Pamplin Historical Park

Breakthrough Battle Anniversary
2021-04-03 09:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
Join us as we remember the 156th Anniversary of the Breakthrough Battle which ended the Petersburg Campaign and forced the Confederate withdrawal from Richmond. The Park hosts a schedule of activities and programs for walk-in visitors.

Saturday, April 3, 2021
10:30 – 11:00 am “Load in Nine Times” firing demonstration at the Museum
11:15 – 11:45 am Infantry drill and firing demonstrations at the Fortification exhibit
12:00 – 1:00 pm The Breakthrough at the Hart Farm Walking Tour with Jerry Desmond
1:15 – 1:45 pm “Defend the Works” combined arms demonstration at the Fortification Exhibit
2:00 – 2:45 pm Civil War Music Selections by Tredegar Brass at Fortification exhibit
3:00 – 3:30 pm Infantry drill and firing demonstrations at the Fortification exhibit

The health and safety of visitors and staff is a first priority. The park is following the governor of Virginia’s guidelines. Frequent cleaning and sanitation of high contact surfaces is performed daily. Staff members wear face coverings and visitors are encouraged to do so as well. Social distancing of a physical six feet will be maintained throughout the 424-acre park and building occupancy levels will be closely monitored. Hand sanitizer is available at locations throughout the park.

Breakthrough Anniversary Walking Tour
2021-04-02 09:00 - 11:00 | VA
Park historians will lead a tour through the Breakthrough Battle of April 2nd, 1865 while bringing the conflict and personalities alive for this special experience on the actual battlefield. The tour will begin at the Jones Farm parking area located at 6503 Church Road, Petersburg 23803. Attendees will follow the route of the Union Army of the Potomac’s VI Corps assault to the Confederate earthworks defended by Brig. Gen. James Lane’s North Carolina Confederates.
This program begins at 9:00 a.m. and is included with regular paid Park admission but, tour reservations and advance payment are required. This tour will last approximately 2 hours and will require roughly 1.5 miles of walking over occasionally uneven terrain. The tour is limited to 45 attendees, so registration and prepayment is required. Please call (804) 861-2408 to make your reservation and payment. For more information email Tim Talbott, Director of Education, Interpretation, Visitors Services & Collections at ttalbott@pamplinpark.org.

Roundtable: The Battle of Franklin, Nov. 30, 1864
2021-04-01 19:00 - 20:00 | VA
Join speaker Lee White as he shares wartime insights from his book titled “Let Us Die Like men: The Battle of Franklin, November 30, 1864”. The Petersburg Civil War Roundtable (PCWRT) will meet the first Thursday of each month at Pamplin Historical Park and the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier from 7:00 pm-8:00 pm. Annual membership is $40.00. Individuals who are already members of Pamplin Historical Park can become members of PCWRT for $20.00. Non-members can attend for $5.00 each meeting. Call (804) 861-2408 for more information.

“Presently PCWRT meetings are limited to 25 total people. Those that wish to attend need to reserve a seat on a first come first serve basis. You may do so by emailing Tim Talbott at ttalbott@pamplinpark.org. A confirmation reply will be sent confirming your attendance or letting you know that you are on the wait list if we end up going over the 25 person threshold.”

Roundtable: Genteel Rebel: The Life of Mary Greenhow Lee
2021-03-04 19:00 - 20:00 | VA
Speaker Dr. Sheila Phipps will discuss topics from her book, “Genteel Rebel: The Life of Mary Greenhow Lee”. Lee was an antebellum Richmond socialite and sister-in-law to the famous Confederate spy Rose O’Neal Greenhow. Lee participated in her own forms of covert work while living in Union occupied Winchester, Virginia. Copies of the book will be available for purchase.
The Petersburg Civil War Roundtable (PCWRT) will meet the first Thursday of each month at Pamplin Historical Park and the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier from 7:00 pm-8:00 pm. Annual membership is $40.00. Individuals who are already members of Pamplin Historical Park can become members of PCWRT for $20.00. Non-members can attend for $5.00 each meeting. Call (804) 861-2408 for more information.

“Presently PCWRT meetings are limited to 25 total people. Those that wish to attend need to reserve a seat on a first come first serve basis. You may do so by emailing Tim Talbott at ttalbott@pamplinpark.org. A confirmation reply will be sent confirming your attendance or letting you know that you are on the wait list if we end up going over the 25 person threshold.”

Valentine Tea (Virtual Event)
2021-02-13 14:00 - 15:30 | VA
Join Pamplin Historical Park’s Valentine Tea where park staff attired in mid- 1800s, clothing will explore the famous love stories of our Presidents, their courtships, and marriages! (John & Abigail Adams, James & Dolley Madison, John & Julia Tyler etc). Due to the popularity of this program, reservations and prepayment are required.

RSVP by February 1st. Click here to get your tickets through Eventbrite. This event is offered virtually only. The virtual cost is $15.00. If you wish to add our Valentine’s Day tea box the price is an added $15.00, which includes; a link to the live program feed, tea, a scone recipe, a purse puzzle valentine craft, and a teacup with saucer. The virtual tea box will be mailed to each virtual attendee.

