Preserve The Missing Piece at Appomattox Court House

The Opportunity

Two profoundly significant parcels of battlefield land are urgently in need of protection. Together totaling just 2.4 acres, these properties represent a rare chance to complete and protect key stories from American history.

One property is one of the last unprotected tracts within the preserved landscape of Appomattox Court House — the site of General Lee’s surrender and the symbolic beginning of national reconciliation. Securing this land would complete a decades-long effort.

The second property lies at the Old Cold Harbor crossroads, tied to both the Battle of Gaines’ Mill and the Battle of Cold Harbor. This tract offers one of the most powerful interpretive opportunities in Virginia and is critically threatened by modern development.

Together, these two parcels are valued at $680,000—but through state and federal grants and a deferred payment agreement, only $172,500 must be raised by the end of January. Thanks to a limited-time $4-to-$1 match, every dollar donated will be multiplied four times in impact!

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The History

Gaines’ Mill and Cold Harbor (1862 & 1864)

These battles were separated by two years but connected by geography and consequence. Confederate commanders such as Jackson, Stuart, and Lee used this land as a launch point. Union generals like McClellan and Hancock also moved through this terrain.  

The crossroads at Old Cold Harbor witnessed cavalry charges, troop deployments, and the suffering of thousands. Today, it remains unprotected — and at risk of commercial development.

Historian Robert E.L. Krick described the site as:

“… a tiny slice of real estate. But it possesses tremendous value as a Civil War landmark, and sky-high potential as one of the best interpretive spots on any Virginia battlefield.”

Appomattox Court House (April 9, 1865)

The Civil War’s final act unfolded on the land adjacent to the parcel now available for preservation.  

It was near this ground that a white flag appeared, carried by a Confederate courier. Days later, General Lee surrendered the Army of Northern Virginia, ending the war in Virginia and setting the tone for future surrenders across the South.

This unprotected property lies in the center of the preserved battlefield — a literal and symbolic missing piece in the story of surrender and national healing.
 

Give to Save History in Virginia

This is an opportunity to finish what has already begun: protecting hallowed ground where American history reached a turning point.

Any donations you make today will:

• Nearly complete preservation at Appomattox Court House
• Prevent development at Cold Harbor
• Protect vital ground for interpretation and education
• Multiply in value thanks to a $4-to-$1 matching opportunity

Please make a tax-deductible donation now and multiply your impact $4-to-$1.

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