rear!” There is a
monument dedicated to this event, as well as a monument to the Texans
who were slaughtered in that charge but managed to save the army and
their general. There is also a cannon on the site, one of the few places where
cannons were useful. (photo source: http://www.nps.gov/frsp/photosmultimedia/tappf.htm)
Brock Road intersection:
Fighting in this area was some of the most brutal experienced in the whole
war. The trenches lining Brock Rd are poorly preserved, however the trenches
along Jackson Trail West are in excellent condition. There is a fairly new
interpretive trail, highlighting the horrors of war as well as the monument
to Vermont’s “Old Brigade” who suffered heavily defending the intersection.
Alongside Orange Plank Rd is a small monument to the 12th Regiment New
Jersey Volunteers who also fought to defend the intersection at a heavy cost.
Page 9
Primary Cultural Resources:
high importance; adequately interpreted
Cultural resources are those parts of the landscape that speak to the history of that landscape. They can
be both physically visible and emotionally felt. It is for the purpose of protecting these resources that the
battlefield was originally preserved, so it is necessary to know both what they are and where they are.

17. Wilderness Tavern:
All that remains is the chimney from an outbuilding of the tavern. It served as a hospital
during Chancellorsville and Wilderness. It was here that General Jackson’s arm was amputated.
(photo source: http://www.hmdb.org/marker.asp?marker=7499)
Grant’s headquarters knoll:
Currently a short trail that leads to a spot near Grant’s HQ with interpretive signage. The actual location of
Grant’s HQ was recently acquired (2011) and currently has a modern house and outbuildings located on it.
Unconfirmed trenches:
According to historical maps there are trenches in this area, however there is nothing highlighting them
or recent acknowledgement of their existence. They are probably still there, however they seem to
have been forgotten as the years have passed. (photo source: 1867 map of the Wilderness from Library of Congress)
Higgerson homesite:
A pile of rubble from the former home of Permelia Higgerson marks the location of her former
home. Not far from this clearing, there is a swamp that greatly affected the fighting in this
area. Union soldiers became mired in the swamp, and became sitting ducks for confederates.
Chewning homesite:
Located on a plateau, the Chewning farm had a commanding view of the battlefield. It was recognized as an
important piece of real estate by the union however, they were forced to give it up and confederates used
it to view the battle and gather information. (photo source: http://www.nps.gov/frsp/photosmultimedia/chewningf.htm)
Page 10
Secondary Cultural Resources:
lower importance, minimal interpretation

18. NPS&BattlefieldManagement
Page 11
The Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park
Park Purpose:
The purpose of the park is to preserve, maintain, protect and provide access to the cultural and natural resources of the Civil War battlefields
of Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness and Spotsylvania Court House and associated sites and to interpret and commemorate
them in the larger context of the Civil War and American History for the benefit and education of visitors and the general public.
Park Priorities:
Priority 1: Protect Cultural and Natural Resources: Protect, maintain and improve the condition of core cultural and natural resources,
including buildings, landscapes, and archeological sites.
Priority 2: Prevent encroachment and protect the park from external development and traffic: Through cooperative planning, diligent
monitoring, negotiation, partnerships, advocacy, and acquisition, protect the park from physical encroachment, increasing traffic, the
negative impact of adjacent or nearby development, and incompatible recreational uses.
Priority 3: Improve and upgrade interpretive facilities and media: Replace or upgrade outdated media (A-V programs, waysides, exhibits,
website, and publications) parkwide and ensure that visitor facilities, including roadsides and trails, enhance the visitors’ experience.
Priority 4: Safety: Ensure a safe environment for both employees and visitors.
Priority 5: Ensure orderly succession at adequate staffing levels: Plan for personnel succession and organizational change due to
retirements and constrained budgets.
Priority 6: Improve visitor services: Expand the nature and reach of interpretive programs, educational programs, and special events
to increase visitation and support for the park, better serve children, and illustrate the park’s relevance to 21st-Century visitors.
Park Purpose defined by NPS
(http://www.nps.gov/frsp/parkmgmt/purpose.htm)
The Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park (FRSP) contains four battlefields, a little over 7,000 acres of land, yet it is
all under one management entity. This means that unlike other parks, which can focus on one battle with both their research and their
funding, FRSP must divide everything between 4 very significant battlefields. The Civil War Sites Advisory Commission (CWSAC) ranks all
four battlefields in FRSP as class A battlefields, meaning they had a decisive impact on a campaign and a direct impact on the course of
the war. Only 12% of battlefields are class A battlefields. They each deserve to be treated with equal importance, something NPS
knows, but cannot fund.