Roundtable: Forged in Battle - The Civil War Alliance of Black Soldiers & White Officers
2021-02-04 19:00 - 20:00 | VA
Speaker Joseph Glatthaar will discuss “Forged in Battle: The Civil War Alliance of Black Soldiers and White Officers”.
Just sixteen months after the Civil War began, the Federal government started to recruit black soldiers. This provided a unique opportunity for the 180,000 free blacks and former slaves to join the fight as United States Colored Troops. At wars’ end, 37,000 USCT would fill the ranks in their fight for freedom.

Dr. Joseph T. Glatthaar is the current Stephenson Distinguished Professor at the University of North Carolina and the Adjunct Professor of the Curriculum in Peace, War and Defense. Glatthaar specializes in the American Civil War and American military history on the under graduate and graduate levels. He is the author of seven books to include Forged in Battle: The Civil War Alliance of Black Soldiers and White Officers.

The Petersburg Civil War Roundtable (PCWRT) will meet the first Thursday of each month at Pamplin Historical Park and the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier from 7:00 pm-8:00 pm. Annual membership is $40.00. Individuals who are already members of Pamplin Historical Park can become members of PCWRT for $20.00. Non-members can attend for $5.00 each meeting. Call (804) 861-2408 for more information.

“Presently PCWRT meetings are limited to 25 total people. Those that wish to attend need to reserve a seat on a first come first serve basis. You may do so by emailing Tim Talbott at ttalbott@pamplinpark.org. A confirmation reply will be sent confirming your attendance or letting you know that you are on the wait list if we end up going over the 25 person threshold.”

The Environment and the Civil War
2021-01-07 19:00 - 20:00 | VA
Join authors Judkin Browning and Tim Silver as they share insights on “The Environment and the Civil War.” The Civil War had a profound impact on American’s relationship with the natural world from environmental factors such as topography and the weather to the spread of diseases by humans and animals. Long after the conflict ended, new thinking about disability and death, weather forecasting, modifications to landscape, the birth of the conservation movement and the first national parks would be an outgrowth of the Civil War.
Dr. Judkin Browning is the current Director of Graduate Studies in History at Appalachian State University and is the author of Shifting Loyalties (2011), The Seven Days’ Battles (2012) and co-author of An Environmental History of the Civil War. Dr. Tim Silver is a Professor of History with Appalachian State University has authored of multiple books and co-authored An Environmental History of the Civil War.
The Petersburg Civil War Roundtable (PCWRT) will meet the first Thursday of each month at Pamplin Historical Park and the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier from 7:00 pm-8:00 pm. Annual membership is $40.00. Individuals who are already members of Pamplin Historical Park can become members of PCWRT for $20.00. Non-members can attend for $5.00 each meeting. Call (804) 861-2408 for more information.
The health and safety of visitors and staff is a first priority. The park is following the governor of Virginia’s guidelines. Frequent cleaning and sanitation of high contact surfaces is performed daily. Staff members wear face coverings and visitors are encouraged to do so as well. Social distancing of a physical six feet will be maintained throughout the 424-acre park and building occupancy levels will be closely monitored. Hand sanitizer is available at locations throughout the park.

Tea & Tidings
2020-12-05 14:00 - 15:30 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
This themed tea offers tasty tea and treats with a program highlighting the holidays as they were celebrated at a distance during the Civil War.
Park staff attired in mid 1800s clothing will explore how Americans celebrated the Christmas season during the Civil War. It was a difficult time as letters were the only form of communication with family and soldiers often far away from home. Experience how these letters from home brought cheer to soldiers in the field and provided a connection to loved ones back at home.
Attendees will learn how holiday meals usually required substitutions at home with scarce provisions and soldiers made do with what they could forage around their camp. Even the gifts from home of knitted items or food brought tears to soldiers eyes, as they might provide the only physical connection to the loved ones who sent them.
The Park’s Tea & Tidings will only be offered one afternoon and space is limited. This event is offered both in person and virtually. Due to the popularity of the tea programs, reservations and prepayment are required. RSVP by December 3rd to attend in person. The event will be held at The National Museum of the Civil War Soldier located at 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA 23803. The in-person cost is $24.00 per person and the virtual cost is $39.95 which includes; a link to the live program feed, holiday themed tea bags, a Tudor Hall ornament, sewing ornament kit, cookie recipe and tea cup with saucer. The virtual tea box will be mailed to each virtual attendee. Call (804) 861-2408 to reserve your holiday experience or buy tickets on www.eventbrite.com (in person) and www.eventbrite.com (virtual).

Petersburg Civil War Round Table at Pamplin
2020-12-03 19:00 - 20:00 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
The Battle of Hampton Roads on March 9, 1862 changed naval warfare and heralded an end to the age of sail. Over four hours, the USS Monitor and CSS Virginia ironclads dueled each other to a draw as spectators watched from a nearby shoreline. Many were skeptical that the “cheesebox on a raft” as the Monitor was called was a match for the Virginia who had reeked havoc and destruction on the previous day at the U.S. Navy Yard in Hampton Roads. The Monitor’s performance inspired the Union to accelerate their ironclad-building program and caused a nation to admire this new invention.
Johnathan White is associate professor of American Studies at Christopher Newport University. He has authored ten books and written over one hundred articles, essays and reviews on Civil War subjects. White is a Distinguished Lecturer for the Organization of American Historians and serves on the Boards of Directors of the Abraham Lincoln Institute, the Abraham Lincoln Association and the Lincoln Forum. He additionally won the Outstanding Faculty Award of the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia in 2019.

