National Park Service to Commemorate Battle of Cold Harbor

News Release Date:
May 14, 2022

Contact:Andrea DeKoter

National Park Service to Commemorate
Battle of Cold Harbor

Richmond National Battlefield Park's annual event features Ranger-led tours, living history programs

RICHMOND, Va.- On Saturday, June 4 and Sunday, June 5, Richmond National Battlefield Park invites the public to explore the history of Cold Harbor, site of the 1864 battle that became renowned as one of the Civil War's bloodiest engagements. This year's event features living history demonstrations, children's activities, a Saturday evening tour of the battlefield, and a presentation by historian Gordon Rhea. All events begin at the Cold Harbor Battlefield Visitor Center, 5515 Anderson Wright Drive, Mechanicsville, VA, 23111, and are free of charge.

"The Battle of Cold Harbor remains synonymous with sacrifice, as thousands of soldiers lost their lives in a short period of time," said Doyle Sapp, Superintendent of Richmond National Battlefield Park and Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site. "I invite the public to join us in commemorating the lives lost and the legacy of a war that shaped the course of democracy and freedom in our nation."

On Saturday, June 4, from 10 am to 4 pm visitors can step into the past with living history demonstrations highlighting the daily lives of Civil War soldiers and the artillery used by Union and Confederate forces. Programs and demonstrations begin at the top of the hour. Children are invited to explore fire and police vehicles that will be onsite from 1 pm to 4 pm to highlight the important work of first responders in the community. Children can also complete the park's Junior Ranger booklet and earn a free badge.

The park's much-anticipated candlelight battlefield tour will take place Saturday evening. The tour is free of charge, but tickets are required. Tickets are available through Eventbrite (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/338109854677); a link can also be found on the park's Facebook page and website. Visitors are advised to wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes for walking and to bring flashlights.

On Sunday, June 5, Park Rangers will offer guided tours of the Cold Harbor battlefield at 10 am and 2 pm. The tours will cover a variety of topics, including the fighting on June 3, 1864, and how this battle became General Ulysses S. Grant's greatest regret. At 3 pm historian Gordon Rhea, author of several acclaimed books on the Civil War, will discuss Grant's and Lee's strategies at Cold Harbor.

For a full and detailed list of the weekend's events, visit us online at www.nps.gov/rich. In the event of inclement weather, updates will be posted at www.Facebook.com/RichmondNPS.

About the National Park ServiceSince 1916, the National Park Service has been entrusted with the care of over 420 national park sites in the United States and its territories. With the help of volunteers and partners, we safeguard these special places and share their stories with millions of people every year. Learn more at www.nps.gov

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