19. Interpretation:
Untangling the Wilderness
swampy area in the forest near Brock Road

20. Page 13
IntroducingtheBattlefield Visitor’s Center: Gateway to the battlefield
The battle of the Wilderness took place not in open
fields but in dense woods. It was plagued by confusion
and lost soldiers. Now it is plagued by neighborhoods
and busy roads.
A visitor’s center would greatly enhance visitor
understanding of the battlefield and could host events
that increase appreciation for and awareness of
battlefields.
This is a sketch of a proposed visitor’s center. It is designed to cater more towards children/school trips and
special events. It would serve as an introduction to the battlefield before visitors enter the battlefield and are able
to become confused. The idea is that it will be on top of a hill, but slightly behind another. Something such as a
flag in front of the building could draw attention to the building, which would be barely visible from the route 20/
route 3 intersection. By drawing attention from the busy roads, the battlefield can gain more recognition.
courtyard
for outdoor
exhibits
covered porch for
grouping tours
lobby, info
desk, gift
shop
intro to the
war before
Wilderness
Battle of the
Wilderness
the war
after the
battle
natural grasslands
with wildflowers
soldier life camp
demonstration area
special event space
ex: traveling living
history exhibits
picnic area
Rt. 20
old Rt. 20
trail to
Ellwood
manor
trail to
Wilderness
Tavern ruins
suggested interpretive layout
Because this battle was so tangled, introducing its place
in the Civil War in a linear format can help visitors
better understand what this battlefield represents.
Sketch up model of
suggested outdoor
exhibits. A simulated
forest, trench and plank
road allows children in
particular to understand
what trenches are for
without degrading actual
trenches.Amuralcouldbe
on the surrounding walls.

21. Page 14
active
farmland
wooded
areas
EllwoodEllwood
ManorManor
WildernessWilderness
TavernTavern
Rt. 20
Rt. 3
Connections
The location of the visitor’s center would be easy to find and it would be able to link Ellwood and Wilderness
Tavern through trails and interpretation. As suggested by the NPS interpretive plan, a small strip of forest
could be maintained in a second growth state, such as it was during the battle. This location is suggested along
the trail from the visitor’s center and Ellwood. Connecting Ellwood and Wilderness Tavern visually as they once
were would require cooperation with adjacent landowners to thin trees currently blocking the view.
EllwoodEllwood
ManorManor
WildernessWilderness
TavernTavern
visitor’svisitor’s
centercenter
active
farmland
wooded
areas
grassland
second
growth
Rt. 20
Rt. 3
Before and after plan views of the area around the proposed visitor’s center. The left image shows the land use and
current conditions. The right image shows the proposed visitor’s center and parking. It also shows proposed trails
linking the visitor’s center to the tavern and manor (pink lines on the map). The viewshed that could be restored
between Ellwood and the tavern site is marked with yellow, as well as the view from the visitors center and the road.
Current view from
Ellwood, looking to the
east. The view towards
the Wilderness Tavern
is similar. Some trees
on the Ellwood property
would need to be removed
in addition to some on
adjacent properties to
restore the view between
the two historic sites.
View from proposed visitor’s center location looking north. The intersection
can be seen at the bottom of the hills, in the right-center of the image.
View from the proposed visitor’s center location looking south. This visual connection
to the pastoral fields around Ellwood can help connect visitors to a different time
and place.