Due to the governor’s November 13th statewide restrictions which limits gatherings to a total of 25 people, we require those wishing to attend this meeting to reserve your place on a first come- first serve basis. You may do so by emailing Tim Talbott at ttalbott@pamplinpark.org. You will receive a confirmation reply or notice that you are on the wait list beyond the 25 person threshold.

The Petersburg Civil War Roundtable (PCWRT) will meet the first Thursday of each month at Pamplin Historical Park and the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier from 7:00 pm-8:00 pm. Annual membership is $40.00. Individuals who are already members of Pamplin Historical Park can become members of PCWRT for $20.00. Non-members can attend for $5.00 each meeting. Call (804) 861-2408 for more information.
The health and safety of visitors and staff is a first priority. The park is following the governor of Virginia’s guidelines. Frequent cleaning and sanitation of high contact surfaces is performed daily. Staff members wear face coverings and visitors are encouraged to do so as well. Social distancing of a physical six feet will be maintained throughout the 424-acre park and building occupancy levels will be closely monitored. Hand sanitizer is available at locations throughout the park.

Breakthrough Trail 5K at Pamplin
2020-11-07 09:00 - 12:00 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
This Annual event is a partnership between the Park and Tri-Cities Road Runners. The race will take place on historic Civil War battlefield trails starting and ending at the Education Center Freedom Garden, 6523 Duncan Road. Top adult overall male and female finishers and top youth finishers, in each age group, will receive awards.
The start time is at 9:00 am and race day registration is open from 7:00 am to 9:00 am. Runner and walker registrations postmarked by October 23, 2020 are $25.00 adults and $10.00 youths with a guarantee of a t-shirt. Thereafter and race day, registration is $30.00 adults and $15.00 youths with no t-shirt guarantee.
All registrations include a Park admission and you can download a printable registration form here. A course map can be found here. Payments can be mailed to 5K Breakthrough, 6125 Boydton Plank Rd., Petersburg, VA 23803 or online entry and payment can be made at RunSignUp.com.
Call (804) 861-2408 for more information.
Tri-Cities Road Runners, The Bank of Southside Virginia, Choice Waste Services, Crater Community Hospice, Dinwiddie Health & Rehabilitation Center and Walmart Distribution Center-Sutherland are sponsoring this event. Tri-Cities Road Runners will also be providing logistical and technical support to include posting the timing results of the race. “Tri-Cities Road Runners was established in 1980. The primary purpose of TCRR is to promote and encourage running and overall fitness through educational and charitable means.”-TCCR website
TCCR serves the running community in Petersburg, Hopewell, Colonial Heights, and the surrounding areas such as Prince George County, Dinwiddie County, and Chesterfield County. More club information can be found on the TCCR website here.

Petersburg Civil War Round Table at Pamplin
2020-11-05 19:00 - 20:00 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
Join speaker Chris Mackowski of Emerging Civil War for his presentation “Fighting at the North Anna” during the Overland Campaign.

Chris Mackowski, Ph.D., is the editor-in-chief and co-founder of Emerging Civil War. He is the series editor of the award-winning Emerging Civil War Series, published by Savas Beatie, and the “Engaging the Civil War” Series, published in partnership with Southern Illinois University Press. Chris is a writing professor in the Jandoli School of Communication at St. Bonaventure University in Allegany, NY, where he also serves as associate dean for undergraduate programs. Chris is also historian-in-residence at Stevenson Ridge, a historic property on the Spotsylvania battlefield in central Virginia. He has also worked as a historian for the National Park Service at Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park, where he gives tours at four major Civil War battlefields (Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness, and Spotsylvania), as well as at the building where Stonewall Jackson died. Chris has authored or co-authored a dozen books on the Civil War, and his articles have appeared in all the major Civil War magazines. Chris serves on the board of directors for the Central Virginia Battlefields Trust and the Civil War Roundtable Congress.

The Petersburg Civil War Roundtable (PCWRT) will meet the first Thursday of each month (except June, July, and August) at Pamplin Historical Park and the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier from 6:30 pm-7:30 pm. Annual membership is $40.00. Individuals who are already members of Pamplin Historical Park can become members of PCWRT for $20.00. Non-members can attend for $5.00 each meeting. Call (804) 861-2408 for more information.

Homeschool Day
2020-11-04 10:00 - 14:00 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
Join us for a special Homeschool field trip program designed especially for homeschool families and associations. Homeschool tours at Pamplin Historical Park include educational programs that use fun, participatory learning techniques to teach historical lessons about life in the nineteenth century.

Each Homeschool tour includes a visit to the award-winning exhibit “Duty Called Me Here” and two hands-on programs, “Civil War Battles, and “The Civil War: Why They Fought,” led by Pamplin Historical Park Educators. These programs are individually designed for children from third to twelfth grade.
“Duty Called Me Here” brings visitors face-to-face with the experiences of the nearly three million Americans who became soldiers during the Civil War. Personal audio players enable students to follow the true story of a “soldier comrade.” In “Civil War Battles,” students will learn the importance of geography and how fighting methods changed from its battles early in the war to the Breakthrough Battle where Pamplin Park is located today. In “The Civil War: Why They Fought,” students will learn about the controversies and compromises that divided the United States before the Civil War by using maps and bar graphs and see how those decisions ultimately impacted people in the North and South.
Tour times are from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Tours cost $9.50 for children grades K-12 and $11.00 for adults. Reservations and a non-refundable prepayment by credit card or check are required. For reservations, contact a Park Reservation Specialist at 804-861-2408 or email groups@pamplinpark.org.

Halloween Tea
2020-10-24 14:00 - 15:30 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
This Halloween season meet the master of terror, Edgar Allan Poe as portrayed by Charles Wissinger of Richmond Discoveries. Wissinger will read some of Poe’s famous works followed by a question and answer session.
Take this one time opportunity to experience what Edgar Allan Poe described as, “Deep into that darkness peering, long I stood there, wondering, fearing, doubting, dreaming dreams no mortal ever dared to dream before.” from his work “The Raven”.
The Park’s Halloween Tea will only be offered one afternoon and space is limited. Due to the popularity of the tea programs, reservations and prepayment are required. RSVP by October 22nd. The event will be held at The National Museum of the Civil War Soldier located at 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA 23803. The cost is $24.00 per person which also includes a general admission to the Park for the day. Call (804) 861-2408 to reserve your experience beyond the dark veil or buy tickets on www.eventbrite.com.
The health and safety of visitors and staff is a first priority. The park is following the governor of Virginia’s Phase III Guidelines. Frequent cleaning and sanitation of high contact surfaces is performed daily. Staff members wear face coverings and visitors are encouraged to do so as well. Social distancing of a physical six feet will be maintained throughout the 424-acre park and building occupancy levels will be closely monitored.

Voices from the Shadows
2020-10-23 18:30 - 2020-10-24 20:30 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
Costumed guides portraying “agents of death” will lead participants by candlelight on a spine-chilling tour through the historic park and Breakthrough Battlefield. At various stops, guests will encounter escapees on the run, the sounds of battle, a surgeon performing grisly work in a field hospital and more. These and other ghouls will recount their stories and share some of the more macabre and spirit-filled folklore from the past. Tours will be accompanied by sights and sounds that heighten the senses while breaking the silence of the night.
Based on folklore and stories of the Civil War era, the naturally haunting atmosphere of Pamplin Historical Park gives visitors a rare opportunity to experience the Park and battlefield after dark. “All that we see or seem is but a dream within a dream.” – Edgar Allen Poe
This event is offered on Friday, October 23 and Saturday October 24 at 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Space is limited and reservations are required to ensure a spot on the tour. The lantern-lit walk begins at the museum, located at 6125 Boydton Plank Rd., Petersburg, VA 23803. Admission is $12 for adults and $6 for children ages 6-12. The minimum recommended age for this nighttime tour is six years old. Flashlights are recommended for all tour participants. Call 804-861-2408 for reservations and directions or reserve your experience on www.eventbrite.com.
The health and safety of visitors and staff is a first priority. The park is following the governor of Virginia’s Phase III Guidelines. Frequent cleaning and sanitation of high contact surfaces is performed daily. Staff members wear face coverings and visitors are encouraged to do so as well. Social distancing of a physical six feet will be maintained throughout the 424-acre park and building occupancy levels will be closely monitored.

Fall Home School Day
2020-10-06 10:00 - 14:00 | VA
Students will be led through three of the Park’s established education programs: “The Civil War- Why They Fought,” which helps explain why the nation came to war with itself; “Civil War Battles,” which explains the evolution of Civil War combat and the importance of geography; and “Duty Called Me Here,” which interactively explores the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier.
We ask that participating families or groups pre-register by calling 804-861-2408 to reserve their spots. We are limiting this learning opportunity to 35 total parents and students to help better accommodate social distancing. We ask that participants wear a face mask while indoors. Bring a brown-bag lunch.