22. Page 15
ModesofExperience
Visitor’s Center
Introduction to the battlefield and it’s importance in the larger picture of the
war and the country. Linked with Ellwood and Wilderness Tavern by footpath.
Wilderness Tavern
Accessible from the visitors center via 1/4 mile trail, all that remains is the
chimney from the tavern. It is more important to the Battle of Chancellorsville,
and as the location where Stonewall Jackson’s arm was amputated.
Grant’s Headquarters
The knoll where Grant stationed his headquarters during the battle. A short
trail highlights the issues experienced due to a tangled chain of command.
Ellwood Manor
Therestoredmanorwithexhibitsonlifeduringthewarforciviliansandslaves.There
is a 3/4 mile trail about the role Ellwood played in the battle as both headquarters
and safe haven for the Union. Also linked to visitor’s center by 1/2 mile trail.
Saunder’s Field
Site of intense fighting throughout the battle, there is a 2 mile trail
that tells the story of the soldiers who fought along the Orange
Turnpike and a confederate flank attack that was the final straw.
Higgerson Homesite
One of few clearings in the Wilderness, Union troops used it to regroup before
diving into the darkness of the woods in search of rebels. A 1 mile trail tells the story
of how the topography and a swamp trapped some solders from Pennsylvania.
Chewning Farm
On top of commanding topography, the Chewning home and surrounding
cleared land represented the best opportunity the union had of ending the battle
before it became too intense. A 1/2 mile trail leads to the Chewning homesite.
Widow Tapp Field
This clearing was the site of General Lee’s headquarters and the home of Widow
Tapp. A 1/2 mile trail tells the story of what almost became the south’s last stand.
Brock Road Intersection
This intersection became the site of some of the heaviest fighting of the battle.
A short 1/2 mile trail tells the story of fighting in this location and leads into
the Battle of Spotsylvania Courthouse. An additional 1 3/4 mile trail gives
visitors the opportunity to experience the battlefield topography and challenges.
Battlefield Tour Stops
Tour by car and on foot
The size of this battlefield means that it is easiest to tour by vehicle. The most emphasis
is therefore on this mode of travel, and appropriate interpretation is provided for the
roadside visitor. For those who have more time or inclination, there are trails leading
from each vehicular tour stop that give the visitors a unique experience.
Map of Existing Trails
The existing trail leading from Saunder’s Field will remain, as well as the trail in Widow Tapp
field. The trails at Chewning farm and Brock Road will remain but with additions. The trail in the
center is no longer interpreted and is maintained by a local organization. The resources along
the center trail have lost their value as the sights and sounds of suburbia are difficult to escape.

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24. Page 17
ANewBattlefieldExperience
Getting people out of their cars
Interpretation “experiences” can be placed along the
trails leading from each auto tour stop, which will
guide visitors through the battlefield. When they get
to each stop, the promise of a unique experience can
encourage them to get out of their cars and walk
through the battlefield.
“Brave men are falling like autumn leaves,and death holds high carnival in our ranks.”Rendering of interpretation experience idea for trails north of Saunder’s
field. Life size statues of soldiers could be placed at the locations of
opposing lines to show how close soldiers were and still could not see each
other. It would help visitors understand why the trenches are so tangled.
Rendering of interpretation experience idea for trails near the Brock
Road intersection. Large “windows” made of a shatterproof translucent
material such as acrylic or resin with images of what the area behind
the “window” might have looked like during the battle can help visitors
connect with the site and what happened there. Quotes from soldiers
who fought in the battle add another level of connection. The quote on
the “window” below reads “Brave men are falling like autumn leaves,
and death holds high carnival in our ranks.” and the image is from a
sketch by Alfred Waud showing fighting by the Brock Road intersection.
Interpretive trail section: trail should be easily accessible
to most, with a level pathway and sturdy surfacing.
Wayside signage should signal a wider pathway.
Rendering of boardwalk over the swamp by the Higgerson homestead.
The trail tells the story of soldiers who stumbled into the swamp from a
steep, wooded hillside by taking visitors from the hill to the swamp.
Although the peak season for battlefield
visitation is during the summertime, tailoring
experiences that change with the four seasons
might entice visitors to come year round.
Other ideas include tactile interpretive panels
along the trail near Ellwood telling the story of it as a
farm. Tactile panels could give visitors the opportunity
to feel the texture of different crops, for instance.
There could be small installations showing how crops
were actually farmed before the Civil War, and how the
whole farm changed because of the war (no slaves).
The use of temporary interpretation experiences
can encourage visitors to visit more than once.
4’ tread4’ viewing
1-2’ corridor each side of trail