Petersburg Civil War Round Table at Pamplin
2020-10-01 19:00 - 20:00 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
Join speaker Ray Brown, Chief of Interpretation and Cultural Resources Management at Manassas National Battlefield Park, as he presents his presentation on “Soldier Remains at Manassas and Battlefield Archaeology.”
The Battle of Second Manassas was fought on August 28-30, 1862. This fierce contest between Confederate and Union forces resulted in approximately 22,000 casualties out of a total of around 112,000 men engaged in the fight. Two of the mortally wounded Union soldiers were taken to a field hospital where they succumbed to their wounds. Afterwards, they were placed in a shallow burials pit along with amputated limbs from other soldiers injured in the battle. They would lay undisturbed until 2014 when the National Park Service discovered the pit during a utility project. A journey of exploration then began leading the NPS to partner with the Smithsonian Institution and eventually lead them to Arlington National Cemetery.
Speaker Ray Brown is the Chief of Interpretation and Cultural Resources Management at Manassas National Battlefield Park. Brown has an over 32 year career with the National Park Service which has included working at Fredericksburg, Philadelphia, Petersburg and for the past 28 years at Manassas. Author and historian Don Johnson has this to say of Brown, “Ray has a true understanding of the mission of the National Park Service as exhibited through his deep commitment to the preservation of our nation’s Battlefields. Ray is devoted to providing the public with accurate history and compelling interpretation of the gripping events that occurred on those grounds.”
The Petersburg Civil War Roundtable (PCWRT) will meet the first Thursday of each month at Pamplin Historical Park and the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier from 7:00 pm-8:00 pm. Annual membership is $40.00. Individuals who are already members of Pamplin Historical Park can become members of PCWRT for $20.00. Non-members can attend for $5.00 each meeting. Call (804) 861-2408 for more information.
The health and safety of visitors and staff is a first priority. The park is following the governor of Virginia’s guidelines. Frequent cleaning and sanitation of high contact surfaces is performed daily. Staff members wear face coverings and visitors are encouraged to do so as well. Social distancing of a physical six feet will be maintained throughout the 424-acre park and building occupancy levels will be closely monitored. Hand sanitizer is available at locations throughout the park.
The Petersburg Civil War Round Table (PCWRT) will meet the first Thursday of each month (except June, July, and August) at Pamplin Historical Park and the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier from 6:30 pm-7:30 pm. Annual membership is $40.00. Individuals who are already members of Pamplin Historical Park can become members of PCWRT for $20.00. Non-members can attend for $5.00 each meeting. Call (804) 861-2408 for more information.

Breakthrough Car Show
2020-09-26 10:00 - 15:00 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
Join in the fun of this automotive extravaganza. Experience the sights and sounds of elegant autos from yesteryear to the technologically advanced super cars of today at the historic Hart Farm, which is part of Pamplin Historical Park located near Petersburg, VA. The Breakthrough Car Show is open to all makes, models and years of vehicles and anyone can bring out their ride and participate in the show.
The first 125 registered show vehicles receive goody bags and dash plaques. Pre-register your single vehicle by September 11, 2020 for $15.00 or vehicle registration is $20.00 per vehicle thereafter and at the show. The first 125 registrants will also receive a $5.00 food coupon.
Show day registration begins at 8:00 am. Participant’s Choice judging will result in over 48 awards. The award presentation will take place at 2:30 pm. Spectator parking and show admission is free. A reduced “day of show only” Pamplin Historical Park admission will be available for those who want to explore the 424 acres of battlefields, historic homes, museums and more.
Vendors will have food, drinks and more throughout the day. Everyone can take part in a silent auction, door prizes and more. Those wishing to sell their vehicle can enter it in the car corral for $10.00 per entry.
The event is Rain or Shine! All proceeds from this event benefit Pamplin Historical Park. This event is in partnership with Car Club Council of Central Virginia. Additional sponsors include Brodix, Dalton Watson Motoring Books, Hagerty Insurance, Griot’s Garage, JEGS, Keystone Truck and Tractor Museum, Lincoln Electric, Meguiar’s, Shire Publications, Stoner Car Care, Summitt Racing, Top Flight Automotive (Corvette America, Mustang America), Universal Vintage Tire and Virginia Motorsports Park.
Located near Petersburg, Virginia, Pamplin Historical Park is about 30 minutes south of Richmond and is convenient to both Interstates 95 and 85 and US Highways 1 and 460. Pamplin Historical Park is a 501(c)(3) organization.
Click here for a downloadable and printable version of the show flyer.
Click here for a downloadable and printable version of the show registration form.
Click here for a vendor application to participate in the event. Food and Non-Food vendors are welcome.

Petersburg Civil War Round Table at Pamplin
2020-09-03 19:00 - 20:00 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
Join speaker Dr. Peter S. Carmichael as he takes attendees on a tale of adventure with “The Hicksford Raid” at the Petersburg Civil War Roundtable.
The Hicksford Raid took place on December 7, 1864 when Union Major General Govereur K. Warren led 28,000 men south from petersburf to destroy the Petersburg Railroad between Stony Creek and the Meherrin River railroad bridge at Hicksford. If successful, this would sever the Confederate supply line. Gen. Warren and his force would be confronted by Confederate generals Wade Hampton and W. H. F. Lee for a contest over this vital lifeline to Petersburg. Dr. Carmichael will captivate attendees with this story and reveal it’s outcome and place in history.
Dr. Carmichael is the Fluhrer Professor of History and the Director of the Civil War Institute at Gettysburg College. He completed his doctorate at Penn State University and then went on to teach at Western Carolina University, the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and West Virginia University. Carmichael is the author of seven books including The Last Generation: Young Virginians in Peace, War, and Reunion, which was published by the University of North Carolina Press in 2005.
The Petersburg Civil War Roundtable (PCWRT) will meet the first Thursday of each month at Pamplin Historical Park and the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier from 7:00 pm-8:00 pm. Annual membership is $40.00. Individuals who are already members of Pamplin Historical Park can become members of PCWRT for $20.00. Non-members can attend for $5.00 each meeting. Call (804) 861-2408 for more information.
The health and safety of visitors and staff is a first priority. The park is following the governor of Virginia’s guidelines. Frequent cleaning and sanitation of high contact surfaces is performed daily. Staff members wear face coverings and visitors are encouraged to do so as well. Social distancing of a physical six feet will be maintained throughout the 424-acre park and building occupancy levels will be closely monitored. Hand sanitizer is available at locations throughout the park.
The Petersburg Civil War Roundtable (PCWRT) will meet the first Thursday of each month (except June, July, and August) at Pamplin Historical Park and the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier from 7:00 pm-8:00 pm. Annual membership is $40.00. Individuals who are already members of Pamplin Historical Park can become members of PCWRT for $20.00. Non-members can attend for $5.00 each meeting. Call (804) 861-2408 for more information.

Petersburg Civil War Round Table at Pamplin
2020-08-06 19:00 - 20:00 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
Join Dr. James Broomall on August 6, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. as he reveals “Private Confederacies: The Emotional Worlds of Southern Men as Citizens and Soldiers” at the Petersburg Civil War Roundtable.
Dr. Broomall is the Director of the George Tyler Moore Center for the Study of the Civil War and an associate professor of History at Sheperd University located in Shepherdstown, West Virginia. Prior to joining the Shepard University staff, Broomall taught history at the University of North Florida and earned his master’s degree in history and museum studies at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Broomall’s passion for Civil War-era history has lead him to work in a variety of academic institutions, museums and to develop courses and programs focusing on the experiences of civilians, soldiers and slaves during the mid-Nineteenth Century. He has published and edited several works and articles. Some of his articles have appeared in Civil War History, Civil War Times and The Journal of the Civil War Era.

The Petersburg Civil War Roundtable (PCWRT) will meet the first Thursday of each month at Pamplin Historical Park and the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier from 7:00 pm-8:00 pm. Annual membership is $40.00. Individuals who are already members of Pamplin Historical Park can become members of PCWRT for $20.00. Non-members can attend for $5.00 each meeting. Call (804) 861-2408 for more information.

The health and safety of visitors and staff is a first priority. The park is following the governor of Virginia’s guidelines. Frequent cleaning and sanitation of high contact surfaces is performed daily. Staff members wear face coverings and visitors are encouraged to do so as well. Social distancing of a physical six feet will be maintained throughout the 424-acre park and building occupancy levels will be closely monitored. Hand sanitizer is available at locations throughout the park.

Independence Day Celebration
2020-07-04 09:00 - 17:00 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
Proclaim America’s Independence with us on July 4, 2020 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. with activities and programs.
As essayist John Burroughs stated “That which distinguishes this day from all others is that then both orators and artillerymen shoot blank cartridges.” In the spirit of Burroughs’ quote, Pamplin Historical Park staff will offer multiple programs throughout the day, to include a patriotic ceremony with the pledge of allegiance and a cannon fire salute.
Families are invited to participate in 19th century games such as a sack race and 3-legged race among others to be held on the picturesque Tudor Hall lawn. A period baseball game will also be held at the Battlefield Center Field where guests are invited to join in the game.
All visitors will have the opportunity to join staff for tours of the Breakthrough Battlefield which on April 2, 1865, resulted in the evacuation of both Petersburg and Richmond. A mere seven days later, the surrender at Appomattox helped to secure the Union and began healing a nation.
Visitors will see that some inspirations remain the same as Thomas Jefferson observed in his quote, “We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
All event activities and programs are included with regular daily paid admission.

Joshua L. Chamberlain: Scholar-Warrior Exhibit
2020-06-18 09:00 - 2020-11-30 17:00 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
This limited time exhibit explores the life of the Civil War General and former Governor of Maine from birth to his death at age eighty-five. Artifacts, artwork and documents tell Chamberlain’s story of his formative years through his rise into today’s pop culture.
The exhibit opening date of June 18 coincides with the severe wounding of Chamberlain during the Second Battle of Petersburg in 1864. This wound would be the cause of his death fifty years later in 1914 making him the last Civil War veteran to die of his wounds.
Joshua L. Chamberlain was born in Brewer, Maine as the oldest of five children. His parents wanted him to become a clergyman or join the military. Chamberlain instead sought academic pursuits and attended Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine where he studied Ancient Greek and Latin, graduating in 1852. Three years later he returned to Bowdoin as a professor of rhetoric and soon made use of his fluency in nine languages by being appointed Professor of Modern Languages in 1861.
Chamberlain left his teaching pursuits after the Civil War began and was appointed lieutenant colonel the famous 20th Maine Volunteer Infantry Regiment. His younger brother Thomas Chamberlain would also serve as an officer in the same regiment. Joshua Chamberlain’s actions at Gettysburg would later result in being awarded the Medal of Honor. There he saved the Union left flank at Little Round Top with a bayonet charge made famous by the book Killer Angels and the 1993 movie Gettysburg where he is portrayed by actor Jeff Daniels. This would also be the cause of Chamberlain rising into the nationally known pop culture of today.
He received two minor wounds at Gettysburg prior to his severe wounding at the Second Battle of Petersburg on June 18, 1864 which led Lt. General Ulysses S. Grant to promote Chamberlain to brigadier general. Once recovered, he returned to duty in the spring of 1865 for the Battle of Lewis’s Farm where Chamberlain was nearly captured and wounded again. He survived and went on to preside over the parade of the Confederate forces at Appomattox Court House on April 12, 1865.
Chamberlain’s post-war life saw him return to Maine on a tide of popularity and serving four one-year terms as Governor. He also returned to Bowdoin College now as it’s president until retiring from ill health. There were additional pursuits in law and business but, his old wound from Petersburg plagued him for the remainder of his life. Six surgeries failed to ease his condition and Chamberlain died in Portland, Maine in 1914. One of the same two surgeons who fifty years earlier, had tended to his wounds at Petersburg was by his side.
The special exhibit runs through November 29, 2020 and is included with regular daily admission during normal operating hours.