25. Page 18
The sheer number of men who fell
during this battle is very difficult
to comprehend. It is difficult to
comprehend the fact that over 170,000
men fought in these woods, let alone
that almost 30,000 of them never left.
It is easy to forget these sobering
facts. This rendering shows an idea
to put stones as a reminder of those
who fell. They would be unobtrusive,
yet obvious to those who look. Larger
stones could represent groups of
soldiers, while smaller ones could
represent individuals. Soldiers from
many states fought in this battle, and
those states could be represented by
the stones of their fallen. Using native
rock from each state would emphasize
that this was a war between all the
states, not just a select few.
The topography of the battlefield tells an important part of the story about the battle. The soldiers called this “washboard topography” because the many hills and streams. Walking through
this topography gives visitors the opportunity to experience the battlefield the way the soldiers did. This rendered section represents the varied topography near the Higgerson home.
While no trail design can be fully designed without walking the design in
the field, all of the interpretive trails were designed to accommodate people
of most abilities. The slope of the trail is rarely steeper than 5% and when
steeper it is for a short distance. It is important that all people be able to
experience battlefields and gain an appreciation for the heritage of this nation.
The elevation profile tool in Google Earth was used to alter designed trails to better fit the
topography. While this is not totally accurate (the 18.8% slope listed as the max slope on the
screenshotistheresultofastreamcrossing),ithelpedwiththedesignoftheHiggersontrail(above)
which has the steepest topography. This is an easy and affordable method of evaluating a design.

27. Recreation:
Appreciation That Comes Naturally
field between Higgerson and Chewning

28. CommunityAppreciation
U.S.1
Bike Route
EastCoastGreenway
Virginia Central
Trail Corridor
U.S. Route
1 Trail
Chancellorsville
Visitor
Center Trail
Jackson
Trail
East
Jackson
Trail
West
Hill-
Ewell
Drive
Ni River Trail
Hancock
Road
Furnace
Road
Burnside
Drive
Grant
Drive West
Bullock Road
Stuart Drive
Slocum Drive
Sickles
Drive
Anderson
Drive
McLaws
Drive
Gordon
Drive
Hooker Drive
Longstreet's
Wounding
Trail
Lee Hill
Interpretive
Trail
Bloody
Angle
3
Chancellorsville
Battlefield
Interpretive Trail
Tapp Field
Interpretive Trail
208
17
95
2
208
1
3
208
BYP
1
208
17
3
1
Lee Hill
Trail
BUS 1
208
CAROLINE
COUNTY
CITY OF
FREDERICKSBURG
ORANGE
COUNTY
STAFFORD
COUNTY
Stonewall
Jackson
Shrine
Legend
Stonewall Jackson Shrine
Historic Points
VDOT Historic Marker
National and State Historic Register Parcels
Trail Corridors
Public Trails
Trail Type
Multi-Use Paths
National Park Service Trails
National Park Service Roads
State Park Trails
Completed Trail
Virginia Central Trail Corridor
Parks and Recreation Trails
Date: July 29, 2010
0 1 2 3 4 50.5
Miles
The Spotsylvania
Battlefields Loop
1 inch equals 1.5 miles
MAP 4
WILDERNESS
CHANCELLORSVILLE
SPOTSYLVANIA COURTHOUSE
FREDERICKSBURG/ SLAUGHTER PEN
Page 21
Community gems...
The county of Spotsylvania recently completed a trailways master plan that evaluated what recreation was available, what was needed, and how these recreation
needs might be met. One of the major components of this plan is the Virginia Central Trail, which will be built on an old railroad bed. The trail will be a multi-use trail
combining pedestrians, bicyclists and equestrians. The map below is from the study and illustrates the county’s desire to connect all the battlefields via greenways.
Undeveloped rail bed and developed section
of the Virginia Central Trail. This is the
greenway that the Wilderness Battlefield will
connect with. (photo and map source: Spotsylvania
CountyTrailwaysMasterPlanhttp://www.spotsylvania.
va.us/content/2614/147/2740/169/205/8539.aspx)