Park Day 2020
2020-04-04 13:00 - 15:00 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
*Due to ongoing concerns about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), Pamplin Historical Park and the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier is cancelling or postponing all events and programs until April 15, 2020, based upon the guidance of the CDC regarding “social distancing” and the elimination of large gatherings. This decision is being made out of an abundance of caution. It will be impossible to know if we are overreacting or doing too much, but it will be quite apparent if we under react or do too little. Please continue to check our website and social media accounts for additional updates.*
This annual Park Day event is sponsored by the Civil War Trust and brings history enthusiasts together in an effort to help keep our nation’s heritage not only preserved, but pristine. Join the Pamplin Historical Park team to help beautify aspects of our 424-acre park. Volunteers should meet at The National Museum of the Civil War Soldier (Park Entrance) dressed in work attire. Water, gloves, and eye protection will be provided to volunteers. Pre-registration is required. For more information and pre-registration call (804) 861-2408.
“Since 1996, the Civil War Trust has sponsored Park Day, an annual hands-on preservation event to help Civil War — and now Revolutionary War & War of 1812 — battlefields and historic sites take on maintenance projects large and small. Activities are chosen by each participating site to meet their own particular needs and can range from raking leaves and hauling trash to painting signs and trail buildings.”-Civil War Trust
Tentative date and time listed below

Breakthrough Walking Tour
2020-04-02 10:00 - 12:00 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
*Due to ongoing concerns about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), Pamplin Historical Park and the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier is cancelling or postponing all events and programs until April 15, 2020, based upon the guidance of the CDC regarding “social distancing” and the elimination of large gatherings. This decision is being made out of an abundance of caution. It will be impossible to know if we are overreacting or doing too much, but it will be quite apparent if we under react or do too little. Please continue to check our website and social media accounts for additional updates.*
Join Park historians as they tour the Breakthrough Battle of April 2nd, 1865 while bringing the conflict and personalities alive for this special experience on the actual battlefield. The tour will begin at the historic Hart Farm which survived the battle and has been restored to its wartime appearance.
After a brief overview of the Overland and Petersburg Campaigns, guests will then embark on a tour of the battlefield to explore the original terrain features while incorporating the history that unfolded on this National Landmark site resulting in the collapse of Petersburg defenses and the withdrawal of Confederate forces from Richmond. Seven days later after a running fight out to Appomattox Courthouse, the war would be over on April 9, 1865.
Pristine earthworks, rifle pits, artillery redans and the picturesque Large and Small Meadows are included in this walking tour. Space on this tour is limited. Please call (804) 861-2408 for more information and to make your reservation or email Tim Talbott, Director of Education, Interpretation, Visitor Services & Collections at ttalbott@pamplinpark.org.
This program is included with regular paid Park admission but, tour reservations are required.

NPS Petersburg & Pamplin Historical Park Tour
2020-04-02 05:30 - 07:30 | VA
*Due to ongoing concerns about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), Pamplin Historical Park and the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier is cancelling or postponing all events and programs until April 15, 2020, based upon the guidance of the CDC regarding “social distancing” and the elimination of large gatherings. This decision is being made out of an abundance of caution. It will be impossible to know if we are overreacting or doing too much, but it will be quite apparent if we underreact or do too little. Please continue to check our website and social media accounts for additional updates.*
As a collaborative effort, Petersburg National Battlefield and Pamplin Historical Park are excited to offer an early morning guided tour of the Breakthrough Battlefield on Thursday, April 2, 2020. The tour will begin at the Jones Farm parking area (near intersection of Hofheimer Way and Church Road) at 5:30 a.m. and follow the route of the Army of the Potomac’s VI Corps assault to the Confederate earthworks defended by Brig. Gen. James Lane’s North Carolina Confederates.
This tour starts at 6506 Church Road, Petersburg, Virginia 23803 and will last 2 hours and will require roughly 1.5 miles of walking over occasionally uneven terrain. The tour is free and open to the public, however, donations for continued preservation efforts are appreciated.

Petersburg Civil War Round Table at Pamplin
2020-03-05 19:00 - 20:00 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
Speaker John Mountcastle will discuss “When War Came This Way: Women’s Experiences during the Civil War in Virginia”. The Petersburg Civil War Roundtable (PCWRT) will meet the first Thursday of each month (except June, July, and August) at Pamplin Historical Park and the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier from 7:00 pm-8:00 pm. Annual membership is $40.00. Individuals who are already members of Pamplin Historical Park can become members of PCWRT for $20.00. Non-members can attend for $5.00 each meeting. Call (804) 861-2408 for more information.