29. Page 22
...throughout the country
Manassas National Battlefield
Surroundedbysprawlingdevelopment,ManassasBattlefield
is an oasis of natural beauty and history among a sea of
pavement in Northern Virginia. People who grew up in or
live in the area talk about how much they love walking
through the park, or riding on the equestrian trails. Many
use the park for their morning run, or for walking their dog
in the afternoon. There are photographers that specialize
in taking family portraits in Manassas Battlefield. Manassas
Battlefield has had to learn how to mitigate the impacts of
such use and can serve as an example from which to learn.
The equestrian trails at Manassas Battle-
field were carefully planned to avoid im-
portant cultural and historic resources,
making them purely recreational. Pe-
destrians also frequent these trails.
(photo source: http://www.nps.gov/mana/
planyourvisit/horseback-riding.htm)
Man running on a trail in Kennesaw Mountain
National Battlefield Park. (photo source: www.
freeyourfeet.org)
Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield
Once separate from the city of Atlanta, Georgia the Kennesaw
Mountain Battlefield has become enveloped by Atlanta suburbs.
The result is that the battlefield has become the crown jewel
of the area, an oasis of natural beauty. This has caused some
problems for the National Park Service, which is charged to
protect and preserve this site of cultural heritage. Increasing
use by the surrounding population has led the park service
to look into alternatives for mitigating the effects. One such
issue is dealing with the increased volume of vehicular,
pedestrian, and bicyclist traffic on one of the park roads. An
assessment was drafted in 2010 to evaluate alternatives.
Third Winchester Battlefield
On the opposite side of interstate highway 81 from the city of
Winchester, Virginia sits the Battlefield of Third Winchester.
Owned by Shenandoah Valley Battlefields Foundation and the
CivilWarPreservationTrust,thisrecentlypreservedbattlefield
(2009) quickly gained a place in the heart of locals as a quiet
placetoenjoynature.AlocalorganizationcalledtheWinchester
Wheelmen Bicycle Club maintains and monitors the trails in
the battlefield. The club has been recognized by national
preservationists for its outstanding work in the battlefield.
Child riding on mountain bike trails on
the Third Winchester Battlefield. (photo
source: https://lowspeedhighdrag.wordpress.com/)

30. TrailConnections
Page 23
Orange Plank Road Co. Rd. 621
Orange Turnpike Route 20
Germanna Plank Road Rt. 3
Brock Road
LEGEND
interpretive trail
10 ft topography
hiking trail
multi-use trail
roads
Spotsylvania Greenway