Celebrate Black History Month
2020-02-22 14:00 - 15:30 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
Celebrate Black History Month with Elvatrice Belsches on February 22, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. as she speaks on “Making a Place for Themselves: A Survey of the Free Black Experience in Richmond and Petersburg, 1800-1865.”

Belsches’ will share rare photos, primary source documents, and narratives surrounding the African-American experience of freedmen in the Richmond region.

Elvatrice Belsches is a public historian and co-founder of the Central Virginia African-American Genealogical and Historical Society. She has lectured nationally on the topics of genealogy and slavery.

Belsches researches and chronicles the experiences of African-Americans in the Richmond region of Virginia . She has authored several titles for the “African American National Biography” (Oxford University Press) and is the author of “Black America Series: Richmond, Virginia.”

Additionally, Belsches is a documentary film maker who served as a researcher, scholarly advisor and cast member for the PBS documentary, “The Hail Storm: John Dabney in Virginia.” The documentary tells the story of African-American 19th-century Richmond caterer John Dabney. She also had the distinction for serving as a researcher for Steven Spielberg’s movie “Lincoln.”

This event is open to the public and included with the Park’s regular daily admission fee.

Pamplin Membership Gala
2020-02-21 19:00 - 21:00 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
Pamplin Historical Park & The National Museum of the Civil War Soldier is hosting its 3rd Annual Membership Gala. Park members are invited to RSVP by February 17, 2020 and the general public wishing to attend can purchase a Park membership starting at $45.00 any time prior to the event or at the door. Discounted memberships for active duty military, seniors, students and teachers start at $25.00 for a one year membership.
Annual Pamplin Historical Park memberships include access to many events throughout the year and reduced ticket pricing on others. Members also receive a discount in the gift store.
The evening will feature a State of the Park address by Executive Director, Jerry ‘Dez’ Desmond, live music, door prizes, a silent auction, hors d’oeuvres and an open bar with beer and wine.
The evening is made possible through the generous support of the following sponsors; Buttermilk Bake Shop-Petersburg, Casemate Publishers, Escape Old Towne-Petersburg, Firehouse Subs-Colonial Heights, Fort Lee Federal Credit Union, Osprey Publishing, Sam’s Club-Colonial Heights, Saucy’s BBQ, Savas Beatie, Stay-Over Suites-Hopewell, The Bucket Trade-Petersburg, Vincenzo’s-Colonial Heights, Virginia Motorsports Park and W. Britain Toy Soldier & Model Figure Company.

Valentine Tea
2020-02-08 14:00 - 15:30 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
At Pamplin Historical Park’s Valentine Tea ladies and gentlemen in period dress will teach guests 19th-century etiquette while they enjoy gourmet tea and snacks. Hear about famous love stories of 19th century couples where love was for better or worse! (Jefferson Davis + Sarah Knox Taylor, Jenny Wade + Jack Skelly, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, etc). Due to the popularity of this program, reservations and prepayment are required. RSVP by February 7th. Park Members $20, Non-Park Members $24

Petersburg Civil War Round Table at Pamplin
2020-02-06 19:00 - 20:00 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
Speaker Chris Bingham will discuss “The United States Colored Troops at Appomattox”. The Petersburg Civil War Roundtable (PCWRT) will meet the first Thursday of each month (except June, July, and August) at Pamplin Historical Park and the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm. Annual membership is $40.00. Individuals who are already members of Pamplin Historical Park can become members of PCWRT for $20.00. Non-members can attend for $5.00 each meeting. Call (804) 861-2408 for more information.

Volunteer Open Houses
2020-02-01 10:00 - 14:00 | Pamplin Historical Park, 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803, United States
We offer fun volunteer opportunities to help preserve history, and promote education! As President John F. Kennedy said, “Every person can make a difference, and every person should try.” Park staff will share information on volunteer opportunities at the Park and hold on-site interviews on Thursday, January 23 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, January. 28 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Saturday, February 1 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at The National Museum of the Civil War Soldier, located at 6125 Boydton Plank Road, Petersburg, VA 23803.
These volunteer recruitment open houses are held in preparation for the busy spring field trip and travel season. Volunteers are vital in assisting Park staff with visitor needs, especially during the busy school season.
Volunteers may assist in a variety of areas that focus on the Park’s goal to help preserve history and promote education. Volunteers from all walks of life are welcome to attend: mature teenagers who want to expand their life experience, retirees who have time to do something they have always wanted to do, unemployed citizens who want to keep their skills sharp, and college students who want to give back to the community.
The question of why to volunteer is best summed up by former U.S. President George H. W. Bush’s statement, “We can find meaning and reward by serving some higher purpose than ourselves, a shining purpose, the illumination of a thousand points of light.”
For more information contact Christine Wuebker, Sr. Education, Interpretation and Volunteer Specialist, at 804-861-2408 or email cwuebker@pamplinpark.org.