31. above: example of “pegasus” style crosswalk in the UK
A pegasus crosswalk has user controlled traffic lights
with two button heights, one for pedestrians and one for
equestrians. It also incorporates a fenced holding area
for equestrian safety. (photo source: http://homepages.which.
net/~phil.wadey/pgbt/promotion/shenley21x.htm) plan drawing of a proposed pegasus crosswalk on rt 20.
Page 24
trail head
pegasus
crossing
water
hitching rails
rt 20
trail head
trail head
trail
head
water
hitching
rails
holding area
25’x15’
crosswalk
button
stoplight
culverts
Safe and courteous recreation
The trail master plan for the battlefield incorporates recreation and interpretation in
a beneficial way for both. The interpretive trails maintain their primary purpose and
avoid overcrowding, while the recreational trails offer trails free of tourists for the
daily runner. The trails are not separate entities however, as they have a hiking trail
connecting each interpretive trail with the larger recreational trail system. This gives
those on the recreational trail the opportunity to experience the battlefield’s history and
those on the interpretational trail to experience the battlefield’s natural beauty.
Example of educational signage. source:
h t t p : / / c o r b a m t b . c o m / n e w s / t a g / m u l t i - u s e /
Education
Signage reminding users of the proper
etiquette for a multi-use trail makes the
experience safer and more enjoyable for all.
Parking & facilities
Separate parking areas for
recreational users can prevent
overcrowding of interpretational
parking areas. Designed to
accommodate horse trailers, the
elongated stalls can be used for two
vehicles. Bathrooms (and possibly
water for horses) are provided
beside the parking lot. Multi-use
trails lead from each lot, and begin
at a trail head with trail information
such as estimated travel time,
miles, terrain, trail etiquette, etc.
Safe Crossing
In order to connect the entire
battlefield with trails it is necessary
to cross busy route 20. The location
for the proposed crosswalk is easily
seen from both directions of traffic.
To improve safety, a user controlled
crosswalk would allow hikers,
bicyclists and equestrians to stop
traffic via a stoplight and cross the
road. The crossings on 621 would
be much simpler with only crosswalk
signage. This is because although
heavily traveled, this section of 621
rarely exceeds speeds of 45 mph
and is much narrower than route
20, making it easier to cross safely.
Rendering of proposed parking areas along route 20 and near Chewning farm, as indicated on map pg 23.

32. BuildingTrailsandCommunity
Page 25
Community experience
Not only would recreational trails in the battlefield
increase the community appreciation it would also
increase community participation. The hiking trail in
the center of the battlefield, bordered on each side
by neighborhoods, is an existing trail. Formerly an
interpreted and NPS maintained trail, it was recently
reopened as a hiking trail that is maintained by a
local organization. This is one example of how eager
the community is to help create hiking trails. By
using the eagerness of the community, there is the
potential to build and maintain the recreational trail
system entirely with volunteer support. Not only would
the community benefit from working together, but
the battlefield would also benefit because dedicated
recreational trails would help protect historic resources.
F r e d e r i c k s b u r g
Area Mountain Bike
Enthusiasts is a local
organization that
maps, maintains, and
builds mountain bike
trails. The reluctance
of many organizations
to include mountain
bikes in their park
planning has resulted
in a strong emphasis on
stewardship and support
within the mountain
biking community.
rendering of multi-use trail section
CRITERIA for selection of recreational trail locations
- minimal historic resources
- connection to other trails
- semi-challenging topography
GUIDELINES for designing trail system
- trail surface should be firm and dry
- maintain a cross slope of at least 2% but no more than
5%
- sustainable trail construction suggests
5% slope acceptable for any distance
8.33% slope for up to 200ft
10% slope for 30ft
12% slope for 10ft
14% slope for 5ft or when required in the bottom
of a drainage structure
- steep slopes are acceptable if properly stabilized
can use rocks and logs to create very shallow stairs, if
needed
4ft tread
7ft corridor
2ft tread
4ft corridor
Hiking trails serve as connectors throughout
the entire battlefield. It is important to put sig-
nage at the intersections of hiking only and
multi-use trails to prevent accidental misuse.

33. Page 26
This section illustrates the varied topography along the trail south of route 20 and Saunder’s Field. The forests of the Wilderness hide topographical variation not seen from the outside. The recreational trails give users the
opportunity to experience the shape of the land.
The elevation profile tool in google earth was used to ensure slopes were challenging but
sustainable. The trail above was designed using a combination of this tool and personal experience.
Building trails can be a community experience
that can leave a lasting impression. It is also
an opportunity to teach the community about
proper trail construction and maintenance.
This increased education can help the
greater community improve trails in other
areas and promote stewardship. In addition
to human workers, pack animals could be
used to haul materials, minimizing impact.
left image source: http://atfiles.org/files/pdf/TNpathways.pdf
above image source: http://www.americantrails.org/resources/horse/
Sheltowee-mules-volunteer-trail-work.html

35. cannon and marker at Saunder’s Field
Conclusion:
Hope for the Future

36. Conclusion
Page 29

37. Hope for Battlefields
The future of battlefields is going to be decided in the next few years as the economy
slowly returns to its normal land consuming self. It is largely up to the American
public to protect these pieces of hallowed ground through support and donations.
It is therefore more important than ever to encourage battlefield appreciation and
community participation. Battlefields cannot be saved by the government alone.
Buying land does not preserve the memory of those who died to build this country.
This document presented ideas meant to encourage the American public to treasure
and preserve their heritage.
Page 30

38. Resources
Page 31

39. Page 32
Resources
Civil War Trust. The Wilderness. n.d. website. <http://www.civilwar.org/battlefields/the-wilderness.html>.
Dinkelaker, Jacob and John Rudy. Interpreting the Civil War. n.d. blog. 29 September 2011. <http://www.civilwarconnect.com/>.
Friends of Wilderness Battlefield. n.d. web site. 12 September 2011. <fowb.org>.
International Mapping. “Wilderness National Battlefield Map Movie.” n.d. <http://internationalmapping.com/us-national-park-service-wilderness-national-battlefield>.
Jorgensen, Kathryn. “Key Part of Third Winchester Battlefield to be Preserved.” December 2008. Civil War News. online periodical article. 18 April 2012.
<http://www.civilwarnews.com/archive/articles/08/dec/winchester_120802.htm>.
Levin, Kevin. Battlefield Interpretation. n.d. website. 7 October 2011. <http://cwmemory.com/category/battlefield-interpretation/>.
Lowe, David. “Defining ‘Core’.” Civil War News September 2006. online periodical. 14 September 2011. <http://www.civilwarnews.com/preservation/corelowe.htm>.
Mysteries and Conundrums. n.d. blog. <http://npsfrsp.wordpress.com/>.
National Park Service. n.d. website. <www.nps.gov>.
National Park Service. American Battlefield Protection Program. n.d. website. 13 September 2011. <http://www.nps.gov/history/hps/abpp/civil.htm>.
—. Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania. n.d. website. <http://www.nps.gov/frsp/index.htm>.
National Trails Training Partnership. n.d. web site. 23 January 2012. <http://www.americantrails.org/resources/index.html>.
Randy. Preserving our Civil War Battlefields. 12 November 2006. 29 September 2011. <http://gettysburg-acw.blogspot.com/2006/11/preserving-our-civil-war-battlefields.html>.
Rhea, Gordon C. The Battle of the Wilderness May 5-6, 1864. Louisiana State University Press, 1994. book.
Spotsylvania County Planning Department. “Spotsylvania County Trailways Master Plan.” 2010. online planning document. 3 February 2012. <http://www.spotsylvania.va.us/
filestorage/2614/147/2740/169/205/Spotsylvania_Trailways_Master_Plan_02-22-2011.pdf>.
Stonewall, Sean. “Manassas Battlefield Park The Battle for Preservation.” n.d. Landscape Online. online article. 7 October 2011. <http://www.landscapeonline.com/research/
article.php?id=7360>.
Strack, Julie A. “Running Uphill: Urbanization, Conflict, and Visitor Use at Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.” Proceedings of the 2007 Northeastern Recreation
Research Symposium. Newton Square: U.S. Department of Agriculture, 2008. 48-53. online document. <http://nrs.fs.fed.us/pubs/3829>.
The Conservation Fund. Civil War Battlefield Campaign. n.d. website. 14 September 2011. <http://www.conservationfund.org/cwbc>.
Todd R. Lookingbill, Shawn L. Carter, Bryan Gorsira, Clayton Kingdon. “Using Landscape Analysis to Evaluate Ecological Impacts of Battlefield Restoration.” Park Science 21
February 2012. periodical online. 7 October 2011. <http://www.nature.nps.gov/parkscience/index.cfm?ArticleID=217>.
Veverka, John. Interpretation Flypaper. n.d. blog. 22 February 2012. <http://interpretationflypaper.blogspot.com/>.
Wilderness Battlefield Gateway Study. n.d. website. 12 September 2011. <wildernessgateway.org>.